Prices in the showrooms may not be cheap, however. Items like rosewood cabinets with mother of pearl can cost thousands of Dollars.(Half to one day. Round trip to hot springs 70 km.)
The road to Bo Sang is lined with handicraft emporiums. Bo Sang itself is a handicrafts village selling all manner of souvenirs, but specializing in umbrellas and Sa paper.
From Bo Sang, you may go to Doi Saket on R1014 or continue to San Kamphaeng, a small market town, and the hot springs beyond. Undeveloped rural countryside off the tourist track lies beyond the hot springs. A fast return journey avoiding the busy San Kamphaeng Road (H1006) may be made on H1317.
Sometimes referred to as the "handicraft highway", the San Kamphaeng Road is very busy. Though the many handicraft emporiums serve as destinations for tour coaches, individuals are also welcome. Many stores will provide an English speaking guide to show you around their handicraft demonstrations and factories.
Prices in the showrooms may not be cheap, however. Items like rosewood cabinets with mother of pearl can cost thousands of Dollars.
The jewelry emporiums have been darkened to look like grottos full of treasure. Sharks swim in fish tanks and pretty sales girls in traditional dress preside over glittering displays of jewelry.
(just before KM. 4 south turn - 300 meters)
This temple has a charming wooden Lanna style viharn built around 1857. It is famous for its 19th century murals, which depict tales of the previous lives of the Buddha in a northern style. Continue down the lane to Ban Suan restaurant and access to H1317 beyond.
(KM. 8 north turn - 500 meters)
Several households in this village make "Sa" paper from a plant which is related to the mulberry.
"Preservation House" (700 meters down the lane that runs north just opposite the school near KM.8) produces the paper and offers the widest selection of products for sale.
See also: [How Sa Paper is Made]
(KM.8 north turn)
Souvenirs fill the small shops that line both sides of the high street, which at times becomes choked with buses full of Thai tourists.
Traditionally the umbrellas are made in the cool spaces beneath the raised houses, with households sometimes specializing in different parts of the process. This is best seen along the lanes off the north end of the high street.
The Umbrella Making Center (corner of H1006 & R1014) or The Sa Paper & Umbrella Handicraft Center (H1006 KM. 8) provide convenient one-stop looks at the entire process. From Bo Sang, take R1014 for a country route to Doi Saket (20 km.).
See also: [Bo Sang Umbrella Festival]