Huay Pu Keng Long Neck Village A Living History in Mae Hong Son

Explore the history, traditions, and architecture of Ban Huay Pu Keng Long Neck Village, a cultural beacon in Mae Hong Son Province.

The Historical Roots of Ban Huay Pu Keng Long Neck Village

Huay Pu Keng Long Neck Village traces its origins back to the 1980s, when the Kayan people fled internal conflict in Myanmar. They found refuge in this serene valley along the Pai River, transforming it into a thriving community. Today, the village stands as a living testament to resilience and cultural preservation.

The Kayan people, also known as long-necked Karen, brought with them traditions that date back centuries. The brass rings worn by the women are more than an aesthetic choice—they are symbols of identity, beauty, and strength. As you walk through the village, every structure, from the houses to the spiritual landmarks, tells a story of adaptation and heritage.

The Architectural Charm of Ban Huay Pu Keng

The village’s architectural style is deeply influenced by practicality and tradition. Houses are built on stilts, a design that serves multiple purposes: protecting against flooding, creating shaded spaces for work and relaxation, and keeping wildlife at bay.

The materials used—wood and bamboo—are locally sourced, reflecting the villagers’ connection to their environment. Each home features a spacious veranda, where villagers engage in daily activities such as weaving, crafting, and socializing. This open design fosters community interaction while offering a glimpse into the villagers’ lives.

Cultural and Spiritual Landmarks

At the heart of the village stands the sacred Thee Lan pillar, a spiritual symbol for the Kayan people. This sacred structure plays a vital role in ceremonies and is considered a protector of the community. Adorned with offerings and surrounded by reverent villagers, the pillar embodies the blend of spiritual beliefs and cultural identity.

Nature Meets History in Ban Huay Pu Keng

The Pai River flows gently past the village, its waters integral to the community’s daily life. Trails through the surrounding forest reveal a lush, biodiverse environment that has been carefully preserved by the villagers. This harmonious relationship between nature and culture adds to the village’s historical charm.

Baan Huay Pu Keng is surrounded by  jungle. There is no signal, no electricity and it’s so quiet. The people friendly and very happy to talk or be photographed, the village also has a souvenir souvenirs sold to tourists as well.

The Kayan women are famous for their long necks, which are stretched with heavy, tight metal rings from the child’s age. The Langohr women, on the other hand, wear heavy ear jewelry that stretches the earlobes. Also interesting is a visit to the school at the top of the village. There are several small classrooms where the children are taught in four languages: Thai, English, Karen and Burmese.

How to Reach Ban Huay Pu Keng Long Neck Village

A Perfect Stop on the Mae Hong Son Loop

As part of the Mae Hong Son Tour Packages, Huay Pu Keng Kayan Village offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s an essential stop for those seeking an authentic cultural experience.

1. By Boat:
   Start at Huai Duea Pier, just 8 kilometers from Mae Hong Son town. A 30-minute long-tail boat ride (600-700 baht round trip) provides scenic views of the river and the lush surroundings, making the journey as enriching as the destination.

2. By Road and Boat:
   Take Highway 108 to Rural Road 3018. From the ferry pier, a short ride across the Pai River costs just 20 baht. This route is both convenient and picturesque, offering a deeper connection to the area’s landscape.

Address :  Huay Pu Keng, Pha Bong, Mueang Mae Hong Son District, Mae Hong Son 58000, Thailand

GPS Coordinates Map : 19.225869, 97.864668

Entrance : Free for the locals but a foreigner has to pay 250 THB for entrance to the village.

Huay Deua pier : Open every day from 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.