Lifting the lid on Lanna

Ket Karam museum houses vintage Lanna artefacts.DAILY XPRESS/EKKARAT SUKPETCH

Anyone keen to dig into Lanna's heritage should seek out Ket Karam museum, where a treasure trove of culture lies waiting to be discovered. Located in Chiang Mai's 580yearold Wat Ket Khaew Chulamanee, the museum houses artefacts and other collectibles dating back to the 1800s.

With the idea of conserving the beauty of old Lanna culture, a group of Chiang Mai residents led by 87-year-old Jakarin Ben - better known as Uncle Jack - renovated and transformed the 100-year-old teakwood monks' living quarters into a small museum eight years ago. It now houses hundreds of antique pieces discovered in the temple as well as valuable artefacts given by locals.

"Initially, we had no money - everything you see is thanks to donations by people in the Wat Ket neighbourhood," says Uncle Jack. "We just wanted to show young people the roots of their own culture."         

A browse around the museum reveals beautiful old Buddha images, vintage bank notes, handicrafts, glassware and Dharma teachings on palm leaves. Elsewhere, elaborately embroidered Burmese textiles are mixed in with weapons and utensils left behind by Japan's retreating army during World War II.

One corner displays the old national flag dating to the reign of King Rama VI as well as Sankaloke ceramic ware, an antique gable apex and 108yearold embroidered tablecloths traditionally used during the Yee Peng festival.

In the room next door, a gallery displays more than 200 photographs depicting the charm of yesteryear's Chiang Mai. There are also free classes on traditional Lanna dancing for children conducted every Saturday and Sunday.

XTRA

Wat marks the spot

>>Wat Ket Karam museum is at 96 Jaroenraj Road in the Wat Ket district of Chiang Mai.

>> The museum is open daily, from 9 to 5. Admission is free but donations are welcomed.

>> Call (089) 850 1252.