Among the diverse hill tribes of Chiang Mai, the Padong, known as the “Long-Necked Karen” or “Giraffe Women,” stand out with their unique traditions and captivating appearance. Offering a fascinating glimpse into an ancient culture, a visit to the Padong villages is a highlight of many Chiang Mai tours and sustainable ecotourism experiences.

Origins and Language
The Padong, a sub-group of the Karen ethnic minority, trace their roots to the Kayah State in Myanmar (Burma). They refer to themselves as Kayan or Lae Kur, and their language belongs to the Karenni group of the Tibeto-Burman linguistic family. In 1987, fleeing armed conflicts in Myanmar, the first Padong people sought refuge in Thailand.

Location and Lifestyle
In Thailand, the Padong have established villages in Mae Hong Son province and Thaton, a town in northern Chiang Mai. Their traditional way of life revolves around agriculture, primarily cultivating rice through wet and dry farming techniques, as well as growing sweet corn and millet using slash-and-burn methods. Animal husbandry, including raising black pigs, poultry, and water buffalo, supplements their livelihood.

Religious Beliefs and Practices
Most Padong practice animism, while a minority follow Buddhism or Christianity, influenced by Catholic missionaries active in the region since the early 20th century. The annual fertility festival, held at the start of the rainy season, is a significant event involving sacrifices to appease spirits and ensure bountiful harvests and good health.

The Iconic Neck Rings
Perhaps the most striking aspect of the Padong culture is the traditional dress of their women, adorned with intricate brass coils around their necks. This unique practice begins at the age of five, when a young girl receives her first five rings during a formal ceremony. Each year, a new ring is added until adulthood, creating the illusion of an elongated neck.

Legends and Symbolism
Several stories attempt to explain this captivating tradition. Some suggest it originated as a defense against tiger attacks or as an attempt to emulate the graceful neck of the mythical dragon god. Others believe it was a means to discourage abduction by making the women less attractive to other tribes. Regardless of its origins, the neck rings have become an integral part of the Padong identity and a symbol of their cultural heritage.

Sustainable Tourism in Chiang Mai
As part of Chiang Mai’s rich tapestry of hill tribes, the Padong villages offer visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a way of life that has endured for centuries. Sustainable tourism initiatives aim to preserve the Padong’s traditions while providing economic opportunities for the community. Visitors can witness traditional practices, engage in cultural exchanges, and support the preservation of this remarkable heritage.

By exploring the fascinating world of the Padong, travelers in Chiang Mai can gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of Thailand’s hill tribes and contribute to the responsible promotion of their cultural legacy through sustainable ecotourism.