12 Sept. 2019

Little known within Thailand, ethnic minorities represent only around 2% of the country's population. Most originate from China, Burma, Tibet, Laos or Vietnam. Nearly all have found refuge in the mountains of northern Thailand. There are roughly thirty communities in total, each subdivided into several sub-groups. Among the most well-known are the Hmongs, Karens, Lahus, Lisus and Akhas. Here's an overview of these Thai ethnic minorities with their ancestral and spiritual rituals…

1. The Karens

They are the largest ethnic minority in Thailand and the one that has lived in the country the longest. They are known worldwide for their giraffe-necked women (the Padaung)! Of Tibeto-Burmese origin, the Karens have fled persecution and executions from Burma for over 50 years. They have their own dialects and religious traditions. Some are Buddhist, but most have converted to Christianity. In any case, all Karens share a belief in the power of spirits, which is reflected in all their daily rituals…

2. The Hmongs

A people originating from the mountainous regions of China, Laos and Vietnam, the Hmongs form a semi-nomadic ethnic group. They fled during the Indochina and Vietnam wars and were hunted for having aided the French and Americans. They are divided into several ethnic sub-groups: White Hmongs, Black Hmongs, Pua Hmongs, Leng Hmongs. Each has its own language and is distinguished by dress codes. They follow a set of spiritual rituals where elders and shamans hold the most power within the community.

3. The Akhas

The Akhas rank among the poorest minority ethnicities in Thailand. They inhabit remote, high-altitude villages where they cultivate rice, corn and other vegetables. Like the Hmongs, they are known for having cultivated opium during the Golden Triangle era. They are an animistic people, meaning they believe in souls and spirits. At the entrance to villages, it is common to see gates built for spirits. Generally speaking, Akhas are easily identifiable by the impressive embroidered headdresses worn by women, composed of beads, feathers, silver coins…

4. The Lisus

Like the Akhas, the Lisus are animistic. In other words, they revere souls, spirits and ancestors. Of Tibetan origin, this ethnicity stands out once again through their brightly coloured clothing. Long tunics for women and wide-legged trousers for men. What particularly characterizes them is their method of transmitting cultural heritage. From generation to generation, Lisus teach knowledge and values through song. If you have the chance to witness one of their Lisu ceremonies, you will be utterly captivated by the grandeur of this vocal spectacle!

5. The Lahus

An ethnic group officially recognized by the People's Republic of China, the Lahus also originate from Tibet. Present in China, Burma and Thailand, they are known as skilled hunters (with rifles and crossbows) and for their expertise in herbal medicine. The Lahus divide into several groups: Black Lahus, Yellow Lahus, Shehleh Lahus… Each affiliation is reflected in their dress. Originally animistic, the Lahus have been influenced by numerous other religions including Tibetan Buddhism, Indian Buddhism, Chinese Buddhism and Christian theology influenced by the British. What remains true is that Lahu society is founded on gender equality. In any case, they are said to be a very welcoming ethnic minority to travellers.

Florine Dergelet

JOEL GUICHARD

30 July 2021

Very well detailed by ethnicity, pleasant to read, makes you want to see these people of distant traditions.... http://marionnettesdumonde.over-blog.com

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Florine Dergelet

A web writer for over 10 years, Florine Dergelet is a traveller driven by the desire to discover the world with an open heart. Each of her articles is an invitation to slow down, to listen, to understand. For her, travel is not about ticking countries off a map, but about forging bonds—often invisible but always powerful—with places, peoples and all manner of creatures from the animal kingdom. Her motto? Advise travellers ethically, awaken their consciousness about animal welfare, respect for cultures, and the importance of humble and sustainable tourism. Because the most beautiful memories are often born far from the spotlight, in the shadow of a path, over a conversation, or in the quiet breath of a world we finally take time to listen to…