Soap Carvings

Soap carving is a very popular type of applied art in Thailand. To this day, soap flower souvenirs are made throughout Thailand, but such luxurious works of art are only made in Chiang Ray and its surrounding villages. The only distinction between these lovely flowers and natural flowers is that they will never fade. These carved exotic flowers are made of ordinary soap and are very realistic to their originals - roses, orchids, tulips, daffodils - and their smell is also amazing. Such unusual souvenirs were available at a Thai market near Chiang Rai. Visitors and locals alike can try their hand at carving a flower out of soap.

Previously, soap carving was a hobby, but their incredibly beautiful work eventually became in high demand among tourists at the city's night markets. For many years, this art has been passed down from generation to generation. The work is done with a specific type of knife, so the outcome of the soap flower is solely dependent on the skill of the master who is working on it. If scented candles are traditional gifts, soap carvings can be a good substitute. They are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles, ranging from a structured blooming lotus to a dainty blue flower with a ladybug on it. Their fragrance is all the more exotic as a Thailand souvenir.

Cost: THB 80 to THB 200
Best Places to Buy: Sunday night Walking Street market in Chiang Mai, Sukhumvit Road, Mahboonkrong or MBK Center Shopping Mall