San Kamphaeng (Thai: สันกำแพง) is a district (amphoe) of Chiang Mai Province in northern Thailand. San Kamphaeng borders the districts (from west clockwise) Saraphi, Mueang Chiang Mai, San Sai, Doi Saket, Mae On of Chiang Mai Province and Ban Thi of Lamphun Province.The district goes back to the Kwaeng Mae Om, which was established in 1902. In 1923 the district was renamed to San Kampaeng.

 

San Kamphaeng is famous for its many silk factories. Along the road from Chiang Mai to San Kamphaeng are many handicraft shops selling traditional Thai items to tourists, like the umbrellas of Bo Sang.

 

Bo Sang (Thai: บ่อสร้าง) is a village in San Kamphaeng district in the outskirts of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. It is known for its hand-made umbrellas and parasols which are brightly colored and often decorated with beautiful floral motifs. Festivals are held every year and numerous decorated craft shops and stores exist along the main street in the village in the Lanna Thai style.

 

 

During the festival time there are contests, The Miss Bo Sang beauty pageant is also held. Souvenirs fill the small shops that line both sides of the high street which at times becomes choked with buses full of Thai tourists. Traditionally the umbrellas are made in the cool spaces beneath the raised houses, with households sometimes specializing in different parts of the process. This is best seen along the lanes off the north end of high street.

 

Sankampaeng Hot Springs is an ideal destination for those interested in health and well-being. A natural spring emitting water with high sulphur content, the spring is said to cure ailments and rejuvenate the body. The water has a temperature in excess of 100 degrees centigrade and the area is so active that there is ongoing research into how to tap the springs as a potential energy resource.