Thailand / Shopping / Kalagas

Kalagas are traditional Burmese wall hangings which depict scenes from legends as well as events of religious importance. While they resemble carpets they are certainly not suitable as floor covers, and not even to sit on. Often parts are elevated as in reliefs and beads, pieces of colored stones (real or artificial) as well as mirror pieces are worked into the design.

In Bangkok, Kalagas are available at handicraft stores and, at lower prices, at the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Cheapest, however, they are at Thai-Burmese border towns such as Mae Sai, Mae Sariang and Mae Sot.