CHIANG RAI - THE BLACK HOUSE ( BAAN DAM )

Just few kilometers south of the famous White Temple, you will find the mysterios Black House or 'Baan Dam', built by Kositpipat's former teacher Thawan Duchanee. Not just one building, but a collection of almost forty monuments which are home to Duchanee's extensive collection of weird taxidermy and bones.

Wandering around the area, you will come across the entire skeleton of an elephant, bear skins, tiger skins, skulls of unidentifiable creatures, reptile skins, furs and bizzare furniture created from the bones of exotic animals.

Thawan Duchanee's unusual style is quickly gaining recognition and he is now considered a Thai National Artist. He certainly has his own unique style and the project is sill ongoing. More of his artwork can be seen in the shop at the entrance to the house grounds - where you can pick up a postcard or a crocodile handbag as a souvenir.