Description
KramSakon (ครามสกล) is a lovely shop that focuses on locally produced Indigo dyed clothing, scarves, bags, hats, shoes, and more. Sakon Nakhon is celebrated as the originator of Indigo dyed clothing, and the "Indigo Village" at KramSakon is one of the best places in the province to purchase items. All of the cotton fabric is handwoven, possessing a softness rarely seen in ordinary clothing shops. The designs are an eclectic mix of traditional and modern motifs, with a unique richness of Indigo color. The rich color is due to the trees of this region from which the dyes are produced, as well as the unique Indigo fermenting process that has been handed down for generations.
The KramSakon shop is set within an attractive natural setting, with shady trees and waterfall, making it a delightful oasis on hot Sakon Nakhon afternoons. While there are occasional Indigo fabric making workshops, these are conducted in the Thai language and would be difficult for a foreigner to follow. The prices for Indigo items are a bit more expensive than at other shops, but the high quality makes the extra price well worth it, and overall it is still inexpensive by Western standards.
KramSakon is conveniently located 15 minutes from Sakon Nakhon city on the way to the famous Wat Tham Pha Daen mountain temple, which is on the itinerary of most tourists visiting Sakon Nakhon. You can easily drop by on your journey to the temple or on the way back. There is also a delightful cafe called Khun Kram Coffee on the premises, which serves pizza, steaks, spaghetti, and Thai dishes. So, you can combine your trip here with a delicious lunch or dinner, sitting outside in the garden area or indoors with A/C.
KramSakon is easy to spot on Highway 2339. If you are traveling in the direction of Wat Tham Pha Daem, it is on the right hand side of the road. A large Indigo colored teddy bear is positioned in the front, next to several Indigo arches. Turn in at the gate and you'll travel inside toward a large parking lot in front of the cafe. If you are interested in visiting another nearby temple, we would suggest Wat Pha Nao or Wat Sangkhom Potharam, which are just a little further down Highway 2339 in the direction of Sakon Nakhon.
