The area around Thaton is renowned for the number of minority groups each of which bring their own identity to the region, adding another layer of interest for the visitor.

There are Chinese villages, various hilltribe groups, as well as Burmese Shan. It is the latter to which we suggest visitors may wish to spend a day. We have forged a link with a large village school in the settlement of Ban Mae Mok Cham. This link began with the MRVR organising for an international school from Japan to construct a small cultural centre within the village school. Here, the Shan students have the opportunity of undertaking a variety of activities in order to help maintain their culture and identity. This can be anything from Shan language, music and cooking, through to basketry, weaving, hat-making, and even silverware. These skills are taught by the elderly of the village who are happy to pass on their knowledge to a new generation.

Guests are invited to spend a half day or a day in the school, working alongside Shan students at various of the activities mentioned above. The added advantage for the Shan students is that they can practise their English at the same time.

The fees for this excursion (except cost of transport) will be donated to the school for further development work.