Discover Thai Buddhism
An interest in Buddhism, the spiritual practice of about 95% of Thailand’s population, brings thousands of curious visitors to Thailand every year. With CCS, you'll have a chance to not only visit multiple temples, but also create a Tung flag to present to the temple for good merit. You'll hear monks chanting, learn the different styles of temples, and learn about the rich history of Buddhism and the influence it still has on the Thai culture today.
Learn to Speak Thai
CCS Thai language classes will focus on spoken Thai. Your CCS Thai language instructor will teach you what you need to know to shop northern Thailand's famous markets, connect with the beneficiaries at your volunteer assignment, and communicate, in perfect Thai, just how spicy you like your tom yum soup.
Pay Your Respects at Wat Phumin
Marvel at Wat Phumin and soak in the beauty and culture that makes up Nan's most famous temple. From the moment you step through the intricate doors designed by Lanna craftsmen, you'll find that you're never out of eyesight of one of the four Buddha statues that adorn the center of the room. You'll immediately notice Pu Man, one of Thailand's most famous wall murals, that depicts the life, attire, and traditions that make the Nan Province so unique.
Taste Thai Street Food
Thailand is famous for an abundance of night markets in every city, featuring diverse street food, lines of stalls with Thai souvenirs, and dance and music performances. Following a dinner out, join our team in exploring the sights, sounds, and smells of Nan Province's nightlife.
Explore the Nan River
Winding through the fertile lands of the Nan Basin, the Nan River has long been an important element of daily Thai life for the people of this province, supporting rice farming, fishing, and transportation. As you tour the Nan River, you might even come across houseboats and river houses, an important aspect of regional living for the Phitsanulok people.
Cook Thai Cuisine
Learn how to make traditional pad thai, a staple of Thai cuisine, with our CCS cook at the Home-Base kitchen. Follow along with your English recipe handout, and of course, you'll have a chance to dig in to an authentic Thai meal after all that hard work. Pass the Sriracha sauce, please!
Discover Thai Dressmaking
Meet with local seamstresses to learn how a beautiful dress is made from beginning to end. As you visit museum displaying the original Nan Province dress wear and participate in the preparation of cotton for sewing, using old fashioned tools such as a cotton weaving wheel and loom, you will walk away with a new appreciation for the effort, attention to detail, and love required to make each piece of this beautiful clothing.
Create Thai Pottery and Baskets
Work alongside local people engaged in Thai pottery and weaving who have passed down these skills for generations. You will have a chance to create your own pottery and weave your own baskets or dream catchers, believed to keep away evil spirits and provide safety to your home.