Hang Dong is a district (amphoe) of Chiang Mai province in northern Thailand.

Geography

Neighboring districts are (from the southwest clockwise) San Pa Tong, Mae Wang, Samoeng, Mae Rim, Mueang Chiang Mai, Saraphi of Chiang Mai Province, and Mueang Lamphun of Lamphun province. The village Ban Tawai (บ้านถวาย) in Khun Khong sub-district is known for its handicraft center, as wood carving has been a local speciality since the 1960s.

History

Before 1917, the district was named Mae Tha Chang (แม่ท่าช้าง). 1938 the district was downgraded to a minor district (king amphoe) and made subordinate to Mueang Chiang Mai District. In 1947 it was elevated to full district status again. Historically, Hang Dong is considered the first place in Thailand where longan was grown. By the Chinese who brought it to the Princess Dara Rasmi, consort of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). Nowadays, it is considered an industrial drop in the northern Thailand.

Administration

Central administration

Hang Dong is divided into 11 sub-districts (tambons), which are further subdivided into 109 administrative villages (muban).

Local administration

There are 10 sub-district municipalities (thesaban tambons) in the district: There are two sub-district administrative organizations (SAO) in the district:

Economy

Hang Dong can be regarded as the outskirts Chiang Mai. Currently, the paddy fields and orchards have been replaced by housing estates, with investors from outside the locality to invest. But at the same time, the traditional way of life of some locals still exists.

Gallery