The district of Thalang is located in the northern part of Phuket. It’s a beautiful region that was formerly the capital of the island. At the heart of Thalang, you’ll find two massive statues of two women in traditional Thai attire. In March each year, a two-week grand celebration commemorates the contributions of the women whose statues were made.
Who were these two women, and why does the district of Thalang celebrate them each year? Through traditional dances, local celebrations, re-enactments, sporting events, and more, the annual festival honors the bravery, heroism, and courage of the heroines of Thalang: the sisters who saved Phuket.
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Who Were the Heroines of Thalang?
It was the year 1785, and the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty was faced with the threat of a Burmese invasion. This wasn’t the first time Burma waged war against the kingdom of Siam (modern-day Thailand), but many decades prior was the Burmese-Siamese War, which ended in 1767.
Though a new dynasty began to rule Siam, Burma still wanted to conquer the vast land, with Phuket as a significant target. Its tin mining industry and strategic maritime location proved attractive enough to warrant an invasion. Thus, a looming battle was imminent in Thalang, the island’s capital.
Having held a high position in the capital’s administration and being a close ally of the royal family, Thao Thep Krasattri soon found herself leading the island’s defense. From her administrative duties to her military role, she and her sister, Thao Sri Sunthon, rallied the locals and protected their homeland from the invaders.
Though Thao Thep Krasattri (Chan) was a mother and wife, she became known for her leadership and bravery. Together with her sister, Thao Sri Sunthon (Sao), they used guerrilla tactics, psychological warfare, and community mobilization to thwart the Burmese soldiers attempting to conquer the island.
The Battle of Thalang
The sisters successfully defended their homeland at the Battle of Thalang in 1785. When the local men dwindled after fighting the Burmese invaders, it was up to the sisters and the local population to defend their land.
One of the primary tactics used by the sisters was the strategic use of Phuket’s terrain. Backhand knowledge of the island’s dense jungles, narrow paths, and steep hills proved to be advantageous, where they ambushed and raided Burmese soldiers at night and used women disguised as male soldiers to intimidate the enemy.
After the Burmese army’s supplies were averted and the number of its men decreased, it eventually retreated and left Phuket. This was the victory of the heroines of Phuket, of Chan and Sao’s brave leadership, courage, and determination. Because of their unwavering refusal to be defeated, Chan and Sao were immortalized at the Battle of Thalang.
Honoring the Heroines Today
The sisters’ legacy in Phuket has endured for hundreds of years, becoming symbols of the island’s true identity. Preserving its culture and fighting against foreign invaders, the sisters proved that defending one’s homeland is a duty for future generations.
The Heroine’s Monument in Thalang’s heart is a testament to Phuket’s pride. The statues of Chan and Sao serve as reminders of bravery, leadership, and courage. In addition to the statues, the Thalang Historical Park also honors the sisters by presenting exhibits and displays about the Burmese invasion of 1785 and how the local communities deftly forced the enemies back to their homeland, never to return.
In March, the district of Thalang celebrates the Thao Thao Krasattri-Thao Sri Suntorn Festival in a grand gesture of honor. The two-week festival involves sporting activities, reenactments, cultural performances, and local traditions. With dozens of activities, fairs, and traditions held during the festival, staying for extended periods in luxury villas in Phuket is a no-brainer for families or groups wishing to witness this iconic festival on the island.
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Exploring Thalang’s History in Style
Beyond beach parties and snorkeling, visiting Phuket exposes you to the island’s rich history and cultural significance. Thus, when visiting, take the time to express Thailand’s history, where two sisters are credited for saving it from foreign invaders in the 18th century.
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In addition to the Heroines Moment, explore the Thalang National Museum, Wat Phra Thong, and other cultural landmarks. Better yet, why not attend the annual festival festivities in March commemorating Thalang’s heroines?
Explore Thalang’s rich heritage and traditions with an itinerary created by your Phuket villa rental’s concierge. A villa rental offers more than just a luxury home; it is the perfect base for historical and cultural exploration on the island.
A Timeless Legacy of Bravery and Heritage
Overall, the legacy of Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Sri Sunthon continues to inspire Phuket’s residents and visitors. Their bravery helped preserve Phuket’s identity by forcing out would-be invaders and protecting the homeland for indigenous people. With the monument, museum, and annual festival, the legacy of the heroines of Phuket lives on.
You can explore the island’s natural beauty and historical richness by visiting Thalang and participating in its cultural celebrations.
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Featured Image by Phuket Provincial Office of Buddhism
