Do you know why a trip to the saturday market in Chiang Mai is worth it? Because of the amazing atmosphere? Because of the local wondering around in the tiny market? I would answer yes and yes, but there is more!! There is a merchant selling the most awesome thing ever!! One could buy a Luukmhom! It is the cutest hand-made key chain ever and the merchant is very nice!
**The following is the official description of the creature**:
” The Luukmhom abides in the realms of the jungle-heaven, far up in the skies, and is the vehicule of Pachunon, the Northern thai god of rains. The legend of the Luukmhom is derived from the religious history and mythology of Northern Thailand. The body is a mix of a monkey, a tiger, and more, and can appear in various shapes and sizes. You will find statutes of the Luukmhom in temple grounds throught this regions standing guard outside of religious buildings guard watching over, taking care of, and protecting the compound from evil spirits. The Luukmhom is symbolic of seeking happiness with judious and thoughtful intent, without causing us to forget ourselves or do bad in our search for pleasure. The Luukmhom is a prominent part of Northern Thai (Lanna) culture, as a beingwhose story has come to us from more than 700 years ago and continues on today.”
There are so cute!!!! ^_^