More Beautiful Than Gold: The Golden Triangle
A journey tracing the borders shaped by the Mekong River—Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos—crossing temples, markets, border towns, and highland villages.
From Wat Rong Khun and the Pha Chor Canyon in Chiang Rai, to the Mae Sai–Tachileik border market, and onward to Houay Xai and Luang Namtha in Laos, the documentary captures the lives and cultures of ethnic minorities such as the Akha, Karen, Lisu, Intha, Pa-O, and Khmu.
Through ancient cities, floating villages, lacquerware workshops, traditional weddings, and rocket festivals, it reveals the rhythm of life that transcends national borders.
Rather than showcasing tourist attractions, it quietly reflects the strength and beauty of the people and landscapes in the Southeast Asian borderlands—where history, religion, and trade intersect in everyday life.
Episode 1 – In Search of the Golden Triangle
This episode explores Chiang Rai’s iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), the bustling local markets of northern Thailand, an Akha village, the dramatic cliffs of Pha Chor (known as Thailand’s Grand Canyon), and the lives of the Karen people who live alongside elephants.
It paints a picture of the historical and cultural complexities of the Golden Triangle region.
Episode 2 – Crossing Borders in Three Nations of Asia
From the morning market of Doi Mae Salong and a Lisu village in northern Thailand, we cross the border at Mae Sai into Tachileik, Myanmar, exploring the vibrant frontier market.
The journey continues through Houay Xai to remote villages of the Ao people in Laos, illustrating the daily life and connections shared across the border zones.
Episode 3 – Like a Flowing River: Laos
Following the rhythm of nature along the Mekong River, this episode travels through Luang Namtha, Akha communities, the sacred Pak Ou Caves near Houay Xai, and into Lao traditional life.
From wedding ceremonies of the Lao people to cultural villages of the Khmu, we witness the intimate bond between land, culture, and community.
Episode 4 – Myanmar: A Sanctuary for Travelers
This episode journeys into the ancient city of Bagan, explores a lacquerware village in Myinkaba, visits the Intha and Pa-O communities in the floating villages of Nyaungshwe, and captures the rocket festivals of the Pa-O people near the Oy Pagoda in Shan State.
The landscapes are imbued with rich traditions and the cultural heritage of Myanmar’s diverse ethnic groups.
