Travel_LeisureIndiaSouthAsia-January_2017

36 TRAVEL + LEISURE / JANUARY 2017

PHOTO CREDIT

00 TRAVEL + LEISURE / NOVEMBER 2016

Traditionally reserved only for the royal courts, Khon is a form

of dance-drama performed to the beats of Piphat—a music

ensemble of percussion instruments from the most scared

compositions of Thai classical repertoire. The practice of

Khon Ramakien narrates the tale of Ramayana with four main

characters: Phra Ram (the hero), Sita, the ogre (demon), and

Hanuman (the warrior monkey). Performers wear costumes

made of colourful fabrics embellished with intricate embroidery

and sparkling stones. There are mainly three elements of the

getup: Siraporn (head accessories), Pattraporn (clothing), and

Tanimpimpaporn (worn accessories). Khon is a gateway to

Thai mythology, culture, and virtues of the people.

Thailand

AYUTTHAYA

Costume Drama