THE LISU

The Lisu has an unquenchable spirit. They are enterprising and adaptable, smart and self-confident. They retain their customs and costumes, language and beliefs.

The Lisu headman has little power, since the Lisu are fiercely independent people who take orders from no one.

They originated in Eastern Tibet, and the first settlers arrived in Thailand at the beginning of this century. They are mainly found in northwest Thailand, and often live in close proximity to other groups. The women wear brightly coloured costumes, consisting of a blue or green parti-coloured knee length tunic, split up the sides to the waist, with a wide black belt and blue or green pants. Long hair is tied at the back. Sleeves, shoulders, and cuffs are heavily embroidered with narrow, horizontal bands of blue, red, and yellow.

The Lisu live at moderate to high altitudes, though many are now moving down into lowland areas. Their houses are built on the ground, with dirt floors and bamboo walls around a central ridge. They live as extended families, the number of bedrooms depending on the family size. Unmarried girls have a private bedroom after puberty. Every home has an altar at the back of the communal living area with a shelf holding vessels and incense sticks honouring their ancestor.

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