9/7/09

Thai Culture Ling Ching Lak, the Game for Children and Adults

Ling Ching Lak, the Game for Children and Adults

One of the oldest folk games in Thailand, Ling Ching Lak, literally meaning 'Monkey Fighting for the Poles', is also called Ling Ching Sao, or Ling Chap Sao, in accordance with each locality. Evidence shows that Ling Ching Lak began during the Ayutthaya Period, when this game was referred to as Ling Ching Sao. The game was popular among both children and adults, male and female.




Today, adult rarely play this game. Although the game is still played by children, its popularity has declined significantly.



The number of players is more than four but should not be over 10. The game is usually played on large space. There are posts which are as tall as a person and the distance from one post to another is equal. But the number of the posts must be one less than the number of contestants. Trees may be used to substitute for the posts.



How to play Ling Ching Lak

One of the players is selected to act as monkey and stand in the middle of the area. Other players station at each post, but they must run from post to post to change their station when the monkey gives a signal. The monkey must try to seize one of the posts, otherwise he or she will still remain monkey. The one who cannot take any post must perform as monkey instead.



Anyone touches the post first will get it. All contestants must not push one another or resort to violence while playing. A violator against this rule will have to take the role of monkey. The decision will be made among the players themselves. The one who takes the role of monkey more frequently than others will be regarded as a loser.