VIDEO - Tradition trumps modernity for Thailand's Lisu tribe

Editor's note: CNN's On the Road series brings you a greater insight into the customs and culture of countries across the world. During November, CNN International explores the places, people and passions unique to Thailand. Read CNN's special reports policy.

(CNN) -- With their distinctive, colorful headwear, Lisu women stand out from the lush green fields of northern Thailand.

Where once opium was grown, cash crops like rice and corn are now harvested, providing a simple way of life for members of one of Thailand's most remote tribal groups.

Around 50,000 members of the Lisu tribe live in Thailand, many in isolated village communities near the border with Laos and Myanmar.

Descendants of semi-nomadic, ethnic Tibetan tribes, their traditions, culture and animistic beliefs remain a strong part of their lives.

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"We have a simple happy life," explains the youthful-looking head of the village of Ban Man Pa.

During torrential rain it's easy to imagine how hard life can be for villagers as dirt roads become muddy streams and people shelter in simple wooden buildings.

Yet most seem content, even if they could do with electricity.

But they don't live completely without the conveniences of modern life, says the village head. Once his family used to own Thai horses, but now they have Japanese ones he jokes. "They're called Toyota."

CNN