Wiang Kum Kam 🇹🇭

You will find Wiang Kum Kam just three kilometers south of Chiang Mai's city center in Saraphi District. Built by King Mangrai the Great in the late 13th century as his capital following his victory over Hariphunchai, this historic settlement along the Ping River was repeatedly flooded and ultimately abandoned. Today, you can explore this fascinating archaeological site to discover the lost history of a city that lay forgotten for centuries before excavations began in 1984.

As you wander through the area, you can visit Wat Chedi Liam, an active temple featuring a striking five-level Mon-style squared pagoda where Brahma is venerated alongside Buddhist traditions. You can also explore ruined temples dating back to the 16th or 17th centuries, such as Wat Nan Chang, which preserves dramatic evidence of past flooding under nearly two meters of sediment. Other highlights you can see include Wat Pu Pia, celebrated for its well-preserved stucco work and layout, Wat I Khang with its large chedi, Wat Chang Kham featuring elephant figures, and Wat Phrachao Ong Dam, named after a burnt bronze Buddha image.

It offers you an authentic look into Northern Thailand's ancient past.

What to see at Wiang Kum Kam

• Wat Chedi Liam, an active temple featuring a five-level Mon-style pagoda
• Wat Nan Chang, revealing ancient flood history under 1.8 meters of sediment
• Wat Pu Pia, renowned for its intact layout and detailed stucco work
• Wat Chang Kham, featuring elephant figures supporting one of its structures
• Wat I Khang, featuring a large, mostly intact chedi

Visiting tips

Visit Wat Chedi Liam to see the site's only active temple with resident monks and witness Brahma venerated alongside traditional Buddhist practices.

How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Wiang Kum Kam is easy to reach on Chiang Mai’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Chiang Mai Zoo and Ban Ho Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Chiang Mai travel guide.