Heritage & monuments
Wiang Kum Kam
Wiang Kum Kam
Wiang Kum Kam is an archaeological site consisting of the ruins of an ancient city located on the banks of the Ping River. It served as the capital for King Mangrai before the establishment of Chiang Mai. The city was submerged under water and sediment for centuries before being rediscovered, leaving behind a series of brick foundations, stupas, and temple ruins that provide insight into early Lanna architecture.
Getting There
The site is located just outside the main city center of Chiang Mai. Visitors can reach the area via songthaew or ride-sharing apps. The journey typically takes 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Duration of Visit
Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours to explore the main ruins. Because the site is spread across a residential area, many visitors use local horse-drawn carriages or bicycles to move between the different temple sites.
When to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat, as much of the site is uncovered and exposed to direct sunlight. The cooler months from November to February are the most comfortable for walking. The site generally remains less crowded than the temples within the old city walls.
Nearby Sites
The ruins are clustered with several smaller temples that can be visited in a single trip. Nearby locations include:
- Wat Pupia (0.5km)
- Wat I Kang (0.6km)
- Wat Phan Lao (0.9km)
- Wat Chang Kham (0.9km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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