Ancient City of Wiang Kum Kam & Wat Chiang Man

The ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam in northern Thailand captivates visitors with its well-preserved ruins and cultural treasures. At the heart of this historic site stands the stunning Wat Chiang Man, a temple that exemplifies the remarkable Lanna-style architecture. Adorned with intricate chedis and ornate wooden carvings, the temple offers a glimpse into the region’s artistic achievements during the Lanna Kingdom era. Exploring this archaeological gem allows travelers to uncover the captivating history and rich heritage that have endured through the centuries. What secrets might the ruins of Wiang Kum Kam hold, waiting to be discovered?

Key Points

• The well-preserved archaeological site of Wiang Kum Kam offers insights into the rich cultural heritage of northern Thailand’s Lanna Kingdom.
• Wat Chedi Liam, within the Wiang Kum Kam site, features intricate Lanna-style architecture with a towering chedi and beautifully carved wooden elements.
• The Three Kings Monument commemorates the three influential rulers who established the Lanna Kingdom in the 13th century.
• The Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center showcases the region’s artistic heritage, including traditional Northern Thai architecture and skilled artisan demonstrations.
• Exploring the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam by scenic horse-drawn carriage provides a leisurely and immersive experience, enhancing the understanding of the site’s history.

Exploring Wiang Kum Kam’s Ancient Temples

Visitors on the tour can explore the well-preserved ancient temples of Wiang Kum Kam, a once-thriving city that was abandoned centuries ago.

The archaeological site features several impressive temples, including Wat Chedi Liam, which showcases intricate Lanna-style architecture. Travelers can marvel at the towering chedi, or Buddhist stupa, and the beautifully carved wooden doors and window frames.

Another highlight is the Three Kings Monument, commemorating the three kings who ruled the region. The guide provides insights into the history and significance of these ancient structures, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of northern Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.

Three Kings Monument and Its Significance

The Three Kings Monument stands as a revered landmark within the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam, commemorating the three influential rulers who shaped the region’s rich history.

These three kings – Mangrai, Mengrai, and Ngam Muang – played pivotal roles in the hotel and development of the Lanna Kingdom during the 13th century.

The monument features intricate sculptures depicting the three kings, serving as a reminder of their significant contributions to the cultural and political landscape of northern Thailand.

Visitors can admire this historic site and gain insights into the complex interplay of leadership and legacy that defined the Wiang Kum Kam settlement.

Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center

The Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center offers a comprehensive glimpse into the region’s rich artistic heritage.

Visitors can explore traditional Northern Thai architecture, observe skilled artisans at work, and admire an array of exquisite handicrafts. The center houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and textiles, showcasing the exceptional talent and creativity of local artists.

Exhibits cover a wide range of mediums, from intricate woodcarvings to delicate lacquerware. Through interactive demonstrations and educational displays, the center provides valuable insights into the cultural significance of these time-honored crafts.

Whether seeking to deepen their understanding of Thai art or simply appreciate its beauty, visitors are sure to find the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center a captivating and enlightening experience.

Scenic Horse-drawn Carriage Ride

What better way to experience the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam than aboard a scenic horse-drawn carriage? This unique mode of transportation offers visitors a leisurely and authentic way to explore the historic site.

As the carriage meanders through the well-preserved ruins, travelers can admire the remnants of ancient temples and monuments while learning about the city’s rich past from the knowledgeable guide.

The gentle clip-clop of the horses’ hooves adds to the serene ambiance, allowing visitors to truly enjoy the timeless atmosphere of Wiang Kum Kam.

This captivating experience is a highlight of the half-day tour, providing a memorable and enchanting way to discover the wonders of this ancient northern Thai city.

Pickup and Transportation Information

Pickup from all Chiang Mai city hotels is included in the tour package.

However, there’s a surcharge of 500 baht each way for pickups from the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Veranda High Resort Chiang Mai.

The tour requires a minimum of 2 people, but single travelers may book subject to availability.

Additional options include:

1. Wheelchair accessible
2. Stroller accessible
3. Infant seats available
4. Upgrade available for Spanish, French, German, or Russian-speaking guides for an additional 800 baht.

Accessibility and Additional Tour Options

For the tour of the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam, various accessibility options and additional services are available. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infant seats can be provided. Guests can also upgrade to a Spanish, French, German, or Russian-speaking guide for an additional 800 baht. The tour has a maximum of 30 travelers, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Accessibility Options	Additional Services
Wheelchair accessible	Upgrade to language-specific guide
Stroller accessible	Roundtrip transportation from/to Chiang Mai hotels
Infant seats available	Gratuities included

Cancellation and Review Details

The tour of the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The tour has a maximum of 30 travelers and has an overall rating of 4.0 from 3 reviews. Reviewers provided positive feedback on the guide’s knowledge and expertise, though they noted the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center was closed on Mondays.

Some additional details:

1. Travelers can upgrade to a Spanish, French, German, or Russian-speaking guide for an additional 800 baht.
2. A minimum of 2 people is required for the tour, but single travelers may book subject to availability.
3. There’s a 500 baht surcharge for pickups from the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Veranda High Resort Chiang Mai.
4. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infant seats are available.

Tour Inclusions and Pricing

The tour of the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam includes a guided exploration of its archaeological sites, temples, and the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center, accompanied by live commentary from a knowledgeable guide.

Visitors can enjoy a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride and round-trip transportation from their Chiang Mai hotels. The tour also covers the iconic 3 Kings Monument.

Pricing includes gratuities, and children 1 and younger are complimentary, while those 11 and younger must be accompanied by a paying adult.

A surcharge applies for pickups from certain resorts, and a minimum of 2 people is required for the tour, though single travelers can book subject to availability.

Upgrades for language-specific guides are offered for an additional fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The minimum age requirement for the tour is 1 and younger. Children 11 and younger must be accompanied by a paying adult to join the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify any restrictions on bringing your own food and drinks. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider in advance to ensure there are no rules or policies about outside snacks and beverages.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour description doesn’t mention any discounts for seniors or students. Travelers should check with the tour operator to see if they offer any age-based discounts.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Customers can’t customize the tour itinerary, but the tour offers flexibility with hotel pickups and drop-offs, wheelchair and stroller accessibility, and multilingual guide options for an additional fee.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?

No special equipment or gear is needed for the tour. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the ancient ruins and cultural sights are recommended. The tour provides roundtrip transportation and a horse-drawn carriage ride.

Recap

Wiang Kum Kam’s ancient temples and the magnificent Wat Chiang Man offer a captivating glimpse into Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the region’s history through guided tours, while also experiencing the tranquility of the scenic horse-drawn carriage ride. This archaeological site showcases the artistic mastery of the Lanna Kingdom, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring northern Thailand’s remarkable past.