Wiang Kum Kam Chiang Mai
Explore the serene brick ruins of Wiang Kum Kam, the ancient capital of Lanna, offering a peaceful historical escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Wiang Kum Kam Chiang Mai
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the serene brick ruins of Wiang Kum Kam, the ancient capital of Lanna, offering a peaceful historical escape.
"A great morning out for something interesting besides shopping and eating."
🚲 Rent a Bicycle
Explore the vast site at your own pace. Perfect for covering ground and enjoying the scenery.
🐴 Horse Carriage Tours
A romantic and informative way to see the ruins, often with local guides.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Temple Ruins
Scattered throughout the site
Explore the brick remnants of over 40 ancient temples, offering a glimpse into Lanna's past.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour
Various starting points
A charming way to see the scattered ruins and learn about the history from local guides.
Wat Chedi Liam
Central area
A particularly beautiful temple ruin, especially stunning at sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Uncover Ancient History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Rent a Bicycle
Explore the vast site at your own pace. Perfect for covering ground and enjoying the scenery.
🐴 Horse Carriage Tours
A romantic and informative way to see the ruins, often with local guides.
☀️ Avoid Midday Sun
The ruins can get very hot. Visit early morning or late afternoon for comfort.
📍 Free Admission
Enjoy the historical sites without an entry fee. Donations are welcome.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Rent a Bicycle
Explore the vast site at your own pace. Perfect for covering ground and enjoying the scenery.
🐴 Horse Carriage Tours
A romantic and informative way to see the ruins, often with local guides.
☀️ Avoid Midday Sun
The ruins can get very hot. Visit early morning or late afternoon for comfort.
📍 Free Admission
Enjoy the historical sites without an entry fee. Donations are welcome.
🗺️ Navigate the Ruins
The site is spread out; consider a map or guided tour to see all key areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Wiang Kum Kam for its historical significance and peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere, offering a refreshing alternative to typical tourist spots. The well-maintained ruins and the option of charming carriage tours are highlights. Some note the lack of amenities and the spread-out nature of the site.
"If you’re looking for something interesting to do in Chiang Mai besides shopping, eating, etc. this makes for a great morning out. I was driving and so was able to make my way to each of the sites without hiring transport (which is readily available).
The sites are rather sleepy. I didn’t see anyone else there (which added to the experience in my opinion) but the sites are all well maintained. The excavation and renovation work is impressive.
There is a small plaque at each of the sites describing its background and significance. An added benefit is the feeling of being in a village, even though you’re only a few minutes from the city."
David Adriance
"Wiang Kum Kam is a large historical area dated back to over 700 years ago. It used to be the center of Lanna before the center moved to Chiang Mai.
Over 40+ temples had been discovered from underground in the area. 10 temples are opened for visitors.
They are free to visit but you can support the local by enjoying the horse ride through the area. The rider/guide can give information about the area and temples."
PG
"Free admission.
It’s a starting point that provides access to the vast area. You can rent a carriage here. Riding a carriage allows you to see the scattered ruins all at once. I just drove my own car. There were also couples who came by motorbike.
There were very few people, so many shops were either closed or not there at all.
If you like ruins, it's a great place to visit and feel the atmosphere of an ancient city buried in nature."
Jin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wiang Kum Kam is located just across the Ping River from Chiang Mai. You can easily reach it by Grab, taxi, or by renting a motorbike. Some visitors drive their own cars.
No, Wiang Kum Kam is quite close to Chiang Mai city, typically a short drive of about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
While it's geographically close, walking might be a bit far and hot, especially to explore the ruins. It's more practical to use transport.
Public transport directly to the ruins can be limited. Using ride-sharing apps like Grab is generally the most convenient and recommended option.
Once at Wiang Kum Kam, renting a bicycle is a popular and enjoyable way to explore the scattered ruins. Horse-drawn carriages are also available for tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Wiang Kum Kam and its temple ruins is generally free. You can explore the sites without paying an entrance fee.
Yes, horse-drawn carriage tours are often available and provide a guided experience of the historical site.
Wiang Kum Kam is an open-air historical site, so it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific temple structures might have their own hours.
No advance booking is necessary as admission is free. You can visit spontaneously.
Yes, you can support locals by opting for a horse-drawn carriage tour or purchasing items from any small markets that might be present.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Wiang Kum Kam is known for its ancient temple ruins, which were once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom before it moved to Chiang Mai. It's a significant archaeological site.
Over 40 temple ruins have been discovered, with about 10 of them being open and accessible for visitors to explore.
Absolutely! The ancient brick ruins set against the natural surroundings offer beautiful photographic opportunities, especially during the golden hour.
The best times are early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy softer light for photos. Friday evenings can be nice due to a local market.
Typically, Wiang Kum Kam is much less crowded than other Chiang Mai attractions, offering a more serene and authentic experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be a small local market on Fridays, dedicated restaurants are scarce within the ruins themselves. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit.
You might find some local vendors, especially on market days, but it's a good idea to bring your own water and snacks, particularly during hotter months.
You'll find a wider selection of restaurants and cafes back in Chiang Mai city or in the surrounding local villages.
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient brick ruins themselves, especially Wat Chedi Liam, offer stunning backdrops. The surrounding greenery and quiet atmosphere also make for beautiful shots.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful soft light that enhances the textures of the ruins. Early mornings are also good for fewer people.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of any religious sites and local customs.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens is great. A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the ruins, and a prime lens is good for details.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over the historical site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more comfortable for families, consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day, bringing plenty of water and snacks, and perhaps renting bicycles for older children to explore. The open space allows kids to move around freely, making it a more relaxed outing than crowded temples.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Wiang Kum Kam offers a chance to connect with history without the usual crowds, making it a rewarding solo adventure. The peaceful environment allows for personal discovery and a deeper appreciation of the ancient Lanna culture.
❤️ Couples
Exploring the serene temple grounds hand-in-hand, perhaps after a delightful Friday evening market, offers a unique and peaceful escape. It's a perfect spot for quiet conversations and enjoying the historical ambiance together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Lanna History
The site is an extensive archaeological area featuring numerous temple ruins, many of which were unearthed from beneath the earth. Visitors can explore around 10 of these rediscovered temples, each with its own distinct architectural style and historical narrative. The serene surroundings and the feeling of uncovering a lost city add to the allure of Wiang Kum Kam.
Understanding the history of Wiang Kum Kam enhances the visitor experience. It's a testament to the ingenuity and cultural richness of the Lanna people. The site provides a tangible link to a pivotal era in Northern Thailand's history, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Exploring the Ruins: Tours and Transport
Alternatively, for those who prefer more independence and a bit of exercise, renting a bicycle is an excellent option. This allows you to explore at your own pace, stopping whenever a particular ruin or scenic spot catches your eye. The relatively flat terrain makes cycling enjoyable.
For visitors arriving from Chiang Mai, Grab or a taxi is the most convenient mode of transport to reach Wiang Kum Kam. Once within the site, the choice between a carriage tour or a bicycle depends on your desired level of activity and engagement with local guides.
The Charm of Wiang Kum Kam's Atmosphere
The site is nestled in a village-like setting, just a short distance from the bustling city of Chiang Mai. This proximity provides a unique contrast, offering a serene escape without requiring a long journey. The well-maintained ruins blend harmoniously with the natural landscape, creating a picturesque and contemplative environment.
Many visitors describe the experience as 'sleepy' but in a positive way, adding to its charm. It’s a place where you can wander, reflect, and imagine life in the ancient capital. The quietude is a significant draw for those seeking a more authentic and less commercialized cultural experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit