Wat Chedi Liam Wiang Kum Kam
Explore Wat Chedi Liam, a stunning 13th-century Burmese-style temple ruin in the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam, Chiang Mai.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Golden hour beauty
Wat Chedi Liam Wiang Kum Kam
Best Time
Golden hour beauty
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Wat Chedi Liam, a stunning 13th-century Burmese-style temple ruin in the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam, Chiang Mai.
"Fairly large and nice looking temple, a beautiful and peaceful historical site."
No Central Visitor Center
Don't expect a formal visitor center; explore the ruins directly. Wat Chedi Liam is a good starting point.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around ancient ruins, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wat Chedi Liam's Tower
Wiang Kum Kam
Admire the striking 5-tier Burmese-style tower, a centerpiece of this ancient city. Decorated with Buddha statues and guardian lions.
Sunset Views at Wat Chedi Liam
Wiang Kum Kam
Experience the golden hour glow on the ancient bricks. A peaceful time to visit as the day-trippers depart.
Local Friday Market
Wat Chedi Liam
On Fridays, a small local market pops up, offering a glimpse into daily life and local crafts.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Wiang Kum Kam
Navigating Wiang Kum Kam's Ruins
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wiang Kum Kam
No Central Visitor Center
Don't expect a formal visitor center; explore the ruins directly. Wat Chedi Liam is a good starting point.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around ancient ruins, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Interesting / different things to do in Chiang Mai (away from tourist traps)
Friday Market Delight
If visiting on a Friday, check out the small local market near Wat Chedi Liam for a cultural experience.
Historical Significance
Wiang Kum Kam was a historical settlement rediscovered in the mid-80s after being hidden by jungle.
Tips
from all over the internet
No Central Visitor Center
Don't expect a formal visitor center; explore the ruins directly. Wat Chedi Liam is a good starting point.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around ancient ruins, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Friday Market Delight
If visiting on a Friday, check out the small local market near Wat Chedi Liam for a cultural experience.
Historical Significance
Wiang Kum Kam was a historical settlement rediscovered in the mid-80s after being hidden by jungle.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Wat Chedi Liam to be a beautiful and historically significant temple within the Wiang Kum Kam ruins. Its unique Burmese architecture and peaceful atmosphere are highlights. However, some visitors have been confused about its location, mistaking it for a temple in Chiang Rai, and note that the overall site is spread out with limited amenities.
"There isn’t much to see . Actually we wanted to visit the temple shown in the main picture for this place . But it turned out to be in Chiang Rai .. so … if you’re looking for the exact one- don’t waste your time coming here"
Алина
"Wat Chedi Liam, formerly known as Wat Ku Kham, is one of the wats in the ancient Thai city of Wiang Kum Kam, now part of present-day Chiang Mai."
aerobic Hương
"Fairly large and nice looking temple."
Ak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wiang Kum Kam is located just across the river from Chiang Mai. You can take a Grab or a local songthaew. Some travelers mention that Grab is a convenient option to get dropped off at specific ruins like Wat Chedi Liam.
According to local advice, there isn't a running visitor center. The historical settlement is spread out with multiple temple ruins to explore.
While not explicitly mentioned, renting a bike or scooter could be a good way to navigate the scattered ruins of Wiang Kum Kam, especially if you want to cover more ground independently.
Horse and carriage tours were previously available, but recent observations suggest they may not be running consistently. It's best to check locally upon arrival.
While Grab is recommended, you might be able to reach the general area by local songthaew, though direct routes to specific ruins might be limited.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no admission fee to explore the temple ruins of Wiang Kum Kam. It's an open historical site.
As an open historical site, Wiang Kum Kam doesn't have strict opening hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
Wat Chedi Liam, like other ruins in Wiang Kum Kam, is typically free to enter and explore.
While official guided tours might be limited, you can explore independently or hire a local guide if available. Some travelers opt for self-guided exploration.
It's advisable to visit Wiang Kum Kam during daylight hours for the best experience and safety. Sunset can be particularly beautiful.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wiang Kum Kam is an ancient historical settlement featuring numerous temple ruins, with Wat Chedi Liam being a prominent and beautiful example. It offers a glimpse into a less-touristed historical site.
Yes, Wiang Kum Kam is a great destination for solo travelers looking for a quieter, less touristy experience away from the main Chiang Mai attractions.
Exploring Wiang Kum Kam is best done on foot to appreciate the details of the ruins. Comfortable shoes are essential.
Travelers report seeing very few tourists at Wiang Kum Kam, making it an excellent option for those seeking a more authentic and peaceful experience.
Wiang Kum Kam was an ancient settlement, rediscovered in the mid-1980s. Many of its temples were hidden by jungle after flooding centuries ago.
📸 📸 Photography
The 5-tier tower of Wat Chedi Liam, adorned with Buddha statues and lions, is a prime photo opportunity. The surrounding ruins and the peaceful atmosphere also make for great shots.
Yes, Wiang Kum Kam offers unique photographic opportunities with its ancient ruins, especially Wat Chedi Liam, and a less crowded environment compared to other temples.
Late afternoons, especially around sunset, provide beautiful lighting for photography at Wiang Kum Kam, casting a warm glow on the ancient structures.
Information on drone photography regulations at Wiang Kum Kam is not readily available. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone.
Generally, photography is allowed within the temple grounds. However, always be respectful of any active religious practices or areas marked as restricted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the softer light. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the historical context and the visual appeal of the chedi can capture a child's imagination. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited within the ruins themselves.
🚶 Solo Travelers Seeking Authenticity
Wat Chedi Liam is a must-see, and the surrounding ruins provide ample opportunity for exploration. Consider visiting on a Friday to experience the local market, adding another layer to your authentic experience. Grab is a convenient way to get there and back, giving you flexibility.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ancient City of Wiang Kum Kam
Among the most prominent structures is Wat Chedi Liam, also known as Wat Ku Kham. This temple features a distinctive 5-tier Burmese-style chedi (tower) that is beautifully decorated with Buddha images and large lion sculptures. It's a visually striking ruin that stands out among the others. Visiting Wiang Kum Kam provides a quieter, more contemplative experience compared to the bustling temples within Chiang Mai city.
Travelers often find Wiang Kum Kam to be a refreshing escape from the usual tourist trails. The lack of crowds allows for a more personal connection with the history and architecture. It’s a place where you can wander among ancient bricks, imagine life centuries ago, and appreciate the resilience of these historical remnants.
Wat Chedi Liam: A Burmese Architectural Gem
The temple's name, 'Chedi Liam,' translates to 'temple of the square pagoda,' referring to its shape. While the main chedi is the highlight, the surrounding complex also contains remnants of other structures, hinting at the former grandeur of the site. The atmosphere here, especially during the late afternoon, is serene, allowing visitors to appreciate the intricate details and the historical weight of the place.
For photographers and history enthusiasts, Wat Chedi Liam offers a rich canvas. The interplay of light and shadow on the ancient bricks, especially during the golden hour, creates dramatic and beautiful scenes. It’s a place that invites quiet contemplation and a deeper appreciation for the architectural heritage of the Lanna Kingdom.
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