Wiang Kum Kam

Wiang Kum Kam is an archaeological ruined city and excavation site immediately south of Chiang Mai, Thailand, that preserves the remains of an early settlement founded in the late 13th century. The site contains temples, stupas and structural foundations from the Lanna period and is important for understanding early urban development in the Chiang Mai area.

The open-air ruins and a small visitor area display recovered artifacts and explanatory panels. Visitors walk short trails that pass multiple brick temple bases and chedis; guides and local signage explain the major features and the site’s relationship to the Ping River floodplain.

Wiang Kum Kam was established as an early settlement associated with the founding of Chiang Mai in the 13th century but was repeatedly affected by floods and gradually buried by silt. Systematic archaeological excavations in the 20th century uncovered temple complexes and recovered material culture now used to interpret the site’s history.

The site lies on the floodplain of the Ping River, a short distance south of Chiang Mai’s historic center, and is reached by a brief drive or cycle ride from the city.

• Proximity to Chiang Mai: Located just a few kilometres south of Chiang Mai's old city, it is commonly visited on short trips from Chiang Mai by bicycle, tuk-tuk or car.
• Best time to visit: Dry-season visits (roughly November to April) are easiest for walking between the low, open ruins and the small on-site displays.

What to See #

• Wat Chedi Liam: One of the best-preserved temple complexes excavated at the site, dating to the city period and showing typical Lanna-style brick stupas and foundations.
• Excavated temple precincts: A compact group of uncovered ruins and platforms where visitors can walk among foundations and see ongoing archaeological conservation and interpretive signs.