Half Day Wiang Kum Kam by Horse-Carriage
The influences of the Mon settlers in Chiang Mai have left numerous traces in and around the Rose of the North. Even before Chiang Mai took its place as capital of the Lanna Kingdom, under the ruling of King Mangrai in the 13th century, these traders put their mark on the region with evidence of their presence during the 8th century Haripoonchai era: remnants of this period of prosperity are now for the larger part available around Chiang Mai’s satellite town of Lamphun (south of the city). One of the best places to see the remains of this area is Wiang Kum Kam, a mere 1.9 miles (3 kilometres) outside the outermost south eastern corner Chiang Mai. Guests will admire the peacefulness and the importance of this part for the establishment of Chiang Mai as the capital aboard a horse-drawn carriage.
This private tour departs in the morning or in the afternoon and for 3.5-hours, guests are brought back in time to the earliest settlements of present Chiang Mai. Accompanied by an English speaking guide, the drive to Wiang (Wiang means ‘Walled City’) Kum Kam is a short one but will recognize immediate the flat land scenes, farm lands and the rural side of Northern Thailand. Upon arrival at the site, your guide will elaborate on the lay-out and the importance of this archaeological region. Erected by King Mangrai around the 13th century as the new capital after overthrowing the Mon people to establish his presence on the throne, the city has been conquered, flooded (because of its location near the Ping River and located in the lower side of Chiang Mai) and resurfaced after explorers found the site buried under thick layers of mud. The area was restored as a historical park during the 1980-ies. Surrounded by paddy and village houses, the extensive site has a pleasant rural feel, surprisingly since it is near Chiang Mai. You will enjoy a ride on a horse drawn carriage to see the best of this scenery.
Being an important satellite town for the Haripoonchai period and the vastness of this former Kingdom, archaeological projects continue until today. Over the years, researchers have found a marvelous collection of well-maintained pottery, Buddhist sculptures, earthenware molds and architectural plans that have provided a much better understanding during the reign of King Mangrai up until the late 16th century.
A relaxing half day excursion ends with thanking the driver of your horse-drawn carriage for touring this historical area of importance as your guide brings you back in comfort to your Chiang Mai hotel.