Wiang Kum Kam
The atmospheric ruins of King Mangrai's late-13th-century capital, abandoned to flooding, now scattered brick temples.
- Category
- Historical Sites & Ruins
- Entrance fee
- Free to enter ruins; horse-cart or tram tours ~200-300 THB; confirm locally
- Hours
- Daily ~08:00-17:00 (tour services)
- Best time
- Cooler morning or late afternoon
- Time needed
- 1.5-2 hours
About Wiang Kum Kam
Wiang Kum Kam is the site of King Mangrai's old capital from the late 13th century, abandoned after flooding and now scattered as brick temple ruins south of the city. It's genuinely atmospheric if you're into history, quiet brick structures rather than a polished, restored site.
It's worth the trip for history buffs, but go in knowing the ruins are spread out over a fair distance. Walking between them all yourself is a slog, so take the horse-cart or tram tour that's offered on site rather than trying to cover it on foot.
It's a short Grab or car ride south of the Old City, not something you can walk to.
Highlights
- Scattered brick temple ruins from a 13th-century capital
- A quieter, more atmospheric history site than the central temples
- Horse-cart or tram tours covering the spread-out ruins
- A short drive south of the Old City
Tips
- Take the horse-cart or tram tour rather than walking, the ruins are spread out more than you'd expect
- Go in the cooler morning or late afternoon, there's not much shade between sites
- It's about a 15 minute Grab or car ride from the Old City, no walking option
- Entry to the ruins themselves is free, you're paying separately for the cart or tram tour
How to get there
Grab/car ~15 min from Old City, ~100-150 THB