“Statues of the Three Kings, old city center, activity plaza, traditional festivals, popular check-in landmark.”
Three Kings Monument (Three Kings Monument) is an important memorial monument built in 1984 to commemorate the 700th anniversary of Chiang Mai and to honor a significant event in Lanna history involving the cooperation of three great monarchs: King Mangrai of Chiang Mai, King Ngam Muang of Phayao, and King Ruang (King Ramkhamhaeng the Great of Sukhothai).
According to legend, the three kings maintained a close relationship in politics, trade, and culture during the 13th century. King Mangrai invited his two royal friends to jointly examine and select a suitable location for establishing a new city, which led to the founding of “Nop Buri Si Nakhon Phing Chiang Mai”, later becoming the political and cultural center of the Lanna Kingdom.
The monument portrays the three kings standing together in discussion, symbolizing equality, cooperation, and peaceful collective decision-making. It reflects the concept of “friendship above warfare” and the unity of the kingdom in the past. The monument is cast from brass and black-patinated copper, enhancing its elegance and solemn presence.
Behind the monument stands the former Chiang Mai City Hall building, which has been transformed into the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center. This setting creates a harmonious blend of Lanna history and Western colonial-era architecture. The monument is also located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s Old City, surrounded by important historical sites such as Wat Chedi Luang and the cultural heritage route along Ratchadamnoen Road.
Today, Three Kings Square is not merely a historical monument but also serves as an important public space for Chiang Mai. It hosts cultural activities, traditional festivals, and official provincial ceremonies. It is also a popular starting point for visitors exploring the Old City, making it both a spiritual center for local residents and an iconic landmark of Chiang Mai.
How to Get There
- By private car: Drive along Phra Pokklao Road within the Old City area. Parking is available along nearby streets around the monument plaza.
- By red songthaew (shared taxi): Simply tell the driver “Three Kings Monument”; all local drivers are familiar with the location.
- On foot: From Tha Phae Gate, walk along Ratchadamnoen Road for approximately 10–15 minutes.
Travel Tips
- Offer jasmine flowers or garlands when paying respects; local belief says it promotes lasting friendships and business success.
- The best time to visit is in the late afternoon or evening when the weather is cooler and the monument is beautifully illuminated.
- Sunday evenings are especially lively due to its proximity to the Tha Phae Walking Street Market.
- The surrounding area features famous long-established local eateries such as Kiat O Cha Hainanese Chicken Rice.
- Ideal for photography during both daytime and nighttime.
Admission Fee:
- Free of charge.
Note: Nearby museums require separate admission fees, typically ranging from 20–90 THB.
Opening Hours:
- The monument plaza is open for visits and worship 24 hours a day.