“Witness the principal chedi and the complete Lanna temple layout, along with exquisite ancient stucco patterns. It is one of the most prominent archaeological sites in Wiang Kum Kam.”
Wat Pu Pia Archaeological Site is one of the most complete archaeological sites in the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam, Saraphi District, Chiang Mai Province. It is believed to have been built during the 20th–21st Buddhist centuries, a prosperous era of the Lanna Kingdom. It was named after a faithful wealthy man or lay devotee named "Pu Pia" (or "Pu Pi"), who founded or supported this temple.
After the city of Wiang Kum Kam experienced floods and was buried under sediment for hundreds of years, Wat Pu Pia was submerged underground. The Fine Arts Department later conducted surveys, excavations, and restorations, revealing an impressively complete temple layout.
Within the archaeological site are the principal chedi in a twelve-indented corner style, which remains in relatively good condition. It is surrounded by a large vihan base in front of the chedi, a glass altar for Buddha images, an ubosot (ordination hall), a Hong Phi hall, and temple walls that clearly show the Lanna religious site plan. This allows archaeologists to study the temple planning in the Lanna period in detail.
Another significant highlight is the ancient stucco patterns that still remain on the archways and the glass altar for Buddha images, particularly the floral patterns, vine patterns, and Naga patterns. These exquisitely reflect the craftsmanship of ancient Lanna artisans and serve as important artistic evidence demonstrating the past prosperity of Wiang Kum Kam.
Currently, Wat Pu Pia is one of the popular archaeological sites along the Wiang Kum Kam tourist route. Tourists can walk, rent bicycles, or take a tram or horse-drawn carriage to visit other nearby archaeological sites such as Wat I Kang Wat Chang Kham (Wat Kan Thom Kum Kam Phirom) Wat Chedi Liam and Wat That Khao all within the same route. It is suitable for those interested in history, art, and Lanna civilization.
How to Get There
- From Chiang Mai city center, take Chiang Mai–Lamphun Road (Ton Yang Road) or Somphot Chiang Mai 700 Pi Road, heading towards the Wiang Kum Kam Archaeological Site area in Tha Wang Tan Subdistrict, Saraphi District. The distance from the city center is approximately 5–7 kilometers. You can travel by car, motorcycle, bicycle, or use the Wiang Kum Kam tram and horse carriage tour services. It is located near Wat I Kang, Wat Chang Kham, and Wat Chedi Liam archaeological sites.
Travel Tips
- Pay attention to the ancient stucco patterns on the archways and the glass altar for Buddha images, which are highlights of Lanna artistry.
- Recommended to visit alongside other archaeological sites within Wiang Kum Kam for a better understanding of the ancient city plan.
- Mornings or evenings are cooler, ideal for walking around and taking photos.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking within the archaeological site.
- Do not touch, climb, or lean on the archaeological site to help preserve the centuries-old bricks and artifacts.
Admission Fee:
- Free admission
Opening Hours:
- Open daily, 24 hours.
Recommended visiting hours: 08:00–17:00.