Wat That Khao Archaeological Site, also known as Wat Ku Khao, is one of the important ancient sites in the Wiang Kum Kam Ancient City, Saraphi District, Chiang Mai Province. This ancient city was built by King Mangrai before the establishment of Chiang Mai and once served as a center for administration, religion, and trade in the Lanna Kingdom. It is believed that this temple was built during the 19th–20th Buddhist centuries before Wiang Kum Kam suffered repeated floods from the Ping River, gradually leading to the city being abandoned and buried under layers of soil for hundreds of years.

The name "Wat That Khao" originates from the main chedi, which was once covered in white plaster. Based on evidence found during excavation and restoration by the Fine Arts Department, locals referred to it as "That Khao" or "Ku Khao". The word "That" in Lanna language refers to a chedi or relic stupa, while "Khao" means the white plaster that once covered the chedi, giving this temple a unique character different from other ancient sites in Wiang Kum Kam.

Archaeological excavations have revealed several important structures, including the base of the main chedi with a twelve-angled square plan, a common architectural style in early Lanna art. In front, there are remnants of a vihara base for religious ceremonies, along with a crystal altar enshrining a Buddha image. Additionally, the outline of a glass wall (khamphaeng kaew), gate arches, an ubosot (ordination hall), and ancient building bases were found, clearly illustrating the temple's layout in the past.

The Fine Arts Department's excavations also unearthed various artifacts, such as pottery fragments, stucco Buddha image parts, and architectural elements reflecting the prosperous period of Lanna art. Although the top of the chedi has collapsed over time, the remaining building bases and brick structures still indicate the grandeur of this religious site and serve as important evidence for studying the history of Wiang Kum Kam Ancient City.

Currently, Wat That Khao Archaeological Site is preserved as a historical and archaeological learning center in Chiang Mai Province. Tourists can explore the chedi, vihara remnants, and surrounding ancient structures, and connect their visit to other important temples in Wiang Kum Kam, such as Wat Chedi Liam Wat E-Khang Wat Pu Pia and Wat Kan Thom Kum Kam Phirom via tram tours or cycling. It is an ideal destination for those interested in history, Lanna art, and cultural tourism.

• From Chiang Mai city center, take Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road (Ton Yang Road) or Somphot Chiang Mai 700 Pi Road towards the Wiang Kum Kam Archaeological Site area in Tha Wang Tan Subdistrict, Saraphi District. The distance from Chiang Mai city center is approximately 5–7 kilometers. You can easily travel by private car, motorcycle, taxi, or use the Wiang Kum Kam tram tour service, which stops at several ancient sites along the same route.

• Can be included in a Wiang Kum Kam ancient city tour program, riding a tram or horse carriage to visit continuously from other nearby temples.

• Recommended to visit consecutively with Wat Chedi Liam, Wat E-Khang, Wat Pu Pia, and Wat Kan Thom Kum Kam Phirom to fully learn about the history of Wiang Kum Kam.

• Visitors should adhere to the rules for visiting ancient sites; do not climb or touch ancient bricks to help preserve the archaeological site.

• Suitable for walking and photography in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is not too hot and natural light is beautiful.

• For in-depth information, it is recommended to use the tram service with a guide from the Wiang Kum Kam Information Center.

Admission Fee:

• Free admission

Opening Hours:

• Open daily, 24 hours
  Recommended visiting hours: 08:00–17:00