King Mengrai the Great Monument

He established the first capital in Chiang Saen (1262), before relocating it to the west bank of the Ping River in Chiang Mai (1296).



Backed by three giant golden tungs (Lanna flags), the King’s monument is the first thing you see when approaching the city from the Highway 1 (Paholyothin Road). Locals usually stop here to pay respect to the city’s founding father before continuing on with their journey. Here is a good place to take a rest or buy some souvenirs from the nearby crafts centre.

How to get there: Hire a songtaew or rent a motorcycle