Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
occupation by Myanmar and the modern era of trade and unification with Bangkok. The
bottom floor contains an archaeological dig of an ancient temple wall. Combination tick-
ets (180B) to nearby museums are available.
MONUMENT
Anusawari Sam Kasat
(Th Phra Pokklao)
A focal point of the old city, the bronze Three Kings Monument commem-
orates the alliance forged between the three northern Thai kings (Phaya Ngam Meuang of
Phayao, Phaya Mengrai of Chiang Mai and Phaya Khun Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai) in
the founding of Chiang Mai. The monument is a shrine for local residents, who regularly
leave devotional offerings.
Wat Chiang Man
(Th Ratchaphakhinai; donations appreciated; 6am-6pm)
Chiang Mai's oldest temple, Wat Chiang
Man, was established by the city's founder, Phaya Mengrai, sometime around 1296. The
temple contains two famous Buddhas, which reside in the small sanctuary to the right of
the main chapel.
Phra Sila
is a marble bas-relief Buddha that stands about 30cm high and
reportedly came from Sri Lanka or India.
Phra Sae Tang Khamani
, a 10cm high, crystal image,
is thought to have come from Lavo (Lopburi) 1800 years ago.
In front of the
bòht
(ordination hall), a stone slab, engraved in 1581, bears the earliest
known reference to the city's founding.
BUDDHIST TEMPLE
Museum of World Insects &
Natural Wonders
MUSEUM
(Th Ratchadamnoen; admission 100B; 9am-5pm)
Bugs, butterflies and creepy crawlies are show-
cased at this quirky museum operated by a malaria researcher and his entomologist wife.
Their personal collection of insects and rocks as well as their philosophical musings oc-
cupy three floors in this second and central location. The primary location is west of the
old city and charges a heftier entrance fee.
