Saraphi District: Yang Na Trees and Wiang Kum Kam

Saraphi District can be explored through distinctive cultural landscapes and historical traces in the surrounding area. In nearby Yang Noeng, Yang Na trees line a long road; near Tha Wang Tan are archaeological sites of Wiang Kum Kam. Another cultural connection stretches along the Chiang Mai–Lamphun Road from Saraphi District to Lamphun city. Together, an extensive streetscape, an annual custom and the layout of an ancient city offer distinct themes.

Yang Na trees and a New Year custom

In nearby Yang Noeng, large Yang Na trees line both sides of the Chiang Mai–Lamphun Road; the tree-lined stretch is about ten kilometres long. This approximate length makes clear that it is an extensive streetscape. In front of Wat Saraphi, the Yang Na trees were among the 65 sites included in a project celebrating the heritage of large trees. The figure shows that the trees are part of a cultural project extending beyond individual sites.

An annual custom takes place along the Chiang Mai–Lamphun Road, from Saraphi District to Lamphun city: on 1 January, a ceremony is held to bless the Yang Na trees, along with a Sueb Chata ceremony. The ceremonies anchor the region’s cultural connection on 1 January; the Yang Na trees shape the streetscape regardless of the date.

Wiang Kum Kam: urban layout and history

In nearby Tha Wang Tan, visitors can see the archaeological sites of Wiang Kum Kam. The ancient city was founded by Phaya Mangrai in the 19th Buddhist century, before the founding of Chiang Mai. Its rectangular layout is approximately 600 metres wide and 850 metres long; partly preserved moats and earthen ramparts surround it. The city was laid out parallel to the former course of the Ping, known as the Ping Hang.

Nearby Tha Wang Tan is also home to Wat Nan Chang. This abandoned archaeological site has a comparatively large number of surviving traces and is located in a private longan orchard between Wat Phra Chao Ong Dam, Wat Pu Pia, Wat That Khao and Wat I Khang. It has been excavated and landscaped. The descriptions differ in scale: Wiang Kum Kam is understood through its city layout and former river course, while Wat Nan Chang is defined by the surviving traces in an orchard.

Which focus suits your trip?

The New Year custom takes place annually on 1 January; Wiang Kum Kam offers a different focus, with its layout, history and connection to the former Ping. If you plan to visit the archaeological sites of Wiang Kum Kam, it is advisable to check the current conditions in advance.

Discover more destinations: Chang Phuak, Buak Kang, Mae Faek, Rong Wua Daeng, Mae Suek, Fang, Piang Luang, San Sai Noi

For the wider travel overview: Chiang Mai.