Map Sabai Vol.35
In this month's feature edition of Map Sabai (Vol.35)
Cover Photo: Wat Pa Sak in Chiang Saen
Northern Attractions
Visit to Chiang Saen
Cover Photo: Wat Pa Sak in Chiang Saen
Northern Attractions
Visit to Chiang Saen
Featured: Chiang Saen
Located at the southern part of the Golden Triangle between Sop Ruak and Chiang Khong on the banks of the Mekong River, Chiang Saen is an interesting place to visit not only for its vibrant atmosphere as a major trading crossroads, but especially for its historic significance.
Chiang Saen was built in 1328 as one of the best fortified towns of its age by King Saen Phu, the grandson of the first king of Chiangmai, King Mengrai. The city walls and the surrounding moat should protect the town from invaders from the north, particularly the Burmese, who considered the town a strategic post for the invasion of the Lanna Kingdom. After centuries of conflict between the Siamese and Burmese over Chiang Saen, the Burmese were finally defeated and pushed out of the territory. Chiang Saen was leveled in 1804 by King Rama I in order to remove its temptation for invaders, and it was re-occupied by descendants of the original inhabitants in 1881 by King Rama V.
Located at the southern part of the Golden Triangle between Sop Ruak and Chiang Khong on the banks of the Mekong River, Chiang Saen is an interesting place to visit not only for its vibrant atmosphere as a major trading crossroads, but especially for its historic significance.
Chiang Saen was built in 1328 as one of the best fortified towns of its age by King Saen Phu, the grandson of the first king of Chiangmai, King Mengrai. The city walls and the surrounding moat should protect the town from invaders from the north, particularly the Burmese, who considered the town a strategic post for the invasion of the Lanna Kingdom. After centuries of conflict between the Siamese and Burmese over Chiang Saen, the Burmese were finally defeated and pushed out of the territory. Chiang Saen was leveled in 1804 by King Rama I in order to remove its temptation for invaders, and it was re-occupied by descendants of the original inhabitants in 1881 by King Rama V.
Chiang Saen’s history of external influences is clearly reflected in the different architectural structures of the city’s temples which are scattered throughout town, carefully preserved or restored. Some of the most impressive temples include Wat Jedi Luang, known for its tall octagonal chedi, built in the 14th century by King Saen Phu in typical Lanna art style, and Wat Pa Sak, the teak forest temple which is situated in the middle of the historic park. For a great view over Chiang Saen and the Mekong, one should pay a visit to Wat Phra That Chom Chang, located on a hilltop north of town.
A good starting point to a visit of Chiang Saen is the National Museum which provides excellent information about the city’s past, its architectural and art styles, along with a display of many historic artefacts from the area.
