— 01 · Heritage of Lanna —
Three Kings Monument
This bronze monument commemorates the three great kings — King Mengrai, King Ramkhamhaeng and King Ngam Muang — who founded the city of Chiang Mai together in 1296.
Founded 1296 · Oath of the Three Kings
Loading live data from the monument's real coordinates…
Sunset & Blue Hour
Calculated from the monument's real coordinates to help you plan photos and avoid the harsh midday sun.
Soft evening light is best for photographing the monument and the open square.
— 02 · About the Monument —
About the Three Kings Monument
A landmark at the heart of Chiang Mai's old city, honouring a great friendship and alliance in Lanna history.
The Three Kings Monument stands in an open square inside the old city walls, in front of the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre (the former Provincial Hall), and marks the start of the famous Sunday Walking Street — a must-see for every visitor.
The three bronze statues depict King Mengrai, founder of Chiang Mai; King Ramkhamhaeng the Great of Sukhothai; and King Ngam Muang of Phayao. Legend has it the three kings were close friends and allies who founded Chiang Mai together in 1296.
“The three kings who founded Chiang Mai remind us of friendship, unity and the wisdom of governance.”
Visit in the early morning or at dusk for the best light and to avoid the crowds.
See the Guide →— 03 · History & Legend —
History & Legend of the Three Kings
In 1296, King Mengrai, together with King Ramkhamhaeng and King Ngam Muang, chose this site to found 'Nopburi Sri Nakhon Ping Chiang Mai'. The monument honours not only the three great kings, but also the friendship and alliance that bound the kingdoms of Lanna, Sukhothai and Phayao together.
The Pact of the Three Kings
Faced with the rising threat of the Yuan Empire to the north, the three monarchs swore a blood oath by the Ping River — pledging never to attack one another and to stand together in times of peril. This bond of diplomacy secured regional stability and laid the foundation for centuries of Lanna prosperity.
The Founding of Chiang Mai
King Mengrai moved his capital from Wiang Kum Kam to this site, and with the counsel of King Ramkhamhaeng and King Ngam Muang chose this strategic location to found Chiang Mai as the new capital of Lanna.
The Alliance of Three Kingdoms
Lanna, Sukhothai and Phayao were friends and allies, supporting one another in diplomacy and defence. This relationship became the bedrock of long-term regional stability.
An Enduring Legacy
Chiang Mai prospered as the centre of Lanna to this day, and the Three Kings Monument has become the central symbol of the city.
The Three Great Kings
Kingdom of Lanna (r. 1238–1317) King Mengrai
Founder of Chiang Mai and the Lanna Kingdom
King Mengrai
Founder of Chiang Mai and the Lanna Kingdom
[Founding Chiang Mai]
King Mengrai founded the Lanna Kingdom and, with his two close friends, chose this site to found Chiang Mai as the capital, seeing it as both strategic and rich in resources.
Kingdom of Sukhothai (r. 1279–1298) King Ramkhamhaeng the Great
Inventor of the Thai script, father of Sukhothai
King Ramkhamhaeng the Great
Inventor of the Thai script, father of Sukhothai
[Thai Script]
King Ramkhamhaeng is credited with inventing the Thai script and promoting Buddhism. As a close friend of King Mengrai, he gave crucial advice on the founding of Chiang Mai.
Kingdom of Phayao (r. 1270–1315) King Ngam Muang (พญางำเมือง)
The king who ruled Phayao prosperously
King Ngam Muang (พญางำเมือง)
The king who ruled Phayao prosperously
[Friendship of the Three Kings]
King Ngam Muang of Phayao was one of the three kings who founded Chiang Mai. Legend tells the three kings were bound by deep friendship and aided one another in times of war and peril.
The Legend of Friendship
Legend has it that the three kings were true friends who consulted one another on every important matter; it was this bond that led to the founding of Chiang Mai.
Did You Know
The current bronze statues were cast in 1984, replacing the original concrete statues built in 1973–74.
The Auspicious Omens of Chiang Mai's Founding
Recorded in The Chiang Mai Chronicle
Sacred Mountain's Embrace
Doi Suthep shields the west like a natural barrier — excellent feng shui for a capital.
Two Deer Defy the Hounds
Two white deer repelled the hunting dogs — a sign that this land could repel its enemies.
The Mother Mouse Leads Her Young
A white mouse led five pups into a burrow — symbolising fertility and endless continuity.
Abundant Waters
The Ping River and natural springs offered plentiful water for farming and daily life.
Symbolism of the Statue's Arrangement
Centre · King Mengrai
Stands with sword in hand, symbolising the founder and chief decision-maker.
Right · King Ramkhamhaeng
Holds a manuscript, symbolising wisdom, the written word and legislative support.
Left · King Ngam Muang
Composed and dignified, symbolising noble friendship and regional defence.
The bronze monument was created by a team from Silpakorn University, Thailand's premier arts institution — more than a sculpture, it is regarded as the spiritual pillar of Chiang Mai.
— 04 · Visitor Guide —
Three Kings Monument Visitor Guide
Key information to plan your visit to the monument in the heart of Chiang Mai's old city.
⚠️ Etiquette & Dress
Although it is an open public square, locals revere the monument as the spiritual heart of the city. Please dress modestly, do not climb or sit on the base, and avoid mimicking the kings' poses for photos. During festivals, devotees offer marigold garlands (Phuang Malai), candles and even red soda — symbols of vitality and respect.
🎧 Free Audio Guide
A 3-minute narrated introduction to the Pact of the Three Kings and the founding of Chiang Mai.
Cultural Calendar
Songkran Festival
Thai New Year water festival; the square hosts ceremonies and merit-making.
Inthakin (City Pillar) Festival
Annual rites at the city pillar; devotees pray for the city's wellbeing.
Loy Krathong
Floating lanterns and beauty pageants light up the old city.
Sunday Walking Street
The square transforms into a pedestrian market.
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours a day
- Best time to visitEarly morning (06:00–08:00) & dusk (16:00–18:00)
- Sunday Walking StreetEvery Sunday 16:00–22:00
Fees
- AdmissionFree — the monument is open to the public at no charge
- How to get thereIn the old-city centre, walkable from most accommodation
- PhotographyGeneral photography allowed, but please stay respectful near the statues
Getting There
- Red Songthaew (shared taxi)Chiang Mai's red songthaews pass through the old city; ask the driver to drop you at 'Three Kings Monument'
- Tuk-tuk / TaxiTuk-tuks and yellow taxis operate around the city; fares are negotiable
- Bicycle / WalkingThe old city is great on foot or by bike; the monument is near Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang
- From Chiang Mai AirportAbout 30 minutes by taxi or shuttle from Chiang Mai International Airport
Suggested Itineraries
Old City Day Trip
Start at the Three Kings Monument, walk to Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, then end at the Sunday Walking Street.
Lanna Heritage Route
Visit the monument and City Arts & Cultural Centre in the morning, then explore museums and key temples around the old city in the afternoon.
📸 Photo Tips
Morning & Evening Light
Soft morning and sunset light add depth and warmth to the bronze
Square Panorama
Step back to the centre of the square to frame the monument with the old city behind
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entrance fee? +
No, it is open 24 hours a day and free of charge.
How do I get there? +
It is in the old-city centre, easily reached on foot or by red songthaew.
What etiquette should I observe? +
Please dress modestly and behave respectfully near the statues, especially when taking photos.
What is nearby? +
Every Sunday the area hosts the Sunday Walking Street with stalls and performances.
— 05 · Cultural Triangle —
Three Kings Square Cultural Triangle
Behind the monument sits Chiang Mai's most important museum cluster — plan to explore them together.
Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre
Immediately behind the statue — exhibitions on Lanna art, history and rotating shows.
Lanna Folklife Museum
Directly across the square — traditional Lanna crafts, textiles and daily-life exhibits.
Chiang Mai Historical Centre
A short walk away — models and archives tracing the city's 700-year history.
Tip: a combined ticket covers several of the museums — budget 1–2 hours for a self-guided cultural walk around the square.
“The Three Kings Monument is both the starting point of the old-city tour and a favourite gathering place for locals.”
— 06 · Gallery —
Three Kings Monument Gallery
A photographic collection of the Three Kings Monument in Chiang Mai's old city.
The bronze monument stands in an open square in front of the City Arts & Cultural Centre.
Photos used for non-profit educational purposes.
— 07 · Visitor Reviews —
Voices of Visitors
How travellers from around the world rate the Three Kings Monument.
All reviews are genuine user opinions, not sponsored content.
A must-visit landmark to learn Lanna history up close.
The monument is beautiful, especially at dusk when the sun gilds the sculpture.
Very convenient, with cafés and beautiful temples nearby.
A great photo spot and the starting point of the Sunday Walking Street.
Full of history — read about the three kings first to appreciate it more.
Lovely atmosphere, great for a relaxed rest and photos.
Open 24 hours — visiting at night has its own charm.
Not to be missed for those interested in Lanna history and culture.
— 08 · Location & Transport —
Location & Transport
The Three Kings Monument is located inside Chiang Mai's old city walls.
📍 QXRP+3WX, Prapokklao Road, Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
🧭 QXRP+3WX · Chiang Mai
🌐 18.79°N · 98.99°E