Ancient site in Phayao: 500-year-old temple found during railway construction

A 500-year-old temple has been discovered in Phayaoprovince in northern Thailand during ongoing railway construction. The discovery was made in connection with the construction of the new railway line between Den Chai and Chiang Khong, and is believed to originate from Lannaperiod – an era when Phayao played an important role in the Northern Kingdom.

The archaeological site is located in Mueang District, near Wat Don Si Chum. Archaeologists from the Fine Arts Department have confirmed that the remains include brick structures and a seven-story pagoda (chedi), indicating that the site had religious significance. The temple is believed to have been active about 500 years ago, according to Thai authorities.

The excavation revealed valuable historical remains, including bricks, lotus bud pillar bases and the impressive pagoda, which is 2 meters high with a 1 meter wide base, reports The thaiger.
The discovery is particularly notable because of the well-preserved condition of the pagoda and other artifacts, which shed light on the region's rich cultural heritage, the newspaper said.

The find has sparked both curiosity and concern, as local residents quickly gathered at the site and authorities are now working to protect the area from potential looters. According to The thaiger The Fine Arts Department is considering classifying the site as a protected cultural heritage site.

Phayao during the Lanna period

About 500 years ago, Phayao was an important part of the powerful Lanna Kingdom that dominated northern Thailand. Originally an independent city-state founded in the 1200th century, Phayao was later integrated into the Lanna Kingdom. During the 1500th century, the area was strongly influenced by Buddhism, with several temples and religious schools. Most buildings were built of brick and were often richly decorated with symbols from Lanna art and mythology.

The discovery of this temple strengthens the image of Phayao as a religious and cultural hub during this time.

About Phayao today

Phayao is a small but historically rich province in northern Thailand, known for its scenic Kwan Phayao Lake and the iconic partially underwater temple Wat Tilok Aram. The province has a population of around 470 and is known for its laid-back atmosphere, traditional Lanna culture, and proximity to both Chiang Rai and Lampang.

Despite its relatively low profile compared to other provinces in the north, Phayao has in recent years begun to receive attention for its history and unique cultural heritage.

About the Den Chai–Chiang Khong Railway

The new railway line is part of a larger infrastructure project aimed at connecting central and northern Thailand with Laos and China by rail. The 323-kilometer section will run from Den Chai in Phrae province via Phayao and Chiang Rai to the border town of Chiang Khong, where a bridge already links Thailand with Laos.

The project is part of Thailand’s “Land Bridge” initiative and is set to accelerate both passenger and freight traffic in the region. Construction is scheduled to be completed around 2028, and is expected to provide an economic boost to several northern provinces.

However, the discovery of the ancient temple may lead to parts of the construction in Phayao having to be adjusted, as cultural heritage authorities are now investigating how to preserve the site.

Sources:
🔹 Komchadluek (th)
🔹 The Thaiger

Text: The editorial staff

Image license: Photo: கம்புட்டுக்கு