400-Year-Old Lanna Ruins Discovered in Mae Hong Son Forest
Ancient Lanna-era pagoda ruins dating back at least 400 years have been discovered in Mae Hong Son's forests, with authorities beginning conservation surveys at multiple archaeological sites across the province.
MAE HONG SON — Ancient Lanna-era pagoda ruins dating back at least 400 years have been discovered deep in a forested area of Mae Hong Son province, prompting authorities to begin surveying the site for conservation. The Mae Hong Son Provincial Public Relations Office reported that Governor Wiboon Waewbandit led officials to inspect ancient sites in Mueang Mae Hong Son and Khun Yuam districts to gather preliminary information, assess conditions, and plan conservation measures.
On May 23, Governor Wiboon, accompanied by Deputy Governor Udomsak Khaonuna, government agency heads, district chiefs, and related officials, visited the sites to verify the discoveries. The inspection was prompted by reports from the village headman, local residents, and teachers, with information also shared on Facebook.
At Ban Mai Hung in Huai Pong subdistrict, officials found well-preserved ruins including two ancient stupas and one building-like structure. The first stupa is locally known as Doi Kong Mu Ban Mai Hung, while the second is called Doi Kong Mu Kham Soeng. Additional ancient building traces were scattered along the route between the two stupas. Authorities believe these discoveries hold significant historical and archaeological value, potentially revealing evidence of earlier settlements and civilizations prior to Mae Hong Son's establishment as a province.
Deputy Governor Udomsak and officials also visited the Doi Wiang La Wildlife Sanctuary office in Khun Yuam district to inspect another archaeological site featuring stone circles. Local residents call these formations "wong tee kai," or cockfighting rings. The largest circles measure 10 to 12 meters in diameter and are believed to indicate traces of ancient communities that once inhabited the area.
Following the inspections, Governor Wiboon instructed relevant agencies to gather preliminary data, assess site conditions, and develop conservation guidelines. The province will coordinate with the Fine Arts Department to establish long-term preservation and sustainable development plans for Mae Hong Son's ancient sites.
