Ban Rong Hai Archaeological Site A Reflection of Ancient Civilization by Kwan Phayao. Nestled along the serene banks of Kwan Phayao, the largest freshwater lake and the heart of Phayao Province, lies more than just natural charm. This area holds profound historical and cultural significance, particularly at the Ban Rong Hai Archaeological Site, located in Mae Sai Subdistrict, Mueang Phayao District.

 

This ancient site was once a flourishing settlement. Based on archaeological evidence and extensive surveys, the area was home to 8–9 religious structures, dispersed around what was a large and thriving community. These ruins reflect the historical prosperity of the region, especially during the time when Buddhism played a central role in both spiritual and communal life.

 

A pivotal historical link connecting Ban Rong Hai to broader Buddhist and political networks in the region is the Tilok Aram Inscription, discovered at San That Mound, located in the middle of Kwan Phayao, not far from the edge of the village. This stone inscription is of immense significance it is directly associated with Wat Tilok Aram, a prominent temple during ancient times, closely tied to the Lanna royal family, and an influential religious center in the region.

 

Today, Wat Tilok Aram lies beneath the waters of Kwan Phayao, yet during the dry season, the top of its stupa can still be seen rising above the surface—a quiet but powerful reminder of Phayao’s spiritual and historical legacy. The proximity of San That Mound to Ban Rong Hai reinforces the connection between this ancient settlement and the wider religious landscape of the time.

 

The Ban Rong Hai Archaeological Site is not merely an abandoned field; it is a living monument of history—a place where the echoes of the past continue to resonate. It reminds modern generations of their deep cultural roots and the richness of the civilization that once thrived along the shores of Kwan Phayao. With its profound archaeological and historical value, this site merits ongoing conservation, both as a national heritage site and as an open-air classroom that reveals the stories of bygone eras through the fragments of time.