Rating: 3.8/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Open daily (hours may vary depending on local authorities).

Opening Hours: Approximately 08:00–16:00.

 

Inthakhin Kiln Site Museum, also known as the Ancient Kiln Site of Mueang Kaen, is located in Ban San Pa Tong, Village 11, Inthakhin Subdistrict, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai Province. This archaeological site preserves ancient kilns and a large number of ceramic fragments found within the same area. The discovery is considered one of the most significant archaeological and historical findings in the Lanna region, confirming that the legendary “Thung Phan Aek Phan Fuea of Mueang Kaen,” mentioned during the era of King Mangrai, truly existed and was not merely folklore.

 

Archaeological studies suggest that Ban San Pa Tong was once a major ceramic production center of the Lanna Kingdom. The kilns are estimated to be about 500–600 years old, believed to have been constructed and used between 1950–2000 BE, which corresponds to the height of high-fired stoneware production in Northern Thailand. Most of the recovered ceramic fragments are high-fired stoneware coated in light green celadon glaze or greenish-brown glaze, both iconic of ancient Lanna ceramic craftsmanship.

 

The clay used to make ceramic ware at this site is a fine white clay comparable in quality to the famous Sangkhalok ware of Si Satchanalai and ceramics from the Paang kilns in Chiang Rai. This indicates the advanced knowledge of raw materials and firing techniques possessed by ancient Lanna artisans. An exceptionally rare discovery at this site is the presence of pre-fired ceramic vessels made from unburnt white clay—something never before found at any ancient kiln site in Thailand—revealing details about the complete production process from raw clay to finished ware.

 

The museum has been developed as an archaeological site museum, allowing visitors to view the original kiln excavation pits, preserved kiln structures, ceramic fragments, and an interpretive exhibition explaining the origin, production techniques, and historical significance of the site. Exhibits include photographs, diagrams, and research materials that help illustrate the connection between ancient Mueang Kaen and other Lanna cities.

 

The surrounding landscape remains rural and peaceful, with rice fields, orchards, and low hills. Visitors can appreciate the ancient past and present-day lifestyle of the community simultaneously. Walking through the site offers a sense of what Mueang Kaen might have looked like when it thrived as a ceramic production center and a strategic frontier town under the Mangrai Dynasty.

 

For enthusiasts of archaeology and ceramic art, the Inthakhin Kiln Site Museum provides a rare opportunity to observe ancient kilns in their original setting along with countless pottery fragments that reveal clues about shaping, glazing, firing, and quality control practiced by craftsmen centuries ago.

 

Today, the museum serves as an educational site managed collaboratively by local authorities and the community. Schools often bring students for field trips, allowing them to learn about Lanna history and ceramic traditions through hands-on experience, making the site both a cultural heritage space and an outdoor classroom.

 

After visiting the museum, travelers can continue their journey to the nearby Mae Ngat Somboon Chon Dam, a scenic reservoir offering lakeside restaurants, floating accommodations, boat rides, and peaceful natural surroundings. The dam is a popular spot for relaxing after exploring the archaeological site.

 

Getting There Travel from Chiang Mai City along Highway 107 (Chiang Mai–Fang Road) toward Mae Taeng. Then follow the signs into Inthakhin Subdistrict and Ban San Pa Tong. Most roads are paved, making the area accessible by private car, rental vehicle, or local songthaew. Local residents can easily provide directions to the kiln site.

 

 

A: The museum is generally open daily from 08:00–16:00. Hours may change depending on local management, so checking ahead is advised.

 

A: There is usually no official entrance fee. Visitors may donate voluntarily to support conservation efforts. Groups should contact local authorities in advance.

 

A: Its well-preserved ancient kilns, celadon stoneware, high-quality white clay, and rare pre-fired ceramic vessels provide a comprehensive understanding of ancient Lanna ceramic production.

 

A: Yes, it is an excellent outdoor learning site for history, archaeology, and art. Students can explore real excavation pits and ancient ceramics firsthand.

 

A: Take a bus or songthaew on the Chiang Mai–Mae Taeng route via Highway 107, then transfer to a local songthaew or motorbike taxi to Inthakhin Subdistrict and Ban San Pa Tong.

 

A: Yes. Many visitors tour the kiln site in the morning and continue to the dam for lakeside dining, boat rides, or an overnight stay in floating accommodations.