An archaeological dig next to Wat Chom Chuen revealed ceramics, charcoal and 15 human skeletons dating from the 4th to 11th centuries.
Travel better, travel smarter
Save money, receive our latest updates and get the most out of your travels.
Excavation commenced in 1988 after bone fragments were discovered in the vicinity of Wat Chom Chuen, a site that predates the Sukhothai period. It’s thought that the people who lived here were from the Dvaravati, a Mon-speaking civilisation that first appeared around the third century. The discovery proved that the settlement which eventually became Chaliang existed long before the Khmer empire or Sukhothai kingdom came along.
Unearthed at a depth of seven to eight metres, the skeletons are now displayed exactly as they were found in a large pit sheltered by a pavilion. Visitors can walk out on footbridges to view the remains from a few metres away.
Next to the roofed archaeological site, Wat Chom Chuen itself is a small ruin with a laterite stupa and mondop.
By
David Luekens.
Last updated on 18th June, 2016.
How to get there
Wat Chom Chuen is located on the riverside lane, about a half-kilometre west of Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat. Admission is 100 baht.
Location map for Wat Chom Chuen archaeological site
What next?
Browse our independent reviews of places to stay in and around Si Satchanalai.
Read up on where to eat on Si Satchanalai.
Check out our listings of things to do in and around Si Satchanalai.
Read up on how to get to Si Satchanalai, or book your transport online with 12Go Asia.
Do you have travel insurance yet? If not, find out why you need it.
Planning on riding a scooter in Si Satchanalai? Please read this.
Buy a SIM card for Thailand—pick it up at the airport when you arrive.
Browse the web securely while travelling with TunnelBear. Try with a 7–day free trial.