Lanna Kingdom Symbol

Resources: Timeline and Glossary

Essential references for understanding Lanna

Timeline of Key Events

1259

Mangrai becomes King of Ngoenyang.

1262

Mangrai founds Chiang Rai as his first major capital.

1281

Mangrai conquers the Mon kingdom of Hariphunchai (Lamphun).

1296

Founding of Chiang Mai; official start of the Lanna Kingdom as a unified Mandala.

1383

Founding of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

1441–1487

Reign of King Tilokarat; the Golden Age of Lanna Buddhism and art.

1545

Great Earthquake destroys the top of Wat Chedi Luang.

1558

Lanna falls to the Burmese Toungoo Empire; beginning of the "Dark Age."

1774

Phaya Kawila and local lords join Siam to drive out the Burmese.

1899

Thesaphiban reforms; Lanna is formally integrated into the Siamese state as Monthon Phayap.

1932

End of absolute monarchy in Siam; Lanna provinces become regular provinces of modern Thailand.

Lanna Kingdom Resources

Glossary of Terms (Kam Mueang)

  • Sawasdee Jao: Hello (polite, used by women).
  • Sabai Dee Gor Jao: How are you?
  • Kad: Market (e.g., Kad Luang = Big Market).
  • Doi: Mountain (e.g., Doi Inthanon).
  • Wiang: Walled city.
  • Khum: Prince's residence/mansion.
  • Tung: Flag or banner used in religious ceremonies.
  • Satu: Amen/I appreciate the merit (said when someone does a good deed).

Selected Sources