Throughout the long history of mankind, there are stories of cities that once showed great promise but had to be abandoned. This is the story of Wiang Kum Kam, a 12th-century town on the banks of the Chiang Mai River. Chiang Mai is a popular tourist destination in Thailand. Doi Inthanon National Park, Doi Suthep and Chiang Mai Old Town are many things you can do in the province; however, you should include a day trip to Wiang Kum Kam. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The now-abandoned town of Wiang Kum Kam held great potential. In the 12th century, the kingdom of Lanna made the city its capital. But the constant flooding proved disastrous for the city, so King Mengrai moved the city's capital elsewhere. Wiang Kum Kam was just a town for ten years until it was abandoned to the forces of nature. To get to Wiang Kum Kam, you can easily take a taxi but you can also choose to take a tuktuk which will cost you 100 baht or 3 USD for a one way trip. Bargain with the tuktuk driver to pick you up after exploring Wiang Kum Kam. Navigating Wiang Kum Kam will also require transportation, as exploring it on foot is too difficult. There are information centers available at Wat Chedi Liam and Wat Cham Kam who can book tram and carriage tours which can take you around the park. Carriage tours cost 300 baht or at least $10. Open-air tram rides cost 500 baht or $16. Bicycles are also available for 50 baht. The historic site is open every day from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Once there, there are around thirty sites excavated but here are several attractions not to be missed. The oldest building in Wiang Kum Kam is Wat Chedi Liam. The architecture of Wat Chedi Liam is in the Mon Hariphunchai style. The building is made up of five superimposed square levels of decreasing sizes. Each level features images of Buddha in yellow robes. The second and third levels are decorated with Naga or snakes from local myths and traditions. There are also more recent structures near the Chedi itself, such as the viharn built in the 20th century and the ubosot. A viharn is a meeting room while an ubosot is an ordination room. These buildings are decorated in Lanna gold while serpents stand guard over the buildings. Wat E-Kang is another park attraction notable for its well-preserved base with a rounded chedi. Wat Phra Chao Ong Dam may have been a monastery when it was first built. Here you will see a burnt bronze Buddha statue. Other temples include Wat That Kao, notable for its white chedi, Wat Pu Pia, Wat Nan Chang and Wat Chang Kam, another well-preserved site not to be missed. If you take the guided tram rides, you won't miss these structures. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Personalized Trial You can tour the park in a half or full day. It's best to enjoy it at your own pace. History buffs and tourists looking for a leisurely stroll should definitely visit what was once a sprawling city..