Where the yearly Liang Dong offering to Pu Sae and Ya Sae, guardian spirits of Chiang Mai, takes place in the ninth northern month. The rite reflects beliefs older than Buddhism in the region.
What to see
This is a quiet clearing at the foot of Doi Kham rather than a built monument, and for most of the year there is little to see beyond the forested hill and a simple ritual ground. Its meaning comes alive during the Liang Dong ceremony, the yearly offering to Pu Sae and Ya Sae (ปู่แสะย่าแสะ), ancestral guardian spirits of Chiang Mai. The rite belongs to the Lua people and carries beliefs older than Buddhism in the region. It is a living local tradition, not a staged performance, so visitors come as respectful guests.
How to get there
The ritual ground sits at the foot of Doi Kham in Mae Hia, Mueang Chiang Mai, about 12 km from the city centre. The simplest way is a Grab or Bolt ride, or your own vehicle; it lies close to Wat Phra That Doi Kham, so the two are easily combined on the same trip. Because the site is used only for the ceremony, there is no permanent entrance or ticket office. On ceremony day follow local signs and the gathering crowd to the clearing.
When to visit
The ground is open only during the ceremony, which is held once a year in the ninth northern month. There is no fixed public calendar date, and the day is set locally each year, so check locally or ask in the Mae Hia area before planning your visit. Outside the ceremony the site is simply quiet forest at the foot of the hill with nothing organised to see. Admission is free at all times.
Tips
- Treat the site as a sacred place. Keep a respectful distance from the ritual and follow the lead of local participants.
- Ask before photographing people or the offerings; some moments are private.
- Dress modestly and quietly, as you would at a temple.
- Confirm the date locally each year, as the ceremony is held once a year and the day is not fixed on a public calendar.
- Combine the visit with nearby Wat Phra That Doi Kham, which is only a short distance away.
FAQ
When is the ritual held?
Once a year, in the ninth northern month. The exact day is set locally, so check locally before you plan a visit.
Can I attend, and is there a fee?
The ground is open only during the ceremony and admission is free. Visitors may watch respectfully as guests of a living tradition.
Where is it?
At the foot of Doi Kham in Mae Hia, Mueang Chiang Mai, about 12 km from the city centre.
What does the rite mean?
Liang Dong is a Lua ancestor-spirit offering to Pu Sae and Ya Sae, guardian spirits of Chiang Mai, reflecting beliefs older than Buddhism in the region.
