Inthakhin Archaeological Site and Pottery Museum

The museum is situated at Ban San Pa Tong, Tambon Inthakhin, Amphoe Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai. It is an archaeological dig site which uncovered ancient Inthakhin kilns of the Mueang Kaen area of Thailand. Because of this, it is very important to Thai history and archaeology, helping to firmly establish the fact the Village of Phan Aek Phan Fuea Mueang Kaen actually existed in the ancient Kingdom of Lanna. Stone inscriptions have been found, dating back to the era of King Mengrai era (1258 – 1311 AD). It is also very important to the archaeology because kilns in good condition as well as beautiful examples of traditional pottery have been found here. Nowhere else in the Upper North have kilns or earthenware been found in such good condition as the ones unearthed here.

From the evidence found, archaeologists determine that these kilns were in use from approximately 1407-1457 AD, and it is assumed that the Ban San Pa Tong area was once a major producer of earthenware for the entire Lanna Kingdom. By the 14th century the art of glazed pottery making was widespread throughout Chiang Mai and the rest of the Lanna Kingdom.

Most of the earthenware found here are of the celadon type – with a light green or greenish-brown glaze – molded from extremely good quality white earth which can be compared with the Sangkhalok wares of Si Satchanalai, and with also specimens produced in Tao Phan Kiln in Chiang Rai Province. The products were uniquely strong and beautiful. Significantly, pre-fired ceramics molded from white earth have also been discovered, a find unduplicated in kiln sites anywhere else in Thailand.

This celadon glazed earthenware made Lanna famous in early times, although originally it traces its origins to China. The green glaze in especially treasured as it mimics jade, which is considered the most auspicious of Chinese colors and materials. Throughout this entire period, native Thai sensitivity, craftsmanship and artistic warmth imbued the pottery with unique flavour and vitality.

A nearby attraction is Mae Ngat Sombun Chon Dam, where visitors can relax at the water’s edge and dine surrounded by the natural environment.