Meaning of “Tarm Phang Pa Thit Song Fah Haksa Mueang” and the Significance of the Candle-Lighting Site

The celebration of “Tarm Phang Pa Thit Song Fah Haksa Mueang” (Lanterns Lighting the Sky to Protect the City) — 14th Edition

is approaching soon, taking place from 3–5 November. This year holds special meaning as Chiang Mai marks its 730th anniversary. The lighting of over 30,000 earthen lanterns throughout the city symbolizes a grand and sacred offering to honor and protect Chiang Mai — a historic act of devotion and unity.

The ceremony also invites everyone to join in paying tribute and expressing gratitude for the boundless grace of

Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother,

at the Three Kings Monument

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Discover the significance of the candle-lighting site

The Three Kings Monument has long been regarded as the spiritual heart of Chiang Mai. The monument honors King Mangrai, King Ngam Muang, and King Ramkhamhaeng — the three monarchs who united to establish Chiang Mai more than seven centuries ago. Thus, this place is not only the “birthplace of the city” but also a “center of faith” where Chiang Mai residents gather for sacred ceremonies during every major festival.

During the “Tarm Phang Pa Thit Song Fah Haksa Mueang” celebration, the plaza glows with the light of tens of thousands of earthen lanterns, accompanied by a magnificent ritual dance procession of over 500 performers from Tha Pae Gate. They carry lanterns to the monument as a Buddhist offering, and the shimmering sea of lights has become a powerful symbol of “Haksa Mueang” — the spiritual safeguarding and blessing of Chiang Mai’s peace and prosperity.

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The Four City Corners of Chiang Mai — Lights Protecting the City in All Directions

The “Si Jang” (four corners of Chiang Mai’s city moat) form the heart of the Lanna city’s water system, with each corner representing a guardian of the city.

Jang Hua Lin

Jang Sri Phum

Jang Ku Huang

Jang Katam

The Jang Katam corner, located in the southeast, is where the city moat converges with the main waterway. Lighting lanterns at this spot symbolizes the restoration of natural balance, honoring the harmonious forces of water and fire as blessings upon the city.