Moung Ngwe Zin Building is a historical site that you will definitely come across when visiting Lampang. This attraction is located on Talad Gao Rd., where the famous Kad Kong Ta Night Market takes place. We invite you to read the article with the most important information about this beautiful residence.
Moung Ngwe Zin Building – over 100 years of history
When describing this place, we need to delve a bit into the past and provide historical background.
At the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century, Lampang was an important economic center of the then Siam. Many traders, including those from the West, began to come to the region, and companies set up their headquarters here. One of the main branches of business was the lumber industry – especially teak. With the arrival of the railway, Lampang’s role increased even more, and the city gained great economic importance.
During this period of economic prosperity, Moung Ngwe Zin, the son of a Burmese forest chief, built this house in 1908. The residence is considered to be one of the most beautiful of its kind in Thailand in terms of its Burmese-inspired architecture.
Moung Ngwe Zin was also engaged in other activities. He collaborated with the people of Chiang Mai to open an oil-fired power plant, built Wat Chai Mongkol, and donated to build Kanlayanee School.
Despite his great contribution to public welfare, Moung Ngwe Zin refused the offer to become the governor of Lampang. Instead, he devoted himself to promoting religious practices and meditation.
Moung Ngwe Zin Building – briefly on architecture
The house was designed by royal craftsmen from Mandalay, Burma. The building is half timber and half concrete. The roof is characterized by the Manila style, while the ceiling is made of pressed sheet metal imported from Australia – currently there is only one such ceiling in Thailand. The individual wooden elements of the house have intricate decorations in the form of animal and plant patterns.
Here we will give two more interesting facts related to the residence.
1. The front of the building is actually on the riverside. In the past, water transport was often used, and the Bombay Burma Company port was nearby. The part of the building facing the street is its back.
2. Inside is a three-meter-deep bunker built by British engineers during World War II. It was designed to provide security during air raids.
What can you do when visiting the Moung Ngwe Zin Building?
The residence serves several functions, and its current fourth-generation heir has restored its former glory.
There is a tourist café here where you can relax while visiting the Kad Kong Ta Night Market, as well as an exhibition about the history of the building. In addition, traditional products, especially clothing, are sold here, which is an opportunity to do some shopping.
Important information
Location
Moung Ngwe Zin Building is located on Talad Gao Rd. in Suan Dok Sub-District, Lampang District.
Access
It can be reached by taxi, songthaew, or carriage. Its convenient location in the center of Lampang also makes it accessible on foot.
Opening hours
Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The residence is closed on other days, but group tours can be arranged by prior reservation.
Other attractions nearby
We have already mentioned that the Moung Ngwe Zin Building is located where the Kad Kong Ta Night Market takes place. It is one of the many attractions here, and nearby are, among others, Wat Koh Walukaram, Ratsada Phisek Bridge and Wang River Street Art.
Moung Ngwe Zin Building – summary
The property is part of Lampang’s history, and a visit here is an opportunity to learn about the interesting past of the city and this place. You can relax and enjoy drinks and snacks. The house also has other rooms, which allow you to fully experience and get to know the residence better. We encourage you to stop here while exploring the city, especially since this attraction is located in the city center and is easy to find.
