Haripunjaya

In this episode, we focus on Haripuñjaya, the influential Mon kingdom of northern Thailand, by exploring its contested chronology, Buddhist heritage, and architectural legacy. The discussion examines how scholars have tried to reconcile contradictory chronicles, Mon inscriptions, and astronomical evidence to determine whether Haripuñjaya’s height belongs more securely to the 11th or 13th century. We also visit key sacred sites such as Wat Cham Devi and Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, where foundation legends, relic traditions, and layered architectural styles reveal the kingdom’s enduring religious and cultural importance. Through Haripuñjaya, the episode highlights the Mon people’s role in shaping northern Thai Buddhism, urban culture, and artistic traditions before the rise of later Thai principalities.