Lao Chong

Lore & Background

Aphichit Sirichai explains that after the fall of Yonok, a group of survivors led by Lao Chong established the fortified city of Chiang Lao. To legitimize his rule, the legend of his descent from heaven was constructed. However, the Jinakalamali, composed in 1516 CE (around 2059 BE), does not mention the celestial ladder; instead, it states he was an opapātika, meaning he survived the collapse of Yonok City and was thus regarded as 'reborn,' granting him legitimacy to establish a new dynasty.

Reader's Guide

Lao Chong's significance lies in his role as the legendary founder of the Lao dynasty, which would later expand across the Mekong and Chaophraya basins. The dynasty and its descendants came to rule numerous polities, including Ngoenyang, the Phayao Kingdom, Nan Kingdom, Mueang Sua, Vientiane, Mueang Phuan, and Sipsongpanna. One of his descendants, Mangrai, established the Mangrai dynasty, which ruled Lan Na until 1578 and Chiang Tung until 1959. The debates over his identity—whether he is the same as Pu Chao Lao Chok—highlight the complexities of early Southeast Asian historiography, where legendary and historical figures often blend. His story, as preserved in multiple chronicles, reflects the use of myth to legitimize royal authority, particularly through the narrative of celestial descent or miraculous survival. Lao Chong thus remains a key figure in the historical and cultural memory of the Tai peoples.

Did You Know?

• Historians debate whether Lao Chong is the same person as Pu Chao Lao Chok.
• According to legend, Indra sent a Devaputra named Lawachanga Devaputra down to earth via a silver ladder from Mount Yugundhara.
• Lao Chong is considered the ancestor of Mangrai, who established the Mangrai dynasty ruling Lan Na until 1578 and Chiang Tung until 1959.