Long an important city (Mueang) in Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Saen was sacked by King Kawila during the reign of Rama I as the city has been the Burmese base of operation in the preceding years. The city was deserted, while its inhabitants resettled in other Bangkok-allied Lanna cities such as Lampang and Chiang Mai. Several ancient ruins are found in the old cities, for example, Wat Pa Sak hosts a well preserved Lanna style 'Prathat'.
The Mueang was converted into a district at the beginning of the 20th century, with an additional minor district (King Amphoe) also named Chiang Saen covering the central area. The minor district was abolished in 1925.1 The minor district was recreated two years laters, then named Chiang Saen Luang (เชียงแสนหลวง).2 In 1939 the minor district was renamed to Chiang Saen, while the former district Chiang Saen became Mae Chan.3 The minor district was upgraded to a full district on April 6 1957.4
The area around the confluence of the Mekong with the Ruak River is called the Golden Triangle. This boundary region with Laos and Myanmar is now a popular touristical area, with several casinos on the Burmese side.
Administration
The district is subdivided into 6 subdistricts (tambon), which are further subdivided into 82 villages (muban). Wiang Chiang Saen is a township (thesaban tambon) which covers parts of tambon Wiang. There are further 6 Tambon administrative organizations (TAO).
