Chiang Mai University is the first University established by the government in northern part of Thailand according to the Regional Education Development project in 1953. The government policy was to expand higher education from the capital to the Lanna region where valuable cultural heritage had accumulated for 700 years.
The demand for the extension of university education to the provinces began in 1950. It was what people wanted, and all the proper procedures were followed. Eventually, the request was successful, bringing pride and happiness to Lanna Thai people.
Chiang Mai University was founded in January 1964, under a Royal Charter granted by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.