Chao (monarchy)

Chao (Thai: เจ้า) is a title of the Lan Na royal family members.

Chao Kan Har Bai

"Chao Kan Har Bai" (เจ้าห้าขันใบ, lit. 'five lords') It is a royal title for high-ranking royal family members in each 5 principality of Lanna.

After the collapse of the absolute monarchy of Siam, the royal family system was abolished by the People's Party (Khana Ratsadon - คณะราษฎร). Currently, all descendants of the royal family use the surnames Na Chiang Mai, Na Lamphun, Na Lampang, and Na Nan.

* Chao Kan Har Bai Consists of 5 positions as follows

• 1. Chao Luang (เจ้าหลวง)
       The Ruler of the state. is the highest post in the 5 Lan Na Principalitys.
  2. Chao Uparaja (เจ้าอุปราช)
       The Viceroy of the State and the Heir to the Throne
  3. Chao Rajawong (เจ้าราชวงศ์) - Son of Chao Luang.
  4. Chao Burirat (เจ้าบุรีรัตน์) - Son of Chao Luang.
  5. Chao Rajabute (เจ้าราชบุตร) - Son of Chao Luang.