Born on c. 1817 as Prince Inthanon (เจ้าอินทนนท์) to Phraya Maha Phrom Khamkhong (พระยามหาพรหมคำคง), lord viceroy of Chiangmai, and Princess Khamla (คำหล้า). He is a grandson of Prince Khamfan, the 3rd ruler of Chiangmai. He was concerned about the preservation of the mountain forests in the Thai highlands. Before he died he ordered that his remains be kept at Doi Luang, the highest mountain of the Thanon Thong Chai Range, which was renamed Doi Inthanon after his death.