Living in the shadow of its famous neighbour, Chiang Mai, Lamphun Province exudes a quiet, relaxing atmosphere and provides plenty of opportunities to witness the simple, rural lifestyle of its people.
The provincial capital, also called Lamphun, claims to be Thailand’s oldest continually inhabited town. It is located about 25km to the southeast of bustling Chiang Mai, and makes an interesting destination for a day trip from the northern capital to escape the hordes of tourists who tend to head for places like Pai and Doi Inthanon National Park. As with other provinces in the north, Lamphun boasts pleasant, cool weather in the evenings, especially from November to February.
Even though the province has a long and rich history, there aren’t many historical sights to gasp at. Two of the most notable venues are the renowned Wat Phra That Hariphunchai and the Lamphun National Museum, while several other temples are also worth a look.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of a visit to Lamphun is the ride there from Chiang Mai along Highway 106, as for the first half of the trip, the narrow road is lined with massive, 30-meter tall yang trees wrapped with saffron robes to prevent anyone from considering cutting them down.
Where to Go
- Mae Ping National Park: Known for its stunning river views, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, offering scenic trails and boat tours along the Ping River.
- Doi Khun Tan National Park: Features scenic hiking trails, historic railway tunnels, and panoramic views from its mountain peaks.
- Lamphun: A historic town renowned for its ancient temples, including Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, and well-preserved Lanna architecture.
- Pasang: A small community known for its traditional handicrafts, local markets, and picturesque rural landscapes.