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Lamphun Province in North Thailand
Despite being one of the smallest provinces by land area, Lamphun in northern Thailand is an important region for its historical treasures.
In fact, even though Lamphun measures less than 4,500 square kilometres, it retains a quietness and charm that attracts visitors from all walks of life.
Things to Do and Places to Visit in Lamphun
Since the era of Hariphunchai (the Mon Kingdom), the popular remains of invaluable places for worship include:
- Queen Chamadevi Monuments
- Ku Chang-Ku Ma (the War Cemetery)
- Wat Phra That Hariphunchai Woramahawihan Buddhist Temple
Daytrippers should also consider sampling the deliciously sweet longan fruit (Dimocarpus longan) and buying silk woven fabrics and flowers at Pa Sang Handicraft Center or Tambon Wiang Yong weaving factory.
Lamphun is only thirty one (31) kilometres south of Chiang Mai. Other nearby provinces in northern Thailand that are popular for sightseeing include Lampang Province and a "jewel of the north" called Tak.
Another reason to visit the Ping River valley is to take in the magnificent views of the dipterocarp trees - many of which measure more than one hundred feet high.
But wait - there's more:
The west of Lamphun is surrounded by the Thanon Thong Chai Range (including the tallest peak in Thailand - Doi Inthanon).
You'll also find the Khun Tan Range occupying most of central plains in Thailand to the east of Lamphun province.
If you're an adventurous traveller, you can take one of the scheduled tour trams around the historic monuments, archaeological sites, and other major attractions situated in the small town.
Pro Tip: If you travel by road, the distance from Thailand's capital city Bangkok to the main town of Lamphun is 670 kilometres (416 miles). The TAT office has more information about Lamphun Airport (IATA: VTCO) inside the area of the Saha Industrial Park and Lamphun Railway Station (Tel: 053-248-604).
National Parks in Lamphun Province
- Doi Chong National Park
- Mae Ping National Park
- Mae Takhrai National Park
Lamphun Wildlife Sanctuaries
- Doi Phu Mueang Wildlife Sanctuary
- Omkoi Wildlife Sanctuary (near Doi Mon Chong Ridge)
Tips for Travelers to Lamphun
- Always dress in an appropriate manner when entering places of worship in Thailand and Buddhist relics. So, women should not be wearing short pants or skirts inside the Phra That Hariphunchai Buddhist temple ("Wat") in Lamphun.
- It's best to wear a hat, a jacket, sunglasses, and apply good quality sunscreen when cruising the Ping River. It's also a good idea to take some fresh drinking water and light snacks.
- One of the famous curries of northern Thai cuisine is Kaeng khae. It's a spicy dish served with chicken, frog, snails, or fish, and a selection of fresh vegetables (e.g. yardlong beans). Another local favourite is stewed pork noodles soup with dried longan, known as "Kuaitiao lamyai".