Overview
Located just south of Chiang Mai, Lamphun is a small province 4,478 km2 (1,729 sq mi) in size.
Under its old name of Haripunchai, Lamphun was the northernmost city of the Mon kingdom of the Dvaravati period, and also the last to fall to the Thai.
In the late-12th century it came under siege from the Khmer, but did not fall. However, in 1281 King Mengrai of Lan Na finally seized the city, and made it part of his kingdom. After Burmese expansion in the 16th century, Lamphun was under Burmese rule for two centuries. In the 18th century, with the rise of Thonburi and Bangkok against Burmese rule, local leaders from Lampang agreed to be their allies. Lamphun was finally freed from the Burmese and ruled by relatives of Lampang’s leader, gaining vassal status from Bangkok. Eventually, after the administrative reform of Bangkok government in the late-19th century, Lamphun became, as a province, a part of Siam.
Lamphun retains its enchanting ambiance of a small but old community, dotted around with Temples that mirror strong Buddhism faith. Wat Kukut of Wat Chamthewi is a good place to start your exploration. The Temple houses a Bodh Gaya style stupa, from the 13th Century, which keeps the ashes of the Queen Chamdevi.
Situated in the heart of the town is Wat Phra That Hariphunchai. Once served as the king’s Palace, the royal Temple has long been regarded as a significant pilgrimage site. Its main chedi houses many pieces of Lord Buddha’s relics. The beautiful Temple is the town’s venue of many rites and festivals.
Get around on a scheduled tour tram and you will be drifting through the town’s major attractions. Adapted from an old elegant house, Lamphun community museum features the town’s History and Local lifestyle since the last century. The residence of Lamphun’s last prince Khum Chao Yod Ruan showcases the town’s architectural value.
Spend a night in a cozy hotel, then head south to li district. With great faith in Buddhism, the Karen Village of Ban Huai Tom simply through various activities and ceremonies. HomeStay service here showcases the easy life that is in harmony with nature.
Witness the fertile forest at Mae Ping national park that will leave you stunned once more with its picturesque Reservoir of Kaeng Kor.
For those staying in Chiang Mai, a fun way to explore Lamphun is to jump on a train to make the short journey to Lamphun. The city is very peaceful with plenty of quaint coffee shops and shaded areas to relax. It’s also possible to join a cycling tour from Lamphun to Chiang Mai.
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