Are you planning to go to the Northern part of Thailand and want to venture outside of the more popular tourist areas? Lampang is a perfect choice! Recently featured on CNN.com as Thailand’s next big rising star for tourism, this ancient city is only an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai.
Lampang is one of Thailand’s 77 provinces, located in the heart of Northern Thailand and is the third largest city in the north. This province is a great base for travelling around the Northern region. Lampang has a long history of over 1,300 years, and it is believed that this city was founded during the Hariphunchai kingdom that was a Mon kingdom in the centuries before the Thais moved into the area. Lampang was also one of the main cities during Lanna kingdom. There are many historical attractions left in Lampang, which are derived from Lanna period, but the symbol and the main attraction of Lampang is the iconic horse and carriage.
Even though Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai might be the more well-known provinces of the north, Lampang has its own unique charm and is a well-deserved hidden gem destination. If you happen to be in Lampang even for a day trip, there are some interesting activities and stunning attractions waiting for you:
Thai Elephant Conservation Centre (TECC)
This elephant conservation centre was initially founded in order to enlarge the scope of Thai elephants’ conservation. It also aims to improve tourism associated with elephants. TECC offers many entertaining and educational activities to visitors divided into day trip and overnight trip. The visitors will have a chance to see elephants’ show which will be enjoyed by both adults and kids alike such as logging techniques, painting, making music, demonstrating agility, and many more. Other activities include jungle trekking and home stay programs to really immerse yourself into the local culture.
(Photo credit: Sura Nualpradid / Shutterstock.com)
Horse-drawn carriages
Riding a horse on carriage is a must when you are in Lampang. This is the only place in Thailand that still uses horse carriages as a mean of transportation. The nickname of Lampang is “Muang Rod Mah” meaning “The City of Horse Carriage”. Nowadays, there are roughly 80 horse carriages in operation and a must-do activity if you are in town.
Wat Pra That Lampang Luang
This Buddhist temple is built in traditional Lanna style and situated in the old town of Lampang. The ancient murals and white rooster sculpture in the temple’s main gate are prominent characteristics of Wat Pra That Lampang Luang.
Chae Son National Park
The famous Chae Son waterfall and hot springs are the main attractions of Chae Son National Park. The park is located 66 kilometers north of Lampang and can be reached by public transportation. This national park is plentiful with flora and fauna and is a unique place to spend a day trip trekking and enjoying swimming in the water.
Lampang’s Ceramics
Lampang is one of the most famous and the biggest ceramics producers in Thailand. The ceramic was originated when a villager from the Jae-Hom district found a whetstone, which was made from Kaolinite. In the present day, Lampang ceramics can be bought everywhere in the province. The most famous pattern is a printed rooster as it is considered as a symbol of Lampang.
With many activities and attractions this charming city has to offer, you can ensure that your next visit to Lampang will be one of the most memorable trips in Thailand.
Are you ready to explore Lampang? Find some of our special travel packages below that feature Lampang on the itinerary:
