Thailand
Located on the road leading to Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, Lampang is often overlooked, unfairly, by travelers! Straight out of another time, Lampang, sometimes nicknamed "the city of carriages," has managed to preserve its authentic character from the Lanna period. Lampang charms its visitors with its magnificent temples, including Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, considered one of the most beautiful temples in the northern part of the country. Don't hesitate to stop by during your stay in northern Thailand for a pleasant cultural getaway.
History
The founding of the city of Lampang is said to date back to the Hariphunchai kingdom. The city began to prosper later, during the Lanna kingdom around the 13th century. However, despite its progress, it did not rival neighboring cities like Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai. This locality was not spared from wars, especially those against the Burmese of the Taungoo dynasty and those against the armed forces of the Ayutthaya kingdom. Furthermore, Lampang is known throughout Thailand by the local appellation "meuang rot ma," literally meaning "the city of horse-drawn carriages." This city also became known throughout the territory as an important center for the teak wood trade. Apart from teak, it is also famous for its ceramics and recently discovered coal mines.
Today
Lampang is primarily appreciated by visitors for its peaceful setting. Like other cities in the region, it is home to numerous temples. Most of these religious sanctuaries are in Burmese style.
Famous temples of Lampang
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang
This is the most visited temple in Lampang. In Lanna style, it was built on a hill and is surrounded by a fortification wall dating back to the 13th century. The buildings that make it up were constructed around the 15th century. According to local myth, Buddha himself came to the site and even donated one of his hairs as a souvenir of his visit. To access the temple compound, you have to climb stairs, the railings of which are representations of two Nagas, legendary creatures. The first building you will see is a large teak viharn dating back to 1476. Behind the temple, you will find a huge chedi covered with copper leaves, standing over 45 meters high. Worshipers gather around it and circumambulate it to pray.
Free entry.
Wat Si Rong Muang
This temple is located to the west of the city and was built in 1905. It is mostly covered with wood carvings. It was built during the reign of King Rama V.
Wat Ponk Sanuk
The architecture of this temple follows various styles: Burmese, Lanna, and Chinese. It is worth noting that in 2008, this religious complex received the UNESCO Merit Award for the conservation of cultural heritage after a restoration project was launched.
This temple stands out for its hall housing a long, reclining Buddha. Inside, you will also find a golden chedi and a cross-shaped pavilion found nowhere else.
Wat Pha Fang
This temple, dating back to the 19th century, is located on Sanam Bin Street and houses a large golden chedi containing several sacred relics. These relics were brought from Myanmar in 1906.
Dhanabadee ceramic museum
Here you will see several models of ceramics typical of Lampang, including bowls with rooster designs on the sides. On-site, you will also get an overview of all the stages of ceramic production as well as the various developments made by local artisans in their crafting technique.
It is worth noting that this museum has a workshop where visitors have the opportunity to create their own ceramics. However, this activity is not free.
The museum is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Mondays.
Entrance fee: 100 baht for adults and 60 baht for children.
Visit Kad Kong Ta night market.
Like in some Thai cities, Lampang also has a night market. Thus, every Saturday and Sunday evening, Talad Gao Street becomes partially pedestrianized, and numerous stalls appear. There are food vendors, clothing, various items, etc. Moreover, while strolling in this part of the city, you will notice the magnificent old wooden houses that adorn this famous street.
Attend the Luang Wing Lakhon fair
This fair takes place just after Loy Kratong (the Festival of Lights), between late October and early November. It provides an opportunity for the people of Lampang to showcase their tradition and customs, especially through the wearing of ancestral clothing. Luang Wing Lakhon is also an opportunity for them to retell the story of the city. The festivities often take place near the Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang temple.
Climate
The city of Lampang has a slightly drier climate compared to neighboring provinces. During the winter season (often from November to March), for example, the days are beautiful and the nights are cool.
Between March and June, there is the summer season, with a peak temperature usually recorded in April. Indeed, in this month, local thermometers can reach up to 40°C. In summer, at the end of the day, there may be showers or even hailstorms.
The rainy season in Lampang usually starts in June and ends in November.
When to visit Lampang?
The best time of year to visit Lampang is between November and April.
How to get there?
The city of Lampang is particularly well served, as it can be reached by bus, train, or plane.
By bus
From Bangkok, at the Mo Chit terminal, you can take a line to Chiang Mai. Buses to Chiang Mai stop in Lampang.
By train
From Bangkok's Hua Lamphong station, you can take the Bangkok-Chiang Mai line, which passes through Lampang.
What are the means of transportation in Lampang?
Horse-drawn carriages
Lampang's horse-drawn carriages are famous throughout the country, so much so that they have become something of its emblem. Indeed, it is the only place in the country where this means of transportation is found. For a little anecdote, the horse-drawn carriage was introduced to Lampang in 1916 by Chao Boonyawat Wongmanit.
Songthaews
This vehicle is found all over Thailand. In Lampang, songthaews are navy blue or yellow and green, and they are an integral part of the scenery. They are used to connect the city and its surroundings.
