Hotel Bangkokian
Lampang is a province in Northern Thailand rich in history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. With a history spanning over 1,332 years, Lampang is older than the neighboring city of Chiang Mai, which is only 716 years old. This ancient city offers a unique blend of attractions that include historical landmarks, stunning temples, and beautiful landscapes.
City Pillars:
• Lampang is unique in having three city pillars, reflecting its history of relocating the city three times.
Volcanic Sites:
• Lampang is one of the five provinces in Thailand with extinct volcanoes, such as those at Dok Phakork Jum Padaet and Doi Phakork Hin Foo.
Ancient City Walls:
• The city walls of Lampang, built in three different eras (Khelang 1233, Alampang 1251, and Khelang Chiang Mai 1844), still stand today, though some sections have been removed.
Silpa Lai Kam (Lai Kam Art):
• This unique art style, a mark of the city’s former glory, can be seen in only eight temples in Northern Thailand. Of these, one is in Chiang Mai, and the remaining seven are in Lampang.
Lampang is home to many significant temples, each with its own historical and cultural importance.
1. Wat Phra That Lampang Luang:
◦ This ancient Lanna-style temple is a must-visit. It houses the revered Phra Kaeo Don Tao Buddha and features a unique phenomenon where the shadow of the chedi is projected upside down in the mandapa. (Only men are allowed to view this.)
2. Wat Phra That Chom Ping:
◦ Another temple known for its golden chedi and the fascinating shadow reflection seen on the old chapel floor. Unlike Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, this phenomenon can be observed by both men and women.
3. Wat Lai Hin Luang:
◦ A smaller temple known for its exquisite Lanna-Chiang Saen style architecture, particularly its beautifully decorated viharn and entrance arch.
4. Wat Pong Sanuk:
◦ An award-winning temple recognized by UNESCO for its heritage preservation. It features a viharn with four Buddha images facing the four cardinal directions.
5. Trilak Cemetery:
◦ Not a temple, but a significant spiritual site where the revered monk, Luang Por Kasem Khemko, meditated and taught. His body remains here in a glass case.
6. Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao:
◦ Known for its Burmese-style architecture and the historical residence of the Emerald Buddha. The temple also features the Don Tao chedi and a statue of Kruba Srivichai.
7. Wat Chedi Sao:
◦ “Sao” means “twenty” in the Northern Thai dialect, referring to the twenty chedis in the temple. It is believed that counting all twenty chedis correctly signifies good fortune.
8. Wat Sri Chum:
◦ The largest Burmese-style temple in Thailand, featuring a stunning multi-tiered viharn. The original structure was destroyed by fire in 1992 and has been meticulously restored.
9. Wat Sri Rong Muang:
◦ Located in the city center, this 600-year-old temple is notable for its multi-tiered wooden viharn, intricately decorated with wood carvings. It has served as a filming location for various movies.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride:
Experience the charm of Lampang with a horse-drawn carriage tour starting from the old city hall. The tours cover several city spots and cost around 150-200 THB for a 20-30 minute ride.
Thai Elephant Conservation Center:
Located on the Lampang-Chiang Mai road, this center offers elephant shows and rides. For more information, call 0-5424-7871.
Ceramic Souvenirs:
Lampang is renowned for its ceramics. The Inthara Outlet, located just a 5-minute drive from the city center, offers a wide selection of ceramic products, including personalized items based on birth dates and charming monk figurines.
Exploring Lampang offers a rich tapestry of experiences that weave together the province’s ancient history, artistic heritage, spiritual significance, and natural beauty. From its unique temples and historic landmarks to its lively markets and scenic landscapes, Lampang provides a captivating journey for every traveler.
English
ไทย