9 of the best things to see and do in Lampang

Lampang is one of northern Thailand’s most underrated destinations. While neighbouring Chiang Mai attracts the majority of visitors, Lampang offers an even more relaxed atmosphere with beautifully preserved temples, traditional teak architecture, and a variety of natural attractions. 

Lampang can easily be combined with an itinerary that includes Chiang Mai. Although it’s possible to visit on a day trip from Chiang Mai, it’s best to spend at least a few days in Lampang to appreciate what this amiable provincial capital has to offer. Shown here in no particular order is our selection of some of the best things to see and do in Lampang.

Let the train take the strain

Taking a train between Chiang Mai and Lampang is a great way to travel, especially during the cool season and green season months. If you opt for the ordinary train, you don’t need to buy a ticket in advance. These trains are slower, but with open windows and the chance to enjoy the scenery, the journey to or from Lampang (shown as Nakhon Lampang on train timetables) becomes part of the adventure.

On the way, you’ll pass over the famous white bridge of Tha Chompu in Lamphun. The train stops at Thailand’s highest railway station at Khun Tan (578 metres above sea level), which is also the location of Thailand’s longest railway tunnel. Modernisation of the Thai railways and the construction of a new line to Chiang Rai mean that by the late 2020s, there will be longer tunnels on the network. However, Lampang should still hold the record with the proposed tunnel in the Ngao district of Lampang set to be over 6,000 metres long. 

Relax by the riverside

The Wang River runs through the heart of Lampang, and the towpaths are a pleasant place to walk and relax. You’ll see colourful street art in the area near one of Lampang’s most famous landmarks, Ratchadaphisek Bridge.

During the heyday of the teak industry, logs were floated down the Wang River, and on several occasions, damage was caused to the old bridge. The distinctive white-coloured bridge seen today was completed in 1917.

The Lampang roosters 
If you look carefully at the bridge, at the street art, on street signs and even on noodle bowls, you will notice one of the enduring symbols of Lampang, the rooster. This comes from a legend of when the Buddha visited Lampang. The story says that the Hindu God Indra was concerned that the local people wouldn’t wake up early enough to prepare food. So Indra disguised himself as a rooster to wake the Lampang people from their slumber to prepare alms for Buddha.

Learn about the history of Lampang

To learn more about the fascinating history of Lampang, pay a visit to the informative Phum Lakon Museum and the Lampang National Museum. 

This area is probably best known for its links to the teak trade, which saw the city prosper in the late 1800s. The booming teak industry resulted in an influx of merchants and overseas workers, and their legacy can still be seen today through the elegant wooden houses and Shan-style temples they built in Lampang.  

Explore Kad Kong Ta Walking Street

Every weekend, the historic riverside neighbourhood comes alive with the vibrant Kad Kong Ta Walking Street market. The area is notable for its beautifully restored teak shophouses reflecting Burmese, Chinese and European influences. Browse local handicrafts, sample northern Thai dishes and enjoy live music while you soak up the nostalgic atmosphere.

Step back in time

The heritage of the teak industry can still be seen in the homes of the merchants. Among these, Ban Louis is one of the most impressive. This was the former residence of Louis Leonowens, the son of Anna Leonowens, who taught the children of King Mongkut (Rama IV).

Built in 1895, Ban Sao Nak is one of the finest surviving teak mansions in northern Thailand. Its name translates as ‘House of Many Pillars’ thanks to the 116 teak columns supporting the elegant structure. The house provides an insight into the lifestyle of wealthy timber merchants during Lampang’s booming teak industry. Similarly, Ban Pong Nak (‘House of Many Windows’) is another impressive example of teak architecture in Lampang.

Lampang is the only city in Thailand where horse-drawn carriages remain a working form of transport rather than simply a tourist attraction. The tradition dates back more than a century and remains a popular way to explore the old town area as you pass by historic buildings, markets and riverside attractions. 

Pay your respects at Wat Phra That Lampang Luang

Often regarded as Lampang’s most important landmark, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is one of the finest examples of Lanna temple architecture in Thailand. Surrounded by impressive fortified walls, the temple dates back to the 13th century and houses a revered relic of the Buddha. Highlights include the magnificent viharn with its elaborately carved wooden columns, ancient murals, and the famous camera obscura inside a small chapel, where an inverted image of the temple is projected onto the wall.

Climb the steps to the floating pagodas

One of northern Thailand’s most spectacular temple complexes, Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn (also known as Phrabat Pu Phadaeng), features a series of white pagodas dramatically perched on limestone peaks. A shuttle bus followed by a short but steep walk rewards visitors with panoramic views across the surrounding mountains.

Learn about Lampang’s ceramic heritage

Lampang is Thailand’s ceramic capital. At the Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum, visitors can trace the history of the province’s famous rooster bowls, watch skilled artisans at work and even try decorating their own ceramics. It’s an excellent place to understand one of Lampang’s most enduring industries.

Enjoy Lampang’s natural attractions

Located around an hour from Lampang city, Chae Son National Park combines forested mountains, waterfalls and natural hot springs. You can hike forest trails, cool off beneath Chae Son Waterfall, soak your feet in mineral-rich pools, and boil eggs in the geothermal springs. 

The vast Mae Moh Mine offers an unexpected but fascinating landscape. The former mine provides panoramic viewpoints where visitors can appreciate the sheer scale of what was Thailand’s largest open-pit mine. The nearby museum explains the area’s role in the country’s electricity generation and the environmental restoration projects taking place around the site.

Map of Lampang

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