Lampang Tourist Attractions

The main attractions which will keep you occupied for a whole day in Lampang are temples, temples and some more temples. Many dating back to the Lanna times, they are a perfect example of the period architecture and style.

Wat Pra Tu Pong

Located in the old part of town in the north side of the river Wang, Wat Pra Tu Pong is a wonderful and rare example of Lanna style temple. The highlight is the Vihara, a small building full of decorations and images of dragons and two Singha statues (mythological creature similar to a lion) guarding the entrance. To get there cross the Ratsada Phisek Bridge and turn right on Phamai Road.

Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao

Keep walking northeast along the river following numerous English signs to get to this 18th century temple where the famous Emerald Buddha had been kept before it was moved to Bangkok’s Wat Phra Kaew. The golden stupa is one of the most recognizable structures in Lampang, and an interesting ordination hall with lots of mural paintings is a nice example of the Chiang Saen architecture style. A classic reclining Buddha and a museum showcasing Lanna artefacts are also worth visiting. Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao is open every day from 8:00am till 6:00pm.

Ban Sao Nak

Located half way between the two previously mentioned temples, Ban Sao Nak is an extraordinary traditional teak house built in 1895 which has been restored several times since then giving us the chance to visit a wonderful example of Burmese and Lanna architecture. 116 wooden posts support the building that once used to serve as a resting place for important persons visiting Lampang. It is a nice break from the immersion into temples also considering the welcoming drink included into the THB30 ticket, it is a definite must-visit. Ban Sao Nak can be visited every day from 10am till 5:00pm.

Wat Chedi Sao

Always on the north side of the river, but a bit farther away from the city centre, Wat Chedi Sao is an ancient temple built in Burmese and Lanna style comprising 20 small chedi (Sao in northern Thai translates twenty) with golden tops and an ordination hall hosting a Buddha image of the 16th century weighting more than 1500 kg. The real age of the temple is unclear but we like to believe the legend that tells that 2000 years ago two monks came to Thailand from India to spread Lord Buddha’s teachings. A local king was so impressed that decided to build a temple and asked the monks to give him ten hair each, placing one hair in each pagoda. Whether this is true or not, Wat Chedi Sao is a nice temple to visit. It is located in a quiet area out of town and surrounded by farms and rice fields. To get there drive for 3 km along route 1035 until you see the sign to turn left.

Wat Prathat Lampang Luang

Yet one more story which connects hair and temples explains the origins of Wat Prathat Lampang Luang, but this time it wasn’t a monk visiting the area but Lord Buddha who donated one of his hair which is now supposed to be enshrined in the temple, obviously making this site one of the most sacred and revered destinations in the whole province. The temple actually was built in the 13th century, and it remains perfectly preserved up to now showing us one of the best examples of Lanna religious architecture. Minor renovations have been made but always respecting the original style.

A statue of Thippachak reminds all the visitors of the local hero that freed the temple from the Burmese army that took possession of it in the 18th century with the help of only 300 brave men (if this sounds familiar King Leonida’s story, you’re not the only one who finds similarity between the two). The temple ground is quite spacious with several interesting buildings to visit and the time to get there is totally worth it. It is located 15 km south of town and if you don’t have a bike, you can get a motorbike taxi or a songthaew for THB200.