Lampang Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Lampang with this ultimate travel guide that includes recommendations for places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Welcome to Lampang - a charming city located in the Northern River Valleys of Thailand. This hidden gem is full of cultural treasures, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in history, hiking, or delicious local cuisine, Lampang has something for everyone. In this ultimate travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do and see in Lampang, as well as tips for where to stay, what to eat, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Lampang

Lampang is home to many cultural and natural attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the best places to visit in Lampang:

Culturally Important Attractions

Lampang National Museum - this museum showcases the culture and history of Northern Thailand. It exhibits artwork, antiques, and traditional costumes from the region.

Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum - this museum displays a collection of traditional Lanna ceramics that have been made in Lampang for centuries.

Wat Phra That Lampang Luang - this impressive temple is one of the most well-known landmarks in Lampang. It features a stunning golden chedi and picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.

Natural Attractions of Lampang

Doi Khun Tan National Park - located just outside of Lampang, this park is ideal for hiking and exploring scenic waterfalls.

Chae Son National Park - this park is home to hot springs and a waterfall, making it a great place for outdoor adventures.

Sri Chum Temple - this temple is located within a cave and features stunning natural cave formations.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lampang

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking in Lampang. Here are some of the best routes to try:

Chae Son National Park Trail - this trail is a moderate hike that takes you through stunning forests and countryside.

Wat Phra That Lampang Luang Trail - this short and easy hike takes you to the top of the temple and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Lampang: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for exciting things to do in Lampang, here are some suggestions:

Cycling tours - explore the city on two wheels and get an up-close view of Lampang’s local way of life.

Boat trips - take a scenic boat ride down the Wang River and discover hidden corners of the city that you can’t access by land.

  • Elephant conservation centers* - Lampang is known for its ethical elephant sanctuaries where you can get up close with these majestic creatures in their natural habitats.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lampang

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Lampang:

Day 1: Visit the Lampang National Museum and Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum.

Day 2: Explore the Chae Son National Park and take a dip in the hot springs.

Day 3: Hike the Doi Khun Tan National Park and watch the sunset from the top.

Day 4: Visit Sri Chum Temple and take a cycling tour around the city.

Day 5: Take a scenic boat ride down the Wang River and try local street food.

Day 6: Visit the Wat Phra That Lampang Luang and go on an elephant sanctuary tour.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local food and culture.

Food and Drink Scene of Lampang

Lampang has its own unique cuisine that reflects the city’s local culture and history. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Khan Toke - a traditional Lampang dish that features various curry and vegetable dishes served over sticky rice.

Gaeng Hung Lay - a Northern Thai-style pork belly curry with a rich and flavorful tamarind sauce.

Sai Oua - a spicy and flavorful Northern Thai sausage made with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime.

Local Beverages

Yadong - a local liquor made from herbs, spices, and rice whiskey.

Cha nom yen - a sweet Thai iced tea made with condensed milk and spices.

Where to Stay in Lampang: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some accommodation options to consider in Lampang:

The Riverside Guest House - a charming and affordable guesthouse located along the Wang River.

Baan Suchadaa Lampang Resort - a peaceful and relaxing resort that features beautiful gardens and a swimming pool.

The Chateau Resort and Conference Center - a luxurious resort that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

What to Buy in Lampang: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some local products to consider picking up before you leave Lampang:

Lampang ceramics - these traditional ceramics are made in Lampang and are a great way to bring home a piece of the city’s history.

Sa paper products - these handmade paper products are made from the bark of the mulberry tree and can be found in various shops and markets in Lampang.

Local Culture and Customs of Lampang

Lampang has a rich and diverse local culture that is worth exploring. Here are some customs to be aware of:

*Respect the local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and other cultural sites.

*Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

*Remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s home.

Best Time to Visit Lampang

The best time to visit Lampang is between November and February when the weather is cool and dry. The rainy season begins in May and lasts until October, so it’s best to avoid these months if you don’t want to encounter frequent rain showers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lampang

Do:

*Sample local street food.

*Explore the city on a cycling tour.

*Visit the ethical elephant conservation centers.

Don’t:

*Disrespect the local customs and traditions.

*Take photographs without permission.

*Touch religious artifacts or statues.

Safety and Health

When traveling to Lampang, it’s important to take safety and health precautions. Here’s what you should know:

Safety in Lampang

*Lampang is a relatively safe city, but be cautious of theft and pickpocketing in crowded areas.

*Be aware of your surroundings when traveling alone at night.

Health in Lampang

*Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid getting sick.

*Use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites and potential diseases such as Malaria and Dengue fever.

Getting to Lampang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options to consider when getting to Lampang:

Airports Near Lampang

Lampang Airport - the nearest airport is Lampang Airport, located in the city center.

Bus Stations Near Lampang

Chang Puak Bus Terminal - this is the main bus terminal in Lampang and provides bus connections to other parts of Thailand.

Other Options

Train - Lampang Railway Station is located in the city center and provides train connections to Bangkok and other parts of Thailand.

How to Get Around in Lampang

Lampang is a relatively small city, and many attractions can be reached on foot, by bicycle or by motorbike. It’s also possible to hire a tuk-tuk or songthaew to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Lampang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider after visiting Lampang:

Chiang Mai - the cultural hub of Northern Thailand, located just a few hours from Lampang.

Sukhothai Historical Park - a UNESCO World Heritage site that features impressive ruins and temples from the Sukhothai Kingdom.

Conclusion

Lampang is a city that should not be missed on any trip to Northern Thailand. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious local cuisine, Lampang is truly a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored. Plan your trip now and experience the best of what Lampang has to offer.