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Everything You Need to Know about Lamphun in Thailand
- Where is Lamphun?
- How to Get to Lamphun
- Best Time to Go to Lamphun
- What to Do and See in Lamphun
- Visit Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, Lamphun’s iconic golden temple
- Hike Mae Ping National Park
- Explore Wat Chamthewi
- Explore Lamphun Walking Street
- Play a relaxing round at Hariphunchai Golf Club
- Catch the sunrise at Pha Daeng Luang Sunrise Viewpoint
- Stroll and meet some animals at Flower Hill Cafe & Farm
- Pay your respects at Khruba Sri Wichai Monument
- Visit Wat Phra Phutthabat Tak Pha, a serene hillside temple
- Kayak or picnic by the peaceful Mae Moei Reservoir
- Where to Eat and Drink in Lamphun
- Temple House Lamphun
- The Terracotta Garden at Lamphun
- Srithong View Cafe & Restaurant
- The Lamp Lamphun Farm Cafe & Restaurant
- Daokanong Lamphun Restaurant
- Where to Stay in and near Lamphun
- Tonkla Boutique Hotel
- Jamadevi Hotel Lamphun
- Waree Onsen @ Sri Buaban Lamphun
- Baan Pailyn Resort
- Phu Muean Lee, Traditional Lanna Style Resort Hotel
- FAQs about Thailand’s Lamphun
Lamphun was once the heart of the Hariphunchai Kingdom, founded way back in the 9th century (and maybe earlier!) by Queen Chama Thewi—this was the last stronghold of the Mon people.
Shaped like a conch shell, the city was a buzzing cultural hub for Theravada Buddhism until it became part of the Lanna Kingdom in the late 1200s. Over the centuries, it went from Mon to Lanna to briefly Burmese.
Fast forward to today, Lamphun is still packed with history but is also super laid-back and cute. It’s famous for its ancient temples like Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, local weaving villages, and its signature fruit, longan.
Where is Lamphun?
Lamphun is in northern Thailand, just a little south of Chiang Mai. It’s only about 26 kilometres (or a 30-minute drive) from Chiang Mai, so it’s super easy to get to if you’re already in the area.
The city sits snugly in the Ping River valley, surrounded by beautiful mountains and lush countryside. You’ll find it along Highway 11, which connects Chiang Mai to Lampang and other destinations further south.
How to Get to Lamphun
By car or taxi: Getting to Lamphun is pretty straightforward, and the easiest way is by car or taxi—it’s just a 30-minute drive down Highway 106, and the route is scenic and super chill.
By train: You can also hop on a train from Chiang Mai Railway Station, which takes about 20-30 minutes to Lamphun Station. Alternatively, there are yellow songthaews (shared taxis) and buses that offer a budget-friendly option for travel.
Best Time to Go to Lamphun
The best time to visit Lamphun is during the Khom Saen Duang (Hundred Thousand Lanterns) Festival, where you’ll be in for something truly magical!
This festival, held at the stunning Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, usually happens between late September and mid-November.
Expect thousands of glowing lanterns lighting up the temple grounds, cultural performances, excellent local food, and the chance to hang your lantern with a wish!
What to Do and See in Lamphun
Visit Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, Lamphun’s iconic golden temple
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Address: Thanon Rop Mueang Nai
Contact details: +66 87 714 4448
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 9 PM
Wat Phra That Hariphunchai dates back to the 11th century and is steeped in history. Its towering golden chedi is the centerpiece, and you’ll find that it glows beautifully under the sun, making it a perfect spot for some postcard-worthy photos.
The temple grounds are expansive, so you’ll want to take your time exploring the different structures, shrines, and intricate Lanna-style carvings. One of the highlights is the massive gong located on the premises—they say giving it a strike brings good luck!
There are also several smaller pagodas and a museum on-site if you want to dig deeper into Lamphun’s cultural heritage. If you happen to be here during the Khom Saen Duang Festival, you’ll witness the grounds transform into a sea of lanterns.
Hike Mae Ping National Park
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Address: 81 Mae Lan, Li District
Contact details: +66 5 203 0380
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Cost:
- Adults – 100THB
- Children – 50THB
Mae Ping National Park is a haven of lush forests, limestone mountains, and serene rivers. The trails in the park are great for all fitness levels, and many lead you to some breathtaking vistas.
Of course, a visit to the park wouldn’t be complete without checking out Ko Luang Waterfall, one of its star attractions. This multi-tiered waterfall is tucked away in the forest and has a crystal-clear pool at the base of the falls.
The water’s turquoise color against the limestone backdrop makes it a fantastic spot for photography, too. There are picnic areas nearby, so if you have time, bringing some snacks or a packed lunch wouldn’t be a bad idea.
Explore Wat Chamthewi
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Address: Chamadevi Rd.
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Wat Chamthewi, also known as Wat Ku Kut, is dedicated to Queen Chamthewi, the founder of Lamphun and an important figure in Thai history. You’ll notice that it’s quite different from other temples—it has impressive square-based pagodas, which are over 1,200 years old.
Its architectural style is unique and reflects the early Hariphunchai Kingdom. As you wander around, you’ll notice that the carvings that adorn the pagodas depict stories from Buddhist teachings—they’re incredibly well-preserved, considering their age!
There’s also a statue of Queen Chamthewi on the temple grounds, and locals often come here to pay their respects to her. Entry here is free, but donations are always welcome to help maintain the temple and its grounds.
Explore Lamphun Walking Street
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Lamphun Walking Street is a smaller and more laid-back version of the famous markets you’ll find in bigger cities. The market stretches along a single street in the old town, with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to local snacks and street food.
Here, you’ll get to sample a variety of Lamphun’s traditional dishes, like sai ua (northern Thai sausage), khao soi (curried noodle soup), and fresh fruit smoothies. Make sure to try some local desserts, too—you’ll often find sweet treats made from sticky rice and coconut.
The prices here are super affordable, so you can sample a bunch of different things. Apart from food, there are plenty of handmade souvenirs, such as woven textiles, wooden carvings, and small trinkets you can take home.
Play a relaxing round at Hariphunchai Golf Club
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Address: 111 Wiang Yong
Contact details: +66 5 309 6222
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6:30 AM to 9 PM
Hariphunchai Golf Club is a 9-hole course surrounded by serene landscapes, making it a fantastic escape from the usual sightseeing. The course is well-maintained, and while it’s not as massive as some of the big-name courses, it’s perfect for an informal game.
If you didn’t bring any gear, they’ve got rentals available, along with caddies to guide you through the course if needed. The club also has a small restaurant and seating area where you can grab a meal or refreshments after your game.
Catch the sunrise at Pha Daeng Luang Sunrise Viewpoint
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Pha Daeng Luang Sunrise Viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys—it’s nothing short of breathtaking. To make the most of the experience, make sure you arrive before dawn so you can soak in the changing colors of the sky.
The lookout area is spacious, giving enough room for everyone to find their little spot to sit and take in the scenery. Many locals and travelers swear by the experience of sipping on a warm drink while taking in the sunrise.
Getting there is pretty straightforward, but keep in mind that the final stretch may require a short hike or drive up a winding road, depending on where you’re staying.
Stroll and meet some animals at Flower Hill Cafe & Farm
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Address: Rural Highway No. LP-4066 Ban Puang
Contact details: +66 81 716 4366
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Flower Hill Cafe & Farm combines a quaint café with a working farm, offering visitors a chance to relax while interacting with adorable farm animals. One of the main draws here is the opportunity to meet and feed them.
The farm provides animal feed, so you don’t have to worry about bringing anything except your enthusiasm. Aside from the animals, the farm has colorful flower gardens that are lovely for a stroll or some quick photos.
Oh, and you can enjoy your refreshments while sitting outdoors with a view of the farm, which adds to the experience.
Pay your respects at Khruba Sri Wichai Monument
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Address: Dong Dam, Li District
Contact details: +66 5422 2214
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 6 PM
The Khruba Sri Wichai Monument is a site you’ll want to visit if you’re interested in Lamphun’s spiritual and cultural heritage. Khruba Sri Wichai was a revered monk in northern Thailand, known for his efforts in renovating temples and promoting Buddhist teachings.
This monument, dedicated to his memory, is a place where both locals and visitors come to pay their respects and learn about his contributions to the community. The monument itself features a striking, beautifully crafted statue of Khruba Sri Wichai.
There are also plaques and information boards that provide some background on Khruba Sri Wichai’s life and accomplishments.
Visit Wat Phra Phutthabat Tak Pha, a serene hillside temple
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Address: 279, Makok, Pa Sang District
Contact details: +66 84 149 6294
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Wat Phra Phutthabat Tak Pha is a lesser-known but incredibly serene temple located on a hillside in Lamphun. The temple’s name translates to “Temple of the Buddha’s Footprint,” and it’s believed to house a sacred relic in the form of an actual footprint of the Buddha imprinted in stone.
This relic draws both locals and pilgrims from across the region, and it’s a great place to learn more about the role that Buddhism plays in daily life here. Now, to reach the main temple complex, you’ll need to climb a flight of stairs lined with mythical Naga serpents.
Once you’re at the top, you’re rewarded with beautiful views of the surrounding area—it’s a quiet, elevated spot that makes the climb worth it.
Kayak or picnic by the peaceful Mae Moei Reservoir
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Address: Tha Khum Ngoen
Contact details: +66 95 134 4620
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 6 PM
Cost:
- Adults – 200THB
- Children – 100THB
*Admission rate includes entrance to Mae Moei National Park
If you need a break from Lamphun’s temples and historical sites, the Mae Moei Reservoir is an excellent escape. This peaceful reservoir is surrounded by scenic landscapes, making it a fantastic spot for kayaking, fishing, or just a picnic.
The area is spacious, so you won’t have trouble finding a perfect little spot. Kayaking is also popular here—rentals are usually available on-site, and the calm waters make it an easy activity for anyone.
It’s also an ideal location for bird-watching, as various species are often spotted around the water, especially in the mornings. Just make sure you bring whatever you need since there aren’t many amenities around.
Where to Eat and Drink in Lamphun
Temple House Lamphun
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Address: 102 Inthayongyot Rd, Tambon Nai Mueang
Phone: +66 6 5056 9839
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Good to know: Great for breakfast or lunch meals, intimate meet-ups
Temple House just knows how to do things right when it comes to drinks and desserts. This place takes their coffee seriously, so whether you’re into a bold espresso or a smooth latte, you’re in good hands.
For those with a sweet tooth, two must-try items are the carrot cake, which is consistently a hit, and the longan sticky rice tart, a unique twist incorporating Lamphun’s signature fruit. Their pastry lineup rotates occasionally!
The Terracotta Garden at Lamphun
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Address: 95, Rim Ping
Phone: +66 95 447 9693
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
Good to know: Great for architectural lovers, groups, and families
The Terracotta Garden is part cafe, part outdoor gallery, with an array of intricate terracotta works scattered throughout the garden. If you’re here to see the terracotta art, plan to spare some extra time to walk around the garden and take it all in.
When it comes to food, they’re most known for their khao sio, a northern Thai classic, and their versions bring a flavorful coconut curry broth. Beyond that, their menu also includes a mix of both Thai and international, so there’s something for every taste.
Srithong View Cafe & Restaurant
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Address: 99 9, Wiang Yong
Phone: +66 66 152 6228
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Good to know: Ideal for family meals, casual meet-ups with friends, big gatherings
Srithong View Cafe & Restaurant is a gem in Lamphun that offers a mix of delicious food and a spacious setup. It has a relaxed vibe where you can settle in to try their wide variety of offerings, from traditional Thai dishes to Western-inspired favorites.
The menu has a few standout items, and you can’t skip their stir-fried curry powder with soft-shell crab—it’s flavorful and one of the top reasons people rave about this place. If you’re more about snacking, their afternoon tea is worth checking out, too!
The Lamp Lamphun Farm Cafe & Restaurant
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Address: 168 Nakhon Chedi
Phone: +66 83 160 4994
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
Good to know: Great for kids, groups, casual meals
The Lamp Lamphun Farm Cafe & Restaurant is a unique dining spot that combines farm life, good food, and a relaxing vibe all in one. Set in a beautiful garden with a large pond and canals winding throughout the area, it feels like a mini getaway.
Their menu is all about combining traditional flavors, with the stir-fried mixed seafood and stewed beef shank being the top recommendations. By the way, they also offer farmstay accommodations if you’re looking to spend more time here.
Daokanong Lamphun Restaurant
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Address: 180 Village No. 4, Chiang Mai-Lampang Superhighway Rd.
Phone: +66 5 355 3942
Pricing: ฿
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM
Good to know: Great for families or groups
For an authentic Northern Thai food experience, Daokanong Lamphun has been a local treasure for over 60 years—and it’s still going strong. This is the kind of place that proudly sticks to its roots, with recipes that showcase the best of Lamphun’s dishes.
They’re known for offering a huge variety of classics, and you can’t leave without trying their khanom heen nam ngiao, a spicy noodle dish, or the sai ua (northern Thai sausage). For the full experience, pair your dishes with a side of sticky rice!
Where to Stay in and near Lamphun
Tonkla Boutique Hotel
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Address: Charoen Rat Rd.
Phone: +66 62 687 1234
Pricing: ฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 2 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Tonkla Boutique Hotel’s central location allows you to easily access Lamphun’s key attractions, including the famous Wat Phra That Hariphunchai. The rooms here are compact yet carefully designed for guest comfort.
While relatively affordable, the hotel doesn’t skimp on essentials like comfortable beds, clean bathrooms, and even a small breakfast area. For those who prefer exploring on two wheels, the hotel offers bicycle rentals, which is a fantastic way to get around Lamphun.
Jamadevi Hotel Lamphun
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Address: Nai Mueang
Phone: +66 5 351 2115
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 2 PM
- Check-out – 1 PM
Jamadevi Hotel Lamphun takes its name from Queen Chamthewi, the founder of Lamphun, reflecting the area’s rich history. The rooms here are spacious, with plenty of natural light, and equipped with air-conditioning, hot showers, and Wi-Fi.
Families or groups will appreciate the larger room options, while solo travelers or couples can enjoy the cozier configurations. Even better, the staff is accommodating, often offering advice on local attractions or helping arrange transportation.
Waree Onsen @ Sri Buaban Lamphun
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Address: Village No. 8, 219 Wari Onsen, Ban Nong Lom
Phone: +66 98 647 8235
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 2 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
For a unique stay in Lamphun, Waree Onsen offers something you won’t find just anywhere—traditional Japanese-inspired onsen (hot spring) facilities. It’s a little off the beaten path but still within reasonable distance from Lamphun’s main sights.
The accommodations here are polished but straightforward, with clean and comfortable rooms designed to complement the relaxing vibe of the onsen. A complimentary breakfast is provided, with both Thai and international options to suit all palates.
Baan Pailyn Resort
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Address: Li, Li District
Phone: +66 85 219 7775
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 2 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Nestled in a more rural setting, Baan Pailyn Resort offers a tranquil environment with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities nearby. Its location near Mae Ping National Park also makes it an ideal base for those venturing into the park or Ko Luang Waterfall.
The rooms here are clean, practical, and spacious, with some even coming with balconies. Basic amenities such as air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms are all provided as well.
Phu Muean Lee, Traditional Lanna Style Resort Hotel
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Address: 156 Li, Li District
Phone: +66 81 996 0748
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 10 AM
- Check-out – 12 AM
Phu Muean Lee stands out as a resort that beautifully reflects the traditional Lanna style of northern Thailand. The property’s location is conveniently close to attractions like Mae Ping National Park and the serene countryside of the region.
The resort also offers Thai cooking workshops and cultural activities for guests who want to connect with the local way of life. Furthermore, dining options on-site include a small but flavorful selection of regional dishes.
