Lamphun, just south of Chiang Mai, is one of the oldest towns in Thailand. As Hariphunchai it was a Mon kingdom founded, according to tradition, by Queen Chamadevi more than a thousand years ago, and its temples hold some of the most important stupas of the north. Today it is a calm provincial town, famous for longan orchards and hand-woven silk, and an easy half-day trip from Chiang Mai.
- Best for: ancient temples, Hariphunchai history, silk weaving, longan orchards, quiet northern life
- From Bangkok: roughly 670 km; most visitors fly to Chiang Mai and drive about 30 minutes south. Trains on the northern line stop in Lamphun
- Getting around: walk or cycle around the old town; a car or songthaew for outlying sights
- Best time: November–February for cool weather; August for the longan festival
Getting there and around
From Chiang Mai, blue songthaew and buses run to Lamphun, a 30-minute ride along a road shaded by old yang trees. Lamphun station is on the Bangkok–Chiang Mai railway. The old town is compact enough to walk.
Top things to do in Lamphun
Wat Phra That Hariphunchai Map
The spiritual heart of Lamphun: a golden stupa said to enshrine a relic of the Buddha, surrounded by fine Lanna buildings and the old Suwan Chedi. It is one of the most revered temples of northern Thailand.
Wat Chamathewi (Wat Ku Kut) Map
Home to two rare stepped brick chedis from the Hariphunchai period, decorated with standing Buddha images in niches.
Hariphunchai National Museum Map
Opposite the main temple, the museum explains the Hariphunchai kingdom with sculptures, inscriptions and Lanna art.
Queen Chamadevi Monument Map
A memorial to the legendary founding queen, in a park in town.
Pa Sang silk and cotton weaving Map
Pa Sang district is known for hand-woven silk and cotton, including the traditional Lamphun brocade; shops sell directly from weavers.
Doi Khun Tan National Park Map
A mountain park crossed by the railway through Thailand’s longest railway tunnel, with hiking trails and cool-season camping.
Wat Phra Phutthabat Tak Pha Map
A hillside temple linked to a revered northern monk, with a Buddha footprint and quiet forest surroundings.
Lamphun old moat and walls Map
Remains of the old city moat and walls still shape the town; a pleasant walk in the evening.
Suggested 1-day itinerary
Morning at Wat Phra That Hariphunchai and the National Museum, lunch in the old town, afternoon at Wat Chamathewi and a weaving shop in Pa Sang, then return to Chiang Mai or continue south.
Festivals and events
The Lamphun Longan Festival is usually held in August, with fruit fairs and parades. Around Visakha Bucha in May, the Phra That Hariphunchai bathing ceremony draws pilgrims. Songkran in April is celebrated in Lanna style with merit-making and water play; nearby Chiang Mai hosts one of Thailand’s biggest Songkran festivals, see our Songkran in Chiang Mai guide. Dates change; check with TAT and read our Songkran etiquette and survival guide.
On King Taksin’s trail
King Taksin’s campaigns passed through this province: the Chiang Mai campaign. The full story with maps is on our King Taksin trail site (in Thai).
Travel tips
- Dress modestly at temples; some Lanna temples restrict women from certain areas around stupas.
- Lamphun is quiet in the evening; Chiang Mai has more nightlife.
- Buy longan products in town or at roadside stalls.
FAQ
Is Lamphun worth a trip from Chiang Mai?
Yes, it is only 30 minutes away and has some of the oldest temples in the north.
When is the longan festival?
Usually in August.
Who was Queen Chamadevi?
The legendary first ruler of the Hariphunchai kingdom.
What should I eat?
Northern dishes and longan. See our Lamphun food guide.
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