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Lamphun
General Information
Legend handed down for more than 1,400 years refer to this ancient town as Hariphunchai. Its first ruler was Queen Chamthewi who was of Mon extraction. In late 12th century, King Mengrai overran the town and subsequently integrated it into the Lanna Kingdom.
Today, Lamphun still retain its enchanting ambience of a small but old community. It is some 670 kilometres from Bangkok and only 26 kilometres from Chiang Mai. Located on the bank of the Kuang River, its attractions include ancient sites and relics as well as forests and mountains and delightful lakes. Lamphun is the most famous producer of longans.
Symbol
The provincial seal shows the temple Wat Phra That Haripunchai, which was already the main temple of the city Lamphun during the Mon times. The gold-covered chedi is said to contain a relic of Buddha.
The provincial flower is the Flame of the Forest (Butea monosperma), and the provincial tree is the Rain Tree (Samanea saman).
Getting there
By Car
From Bangkok, take Highway No. 1 to Nakhon Sawan via Sing Buri and Chai Nat, then turn into Highway No. 11 and proceed to Lamphun, a total distance of 670 kilometres.
By Bus
Both air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses departs from Bangkok’s Mochit 2 Bus Terminal to Lamphun daily. Travelling time is about 9 hours. Call 0 2936 0852-66 or visit www.transport.co.th for more information. Indra Tour which is a private bus company also operate air-conditioned bus to Lamphun. Call 0 2208 0840 for information.
By Train
Trains leave Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Raialway Station every day. Call 1690 for more information.
By Air
Visitors can fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and then connect a Chiang Mai-Lamphun bus which leaves Chang Phueak Bus Station every 15 minutes. Traveling time from Chiang Mai to Lamphun is 45 minutes.
Festivals
Longan Fair
Another event is the Longan Fair in August which is designed to promote this hugely popular produce. There are the beautifully decorated Longan Parade and Longan contests.
Song Nam Phra That Hariphunchai
The most well-known event in Lamphun is the Song Nam Phra That Hariphunchai, which dates back to the olden times. Held to celebrate the province's principal religious site, it takes place in May.
Interesting Products
Hand-made Cotton Fabric
A hand-made cotton fabric is also very much preferred by tourists. It is moderately priced and of designs and colours which have been improved yet retaining the indigenous feel and tradition. It is generally made into table-cloth, plate rests, drapes and other household uses. The market at Pa Sang offers a large collection to choose from.
Pha Mai Yok Dok
The Pha Mai Yok Dok is an elaborately woven material in traditional method.Originally
used in the northern royal court, it became popular during the reign of King Rama VI. The distinctive craftsmanship and skills in producing this type of silk have endeared it to those who prefer the traditional designs. The main production centre is at Tambon Wiangyong of Muang district.
Wood-carving Products
Wood-carving products are made from soft-wood into animal figurines, dolls, utensils and decorative items. The natural textures of the wood are clearly visible which add beauty to the products. The main production centre is in Mae Tha district which is some 25 kilometres from town on the way to Lampang.
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