From Chiang Mai: Lamphun and Lampang Temples Tour

Set out on a captivating 9-hour journey from Chiang Mai to explore the historic temples of Lamphun and Lampang. This personalized tour features stunning Lanna-style architecture and insights into northern Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. Discover the ancient Wat Prathat Hariphunchai and Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, witness the charm of a traditional horse cart ride, and visit a local market. With convenient hotel transfers and sustainable practices, this tour promises an immersive experience that’ll leave you intrigued to learn more.

Key Points

• This 9-hour tour from Chiang Mai explores the historical temples of Lamphun and Lampang, showcasing Lanna-style architecture and Dvaravati period influences.
• Highlights include visiting 13th-century Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, 9th-century Wat Prathat Hariphunchai, and the 60 Buddha statues at Wat Chammathewi.
• Participants can opt for a traditional horse-cart ride around Lampang to experience the city’s historic landmarks and local life.
• The tour offers a personalized small-group experience with an English-speaking guide and sustainable practices like glass bottle water and carbon offset credits.
• Inclusions cover hotel pickup/drop-off, temple entries, and air-conditioned transportation, while optional add-ons like lunch and the horse-cart ride are available.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Lamphun and Lampang Temples Tour is a 9-hour excursion that takes visitors to explore the rich historical and cultural heritage of these two northern Thai provinces.

Priced from $135 per group, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entry to the key temples, air-conditioned transportation, and travel insurance.

With limited availability and likely to sell out, the tour offers a personalized experience for up to 9 participants. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour is GSTC-certified, ensuring sustainable practices like providing glass bottle water and carbon offset credits.

Whether you’re seeking an immersive cultural journey or simply want to admire Thailand’s architectural gems, this tour promises an enriching experience.

Itinerary Highlights

Spanning the 13th-century Lanna-style Wat Phra That Lampang Luang and the 9th-century Wat Prathat Hariphunchai, the tour’s itinerary highlights the region’s rich religious heritage.

At Wat Chammathewi, visitors can admire a stupa housing 60 Buddha statues, the oldest example from the Dvaravati period.

After exploring these ancient temples, the tour takes guests on a unique horse cart ride around Lampang, a city known for its traditional transportation.

There’s also an optional stop at a local food market, providing an authentic cultural experience.

The tour’s well-curated itinerary offers a comprehensive insight into northern Thailand’s temples and traditions.

Lanna-style Buddhist Temples

Lanna-style Buddhist temples, such as Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, showcase the region’s distinct architectural and cultural heritage. These 13th-century structures feature intricate woodcarvings, gilded stupas, and ornate roofs that reflect the Lanna Kingdom’s artistic influence.

The grandeur of these temples transports visitors back in time, allowing them to enjoy the rich tapestry of Northern Thailand’s history.

Wat Prathat Hariphunchai, dating back to the 9th century, is another impressive example, boasting the largest and oldest temple complex in Lamphun.

These Lanna-style temples not only serve as places of worship but also offer a glimpse into the region’s architectural and spiritual traditions.

Dvaravati Period Architecture

Aside from the Lanna-style temples, the tour also showcases the architectural influence of the Dvaravati period, as evident in Wat Chammathewi, which features a stupa with 60 Buddha statues, the oldest example from this era.

The Dvaravati civilization flourished in central and southern Thailand between the 6th and 11th centuries, leaving behind a distinct artistic and architectural legacy. This includes:

1. Distinctive bell-shaped stupas, a hallmark of Dvaravati Buddhist architecture.

2. Intricate stone and stucco carvings, often depicting religious motifs and scenes.

3. The use of laterite and sandstone in construction, in contrast to the teak and brick used in Lanna temples.

4. A blend of Indian and local influences, reflecting the cultural exchanges of the period.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Horse Cart City Experience

The tour includes a unique horse cart ride around Lampang, known as the ‘Horse Cart City’ for its long-standing tradition of horse-drawn transportation. This leisurely ride allows visitors to experience the city’s charming streets and historic landmarks from the comfort of a traditional wooden carriage. The sights, sounds, and pace of the horse-drawn tour transport guests back in time, showcasing Lampang’s rich heritage and vibrant culture.

Feature	Description
Duration	Approximately 45 minutes
Route	Winding through the city center
Experience	Immersive and nostalgic
Sights	Historic buildings, temples, and local life
Cost	500 THB per 2-person cart (optional add-on)

Local Market Exploration

An optional stop on the Lamphun and Lampang Temples Tour allows visitors to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of a local market, providing a glimpse into the daily life and culinary offerings of the region.

At the market, guests can:

1. Browse an array of fresh produce, including tropical fruits and vegetables unique to Northern Thailand.

2. Discover a wide selection of spices, herbs, and condiments used in traditional Thai cooking.

3. Interact with friendly local vendors and learn about the history and significance of the market.

4. Sample a variety of street food specialties, from savory noodle dishes to sweet tropical desserts.

This market visit offers a genuinely immersive cultural experience, complementing the temple visits on the tour.

Personalized Group Experience

A small group size of up to 9 participants ensures a personalized experience throughout the Lamphun and Lampang Temples Tour.

With an English-speaking guide leading the way, travelers can expect detailed explanations of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour’s sustainable practices, such as including a glass bottle of drinking water and carbon offset credits, further contribute to the thoughtful experience.

Visitors will appreciate the intimate feel of exploring the ancient temples and seeing the local culture, rather than being part of a large, impersonal group.

This carefully curated tour allows travelers to create meaningful connections and lasting memories of northern Thailand.

Inclusions and Exclusions

In an article titled ‘From Chiang Mai: Lamphun and Lampang Temples Tour’, it’s now time to discuss the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘Inclusions and Exclusions’.

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entry to Lampang Luang Temple and Hariphun Chai Temple, air-conditioned transport, travel insurance, and a glass bottle of drinking water.

However, it excludes personal expenses, lunch (available for an additional fee), and the optional horse-cart ride (500 THB for a two-person cart).

The tour’s inclusions provide a convenient and comfortable experience, while the exclusions allow travelers to customize their spending based on personal preferences. This transparent approach ensures travelers have a clear understanding of what’s covered and what additional costs may be incurred.

Here’s a summary of the key inclusions and exclusions:

1. Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off

2. Included: Entry to Lampang Luang Temple and Hariphun Chai Temple

3. Included: Air-conditioned transport and travel insurance

4. Excluded: Personal expenses, lunch, and optional horse-cart ride

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Sites?

The tour can likely be customized to include additional sites, though this may incur an extra fee. Travelers should check with the tour operator about the possibility and cost of adding more destinations to the itinerary.

Will There Be Any Restroom Breaks During the 9-Hour Tour?

The tour likely includes restroom breaks during the 9-hour duration. Tour operators typically schedule stops at temples, markets, or restaurants where participants can use restroom facilities. Adequate breaks are provided to ensure a comfortable experience.

Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With Mobility Challenges?

The tour may not be the best choice for travelers with mobility challenges. It includes visits to ancient temples and a horse cart ride, which could be difficult for those with limited mobility. Travelers should consult with the tour operator about accessibility accommodations.

Can We Change the Time or Date of the Tour After Booking?

Customers can generally change the tour time or date after booking, subject to availability. Many tour operators allow free changes or rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance without penalty. Customers should check the tour’s cancellation policy for specifics.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Temples?

The temples require modest, respectful attire. Visitors should wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops are generally not allowed. Following the dress code ensures a comfortable and appropriate experience.

Recap

This captivating temple tour from Chiang Mai lets you explore northern Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.

You’ll discover stunning Lanna-style architecture, explore ancient Dvaravati period temples, and experience the charm of a traditional horse cart ride.

With convenient hotel transfers and a personalized group experience, this 9-hour journey is an immersive way to uncover the beauty and history of Lamphun and Lampang.

You can check if your dates are available here: