3 Must-See Spots in Lampang

A former colonial outpost, Lampang is a charming, unpretentious city in Northern Thailand.

If you want to see what daily life is really like for the Thai people, you’ve come to the right place. Take a stroll through the local park and you'll spot typical activities like a game of foot-tennis or aerobics classes led by an instructor on a stage. Wander through the market to get a true sense of the local diet in all its variety. You can also take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Wang River to observe a simple, authentic side of Thailand, far removed from the usual tourist traps.

Lampang photo gallery: http://www.avygeo.com/fr/albums-photos/album-895

Beyond the genuine connection with the locals, which I truly appreciated, there were a few spots that really left an impression on me. Here is my personal guide.

3 places to visit in Lampang:

The spice shop

On Talad Gao Rd, you will discover the oldest houses in the city. They aren't always easy to spot, but you'll recognize them by their intricate facades, some featuring beautiful, authentic teak wood.

It’s in one of these houses that you'll find a spice shop. The aroma alone should draw you in. The shop is small, but you’ll find plenty of unique little gifts to bring back for your friends.

From this street, you can also hop on one of the many horse-drawn carriage tours offered around the city.

Wat Phra That Lampang Luang

This temple sits on a small rise, and you have to climb a beautiful set of stairs to reach it.

It consists of several sections, notably two prayer halls, one at the top of the stairs and the second to the right of the temple. A small building housing a reclining Buddha, with magnificent decorations on the soles of its feet, is also part of the complex. Finally, further toward the back, you’ll find the traditional small dwellings of the monks.

Wat Bun Koet

Located slightly above the city, you’ll need to get a little exercise to climb the small slope that leads up to it.

An ancient stone gate marks the entrance. The monument behind the temple offers a splendid view of the surrounding mountains.

A very old wooden temple is currently undergoing renovations (as of July 2016). It’s already magnificent as it stands, and there is no doubt that once the repairs are finished, it will become a must-see in Lampang.