Exploring Lampang: A Refreshing Detour in Northern Thailand
Throughout Thailand, one will find the usual route most backpackers take: from the islands, to Bangkok, and eventually heading to northern cities such as Chiang Mai. However, there's so much to see and do in between. While I didn't have the chance to stop and see all the sleepy villages, I did discover one spot that became a favorite destination in Thailand for me.
The city of Lampang is renowned for its unique temples and beautiful handmade ceramics. The town is nestled in the north, about two hours from Chiang Mai. Most visitors often go on a day trip. I, on the other hand, would recommend spending at least three days here—more if you want a place to relax and enjoy the slower culture of Thailand. Which is sometimes harder to find in the more touristy areas.
Getting to Lampang
Arriving in Lampang is fairly simple. One can either take a bus or train. As I was coming from Bangkok, I opted for the sleeper train, which took around nine hours. If you take the train, I'd also recommend waking up at sunrise; seeing the countryside slowly come to life with mist rolling over the jungly hills is truly magical.
When you arrive by train, you'll find yourself on the edge of the town. Most accommodations are within walking distance, but if needed, you can easily hail a taxi. If you choose the bus, it will drop you in the center of town. Getting a taxi from there is simpler; you'll see many yellow trucks, each running routes around the town. They'll drop you at your destination for about 20 Thai Baht.
Where to Stay
Being a budget backpacker, I don't often stay in hotels, so I can primarily recommend hostels. The hostel where I stayed in Lampang was arguably the best in all of Thailand.
It's called Mammoth Hostel and is located around 15 minutes' walk from the train station or 30 minutes from the bus station. There's a cafe at the front, with the hostel situated in the back. It seems to be newly renovated, as the rooms are modern and impeccably clean.
They also offer a delightful breakfast, have laundry machines available, motorbike rental options, and much more. There's even a rooftop terrace equipped with yoga mats—an added bonus for a yogi like me.
The cafe serves coffee, tea, shakes, and pastries. The relaxed atmosphere made it the ideal spot to get some work done. Overall, staying here was refreshing and convenient, and I can't recommend it enough!
What to Do and See
Temples
There are several temples around the city, all of which have a unique look to them. I would recommend Wat Kaew Don Tao Suchadaram. This temple is filled with so much detail; you will find an Instagram-worthy spot by the stupa, as there are two dragons lining the path, making for a cool shot.
There are many other temples throughout the town, which is pretty standard for any area in SE Asia. I would recommend renting a bicycle and taking the time to pedal to each destination, as it gives you a chance to enjoy the surrounding area. While on a temple tour, you will inevitably bike past the river, giving you the chance to take in the view.
Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum
Ceramic factories are spread in and around the city. This is one of the main economic products that Lampang produces. I would recommend taking a visit to the Dhanabadee Museum. Here, you can learn about the history of ceramics, the techniques, and even take a class yourself.
Wat Chaloem Phrakiat: Temple of the Floating Pagodas
I've listed the Temple of the Floating Pagodas separately, as it takes at least half the day to make the trek to see them. Let me tell you, it is 100% worth it. To get there, I would recommend renting a motorbike; the drive takes just over an hour. The journey itself is smooth with the entire route on paved roads. With gorgeous scenery all around, it's a relaxing drive.
The entry fee is 450 Thai Baht, which includes a taxi up and down the mountain. A fair warning to those who get carsick easily: while the trip is quick, the road is bumpy and incredibly steep; let's just say I uttered a short prayer as we made our way up!
Once on top, the hike begins. Almost the entire hike consists of steps. It took me around twenty minutes, but that was without stopping for a break. Overall, it was a relaxed and easy hike with beautiful views.
At the summit, there are several areas to ascend to get a better view of the floating pagodas. Seeing these majestic structures on the mountaintops was breathtaking and made the trip entirely worthwhile.
Doi Khun Tan National Park
After visiting the floating pagodas, you might want to check out Doi Khun Tan National Park. It's a bit out of the way but is the perfect spot to make a day trip out of visiting the floating pagodas.
In the park, you will find beautiful scenery, viewpoints, and hiking trails. This is also home to Thailand's longest train tunnel.
Kad Kong Ta Night Market
No city or town in Thailand would be complete without its infamous night markets. This night market is the perfect place to end the day with numerous shopping options and an abundance of street food. Unfortunately, the market is only open on Saturdays and Sundays.
If you are in Lampang during the week, I would suggest checking out some of the town's restaurants. While there is a plethora of noodle shops, I personally opted for a hot pot experience. Hong Kong Fusion is an excellent choice; the broth was incredible, and the selection of meats and vegetables was exceptionally fresh.
How Long to Stay
I spent a total of three full days in Lampang. Because the town isn't frequented as much by tourists, there aren't as many options for attractions and activities. That being said, there is still a fair share of things to do, and I'm sure I missed some during my stay.
In conclusion, I would suggest at least three days if you're pressed for time. However, given another opportunity, I would have stayed for 5-7 days to relish the tranquility of the town a bit longer.
A Warning to the Wanderer
As the town is off the beaten path, I have been asked about safety, especially for solo female travelers. During my time there, I always took the usual precautions and never felt threatened. However, there was a moment of fear during my walk back to Mammoth Hostel late one evening.
I was only five minutes away from the hostel when, as I rounded a corner, I found myself confronted by a pack of wild street dogs. Quite literally a gang of them, growling with the hair on their backs standing on end. My heart raced, and I quickly realized I had no weapon and no one nearby to help.
Suddenly, they lunged forward, but to my astonishment, they ran past me, targeting another pack of dogs on the opposite side of the road. I felt as if time had stood still, and in that brief moment, my life flashed before my eyes. Once they had moved on, I hurriedly made my way back to the hostel, constantly fearful of encountering more of them.
A word to the wise: if you plan on visiting, please be cautious of the dogs, especially at night. They aren't always as docile as they might appear. Other then my experience with the street gang dogs, Lampang was definitely worth the visit.
~A Fellow Wanderer