• Lamphun - Lamphun is among the oldest cities in Northern Thailand and was once the capital of the ancient Mon Kingdom of Haripunchai, dating back to the 8th century. The city boasts a rich cultural and religious heritage and is recognized as a significant center of early Buddhist history in the region.

Today, Lamphun is celebrated for its serene atmosphere, historic temples, and genuine local character. Unlike the nearby city of Chiang Mai, Lamphun attracts fewer international tourists, offering a more traditional and relaxed ambiance.

At 8:30 AM, guests will be picked up from their hotel in Chiang Mai and transferred to the railway station. Here, they will board a train for a brief journey from Chiang Mai to Lamphun (3rd class; non-air-conditioned). Although the train ride lasts only about 30 minutes, it provides an enjoyable glimpse into everyday Thai life. Upon arrival in Lamphun, a minivan and driver will be ready to continue the tour.

• Wat Phra That Hariphunchai - The first stop is Wat Phra That Haripunchai, the most significant religious sanctuary in Lamphun. Originally constructed in the 11th century during the Mon Kingdom of Haripunchai, long before Chiang Mai was established, the temple is one of the oldest and most revered in Northern Thailand. Its impressive golden chedi, believed to house sacred Buddha relics, has become the symbol of Lamphun and continues to draw many local pilgrims daily. The temple beautifully combines Mon, Lanna, and Burmese architectural influences and exudes a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere. Within the temple grounds, visitors will also find beautifully decorated prayer halls, ancient Buddha images, and traditional lanterns hanging above the courtyards, enhancing the temple’s unique charm and timeless character.
• Nong Dok Food Market - A short walk will take visitors through the local Nong Dok Food Market. This authentic market is primarily frequented by locals doing their daily shopping and offers a wonderful glimpse into everyday life in Lamphun. Surrounded by colorful vegetables, fragrant herbs, freshly prepared snacks, and northern Thai specialties, visitors will experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional local market. Along the way, they may also spot seasonal fruits, handmade sweets, and small food stalls preparing typical northern Thai dishes right before their eyes.
• Wat San Pa Yang Luang - The tour then proceeds to Wat San Pa Yang Luang, a lesser-known yet remarkably impressive temple celebrated for its exquisite wood carvings and elegant Lanna architecture. This peaceful temple dates back several centuries and reflects the rich artistic and spiritual heritage of the ancient Lanna Kingdom that once ruled much of Northern Thailand.

Unlike many of the more heavily visited temples in the region, Wat San Pa Yang Luang remains quiet and largely undiscovered by mass tourism, allowing visitors to experience a more authentic and tranquil atmosphere. The temple is especially renowned for its beautifully crafted teakwood structures, intricate hand-carved details, and traditional Northern Thai design elements, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship for which Lanna architecture is famous.

• The Terracotta Garden at Lamphun สวนไม้ไทยบ้านพ่อเลี้ยงหมื่น - Next, visitors will explore Ban Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Garden, a charming and atmospheric garden complex filled with terracotta artworks, sculptures, and pottery, beautifully set among lush tropical greenery, lotus ponds, and shaded walkways. Originally created by a local artist and art collector, the garden combines traditional Northern Thai aesthetics with creative landscape design, resulting in one of the most unique hidden gems near Chiang Mai.
  As visitors wander through the grounds, they will discover large terracotta statues, handcrafted pottery, ancient-style sculptures, water features, and traditional Lanna-inspired buildings carefully integrated into the natural surroundings. Old trees draped in greenery, quiet ponds, and small garden paths create a peaceful and almost fairy-tale-like atmosphere, making this a wonderful place to relax and take photographs.

• Drinking water
• All entrance fees
• English speaking guide
• Lunch
• Train ticket from Chiang Mai to Lamphun - 3rd class seat (no airconditioning)
• Snacks
• Transportation by minivan

• Personal expenses
• Gratuities for driver and guide (optional)

This exclusive (private) tour offers a brief local train ride from Chiang Mai to Lamphun, paired with an exploration of one of Northern Thailand’s oldest and most underappreciated historic towns. While most tourists only explore Chiang Mai, Lamphun remains largely untouched by mass tourism, despite its proximity.

Travel on a traditional 3rd class train as the locals do, discover ancient temples from the Haripunchai Kingdom, wander through a genuine local market, and soak in the serene atmosphere of a town steeped in history and culture. The tour also includes visits to hidden architectural treasures and a leisurely lunch at the picturesque Terracotta Garden.

• Remember that temples are sacred places and visitors are required to dress appropriately. Shoulders and knees need to be covered.
• Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the tour start time are eligible for a full refund. For cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance or in case of no-show, no refund will be issued.
• Our tours operate rain or shine, as tropical rain showers in Thailand usually don’t last long. If it rains heavily, we try to seek shelter and will continue as soon as the weather improves. During the rainy season, it’s a good idea to bring a raincoat or poncho. Please note cancellations due to weather are not eligible for a refund.
• While changes to the itinerary are very rare, WanderSiam reserves the right to modify the published schedule whenever, in our judgment, circumstances require it or if we consider it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of our guests.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.