Lampoon Tour

Situated 26 kms. south of Chiangmai is the ancient city of Lampoon, known in historic times as the Kingdom of Hariphunchai. An ancient Mon kingdom, it was founded in 660 and is the oldest existing city in the kingdom. As you enter the city, the remnants of the old fortified city walls and the surrounding moat, constructed in the 16th century, are still evident. See the ancient temple Wat Prathat Hariphunchai with its golden stupa. The temple grounds contain two impressive chedis, the taller of which, Ahtit Dayalat, stands a majestic 51 meters high. Take time to explore the teak-wood library which houses many ancient Pali scripts.

There is an old Lanna style pagoda and a huge call-to-prayer gong. Visit Wat Jammathevee, named after Queen Jammathevee, the first ruler of Lampoon. The style of the pagoda is unique with niches containing Buddha images. It's quite different when compared to other temples that you normally come across. Proceed on to Pasang village to feel and sense the atmosphere of a small northern community. Pasang is well known for its cotton weaving industry and its lovely, demure ladies. Return back to Chiangmai.