Lampang

Lampang is the third largest town in Northern Thailand and situated in the valley of the Wang River. Often included as an overnight stop, on overland tours of Thailand running south to north, this charming town has a number of interesting temples and ruins either in the town or just outside. One example is Wat Phra That Lampang Luang which is situated at the site of ancient Lampang and is famous for its murals dating from the 19th century and for the city seal, in the temple's gate, which features a white rooster. Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao, on the West Bank of the Wang River, is said to have housed the Emerald Buddha, similar to the one at Wat Phra Keo in Bangkok, between 1436 and 1468. Other temples include Wat Phra That Chedi Sao (The Temple of Twenty Chedis) which is famous for its array of twenty pagodas and Wat Prathat Jom Ping and Wat Lai Hin both in the Koh Ka district.

Lampang is also famous for the Thai Elephant Conservation Centre (TECC) which was founded in 1993, under Royal Patronage, and now cares for more than 50 elephants. The TECC is well known for its pioneering work in conservation and science and makes for an interesting visit for anyone wanting to learn about elephants.