Lampang accommodation from AU$22

The first thing you need to do is take a tour of the city on the back of a horse drawn cart. Enjoy a fun ride complete with a driver in a traditional costume, and you'll find there is no better way to get your bearings in Lampang. Keep an eye open for the giant statue of a rooster in the centre of town - it's a tribute to the city’s old name, where it's believed a white rooster woke the locals in time to meet Buddha as he passed through the town.

In the same trip, ride past the Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, a local temple that the Buddha is believed to have donated a hair to. Revered by the Thais it is a 13th century temple and remains the best preserved example of Lanna architecture. What makes it truly remarkable is that it has never been restored, and only preserved in its original state. It provided a hiding place for Thais from the Burmese, and the bloody history of the area is evident in the bullet holes quite visible in the temple walls.

Visit the King's white elephants in the only government sponsored elephant centre in Thailand, which is also the only training centre in the world where elephants learn how to work with timber as labourers. The most impressive display is the training demonstration, where you can watch and learn how smart these beautiful animals really are.

The best shopping is in Kad Khong Night Market. It offers fantastic antiques, souvenirs, local food, clothes and crafts, and is a great spot to enjoy traditional music and entertainment along the riverbank. Just nearby you can see many local artisan products being produced, like handmade cotton fabric and some of Thailand's finest terracotta and ceramics.

Lampang is a city with a strong history, and offers visitors a wonderful cultural experience alongside an immersion into life in rural Thailand. A must-see destination for anyone looking to understand the country's history, or simply for a great escape that's only 105 km south of Chiang Mai and off the typical tourist track. All you need is a flight to Thailand, and to choose a great place to stay from our range of Lampang accommodation. So wot are you waiting for?