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LAMPHUN
The provincial capital is some 30 kilometers south of Chiang Mai
and 670 kilometers north of Bangkok. The province is renowned
for its lamyai orchards and sumptuous silks. The present day
provincial capital of Lamphun, some 670 kilometers north of
Bangkok, was formerly the center of the Hariphunchai kingdom,
which is believed to have founded during the late 600s or early
700s. The first and most famous of Hariphunchai rulers was a
queen named Chamma Thewi whose legendary amorous and diplomatic
exploits are the subject of numerous Lanna Thai folk tales. Two
major temples within the provincial capital are striking
examples of religious architecture. Wat Phra That Hariphunchai,
which dates from the early 1100s, is one of the most striking
religious complexes in northern Thailand. A golden pagoda some
46-meter in height, and with a 20- meter-square base dominates
the enclave. The enclave is considered to be a fine example of
classical Lanna Thai architecture. The second structure, Ku Kut
Pagoda, or Wat Chamma Thewi, was built Khmer artisans. The
pagoda structure is of the square Bodha Gaya-type commonly seen
throughout northern India, and dating from the time of the
Buddha. More than 60 Buddha images are contained within
ascending niches. Relics of the legendary Queen Chamma Thewi are
housed inside the pagoda. The hilltop Tak Pha Buddha Footprints
some 16 kilometers from the provincial capital attract pilgrims
throughout the year, and are the focus of an annual
sixth-lunar-month fair. Lamphun hosts an annual Lamyai Festival
each August. The provincial capital is easily accessible by road
from Chiang Mai.
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