Khelang Nakhon: Lampang City, Power, Culture, and Nature of the Thai People.

Immersed in the Charm of Lampang: A Journey to EA's Solar Farm

This journey to Lampang, often referred to as a "secondary city," proved to be an eye-opening experience, revealing a wealth of attractions and hidden gems. The trip, organized by Energy Absolute Public Company Limited (EA), a leader in alternative energy solutions, took media representatives and bloggers on a tour of EA's solar farm in Lampang province.

The solar farm boasts the largest sun-tracking system in ASEAN, featuring over 420,000 solar panels spread across a vast 2,354-rai expanse. This impressive sight, nestled amidst breathtaking natural beauty, offers a truly awe-inspiring panorama. The sheer scale and technological sophistication of the project leave a lasting impression, highlighting EA's commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

Mr. Amorn Trakulwattana, Vice Chairman of Energy Absolute Public Company Limited (EA), and his team welcomed and provided valuable information. They then took the media and bloggers on a tour of Lampang province to open the door to their hometown through the media, reaching out to fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters in Thailand to turn their attention to Lampang province and encourage them to visit more often. During this trip, they experienced the tourist attractions and local culture, which they found very impressive.

Wat Phra That Lampang Luang

The Wat Phra That Lampang Luang temple has been a landmark of Lampang since ancient times. According to legend, it was built during the reign of Queen Chamadevi in the late 20th Buddhist century. It is one of the most complete wooden temples in Thailand and boasts beautiful ancient architecture.

The Phra That Lampang Luang is the designated stupa for people born in the year of the Ox, as its construction began and ended in that year. The base is decorated with lotus bud motifs, while the main body is a Lanna-style sphere. The exterior is covered with gold leaf, and the golden spire features intricate carvings of various traditional patterns. This style of stupa influenced the design of the Phra That Hariphunchai and Phra Borommathat Chaiya temples.

The interior of the stupa houses relics, including hair and bone fragments from the right forehead, front, and back of the Buddha's neck.

Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) Mae Moh Lampang Mae Moh Mine

The Mae Moh Lignite Mine: A Vital Energy Source in Thailand

The Mae Moh Lignite Mine, located in the Mae Moh district of Lampang province, is the largest lignite mine in Thailand. Operated by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), the mine plays a crucial role in supplying fuel for the nearby Mae Moh Power Plant.

Beyond its primary function, the Mae Moh Lignite Mine also offers educational and recreational opportunities for visitors. The site features exhibits showcasing the history of the mine and the technology behind electricity generation. Additionally, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

Key highlights of the mine include:

1. Lignite Study Center Museum (Mae Moh Mine) in Honor of King Prajadhipok. This museum provides geological knowledge about the Mae Moh mine, including its history and electricity generation technology. It features a 4D movie presentation.

2. Mae Moh Botanical Garden

The Mae Moh Botanical Garden is a public park created from a former mining waste disposal site. It features beautiful plants and trees, as well as a statue of King Rama VII, who decreed that the Mae Moh coal reserves should be preserved.

One of the highlights of the garden is the large slide. This grassy slope descends from the viewing point building, offering visitors a fun and unique experience. Visitors can bring their own cardboard or mats to slide down, or borrow a mat from the Lignite Museum.

3. The 84th Anniversary Garden (Tung Bua Tong Viewpoint) is an artificial mountain created by piling up soil from the mine pit. On the top of the mountain, there is the 84th Anniversary Garden, covering an area of 84 rai, offering stunning views. The viewpoint also provides a panoramic view of the lush landscape and the Tung Bua Tong field, which blooms from November to mid-December each year.

Cultural Street: The Indigenous Street of Lamphang People

Cultural Heritage Road in the Old Town of Lampang Province: A Street of Culture

The "Cultural Heritage Road" is located on "Wang Nuea Road," which was originally the city wall. Therefore, people have lived on both sides of the road since ancient times. It is another beautiful and ancient road. Every Friday evening, the "Kad Muang Kua Lang" is held, a market where local people sell local products, including local food, organic vegetables and fruits, Lampang's best products, and northern Thai art and cultural performances.

Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan, Chiang Mai

The Majestic Wat Chalermprakiet Phra Chomklao Rachanusorn, Lampang

Nestled amidst the towering mountains of Jae Hom district, Lampang province, lies the magnificent Wat Chalermprakiet Phra Chomklao Rachanusorn, also known as Wat Phra Phutthabat Pu Pha Daeng. This breathtaking temple boasts a stunning white stupa perched atop a soaring peak, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

From this vantage point, visitors can marvel at the picturesque town of Jae Hom below, with its winding river snaking through verdant rice fields. The panoramic vista extends 360 degrees, encompassing the majestic mountain ranges that cradle the temple.

Adding to the spiritual significance of the site, the mountaintop also houses a revered footprint of the Buddha, a testament to the long-standing devotion of the Jae Hom community. This sacred relic draws pilgrims from near and far, seeking blessings and spiritual solace.

The temple's architectural splendor and breathtaking natural surroundings combine to create a truly awe-inspiring experience, making Wat Chalermprakiet Phra Chomklao Rachanusorn a must-visit destination for anyone seeking cultural immersion and spiritual tranquility.

Jae Sawn Hot Springs

The Jae Sawn Hot Springs, located within the Jae Sawn National Park in Lampang Province, Thailand, is a geothermal wonder characterized by nine hot springs emitting a faint sulfurous odor. Scattered throughout the area are numerous small rock formations, and steam gently rises from the springs, enveloping the surroundings. The average temperature of the springs is 73 degrees Celsius, making them ideal for boiling eggs. Chicken and quail eggs are commonly immersed in the hot springs, with chicken eggs requiring approximately 17 minutes to achieve a firm, flavorful yolk and a soft, turtle-egg-like white.

Thonburi Ceramic Museum

Thanabodee Ceramic Museum: A Legacy of the Iconic Rooster Bowl

The Thanabodee Ceramic Factory, renowned for its legendary Rooster Bowl, has transformed into the Thanabodee Ceramic Museum. This museum in Lampang province showcases the factory's rich history and production process, offering visitors a glimpse into the creation of the iconic Rooster Bowl.

Tracing the Legacy:

The museum delves into the factory's establishment and journey, highlighting its significance as a major exporter of ceramics throughout Thailand. Visitors can witness the meticulous steps involved in crafting the Rooster Bowl, from the initial shaping of the clay to the intricate hand-painting using traditional techniques unique to Thailand.

A World of Wonder:

Among the museum's treasures is the world's smallest Rooster Bowl, a miniature marvel the size of a rice grain. Visitors can also participate in interactive workshops, where they can unleash their creativity by hand-painting their own ceramic cups, taking home a personalized souvenir.

Beyond the Museum:

For a unique cultural experience, visitors can embark on a horse-drawn carriage ride through the charming town, soaking in the local atmosphere and historical landmarks.

A Cultural Gem:

The Thanabodee Ceramic Museum stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Rooster Bowl and the artistry behind its creation. It offers a captivating journey through history, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

Taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city is an activity that tourists should not miss, as it is a unique feature of the city. In Lampang province, there are many horse-drawn carriages available for hire. You can hail a carriage at the carriage stand or book in advance through various channels. The fare ranges from 200 to 400 baht and takes about 40 minutes to 1 hour. The carriage driver will take you to the old cultural areas of the province, allowing tourists to visit and take記念照片. It is recommended to take a ride in the late afternoon, as the weather is cool and pleasant. You will be able to see the way of life of the people of Lampang, who do business along the way.

"Cafe Bruno" @ Catholic Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace

Nestled within the grounds of the Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Lampang, Thailand, lies a charming café called Café Bueno. This unique establishment offers visitors a chance to savor delicious coffee while contributing to a worthy cause. Café Bueno provides vocational training and employment opportunities for over 70 underprivileged children from the surrounding hill tribes. These children, under the guidance of dedicated priests, learn the art of coffee making, allowing them to develop valuable skills and earn a sustainable income.

In addition to indulging in expertly brewed coffee, patrons can also interact with the café's resident flock of sheep. Visitors can purchase bananas to feed these gentle creatures, creating a memorable and heartwarming experience. The revenue generated from both the café and the sheep interactions directly supports the children's welfare and education. Inspired by the "Sufficiency Economy" philosophy of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the priests prioritize empowering the children through knowledge and skills rather than solely relying on donations.

Café Bueno offers a unique opportunity to combine a delightful café experience with meaningful social impact. By visiting this charming establishment, you can savor delicious coffee, interact with adorable sheep, and contribute to the empowerment and well-being of underprivileged children. So, if you find yourself in Lampang, be sure to stop by Café Bueno and experience the joy of giving back while enjoying a delightful cup of coffee.

Thank you to Bangchak Corporation Public Company Limited (EA), a leader in the alternative energy business, for taking us to see the innovation in natural energy production that is both beneficial and environmentally friendly. We also had the opportunity to explore the city of Khelang Nakhon and experience its diverse culture, which left us with a lasting impression.