Nakhon Lampang Railway Station is very interesting for two important aspects. On the one hand, it serves as an important place enabling rail transport, on the other hand, it has a unique architecture. This makes it an amazing tourist attraction, which this article will introduce.
History of Nakhon Lampang Railway Station
Beginnings and first years
The railway station in Lampang was built in 1915 and officially opened on April 1, 1916, during the reign of King Rama VI. The first route was from Mae Chang to Nakhon Lampang, 42 km long. Thus, Lampang became an important and modern transport hub. Especially since the city was the final point of the northern route in the years 1916-1921.
In 1922, an express connection to Bangkok was launched, which additionally influenced the important position of Lampang in the northern region and contributed to the development of the local economy.
Nakhon Lampang Railway Station during World War II
During this armed conflict, the station was an important strategic point. Since the Japanese army had established its base in Lampang, the station was one of the main targets for Allied attacks in the region. Japanese military equipment was transported by rail, which the Allied armies wanted to thwart. Despite this, the station did not suffer any major damage, and after those events, bullet holes remained on the roof beam of the railway platform.
Japanese locomotive in front of the station
An interesting object from World War II is the C56 class locomotive number 728 standing in front of the station. It was brought here by the Japanese army, which modified it and used it as a weapon on this route. After the end of the war, the Japanese left the locomotive, and it later served as a replacement vehicle. Today, it is an important exhibit reminding us of those years.
Architecture
The appearance of the train station is unique due to the combination of Lanna and European styles. It was designed by German engineer Ernst Altmann. Therefore, the two-story building has visible characteristic features of a Bavarian Cottage.
On the first floor there are ticket offices, and this part of the building is made of brick and plaster. A four-span arch beam system was also used here. The second floor is wooden and serves as office space. The upper part is covered with a gable and hipped roof.
Interestingly, Nakhon Lampang is one of two stations built in this style. The other is Ban Pin in Phrae Province, which has an even more European-influenced appearance.
The station boasts many well-preserved decorative elements. In 1993, the Association of Siamese Architects awarded it the Architectural Conservation Award.
Nakhon Lampang Railway Station – train connections
From Lampang, you can reach many other cities in Thailand by train. There are connections to, among others, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Bangkok, Phitsanulok, Uttaradit, and Lopburi.
Also, if you want to know more about how to get to Lampang from different cities in Thailand, you can find more information here. Various means of transportation were taken into account.
Buying a ticket
The ticket offices at the train station are usually open every day from 1:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tickets for 3rd class are purchased on the day of departure. Tickets for 1st and 2nd class often require online reservations in advance.
Getting from the station to the city
There are usually songthaews or carriages at the train station. They can take you to your hotel or tourist spots.
Location and attractions near the train station
Nakhon Lampang Railway Station is located in the Sop Tui Sub-District of Mueang Lampang District.
There are several tourist attractions near the station. Over 1 km to the northwest is the Black Bridge Railway Park and about 1.5 km to the north-east is Wat Si Rongmuang, a beautiful Burmese-style temple. Further on is the famous Kad Kong Ta Night Market – the distance is about 3.5 km.
At the train station in the evenings there is a market where you can taste many dishes of local cuisine and more.
Nakhon Lampang Railway Station – summary
The visual value and accessibility to other locations make the station an interesting object. If you decide to travel by train, you will certainly not be disappointed. Regardless of whether you go from here to Chiang Mai or to Bangkok, there will be many wonderful views along the way. And finally, the most important thing. It is worth taking the train to Lampang and staying here for a longer time. Amazing tourist attractions of the city and province are waiting to be discovered.
