Lamphun is a small, historic city 26 kilometres south of Chiang Mai, the former capital of the ancient Haripunchai Kingdom (Mon people) that preceded the Lanna era. Wat Phra That Haripunchai, with its gilded chedi said to enshrine a relic of the Buddha, is one of Thailand's most venerated temples, and the city's relaxed atmosphere and beautiful old moat make it a rewarding half-day trip from Chiang Mai.