Lamphun Province, formerly known as the ancient city of Hariphunchai, has a rich history dating back approximately 1,343 years. According to the Yonok Chronicles, the city was established by the sage Wasuthep, who led the Mon people, also known as the Mengkabat, to construct the city between the Ping and Kuang rivers. Once completed, an envoy was sent to invite Princess Chamadevi, the daughter of the King of Lavo (modern-day Lopburi), to become the first ruler of Hariphunchai, establishing a royal lineage that would govern the city for generations.
Over time, Hariphunchai came under the rule of King Mangrai the Great, who unified various northern territories to form the Lanna Kingdom. Although Lamphun was integrated into Lanna, it remained culturally significant, contributing art and heritage that influenced cities like Wiang Kum Kam, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. Lamphun's cultural legacy persisted as a center of Lanna art and customs.
Following King Taksin's reign, Lamphun was incorporated into the Kingdom of Siam, with successive rulers managing the province until the Rattanakosin era. After the governmental reforms of 1932, the last ruler, Major General Chao Chak Kam Khachonsak, passed away, and Lamphun officially became a Thai province, governed by a provincial governor, a tradition that continues today.