Tha Chomphu White Bridge An Architectural Legacy on the Northern Railway amidst the lush valleys and verdant nature of Mae Tha District, Lamphun Province, stands a pristine white architectural marvel that has strikingly defied the passage of time for over a century: the Tha Chomphu White Bridge. This unique reinforced concrete arch railway bridge is far more than just a vital link on the northern rail line; it is a historical monument that elegantly narrates the story of the determination and ingenuity of Thai engineers from the past.

Dating back to 1919, during the expansion of rail transportation into Northern Thailand, this bridge was brought to life under the supervision of HRH Prince Purachatra Jayakara, Prince of Kamphaeng Phet. The brilliance of the Tha Chomphu White Bridge lies in the strategic choice of reinforced concrete over standard steel structures—a decision necessitated by the material shortages of World War I. This crisis, however, gave rise to a double-arch masterpiece that is as graceful as it is durable. Remarkably, the bridge survived the aerial bombings of World War II, standing today as a symbol of resilience hidden beneath its soft, elegant white facade.

Upon entering the area of Ban Tha Chomphu in Tha Pla Duk Subdistrict, visitors are immediately captivated by the perfect contrast between the pure white concrete structure and the backdrop of rolling hills and vast open skies. Below, the Mae Tha River flows gently, offering a sense of serenity and freshness. The quintessential experience here is waiting for the moment a train slowly traverses the bridge. The rhythmic sound of steel wheels echoing through the valley, paired with the sight of a colorful train gliding across the white arches, creates a magical charm that draws photographers and travelers from all walks of life.

There is no admission fee to visit this site, and it is easily accessible by private car from Mueang Lamphun in just a few dozen minutes. However, visitors must always remain mindful of safety, as the bridge is still part of an active railway line. Admiring its beauty and taking photographs should only be done from the grassy fields or designated viewpoints below, ensuring that this historical heritage remains a source of joy and pride for the people of Lamphun for generations to come.

• Private Car: From Lamphun city, take Highway 11 (Lampang-Chiang Mai) towards Mae Tha District. Turn onto the Tha Chak-Mae Tha road and follow the signs for Ban Tha Chomphu until you reach the bridge near the railway station.

• Train: This is the most convenient and direct method. Take a northern-bound local train and get off at Tha Chomphu Railway Station, then walk approximately 1 kilometer to reach the bridge.

• Travel Tips: The best time to visit is in the morning between 07:00 and 09:00 to avoid the heat and enjoy soft lighting for photography. A popular angle is shooting from the grassy field below to capture the bridge's full curvature. It is recommended to check the train schedule in advance to catch the train passing over the bridge.

• Regulations and Safety: It is strictly forbidden to walk or stand on the railway tracks, as this is an active line and for the maximum safety of all tourists. Please also help maintain the cleanliness of the surrounding area.

 Admission Fee:

• Free entry for both Thai and foreign visitors.

Opening Hours:

• Open daily, 24 hours a day. However, it is recommended to visit during daylight hours (06:00 – 18:00) for better photography and safe travel.