About Phrae
Phrae is the capital of the province of the same name in northern Thailand, in a river valley between Lampang and Nan. The town is known for its old teak houses and temples, and you can get a map of historic buildings to explore the neighbourhoods on foot. Wat Chom Sawan is a Burmese-style temple with marble Buddha images and lacquerwork. Just outside town lies Phae Mueang Phi Forest Park, where erosion has shaped tall pillars and towers of earth and sand. Wiang Kosai National Park, midway to Lampang, also has a waterfall with seven tiers. Phrae is also known for its blue cotton clothing, mo hom. The town suits anyone seeking a quiet town with culture and nature. Phrae lies about 550 km north of Bangkok and can be reached by train or bus. It is quiet, and most of the sights are close together in the old town.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: cool and dry, with chilly mornings in the hills. From February to April smoke and haze from agricultural burning can limit visibility; June to October is the rainy season, green and quiet. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Bangkok by train to Den Chai and then by bus, or directly by bus (about 7 to 8 hours); from Chiang Mai about 4 hours. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Phrae
- Historic teak houses Find the historic buildings map and stroll through the old neighbourhoods.
- Wat Chom Sawan A Burmese-style temple with marble Buddha images.
- Phae Mueang Phi A forest park with pillars and towers of earth shaped by erosion.
- Wiang Kosai National Park A little-known park with a seven-tier waterfall.
