DESTINATION OF THE DAY
Phrae

While travelers flock to Chiang Mai and Pai, Phrae remains northern Thailand’s best-kept secret—a province where teakwood mansions, indigo-dyed textiles, and temple bells tell tales of rebellion, romance, and reinvention. Once just a pitstop for road-trippers, this cultural gem now lures those seeking authentic Lanna heritage, from sacred gilded pagodas to smoky jungle-fired curries.

A Glimpse into the History

Phrae’s history stretches back to the 11th century as part of the Mon-led Haripunchai Kingdom, later absorbed into the Lanna Empire in 1443 during King Tilokaraj’s campaign to capture Nan. Its strategic position made it a hub for teak logging and trade, while the dense forests (once malaria-plagued) sheltered rebels and moonshiners. The province’s rebellious streak flared in 1902 with the Shan Rebellion against Siamese tax policies, a defiance still woven into local folklore.

From Timber to Textiles

The 19th century teak boom left a legacy of ornate gingerbread-style mansions like Khum Chao Luang, blending Thai and European motifs. When logging declined, Phrae reinvented itself as a craft capital—mastering indigo dyeing, blacksmithing, and woodworking. Today, the same forests that once hid illicit distilleries draw hikers to waterfalls and wild honey harvests.

Sacred Symbols

At its spiritual heart stands Wat Phra That Cho Hae, a 13th-century pagoda swathed in gold-cloth by Tiger-year devotees. Nearby, the teak marvel Wat Chom Sawan rises in stacked layers, a testament to Lanna’s architectural ingenuity. These sites aren’t relics but living spaces where morning chants mix with the clang of blacksmiths’ hammers.

Things To Do In Phrae

Climb to this sacred golden pagoda

Wander among eerie rock formations and twisted trees

Step into this 19th-century teak mansio

Watch artisans transform indigo into stunning textiles

Marvel at Lanna’s sacred Buddha footprint shrine

Other Attractions To Visit

• Tham Chakapat (The Emperor’s Cave) is a hidden spiritual gem perched atop a sandstone mountain in Phrae’s countryside. Climb 700 steps through lush forest to reach the cave, where an enormous golden Buddha statue sits serenely in the dimly lit cavern. The journey rewards you with panoramic views of rolling hills and rice fields—a perfect introduction to Phrae’s rural beauty. Few foreign visitors make it here, ensuring a peaceful escape amid flickering candlelight and the scent of incense.

• Wat Phong Sunan is a hidden gem in Phrae, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds despite its remarkable beauty. The temple complex features two striking structures: a traditional Central Thai-style Ordination Hall used for monk ceremonies and a unique white Assembly Hall adorned with golden spires. Scattered around the grounds are exquisite Buddha statues, including a replica of Bangkok’s famed Emerald Buddha. Though lesser-known, its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere make it one of Northern Thailand’s most captivating temples.

• Khum Vongburi Museum charms visitors with its striking pink facade, a nobleman’s former home turned cultural treasure trove. Inside, antique furniture and Thai artifacts reveal 20th-century elite lifestyles, while guided tours unpack Phrae’s artistic legacy. The serene gardens offer a quiet escape, framed by the mansion’s photogenic architecture. Open daily (9 AM–4 PM), it’s a must for history lovers and Instagrammers alike.

• Wat Na Khu Ha Temple lies 27 km east of Phrae City, centered around a striking golden Buddha statue amid rolling rice fields. Its iconic bamboo bridge stretches across the landscape, connecting the temple to a dramatic sandstone mountain behind it. Built a century ago as a spiritual hub for farmers, the site transforms with the seasons—lush stepped paddies in monsoon months, golden sunflowers in dry season. Adventurous visitors can follow the bridge’s end to explore Tham Yai and Tham Noi caves carved into the mountain. Whether framed by crops or blossoms, this temple offers serene beauty year-round.

• Pha Nang Khoi Cave beckons adventurers with its 50-meter rail path leading to a world of surreal limestone formations. Inside, stalactites and stalagmites twist into bizarre shapes, including the poignant centerpiece—a stone figure resembling a woman cradling a child, born from a tragic legend of eternal waiting. A heart-shaped stalactite near the entrance adds to the cave’s romantic lore. Two vibrantly painted Buddha shrines, nestled among million-year-old limestone walls, glow under modern multicolored lights. 

Best Places To Eat & Drink In Phrae

1. Gingerbread House Gallery and Cafe

   

   Gingerbread House Gallery & Cafe blends art, history, and comfort in a beautifully restored teakwood building in central Phrae. What began as a humble café now charms visitors with its modern Lanna-style bedrooms, an art-filled handicraft shop, and a menu spanning Thai noodles to European breakfasts. With strong coffee, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to Phrae’s landmarks, it’s a perfect base for culture-loving travelers.

   📍94/1 Charoenmueang Rd, Mueang Phrae, Phrae

2. Wee Wee

Wee Wee Restaurant serves up delicious Thai-American fusion dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, offering generous portions at great value. Alongside savory meals, they bake homemade cakes and craft refreshing beverages, all prepared with meticulous care by their skilled Thai chefs. The cozy, clean space features soft background music and warm service, making it a welcoming spot for a satisfying meal.

📍230/13 Chor Hae Rd Tambon Mueang Mo, Phrae

3. HOM2493

Hom 2493 blends history with authentic northern Thai flavors in a beautifully preserved traditional house that dates back to 1950. Famous for its crispy pork skin papaya salad and other local dishes, this eatery delivers impeccable taste at wallet-friendly prices while honoring time-tested recipes. The space also showcases handwoven textiles and batik, merging culinary and cultural heritage under one roof.

📍102 Rop Mueang Rd Tambon Nai Wiang, Phrae

4. Je Bar Phrae Coffee & Pastry Cafe

Housed in a converted white wooden home near Pong Sunan Temple, this loft-style café blends modern minimalism with nostalgic charm through its high ceilings and cozy nooks. Known for its expertly sourced espresso and rotating selection of homemade pastries, JeBar is where locals linger over Italian sodas or matcha in the sun-dappled al fresco area. With its Instagram-worthy corners and relaxed vibe, it’s the perfect pitstop to refuel during a day of temple-hopping in Phrae.

📍44 Kham Lue, Tambon Nai Wiang, Phrae

5. Rommaiyai

Rommaiyai blends contemporary elegance with Northern Thai charm, offering a lush garden setting perfect for romantic dinners or family meals. Diners praise its creative Thai fusion dishes, like reimagined northern classics paired with craft cocktails, all at wallet-friendly prices. Live music by the fountain pool and English menus make it a welcoming stop for both locals and travelers.

📍234 Phaya Phon Rd, Nai Wiang, Mueang Phrae District, Phrae

Classifieds

Robin Hood, Pattaya - Enjoy the best food & drink Pattaya has to offer at the fully airconditioned restaurant on the 2nd road - View the Robin Hood HERE

Scruffy Murphys, Bangkok - A traditional Irish pub in the center of Bangkok, yes please, there’s always a warm welcome, great food & a fantastic menu. Take a look at Scruffy Murphys HERE 

Amber Sauna, Koh Samui - There’s something steamy going on just on the outskirts of Chaweng, enjoy a red hot sauna, healthy steam room or take the plubge in their ice plunge. PS did we mention their delicious menu? See what you’re missing out on HERE

DID YOU KNOW?
You can get your Thai eSim card before you arrive…

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices. You can grab your esim on the go before you arrive to Thailand to save expensive mistakes upon your arrival.