Things To Do
in Phrae
Phrae is a charming city located in northern Thailand, known for its rich history, traditional architecture, and serene countryside. The city offers a blend of cultural experiences, including ancient temples and local markets, set against a backdrop of lush mountains. Visitors can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere while exploring the beautiful teak wood houses and the surrounding natural beauty.
Phrae is also famous for its friendly locals and the authentic taste of northern Thai cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Wat Phra That Cho Hae, an iconic temple that features a stunning golden chedi. Afterward, explore the Phrae Museum to learn about the city's history and culture.
Head to the Old City for lunch at a local eatery, followed by a stroll through the charming streets to admire traditional wooden houses. Visit Wat Sa Si, a serene temple located by a peaceful pond.
Enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant, then take a leisurely walk around the night market to experience the local vibe and shop for souvenirs.
Begin your day with a trip to the nearby Kwan Phayao Lake for a peaceful morning walk. Enjoy breakfast at a lakeside café while taking in the scenery.
Visit the local silk weaving village of Bo Kluea to see traditional weaving techniques and purchase unique handmade items. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local food stall.
Return to Phrae city for a relaxing evening, dine at a restaurant known for northern Thai cuisine, and wrap up your visit with a traditional cultural performance if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Street Food Meal | $1.50 |
| 🍺Local Beer | $2.00 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel Night | $15.00 |
| 🚕Taxi Ride | $2.50 |
| ☕Coffee | $2.00 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Delicious and varied local cuisine
- Friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere
- Limited nightlife options
- Public transportation can be sparse
- Hot and humid weather during the summer months
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khob khun" - Thank you
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
- "Chan pen vegetarian" - I am vegetarian
- "Chai" - Yes
Places to Visit in Phrae
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic temple with stunning golden chedi, perfect for capturing the essence of Thai spirituality.
The wooden houses and traditional architecture provide a picturesque backdrop for street photography.
A serene lake surrounded by mountains, ideal for landscape photography during sunset.
Food in Phrae
Phrae Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy coconut curry noodle soup, typically served with chicken or beef and topped with crispy noodles.
Must-Try!
A flavorful minced pork and tomato dip served with fresh vegetables, perfect for sharing.
A spicy northern Thai sausage made with minced pork and herbs, often grilled to perfection.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a variety of street food, snacks, and local handicrafts.
A vibrant street market featuring food stalls, live music, and local artisans showcasing their crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples and avoid physical contact with monks.
The traditional Thai greeting involves placing your palms together and bowing slightly; it's polite to return the gesture.
Always remove shoes before entering homes and temples.
Safety
Tipping in Phrae
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.
Cash is widely used, though credit cards are accepted in larger establishments; ATMs are available in the city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and clear skies make this the best time to visit for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect high temperatures; it's advisable to stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
Frequent rain showers occur; however, the countryside is lush, making it a beautiful time for photography.
Songkran, the Thai New Year, is celebrated with water festivals, providing a unique cultural experience.
Phrae at Night
Hiking in Phrae
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail that leads to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Features various trails with opportunities to see waterfalls, diverse flora, and fauna in a tranquil setting.
Airports
How to reach Phrae by plane.
Located just outside the city, Phrae Airport offers domestic flights to major cities such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai, making it convenient for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Phrae is Thai, with a mix of ethnic groups contributing to the region's diverse culture.
Various hill tribe communities, such as the Hmong and Karen, reside in the surrounding areas, adding to the cultural richness of Phrae.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing is popular in Phrae, with local matches often held during festivals.
Football is widely played and watched in Phrae, with local teams competing in regional leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phrae.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local dishes can be made vegetarian; just ask for no meat.
Rice dishes and certain curries are naturally gluten-free; always confirm with the vendor.