Thailand Guides - Phrae

Until recently Phrae had attracted little attention but today its small town charms are beginning to be noticed. With its close proximity to Chiang Mai and the main railway line north this old city of traditional wooden houses makes an ideal diversion on the way up north.

Overview

Phrae Province is situated southeast of Chiang Mai is one of Thailand’s lesser-known tourist destinations. The town of Phrae has managed to retain its original charm and character. The old city still has what is perhaps the country’s best collection of traditional wooden buildings, along with northern-style temples and a few in the Burmese and Laos style. Phrae is also famous for the indigo cotton farmers shirts so favoured by Thailand’s rural workers and rice farmers. The cloth is produced in Ban Thung Hong, just outside Phrae. The province also has one of the largest reserves of teak forest in Thailand.

Attractions

Wat Luang in the centre of town is an important and ancient temple and dates from the founding of Phrae. It features a Vihan and a Chiang Saen-style chedi which hold a religious relic from Myanmar.

Phra That Phra Lo is chedi dating back over 400 years and is believed to contain the remains of King Phra Lo. It is said he died with his two lovers and he gave rise to a local fable. The chedi is located 45 km north of the provincial capital.