Readme before you journey
Hello, Read Me friends!
Journey Travel With Us is back with our 22nd edition!
Join us as we explore, eat, relax, and fall in love with the places we visit.
Let's open the door to Lanna and explore the city of Phrae!
Don't miss out on these 21 must-visit check-in spots!
Enjoy delicious food, exciting attractions, and affordable accommodation.
Today, we're taking you on a check-in tour of Phrae, a small city you can't miss!
1. Mon Maethang
A 360-degree viewpoint overlooking the Mae Thang Reservoir, perfect for capturing stunning photos and checking in on social media.
The first rays of light today, with a cool and pleasant atmosphere, truly did not disappoint.
For those who want to see the morning mist and the first light of the day,
Mueang Mae Thaeng Viewpoint is one of the top destinations in Phrae Province that is worth visiting.
Gazing into the distance, the intricate mountain ranges unfold before you. While the pictures may capture their beauty, the true splendor of this place can only be experienced in person.
2. Mae Thang Reservoir
Mae Thang Reservoir, a picturesque location ideal for relaxation and leisure.
Additionally, fish farming in cages is also practiced.
In addition, there are restaurants (floating houses) where the food is said to be delicious and affordable.
For tourists who enjoy the atmosphere here, there is also a boat tour service around the reservoir at an affordable price.
Especially for those who enjoy fishing, there are peaceful fishing spots available for use each day.
3. Ghost Town Goats
Unseen tourist attractions in the motto of Phrae province, born from the wonders of nature.
A majestic natural wonder akin to the Grand Canyon, adorned with a mesmerizing sea of mist during the winter season.
The area features rolling hills dotted with curiously shaped rock pillars. If you haven't visited the Ghost City of Goats yet, consider adding it to your travel itinerary.
The sun is very strong during the day, so be careful not to get sunstroke.
It is ideal to visit in the evening when the scenery is more comfortable to the eyes.
4. PloyChomPu Cafe
A minimalist cafe in shades of white and blue, with a spacious and airy interior.
Decorated with white and brown wooden furniture.
The interior is air-conditioned and decorated with indigo and tie-dye accents in a cohesive color scheme.
The lighting is particularly stunning, resulting in breathtaking and vibrant photographs.
This is the menu of our shop, and the price of drinks is around 40-45 baht.
Enjoy a slice of cake with your coffee or tea, starting at just 30-60 baht.
The price is reasonable considering the charming atmosphere inside the shop. Location: Baan Suan Khuen, before the road up to Phra That In Kwaen, Mueang District, Phrae Province.
5. Wat Phra That Pu Jaeng
The local people of Rong Kwang district hold this temple in high regard.
The interior of the Phra That enshrines the right ankle bone of the Lord Buddha, which has been there for hundreds of years. Many rulers of Phrae have regularly renovated and maintained the structure.
An essential element for those who come to pay respects at Phra That Pu Jae is...
To pay respects and seek blessings from the sacred Phra Chao Tan Jai, for good fortune and auspiciousness for ourselves and our families.
Coordinates: Approximately 20 kilometers from the city center. The entrance is located on the Phrae-Nan Road, approximately 9 kilometers away. Turn right and travel for approximately 17 kilometers. Accessible by public bus (Ban Ooi-Phrae route) or private vehicle.
6. Wat Phra That In Khaen
Nestled amidst the natural mountains, the temple is located in the 7th ranked ozone zone in Thailand.
The path consists of steps and some sections are paved with cement. Within the same area, there are sacred objects, including the Phra Phuttha Chayantrisi Mahasachcha, the Buddha's footprint, and the Tham Sila Bannakhuha cave, which contains traces of ancient treasures.
The Replica of Phra That Intharawat is the designated pagoda for those born in the year of the Dog.
After paying respects and making offerings to the Buddha, you can also breathe in the fresh air, which will help recharge your life energy.
7. Mee Bed and Breakfast
A trendy hotel in the heart of Phrae, offering affordable rates and a complimentary breakfast.
Main Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
- On-site restaurant and mini-bar for your dining convenience.
- Complimentary private parking available on-site.
- Free bicycle rentals to explore the city at your own pace.
The staff also provides travel recommendations to tourists.
The accommodation is decorated in a loft style, with exposed concrete walls that give it a raw and classic feel.
Accommodation 750/night with breakfast included.
All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, ensuring a clean and peaceful environment. Amenities include flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, refrigerators, slippers, and water heaters in the bathrooms, providing comfort and convenience for all guests.
Upon arrival, guests are welcome to enjoy complimentary self-service coffee, Ovaltine, and water at the accommodation's bar counter.
The breakfast options are as follows: two types of meals are available.
This translates to: Rice porridge with mixed ingredients and Western breakfast.
Our staff will come to take your order. As for Thai desserts, you can pick them up for free at the counter bar.
The city offers free bicycles for rent, making it convenient to get around and park anywhere.
8. Victory Gate of Phrae City
The Victory Gate Market is located on the city wall and is adjacent to the remaining moat that has not been filled in.
Located beyond the end of Walking Street or Charoen Muang Road, it is open for business both in the morning and at night.
Breakfast is typically served in the morning and includes a variety of options such as soy milk, deep-fried dough sticks, fried tofu, fried corn, fried taro, hot coffee, iced coffee, steamed buns, and dim sum.
Stretchy Cheese Toast This shop is highly recommended, the cheese is really satisfyingly stretchy! 25 baht per piece, located next to Auntie Sri's porridge shop.
Auntie Sri Pratuchai's Porridge Shop, a long-standing establishment with a loyal following, sees customers queuing up for their delicious porridge. When in the area, be sure to give it a try.
At night, the atmosphere is especially lively, with a wide variety of styles to choose from. Some shops have queues of people waiting to buy, suggesting that the food is delicious and popular. This creates a vibrant and colorful atmosphere in the evening.
Another snack option for those who enjoy chewing is the Fat 2 Grilled Pork Skewers at Victory Monument.
Small meatballs, delicious dipping sauce, swipe away to your heart's content! Even 20 skewers won't be enough!
We tried Cowboy Steakhouse, which offers large, satisfying portions, as their slogan suggests. The prices are also reasonable.
To balance the savory, we need something sweet. A popular choice among young people is "Buoy Milk Tea," a famous milk tea shop near Victory Monument.
The menu consists of toast, hot milk, cold milk, tea, and coffee.
9. Wat Phra That Doi Leng
Before ascending to Doi Leng Temple, there is another viewpoint where you can see the golden Phra That Cho Hae, a gleaming golden pagoda standing prominently nearby. The Phrae Provincial Administration has constructed a viewing platform located before the stairs leading up to the temple. From here, you can admire the breathtaking sunrise and the ethereal morning mist. Witness the sun rise from this scenic viewpoint.
Thereafter, ascend the stairs to pay homage to the sacred relic for auspiciousness.
The mountainous location offers panoramic views of Phrae city.
Covered by mountains and forests.
This is the highest stupa among all stupas in Phrae Province.
Legend has it that the city lord of Lamphun looked to construct the Phra That Cho Hae and the city of Phrae.
As the highest hill, it offers panoramic views of the landscape, encompassing three districts:
The districts of Sung Men, Mueang Phrae, and Rong Kwang in Phrae Province are well-known for their scenic beauty and cultural heritage.
10. Mork Klam Coffee
A small cafe nestled amidst nature, not far from Phrae city. If you happen to be visiting the Phra That temple, this cafe is a great place to stop by.
A cool place to stop is the shop on the left-hand side before climbing Doi Leng. It's easy to spot.
The surrounding area is enveloped by lush greenery, providing a refreshing respite from the heat.
Amidst the natural atmosphere of the mountaintop
The outdoor seating area is shaded and has a cool breeze.
The indoor seating area offers both air-conditioned and fan-cooled zones.
The beverage menu offers a wide variety of options, including tea, coffee, and Italian soda.
The menu also features light and delicious fusion-style dishes.
11. Wat Phra That Chom Chaeng
An ancient temple, a significant historical landmark, situated on a low hill. The shape of the stupa resembles that of Phra That Cho Hae, containing relics of the Buddha's hair and left hand. In addition to the main stupa, a large standing Buddha statue in the Naga subduing posture is enshrined alongside it.
On the left-hand side near the entrance gate to the temple, within the meditation garden, lies a large reclining Buddha statue in the "Sleeping Buddha" pose.
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The vihara houses the principal Buddha image, Luang Pho Chom Chaeng, which is over 600 years old. Behind it stands another ancient stupa that has not been renovated or restored, preserving its original brick construction. The temple also features a museum showcasing its collection of antiquities, including statues depicting heaven and hell as a reminder to do good and avoid evil.
Beside the Phra That Chom Chaeng temple, there is a revered statue known as "Phra Chao Tan Jai," considered the ultimate sacred object for making wishes. It is said that prayers offered here are answered swiftly, often within days, with miraculous results. However, the veracity of these claims remains a matter of personal belief.
12. Wat Phra That Cho Hae
A stupa containing the left elbow bone and hair relics of the Buddha.
And adorned with fine silk, a sacred and ancient temple, a symbol of Phrae province.
A must-visit temple for tourists visiting Phrae province, especially those born in the year of the Ox, is the temple dedicated to the zodiac animal of that year.
One must pay respects at Phra That Cho Hae for good fortune.
The Phra That Cho Hae is a Lanna-style stupa with four entrances on each side.
Each gate is beautifully adorned with a Lanna-style castle archway.
The interior houses the Phra Phuttha Lokanatha Bipit Buddha statue, enshrined in a Lanna-style viharn.
There are beautiful murals.
This is a crowded prayer area where people are queuing to pray to the "Instant God".
May you be blessed with good fortune and success in all aspects of your life, including finding a loving partner, career advancement, and good health.
13. Tad Mok Waterfall
Another tourist attraction in Phrae province, located approximately 22 kilometers from the city center.
A short walk of about 1 kilometer leads to a small, beautiful waterfall that offers a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere.
Inside the waterfall, the lush nature remains, filled with a variety of trees.
14. Sister Ying's Cake
Homemade Pizza & Cake Shop is open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
In addition to being a restaurant, this location also serves as accommodation.
Price: 500/night/room Double bed, air-conditioned room with private bathroom.
Located on the main road, close to the old market, just a few steps away.
Enjoy a satisfying meal and a comfortable night's sleep for an affordable price.
Let's take a look inside the room first.
The room is air-conditioned and has an en-suite bathroom. It features twin beds and a seating area.
The intricate details of the wooden mirror inside the room are captivating. The folding shutters, which close after use, are a testament to the unique identity of the northern region.
The kitchen for N้องหญิง's cake shop is located near the guest rooms.
The restaurant is air-conditioned and offers a variety of seating options.
A hidden rock garden zone with small tables outside for chilling.
The prices are very reasonable, especially considering the quality of the food. You won't be disappointed if you come here to eat.
They say this place is a cheese lover's paradise. Yes, it is. ♥️ Cheese is everywhere, in almost every dish.
Cheese lovers, don't miss this! This place is seriously delicious. I highly recommend adding it to your list of favorite restaurants in Phrae.
Without further ado, we were famished and ordered a variety of dishes. Let's take a look at what we ordered.
- Seafood pizza with generous toppings of shrimp, crab sticks, mussels, and cheese. It's so delicious!
- Spinach and cheese pizza with a generous amount of spinach and cheese.
- Spaghetti carbonara with ham and mushrooms served hot with creamy cheese sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
- Garlic bread with cheese with a fragrant aroma of garlic and butter paired with delicious cheese.
- Gyoza with cheese crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfectly complements the cheese.
- Japanese salad with a special sesame cream dressing, thick crab sticks and ham, and a side of wasabi. It's amazing!
15. Old Kad Kong Market
The popular walking street in Phrae province is open every Saturday evening only.
During the recent New Year period, the market was exceptionally busy, with both vendors and customers from both local and distant areas. The market was open on Sundays during this time, which contributed to the increased activity.
**Kad Kong Khao**, an old-fashioned walking street, retains a strong local identity with a wide variety of vendors.
Dressed in adorable "หม้อห้อม" outfits, townspeople set up stalls to sell a variety of goods, including delicious snacks, local cuisine, fresh juices, souvenirs such as regional food and clothing, rare delicacies, antique toys, and much more.
The atmosphere was incredibly charming, with a massive crowd that seemed to appear out of nowhere!
Highly recommended! The food and souvenirs are adorable and tempting. Plus, you can redeem stars for free gifts at the market.
16. Wat Phong Sunan
This ancient temple, dating back over a thousand years, houses a magnificent golden reclining Buddha statue along its walls.
It also serves as a significant center for religious and cultural learning in Phrae Province.
The auspicious 19-spire gate features a stupa containing relics of the Buddha and houses beautiful ancient Buddha statues.
The white-colored glass pavilion of the 108-spire pagoda.
Inside the vihara, there is a large Buddha statue named "Phra Surasawadee Pradan Porn."
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Another unique feature that distinguishes this temple from others is the "Phra Chao Than Jai" statue, which depicts the deity in a standing posture with a pointing finger.
To receive a blessing, one must touch their forehead to the index finger of the Phra Chao Than Jai statue, and their wish will be granted.
17. Residence of the Lord
The Prince's Residence: This building is spacious and magnificent, adorned with intricate wood carvings.
Early 5th reign architecture
Awarded by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn
To be an outstanding architecture in the category of Institutional and Public Buildings.
Visitors can explore both floors and learn about the history of Phrae in detail.
Open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
A photograph of the building before its renovation during the reign of King Rama V.
The exhibition features a collection of artifacts that are rarely seen in the modern era.
This royal residence served as a temporary lodging for His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit during their visit to the people of Phrae Province from March 15-17, 1958.
Beneath the beauty of this house lies a hidden cruelty, for in the past, it served as a prison.
The moss-covered walls exude an eerie atmosphere, especially when one considers the punishments of the past.
The text is incredibly intense, and it becomes increasingly chilling the more you read it. It's as if some unseen force is at work.
There is an inner room that is pitch black, with no light able to penetrate. This room is used to confine slaves who have committed serious offenses.
18. City Pillar Shrine
The Phrae City Pillar Shrine is a newly built city pillar, located next to the old stone inscription pillar.
A magnificent city pillar shrine, built in the Lanna style with gold leaf.
Four large teak pillars are seamlessly embedded in the concrete walls at each corner.
A sacred place of worship for the people of Phrae Province and tourists.
This sentence mentions the construction of Wat Si Bun Rueang during the reign of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great. However, this temple no longer exists.
Became the site of the provincial prison of Aksorn, as inscribed in Thai.
19. Mae Yom National Park
Check in with us at the Mae Yom National Park office sign.
The trails within Mae Yom National Park are immersed in nature, offering stunning views of lush greenery.
Upon arrival at the tourist service center, the booking receipt for the accommodation was submitted.
Walk-in visitors who have not made a reservation in advance can set up their tents in designated areas. Please contact the staff for assistance.
Tourists who wish to book accommodation in advance can do so online at the website.
The park has a restaurant that serves cooked-to-order meals. Guests can pre-order their dinner if they wish.
A short distance from the park, we arrived at our accommodation for the night, Baan Kaeng Seua 101.
Upon entering, you will find a spacious hall with a large table perfect for small gatherings.
The house has three large bedrooms, each accommodating 2-3 people or more. These bedrooms are equipped with fans.
The property features two clean bathrooms, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind.
The backyard features a large wooden table, perfect for hosting relaxed outdoor gatherings.
Walk a little further and you will reach the point called Tiger Leaping Rapids.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, capturing memories and sharing them with the world. Breathe in the invigorating ozone, surrounded by lush greenery. This is Green Ozone.
Red flags planted at the back indicate deep, fast-flowing, and dangerous water.
A bridge meanders through the natural landscape, inviting nature lovers to enjoy a refreshing dip in the water.
The water may appear still, but it's actually quite cold. It's very refreshing!
For dinner, we ate at the usual restaurant in the park. Here, they use a generator for electricity until 10 pm, after which it's pitch black.
I woke up in the middle of the night and was startled by the darkness. I could barely see the person sleeping next to me. 55555555
20.Pha Hin Ngam
This is a scenic viewpoint for observing the sea of mist within Mae Yom National Park.
We need to park our car at the bottom and walk uphill until we're slightly out of breath, which won't take long.
Offers 360-degree panoramic views.
Unexpectedly close, only 30 meters apart, with an open view to the east.
On a day without sea fog, the view is like this.
Translation:
During the rainy season, the early morning sun casts its rays through the sea of mist, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene.
Nature's creations are truly awe-inspiring.
21. Sinkhole
The "Lorm Dong" is a large natural sinkhole, approximately 100 meters in diameter, located on a high mountain peak. It contains water year-round. It is believed that the sinkhole was formed by the collapse of the ground in the area, creating a large pit that filled with water. This has become a water source for wildlife in the vicinity. The site also offers stunning panoramic views of the Dong Sak forest, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
The Dwang Sinkhole is located approximately 14 kilometers from the Mae Yom National Park headquarters and 1 kilometer from the Mountain Sea Viewpoint. Near the sinkhole, there is an old mine that was previously used for barite mining. There is a camping area available for overnight stays.
"Teakwood indigo pot, the land of Phra Lo's love, the city's pride, the Sri flower,
The legend of the city of ghosts, the people of Phrae are kind-hearted."
You can say that since I've been traveling
"Phrae" is a very slow-life and super chill province.
Even though I went there during the New Year for 4 days and 3 nights, there weren't many people.
The people here are lovely, kind-hearted, helpful, and truly reliable.
Sometimes the things we overlook might have more to offer than we think.
Try opening your mind, visit a secondary city, and look at Phrae.
Add it to your list and go check it out!
For the experience we shared in this trip
I hope it will be information for friends to follow in our footsteps.
See you again in the next review.
Please like and share with us.
By Journey travel with us
JOURNEY TRAVEL WITH US
Wednesday, February 26, 2025 4:35 PM
