Phrae – one of the oldest provincial capitals in Northern Thailand with a population of little under 500,000 people. 37% of the province is covered by forest and the city has a laid back atmosphere. The city was one of the centers of the teak trade until the ban on felling the trees and throughout the city many nice old teak houses and huge teak pillars bear witness to this past.
We recommend Phrae as the destination of choice in the North for those who want to experience a non-tourist Thai life style which has been little affected by the recent decades of modern developments. Most families still lives in traditional family compounds in the villages and as a visitor one is generally traditionally welcomed with sincere hospitality and smiles. The city itself features many nice old teak houses and colorful temples. Located in a valley with forest clad mountains the villages surrounding the town is ideally suited for exploring on bicycles. The city offers few traditional tourist attractions but that is exactly why it is such a great place to see and experience real Thai life style. In every village there will be vegetable plots, fruit trees, handicraft production and various other forms of traditional farming which is interesting to observe as a visitor.
The Danish East Asiatic Company had its teak concession headquarter in the city and the building can still be visited. The beautiful large teak Maison Wongburi is one of the best preserved private teak houses in Thailand and is well worth a visit. The city also hosts two traditional Burmese style temple from the turn of the century as well as several other colorful old temples.
Now it is also possible to visit The Phrae Governor's House which was once the residence of the Lord of Phrae, known as the Chao Luang. The house was deserted in 1902 after the last Chao Luang, Chao Phiriya Thepawong, fled to Luang Prabang in Laos during an uprising by the Shan. It was later used as the barracks for the troops of Chao Phray Surasakmontri who entered the area to quell the rebellion on the orders of King Rama V.
Traditional markets selling fresh produce for daily consumption is still dominant in Phrae and several small Thai restaurants offering nice Thai food at very reasonable rates are easy to locate.
The city goes to sleep early and gets up early so it is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the fresh air and genuine Thai hospitality.
We have made a basis tour to Phrae, which can be extended with extra nights as suitable. Maeyom Palace hotel is located close to the old city wall and is an ideal base for exploring the city and the surrounding villages and forests.
Package
Tour Code: NT-PHR4D
Phrae
4 Days / 3 nights
For the tour around the laid back city of Phrae, bicycles are used as the main transportation mode, then you will be able to stop on your way around the city when ever you see some interesting sights. Enjoy the many beautiful teak houses, temples and see the local handicraftbeeing made in the outskirts of the city.
Even after the organized tour around Phrae with your guide, take time on your own and explore more of the local life.
Day : 1 Bangkok - Phrae (20.10-06.00)
Late in the afternoon pick up from your hotel by the local guide and then onwards to Hua Lam Pong train station, the guide will escort you to the train and secure your seat on the night train to Denchai near Phrae by 2nd class sleeping berth in air-conditioned wagon.
Day : 2 Phrae
Arrive Denchai train station early morning, meet the driver and then further transfer to Hotel Mae Yom Palace by car. Check in and time for refreshment and breakfast at the hotel.
Visit the Mor Hom village to see how the local farmer shirts are made. Further north up to the water fall, here you have time to enjoy the lunch box in the shade near the waterfall.
In the afternoon, visit one of the local hill tribe villages, see the school, visit one of the tribe houses and walk around the village. Late afternoon return to the hotel. Free evening (Restaurants will be be recommended), Overnight at Mae Yom Palace.
* Meals: Breakfast, Lunch * Hotel: Mae Yom Palace
Day : 3 Phrae
City tour around Phrae on bicycle to experience the local life , visit the Old city wall, the Baan Wongburi teak house, the old East Asiatic headquarter, the Teak museum, the former Governors House and return to the hotel. Time for Leisure or maybe continue to cycle around Phrae on your own. Overnight at Mae Yom Palace.
* Meal: Breakfast * Hotel: Mae Yom Palace
Day : 4 Phrae
This day is free for own Leisure or we can recommend to make your own trip around the countryside outside Phrae on the bicycle. (Routes can be recommended)
* Meal: Breakfast
Price inclusive of:
All transportation as per program
Train ticket, 2nd class sleeping berth in air conditioned wagon
All Admission fees as per program
Bicycle tour around Phrae. Tour to hilltribe
2 nights accommodation in shared twin room at Mae Yom Palace
Meals : 3 BF, 1 L
English speaking Local guide
Price excludes:
Beverages during meals
Other personal expenses
Transport from Phrae onwards
Transportation option:
Public air conditioned bus from Bangkok to Phrae
Transportation option from Phrae onwards (Not incl.)
Public airconditioned bus from Phrae to Bangkok
Public airconditioned bus from Phrae to Chiang Mai
Public airconditioned bus from Phrae to Chiang Rai
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