How to get to Phrae

A journey to Phrae opens the doors to one of the most authentic corners of northern Thailand, where time seems to slow down, giving way to tranquility and tradition. This ancient city, surrounded by teak forests and mountains, is not a bustling metropolis but rather resembles a living open-air museum of Lanna culture. You can reach this destination by combining various modes of transport: from flights to neighboring provinces to a scenic journey by train or car through mountain passes.

Although Phrae province has a small airport, flights here can be limited or seasonal. Therefore, many travelers choose a more reliable option — flying to airports in neighboring cities such as Lampang or Nan, which receive regular scheduled flights.

The airport in Lampang is located approximately 70 km away, while Nan is about 87 km from the destination. Both options allow you to comfortably cover the main part of the journey by air, and travel the remaining distance by ground transport, enjoying the views of northern nature.

For those who prefer rail travel, the key transport hub is Den Chai station, located just 20–25 kilometers from the city of Phrae. This is where northern-bound trains from Bangkok and Chiang Mai arrive, making it the most convenient point for transferring to local transport.

If tickets to Den Chai station are unavailable, you can consider traveling to the neighboring cities of Lampang or Nan. However, the Den Chai option remains the most optimal in terms of time and logistics, as songthaews and taxis regularly run from the station to the city center.

Bus services connect Phrae with most major transport hubs in the country, making this mode of transport one of the most accessible. The most popular routes depart from Bangkok (usually from the Mo Chit Northern Bus Terminal) and take about 8–9 hours, offering a choice between economy and VIP classes for added comfort.

There is also regular service connecting to Chiang Mai and other northern cities. A bus trip allows you to enjoy the changing landscapes and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Thai countryside even before arriving in the city.

Traveling by car offers complete freedom of movement and the opportunity to see the region's hidden beauties on the way to Phrae. If you are driving from Lampang, you will have to cover about 112 km, which will take approximately 1 hour 50 minutes of relaxed driving on good roads.

An alternative route from Nan has a similar length — around 110 km, and the travel time will also be about 1.8 hours. For those who do not wish to drive themselves, inter-provincial taxi booking is available, which is especially convenient when traveling with family or luggage.

To ensure your immersion into the atmosphere of ancient Lanna is as comfortable as possible, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. Here is a list of practical recommendations for a trip to Phrae.

1. Clothing and Style. The climate here can be changeable: hot during the day and cool in the evening. Pack light clothes made of natural fabrics, but be sure to bring a light jacket. A traditional indigo-dyed "Mo Hom" shirt makes for an excellent purchase locally and aligns well with modest dress codes.
2. Transport. Public transport is not widely developed. To move around the city, it is most convenient to use songthaews (shared pickup trucks) or rent a motorbike if you have a valid Category A license.
3. Finances. The main currency is the Thai Baht. Cards are rarely accepted in small shops and night markets, so always carry a supply of cash.
4. Health. There are pharmacies in the city center, but it is better to bring specific medications with you. Do not forget to use repellents, especially at dusk, for protection against mosquitoes.
5. Communication. English is less spoken here than in Bangkok. It is recommended to install an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases in Thai to communicate with locals.
6. Local Etiquette. When entering temples, be sure to remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and knees. The head is considered a sacred part of the body, so do not touch the heads of locals, even children.
7. What to Avoid. Do not raise your voice or show aggression — in Thai culture, this is considered "losing face." Also, avoid disrespectful remarks regarding the Royal Family.
8. Culinary Advice. Be sure to try local northern dishes such as Khao Soi at the morning market — this is the best way to know the taste of the city. Look for chicken or beef versions to ensure they meet Halal dietary preferences.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and focus on exploring the rich history and culture of this amazing region.