If you’re searching for a captivating historical site to explore, look no further than Tha Phae Gate in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This remarkable landmark holds huge significance as an integral part of the ancient city wall that once safeguarded Chiang Mai.
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Quick Facts of Tha Phae Gate
- Location: Eastern side of Chiang Mai Old City, Thailand
- Type: City gate
- Construction: 1296
- Purpose: Entrance to the old city of Chiang Mai
- Status: One of the five gates of the Chiang Mai Old City and a popular tourist destination
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History Of Tha Phae Gate
Tha Phae Gate is such a fantastic landmark in Chiang Mai, Thailand! It’s one of the must-visit spots. It’s a historical site that is part of the ancient city wall, which was built during the Lanna Kingdom around 1296 when King Mengrai founded Chiang Mai.
The original city wall was square-shaped and had gates on each side. Tha Phae Gate, also known as “Pratu Tha Phae,” was the eastern gate and the city’s main entrance. This is where merchants, diplomats, and visiting monks would enter the city. The name “Tha Phae” translates to “raft landing,” referring to the gate’s original purpose as a dock for bamboo rafts bringing goods for trade from neighboring regions down the Ping River.
Chang Phuak Gate (North)
Chang Phuak Gate, also known as the North Gate, is one of the ancient city gates in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It’s part of the old city wall that was used to protect the city. Named after the white elephant story related to the founding of the city, “Chang Phuak” literally means “White Elephant.”. One of the most famous street food stalls at Chang Phuak Gate is the Cowboy Hat Lady stall, known for its delicious pork leg rice dish.
Nearby, you can find attractions such as Wat Lok Molee, a beautiful temple with a teak wood vihara, and the Lanna Folklife Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Lanna Kingdom.
What To Expect In tha Pratu Tha Phase
- A historical landmark: As one of the eight gates that once served as the main entrances to Chiang Mai’s Old City, Pratu Tha Phae is steeped in history. Dating back to the 13th century, it was originally built for defensive purposes and served as a customs point for goods arriving via the Ping River. Today, it stands as a reminder of the city’s rich past and is a popular spot for visitors to take photos
- A vibrant environment: The area around Pratu Tha Phae is always bustling with activity. You’ll find street vendors selling souvenirs and snacks, locals going about their day, and tourists snapping photos. In the evenings, the area comes alive with the sounds of music and laughter from the many restaurants and bars that line the streets.
- Shopping galore: If you’re looking for souvenirs or unique handicrafts, you’ll be spoilt for choice at Pratu Tha Phae. The area is lined with shops selling everything from traditional Lanna silks and wood carvings to handmade jewelry and clothing.
- Delicious food: Chiang Mai is renowned, and Pratu Tha Phae is a great place to sample some of the best. You’ll find everything from traditional Thai dishes to international cuisine, all at reasonable prices.
- Cultural experiences: If you want to learn more about Thai culture, there are several things you can do in the area around Pratu Tha Phae. You can take a cooking class, visit a temple, or watch a traditional Thai dance performance.
Best Time to Visit Tha Phae Gate
Choosing the ideal time to visit Tha Phae Gate hinges on what kind of experience you desire:
Looking for Peaceful and Comfortable Weather:
- Shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November): Embrace fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures. Expect highs around 28-32°C (82-90°F) with manageable humidity.
Craving a Festive Ambiance:
- Festivals (Yee Peng Lantern Festival in November, Loy Krathong Festival in November): Immerse yourself in Chiang Mai’s vibrant culture amidst dazzling lights and lively celebrations. Get ready for bigger crowds and possibly higher prices.
Shopping Spree Dreams:
- Sunday evenings: Dive into the iconic Sunday Walking Street Market, bustling with vendors and spanning from Tha Phae Gate into the Old City. Gear up for a lively atmosphere and sizable crowds.
Unique Evening Experience:
- Saturday evenings: Enjoy a special touch with live music performances often held at the Tha Phae Gate, creating a delightful ambiance.
Important Factors to Keep in Mind:
- Time of day: Early mornings or late afternoons offer some respite from crowds, but be mindful of the potential heat, especially during peak season.
- Day of the week: Sundays (Walking Street Market) and Saturdays (live music) tend to be the busiest.
- Weather: Chiang Mai experiences a tropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The rainy season lasts from May to October.
Tha Phae Gate 2 Days Itinerary
Day – 1
Tha Phae Gate
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Tha Phae Gate.
- Afternoon: After exploring the Tha Phae Gate, head to Wat Phra Singh, one of the most important and revered temples in Chiang Mai. Phra Singh Buddha is considered to be one of the most beautiful Buddha images in Thailand.
- Evening: In the evening, take a stroll through the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, a lively market with hundreds of stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, food, and more. Be sure to try some of the delicious Thai street food, such as pad thai or mango sticky rice.
- Dinner: For dinner, there are many great restaurants to choose from in Chiang Mai. If you’re looking for something authentic, try one of the many khao soi (a curry noodle soup) restaurants. Otherwise, there are also plenty of international restaurants to choose from.
Day – 2
Doi Suthep
- Morning: In the morning, take a cooking class and learn how to make some traditional Thai dishes. There are many cooking schools to choose from, so you can find one that offers a class that interests you.
- Afternoon: In the afternoon, visit Doi Suthep, a mountain peak just outside of Chiang Mai. There are stunning views from the top, and you can also visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a temple located on the mountaintop.
- Evening: For your last night in Chiang Mai, enjoy a traditional Thai dance performance. There are many shows to choose from, and they are a great way to learn about Thai culture.
Where to stay:
There are many great places to stay in Chiang Mai to suit all budgets. If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, there are several five-star hotels to choose from. If you’re on a budget, there are also plenty of guesthouses and hostels to choose from.
Hey, I’ve got some awesome suggestions for places to stay! Check them out:
- Luxury: The Chedi Chiang Mai, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, COMO Uma Chiang Mai
- Mid-range: Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, Ping Silhouette Hotel, DeLanna Hotel
- Budget: The Fort Chiang Mai, 137 Pillars House, The Dhara Dhevi Hotel
How To Reach Tha Phae Gate
There are various ways to reach Tha Phae Gate in Chiang Mai, Thailand, depending on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation:
By Plane:
- Fly into Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
- From the airport, take a taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing service like Grab to the city center. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
By Train:
- Arrive at Chiang Mai Railway Station, conveniently located in the city center, just a 10-minute walk from Tha Phae Gate.
- Board a train from various cities in Thailand, including Bangkok, Ayutthaya, and Hua Hin
By Bus:
- Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station serves as the main arrival point for intercity and international buses. It’s situated on the outskirts of the city, around a 20-minute drive from Tha Phae Gate.
- Connect to numerous cities in Thailand and neighboring countries.
By Songthaew:
- These shared taxis are a budget-friendly way to get around Chiang Mai. Flag one down on the street or find them at designated stands. Negotiate the fare beforehand, based on your destination.
Within Chiang Mai City:
- Walking: Enjoy a stroll through the charming Old City and reach Tha Phae Gate, situated on the eastern side of the moat near the intersection of Ratchadamnoen Road and Thapae Road.
- Tuk-tuk: Hire a tuk-tuk for a quick and convenient ride, but agree on a price before setting off.
- Bicycle Rental: Explore the city at your own pace by renting a bicycle from many vendors around the Old City.
What should I carry To Tha Phae Gate?
To make your visit to Tha Phae Gate in Chiang Mai enjoyable and hassle-free, here’s what you might want to consider carrying:
- The weather in Chiang Mai can be hot and humid, so choose breathable, lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes for walking around the site and exploring the Old City.
- The sun can be strong, especially during the peak season (November to February). Protect yourself with sunscreen and a hat.
- Stay hydrated, especially if you’re exploring on foot. There are vendors selling drinks near the gate, but bringing your reusable bottle is eco-friendly and cost-effective.
- While some vendors might accept cards, having some cash handy is useful for buying street food, souvenirs, or paying for tuk-tuk rides.
- Take pictures, navigate with maps, and stay connected. Don’t forget to fully charge your phone or bring a portable charger along!
- Keep your belongings secure and easily accessible.
- Capture the beauty of Tha Phae Gate and the surrounding area.
Things to Avoid:
- Large bags or backpacks: These can be cumbersome and might not be allowed inside certain temples or museums.
- Valuable jewelry: Leave expensive jewelry at your hotel to avoid unnecessary risks.
- Single-use plastics: Reduce your environmental impact by avoiding single-use plastic bottles, straws, and bags.
FAQ’s of Tha Phae Gate
Do you happen to know the opening hours of Tha Phae Gate?
The gate itself is freely accessible 24/7, but shops and vendors in the area might have specific opening hours.
Is there an entrance fee for Tha Phae Gate?
No, there is no entrance fee to visit the gate itself. However, entrance fees might apply to nearby temples or museums.
How much time do I need to spend at Tha Phae Gate?
You can appreciate the gate itself in 15-20 minutes, but exploring the surrounding area, including shops and cafes, could take longer.
What else can I see and do near Tha Phae Gate?
Explore the Chiang Mai Old City with its temples, museums, markets, and street food stalls. Visit Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, or the Sunday Night Market.
Are there any tours available for Tha Phae Gate?
Yes, several walking tours and bike tours include Tha Phae Gate as part of their itinerary.