Phrae, Provincial capital in northern Thailand
Phrae is a provincial capital in northern Thailand that sits along the eastern bank of the Yom River. The town is surrounded by mountains and teak forests that stretch into the northern plains.
Founded in 828 as Muang Phon, the settlement became a major center for the teak trade during the 19th century. Foreign companies moved here to take advantage of the rich forest resources in the region.
The temples show many ornate wood carvings and decorations that local craftspeople have refined over several generations. Visitors can see traditional teak houses throughout the town that were once lived in by wealthy merchants and their families.
Visitors can reach the area through Den Chai railway station on the Bangkok-Chiang Mai line or arrive by domestic flights at the local airport. The center is small enough to explore on foot, while temples and old houses are spread throughout the town.
The Phae Muang Phi park shows unusual sandstone formations created through natural erosion that form oddly shaped columns and towers. Locals often call these rocks ghosts of the dead land, referring to their eerie appearance.
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