Travel to Phrao District

Travel to Phrao District: A peaceful town nestled among the valleys of Chiang Mai

I, mr.hotsia, recently had the chance to drive north and stop over at Phrao District, Chiang Mai Province, after only having seen it briefly on maps and small pictures online. Few people talk about or deeply know Phrao because it is hidden in the valleys amid the Chiang Dao mountain range. Traveling here requires crossing steep mountains whether coming from Chiang Dao or Wiang Pa Pao, making Phrao seem like a forgotten town. But I want to say that experiencing the real lifestyle and atmosphere of Phrao reveals a unique peace and warmth that is hard to find elsewhere.

Arriving in Phrao in the evening, I strolled through the town’s night market. This market is not as large as those in downtown Chiang Mai but has the charm of a small community, with most shops still housed in old wooden houses. Here, I tried ordering roti from a vendor frying it in front of her shop. The roti here is thin and crispy, perfect with hot tea or coffee in the cool Phrao air.

At the night market, there is only one small grilled pork restaurant open. I didn’t hesitate to sit down and enjoy grilled pork with my travel companions. The place has a homely atmosphere, and the grilled pork tastes quite good, served with a unique spicy dipping sauce. I think this is one of Phrao’s charms, preserving its traditional ways firmly.

Wooden House Accommodation and Simplicity at 83 Bungalows

For accommodation, mr.hotsia recommends a hotel called83 BungalowsThis place offers small wooden house rooms at about 300 baht per night, with fairly fast Wi-Fi at night. Although the connection can be spotty in the morning, it is sufficient for travelers seeking peace and a homely atmosphere. Other hotels in Phrao are more expensive and may not have Wi-Fi, so I chose 83 Bungalows as my main stay on this trip.

Most accommodations in Phrao still use wooden houses and traditional structures. This is rare nowadays because even Pai, once a small town like Phrao, has changed a lot. Phrao feels like a place where time stands still, allowing you to truly relax.

Exploring Phrao Town and Local Life

The next morning, I walked around Phrao District and found life here to be very simple. Most houses are two-story wooden buildings, with small shops selling daily necessities. I spoke with some locals who said Phrao has preserved its traditional lifestyle well, unlike many districts that have become crowded with tourists.

One thing I really liked was the peace and sense of safety in this town. Everywhere I went, I was met with smiles and friendly greetings. Although there are no major tourist attractions or exciting activities, Phrao feels like a small home ready to welcome everyone with genuine warmth.

If you want to go off the main tourist routes, try visiting Phrao District. A visit here offers a completely different perspective of Chiang Mai and supports the local community.

Connecting with Chiang Mai and Nearby Places

If you have time, don’t forget to visit other places around Chiang Mai Province that I have written about, such asDoi Tao Lake Remainswhich connects with the natural landscape of Northern Thailand. Or if you like quiet temples with deep history, try visitingWat Saen Thong Omkoiwhich houses the revered Phra Chao Saen Thong, deeply respected by locals.

Also, if you want to try authentic Northern Thai food, I recommend stopping by Muang Mai Market in Chiang Mai, where there are great restaurants like Hia S. Roasted Duck, which I enjoyed very much. Or you can tryKorean BBQ Buffet in Chiang Maifor a change of atmosphere.

Closing Remarks from mr.hotsia

After spending one night in Phrao, I felt this town is perfect for those wanting to escape the hustle of big cities and experience a homely atmosphere and nature that remains truly pure. Phrao is not a city with spectacular tourist spots or many activities, but it is a place where you will find peace, simplicity, and genuine hospitality.

If you enjoy deep travel experiences, not just passing through, and want to see another side of Chiang Mai, I invite you to visit Phrao. I guarantee you will be as impressed as I, mr.hotsia.