490 kms. See map. Routes 11, 1023, 101, 103, 1, 120 & 118. The route is Chiang Mai – Lampang – Long – Phrae – Ngao – Phayao – Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai – Lampang – Phrae is an easy half day ride, which allows time to look around Phrae. It has some lovely Shan / Burmese style temples and the famous all teak wood house / museum Ban Pra Tub Jai, which is well worth a look. The return Phrae – Ngao – Phayao – Chiang Mai is a longer 290 kms ride. Stop for lunch in Phayao beside the lake, with time to look at Wat Si Khom Kham Chom by the lake (see # 2 Phayao Loop.)
Phrae is a classic town full of beautiful old buildings & history; & is generally “non touristic.” So if you want taste of some traditional Thai culture, Phrae is the place to go. The town has an old moat & wall, stunning temples & numerous museums depicting the good old days. The forestry museum depicting the early teak logging days has an amazing photographic display. You can check out these reports on GT Rider. Phrae The Seri Thai Museum
