Tha Phae Gate
Standing at the eastern entrance to Chiang Mai's walled Old City, Tha Phae Gate is one of the most recognisable historical landmarks in northern Thailand. Originally constructed during the Lanna Kingdom period, the restored brick gate and adjoining sections of the ancient city wall offer a tangible link to the region's centuries-old past. The open square surrounding the gate serves as a natural gathering point where history and everyday local life intersect. The atmosphere here shifts noticeably throughout the day. Mornings tend to be quieter and well suited to exploring the gate's architecture and the neighbouring streets of the Old City. By evening, the gate is illuminated and the surrounding square draws a lively mix of locals and visitors, creating a culturally charged setting that many travellers find memorable. The area comes alive most intensely during major festivals — Songkran and Loy Krathong in particular see the square transformed into a focal point for large-scale celebrations and traditional activities. Entry is free and the gate is accessible at any hour, making it an easy addition to any itinerary in Chiang Mai. The surrounding neighbourhood rewards those who explore on foot, with temples, traditional shophouses, and markets all within easy walking distance. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon offers cooler temperatures and better light for photography. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the real appeal of the area lies in wandering the adjacent streets of the Old City.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Tha Phae Gate, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
A lively and iconic spot in Chiang Mai that perfectly blends history, culture, and local energy. The old brick gate gives a beautiful historic charm, and the open square around it makes it a great place to walk around, relax, and people-watch. I especially loved the atmosphere in the evening when the light shows bring the area to life and create a vibrant, colorful vibe. There are plenty of food options nearby, from local street food to cafes and small restaurants, so you can easily spend hours exploring and trying different flavors. Whether you visit during the day or at night, Tha Phe Gate has a special energy that makes it feel memorable. A must-visit place if you want to experience the heart of Chiang Mai.
A beautiful and iconic spot in Chiang Mai, with the old city wall adding to its historic charm. Definitely worth visiting. At Tha Phae Gate, many people like to take photos with the pigeons. You can try it if you want, but personally I felt it got a little intimidating, so one photo was enough for me. After that, I recommend walking behind the gate. There’s a café called Cool Muang Coffee, and you’ll often see one of the red trucks, called a red songthaew, parked in front. Taking a photo with one actually makes for a really cool and classic Chiang Mai shot, like the one my wife took. Finally, I recommend coming on Sunday evening because the Sunday Walking Street Market Chiang Mai takes place nearby. The street fills with local handmade products and lots of delicious food that’s fresh and very affordable.
Chiang Mai is reknown for its old city wall and Tha Phae Gate is a tourist attraction and major landmark. It’s regarded as the heart of Chiang Mai and there’s usually a lot of activities and events held here. The gate is built from red bricks and there’s always loads of pigeons here and it’s said that pigeons are attracted by fortune and luck.
Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Also Popular in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
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Central Chiangmai
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MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center
Sprawling, upscale mall features dozens of boutiques, gift shops, eateries & a cinema.
Central Chiangmai Airport
Northern Thailand's largest shopping complex, ideally placed beside Chiang Mai International Airport.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temple, home to the Emerald Buddha
The Grand Palace
Built in 1782, this ornate royal palace complex now houses a museum & is open to visitors.
Pattaya Walking Street
Colorful red-light area, closed to vehicles nightly & lined with bars, nightclubs, eateries & neon.
Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan
Monumental Buddhist temple right on the river, with an iconic, ornately tiled central prang (spire).
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)