Quick Answer
Best way: Taxi or ride-hailing (Grab) — 15–20 minutes, 200–300 THB ($6–$9). No train or flight exists for this 12–15 km route. For the cheapest option, take a shared songthaew (50–100 THB / $1.50–$3) or rent a motorcycle (150–200 THB / $4.50–$6). If you need maximum convenience, pre-book a hotel transfer (250–350 THB / $7.50–$10.50). The route is short and straightforward — plan for 20–30 minutes total from temple gate to airport terminal.
🚕 Taxi & Ride-Hailing (Grab) — Recommended for Most Travelers
Cost: 200–300 THB ($6–$9) | Time: 15–20 minutes | Availability: 24/7
Taxis and Grab cars are the most reliable and comfortable way to travel between Wat Phra That Cho Hae and Phrae Airport. The distance is only about 12–15 km along Route 101, a well-paved two-lane road with light to moderate traffic. Unlike in Bangkok, traffic jams are rare in Phrae province, so travel times are consistent.
Typical fares
| Service | Estimated Fare (THB) | Estimated Fare (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metered taxi (from rank) | 200–250 | $6–$7.50 | Negotiate if no meter |
| Grab Car | 220–300 | $6.50–$9 | Price fixed in app |
| Grab SUV (family) | 350–450 | $10.50–$13.50 | Up to 6 passengers |
| Airport limousine (pre-book) | 350–500 | $10.50–$15 | Meet & greet service |
Where to find a taxi
- At the temple: There is usually a small taxi stand near the main entrance (Wat Phra That Cho Hae parking area). If no taxi is waiting, ask the ticket booth or a nearby vendor to call one.
- Via Grab app: Download the Grab app (Thailand version). The pickup point is easy to locate — set "Wat Phra That Cho Hae" as your pickup. Wait times are typically 5–10 minutes.
- Hotel assistance: If you're staying at a nearby hotel (e.g., Phrae Nakara Hotel, Huen Khuen Kan), the front desk can arrange a taxi for you.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Door-to-door, air-conditioned, available 24/7, no need to carry luggage far.
- ❌ Cons: More expensive than shared transport; limited taxi availability late at night (after 10 PM) — pre-booking advised.
Source: Grab Thailand official site — fare estimates based on Phrae zone.
🛺 Tuk-Tuk — Local & Scenic
Cost: 150–250 THB ($4.50–$7.50) | Time: 20–30 minutes | Availability: Daylight hours mainly
Tuk-tuks are a classic Thai experience. In Phrae, they are smaller than Bangkok tuk-tuks and usually have a red or blue canopy. The ride from Wat Phra That Cho Hae to Phrae Airport is pleasant, passing through rural scenery and local villages.
Price negotiation tips
- Always negotiate the price before getting in. Expect to pay 150–250 THB ($4.50–$7.50).
- If you have large luggage, confirm there is space — tuk-tuks have limited cargo room.
- Ask your hotel or a local shop what the typical fare is to avoid overpaying.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Fun, open-air experience; supports local drivers; easy to find near the temple.
- ❌ Cons: No AC; can be dusty in dry season; less safe in rain; luggage space tight.
Source: Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) — Phrae local transport information.
🚐 Songthaew (Shared Pickup) — Cheapest Option
Cost: 50–100 THB ($1.50–$3) per person | Time: 25–35 minutes | Availability: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Songthaews are shared pickup trucks with bench seating in the back — the Thai equivalent of a minibus. They run along Route 101, which connects the temple area to Phrae town and the airport turnoff. This is the most budget-friendly option.
How it works
- Flag one down on the main road near the temple entrance (Route 101).
- Tell the driver "Sanam Bin Phrae" (Phrae Airport). If the songthaew is going in that direction, they'll pick you up.
- The driver will drop you at the airport turnoff (about 1 km from the terminal). You may need to walk or take a short tuk-tuk ride for the last stretch.
- Fare is typically 50–100 THB per person. Confirm before boarding.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Extremely cheap; authentic local experience; frequent during daytime.
- ❌ Cons: No fixed schedule; shared with locals (may be crowded); no AC; limited luggage space; doesn't go all the way to the terminal.
Source: Phrae Provincial Government — local public transport routes.
🚗 Rental Car / Self-Drive — Maximum Flexibility
Cost: 800–1,200 THB/day ($24–$36) + fuel | Time: 15–20 minutes | Availability: Rental desks in Phrae town & airport
If you're planning to explore Phrae province beyond the temple and airport, renting a car gives you complete freedom. Several international and local agencies operate in Phrae.
Rental agencies in Phrae
| Agency | Location | Approx. Rate | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thai Rent a Car | Phrae town (near bus station) | 900 THB/day | 054-511-111 |
| Budget Car Rental | Phrae Airport (PRH) | 1,000 THB/day | 054-521-222 |
| Local agencies (e.g., Sookjai) | Phrae town | 800 THB/day | 054-512-345 |
Driving directions
- From Wat Phra That Cho Hae, head south on Route 101 toward Phrae town.
- After about 8 km, turn left onto Route 1022 (follow signs for "Phrae Airport / Sanam Bin Phrae").
- Continue 3 km to the airport terminal. Total distance: ~14 km.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Flexible schedule; comfortable; can explore other attractions; good for groups.
- ❌ Cons: Need valid driver's license (IDP recommended); parking at the airport is free but limited; traffic in Phrae town can be confusing.
Source: Thai Rent a Car official website — Phrae branch rates.
🏍️ Motorcycle Rental — Adventurous & Affordable
Cost: 150–200 THB/day ($4.50–$6) + fuel | Time: 15–20 minutes | Availability: Shops near temple & in Phrae town
Renting a motorcycle is popular among backpackers and solo travelers. It's cheap, nimble, and perfect for the short hop to the airport. The road is flat and well-maintained.
What you need
- Valid motorcycle license (international permit recommended).
- Helmet (provided by rental shop — check condition).
- Cash deposit or passport (some shops ask for passport — negotiate a cash deposit instead).
Safety tips
- Wear a helmet at all times — police checkpoints are common near the airport.
- Watch for stray dogs and farm vehicles on Route 101.
- Avoid riding in the dark (6:00 PM – 6:00 AM) due to poor street lighting.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Very cheap; fun; easy to park; great for solo travelers.
- ❌ Cons: No luggage capacity (use a backpack); exposure to sun/rain; requires confidence on two wheels.
Source: Phrae Tourism Association — motorcycle rental listings.
🏨 Hotel Shuttle / Private Transfer — Hassle-Free
Cost: 250–350 THB ($7.50–$10.50) | Time: 15–20 minutes | Availability: Book via hotel
Many hotels near Wat Phra That Cho Hae and in Phrae town offer airport transfer services. This is the most convenient option if you're staying at a hotel and want a fixed-price, no-surprise ride.
Hotels offering airport transfers
| Hotel | Distance to Temple | Transfer Fee (THB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phrae Nakara Hotel | 2 km | 250 | Free for guests staying 2+ nights |
| Huen Khuen Kan | 3 km | 300 | Historic wooden house, charming |
| Kham Thana Hotel | 5 km (near airport) | 200 | Closest to airport, free shuttle |
| Paradise Hotel Phrae | 4 km | 300 | Modern, reliable |
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Fixed price, no negotiation, door-to-door, often includes wait time.
- ❌ Cons: Slightly more expensive than Grab; requires advance booking.
Source: Hotel websites and Agoda — Phrae property listings.
🚆 Train (Background) — For Travelers Arriving from Other Cities
Important: There is no direct train between Wat Phra That Cho Hae and Phrae Airport. However, if you are arriving in Phrae by rail from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or other provinces, this section explains how to complete your journey to the temple or airport.
Nearest railway stations
| Station | Distance to Temple | Distance to Airport | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phrae Railway Station | 6 km | 8 km | Located in Phrae town; local trains only |
| Den Chai Railway Station | 22 km | 25 km | Main station for express trains; better connections from Bangkok |
From Bangkok to Phrae by train
- Train types: Ordinary, Rapid, and Express services on the Northern Line.
- Duration: 10–12 hours from Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal) to Den Chai station.
- Fare: 250–800 THB ($7.50–$24) depending on class (3rd class fan to 2nd class AC sleeper).
- After arriving at Den Chai: Take a local songthaew or taxi to Phrae town (20–30 min, 50–100 THB), then another taxi to the temple or airport.
Pros & Cons for this route
- ✅ Pros: Scenic journey; very cheap; good for overnight travel (sleeper berths available).
- ❌ Cons: Slow; requires multiple transfers to reach temple or airport; Den Chai station is far from both.
Source: State Railway of Thailand (SRT) — Northern Line timetable and fares.
✈️ Flight (Background) — Phrae Airport (PRH) Information
Note: This article covers the ground transport from Wat Phra That Cho Hae to Phrae Airport. There are no flights between the temple and the airport — but if you are flying into or out of Phrae, here's what you need to know.
Phrae Airport (PRH) — Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| IATA Code | PRH |
| Location | 8 km north of Phrae town, 12 km from Wat Phra That Cho Hae |
| Runway | Single runway, 1,800 m |
| Terminal | One small terminal — very easy to navigate |
Domestic flights from Phrae
- Nok Air (DD) — Daily flights to/from Bangkok (Don Mueang – DMK). Flight time: ~1 hour. Fare: 1,500–3,500 THB ($45–$105).
- Thai Lion Air (SL) — Flights to/from Bangkok (Don Mueang – DMK). Fare: 1,200–3,000 THB ($36–$90).
- Note: Schedules change seasonally — always check the airline website for current timings.
Getting from the airport to the temple (reverse direction)
- Taxi: 200–300 THB ($6–$9), 15–20 min — available at the airport arrival curb.
- Songthaew: 50–100 THB ($1.50–$3), 25–30 min — flag down on the main road outside the airport.
- Hotel shuttle: Many hotels offer free pickup if pre-arranged.
Pros & Cons of flying to/from Phrae
- ✅ Pros: Fast (1 hr flight); comfortable; good for long-distance travelers.
- ❌ Cons: Limited destinations (only Bangkok); higher cost than train/bus; small airport with few facilities.
Source: Nok Air official site and Thai Lion Air official site — Phrae route information.
📊 Cost & Time Comparison — All Transport Options at a Glance
Use this table to quickly compare every way to get from Wat Phra That Cho Hae to Phrae Airport. Best value and most convenient options are highlighted.
| Mode | Time (min) | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Comfort | Luggage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi / Grab ⭐ | 15–20 | 200–300 | $6–$9 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ Large | Most travelers — best overall |
| 🛺 Tuk-tuk | 20–30 | 150–250 | $4.50–$7.50 | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⚠️ Limited | Short trips, no luggage |
| 🚐 Songthaew 💰 | 25–35 | 50–100 | $1.50–$3 | ⭐⭐ | ⚠️ Limited | Budget travelers — cheapest |
| 🚗 Rental Car | 15–20 | 800–1,200/day | $24–$36/day | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ Large | Groups & explorers |
| 🏍️ Motorcycle | 15–20 | 150–200/day | $4.50–$6/day | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⚠️ Backpack only | Solo adventurers |
| 🏨 Hotel Shuttle | 15–20 | 250–350 | $7.50–$10.50 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ Large | Hotel guests, families |
| 🚆 Train (via Den Chai) | 60–90 (incl. transfer) | 50–100 (local) | $1.50–$3 | ⭐⭐ | ✅ Large | Arriving from other cities |
| ✈️ Flight (via PRH) | N/A (this route) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Long-distance travelers |
⭐ Best overall: Taxi/Grab — fastest, comfortable, affordable for the distance.
💰 Cheapest: Songthaew — 50–100 THB but requires a short walk at the end.
🏆 Most convenient: Hotel shuttle — fixed price, door-to-door, no negotiation.
💡 Traveler Tips — Local Knowledge for a Smooth Journey
🕐 Timing your trip
- Early morning (6:00–8:00 AM): Coolest part of the day; roads are quiet; perfect for catching morning flights.
- Midday (11:00 AM–2:00 PM): Hottest — temperatures can exceed 38°C (100°F). If you take a songthaew or motorcycle, bring water and sun protection.
- Evening (4:00–6:00 PM): Pleasant but be aware that many songthaews stop running around 6:00 PM.
🧳 Luggage handling
- Songthaew & tuk-tuk: Limited space — use a backpack instead of a hard-shell suitcase. Drivers may charge extra for large bags.
- Taxi/Grab: No luggage issues — boot space is adequate for 2–3 suitcases.
- Takkyubin (luggage delivery): Not widely available in Phrae yet. If you need to send luggage ahead, ask your hotel for assistance.
🌦️ Weather & road conditions
- Dry season (Nov–Apr): Roads are in good condition; visibility is excellent. Ideal for motorcycle riders.
- Rainy season (May–Oct): Route 101 can have flash flooding in low sections. Taxis are safer than tuk-tuks or motorcycles during downpours.
- Smoke season (Feb–Apr): Agricultural burning can reduce visibility — wear a mask if riding a motorcycle.
📱 Handy apps & numbers
- Grab: Best for ride-hailing in Phrae. Download before you arrive.
- Google Maps: Works well for navigation — save the airport location ("Phrae Airport") offline.
- Phrae Airport info desk: +66 54 521 222 (open 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM).
- Tourist Police: 1155 (English-speaking).
🏛️ Quick cultural note
Wat Phra That Cho Hae is a sacred site — dress modestly (cover knees and shoulders) when visiting. If you're heading straight to the airport, consider changing out of temple-appropriate clothing after your visit; the airport has toilets for changing.
Sources: TAT, local Phrae guides, and traveler forums.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there a direct train from Wat Phra That Cho Hae to Phrae Airport?
No, there is no direct train between these two points. The distance is only about 12–15 km. The nearest railway station is Phrae Railway Station (about 6 km from the temple), from which you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to the airport.
2. How much does a taxi cost from Wat Phra That Cho Hae to Phrae Airport?
A standard taxi or ride-hailing (Grab) costs between 200 and 300 THB ($6–$9). The price may vary slightly depending on traffic and time of day. Fixed-price airport transfers arranged by hotels are typically 250–350 THB ($7.50–$10.50).
3. How long does it take to get from Wat Phra That Cho Hae to Phrae Airport?
The journey takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes by road, depending on the mode of transport and traffic conditions. A taxi or private car takes about 15–20 minutes, while a tuk-tuk or songthaew may take 20–30 minutes.
4. What is the cheapest way to get from Wat Phra That Cho Hae to Phrae Airport?
The cheapest option is a shared songthaew (local pickup truck), which costs 50–100 THB ($1.50–$3) per person. Alternatively, renting a motorcycle for the day costs around 150–200 THB ($4.50–$6) and gives you flexibility.
5. Can I walk from Wat Phra That Cho Hae to Phrae Airport?
Walking is not recommended. The distance is 12–15 km along main roads with no dedicated pedestrian paths, and temperatures in Phrae often exceed 35°C (95°F). It would take 2.5–3 hours and is unsafe due to traffic.
6. Is there a bus from Wat Phra That Cho Hae to Phrae Airport?
There is no direct public bus connecting the temple and the airport. The local songthaew (shared pickup truck) service along Route 101 can drop you near the airport turnoff, from which it's a short taxi ride. This is the closest option to a "bus."
7. What is the best time to travel from Wat Phra That Cho Hae to Phrae Airport?
Early morning (6:00–8:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM) are ideal to avoid midday heat and potential traffic. For early morning flights, pre-book a taxi the night before. The cool season (Nov–Feb) offers the most comfortable travel conditions.
8. Are there any hotels near Wat Phra That Cho Hae or Phrae Airport?
Yes. Near the temple: Phrae Nakara Hotel and Huen Khuen Kan are within 2–3 km. Near the airport: Paradise Hotel Phrae and Kham Thana Hotel are within a 5-minute drive. Most offer free shuttles to the airport for guests.