Tha Pae Gate

City Gate in Chiang Mai

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Stefan Fussan

Tha Pae Gate, or Pratū Tha Pae, also known as the Harbor of Floating Houses Gate, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This historic gate is part of the old city’s ancient wall and moat system, originally built to protect and manage access to the Lanna Kingdom’s capital. The name “Tha Pae” reflects the city’s early role as a trading hub, with goods transported via the Ping River and canals where floating houses were once a common sight.

Architecturally, the gate features a traditional Lanna style with red bricks and a robust yet straightforward design. It includes a central archway flanked by sections of the old city wall, creating a visually striking and historically rich site. Tha Pae Gate serves as the eastern entrance to the old city and was historically a vital connection to trade routes and the Ping River.

Today, Tha Pae Gate is a vibrant cultural and social hub. It is the center of major celebrations such as Songkran, the Thai New Year, and the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, where it becomes a focal point for festivities. The surrounding square is bustling with activity, including street performances, vendors, and a mix of tourists and locals. Nearby markets, restaurants, and hotels add to its appeal as a lively destination.

As both a historical monument and a modern gathering place, Tha Pae Gate symbolizes Chiang Mai’s heritage, blending its fortified past with its role as a dynamic cultural and tourist center. Its evocative name, the Harbor of Floating Houses Gate, pays homage to the city’s enduring connection to water and its trading history.

The Tha Pae Gate appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Chiang Mai!

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