Tha Phae Gate

Overview

Tha Phae Gate is the most iconic surviving section of Chiang Mai's 13th-century city walls. The reconstructed brick gateway and adjacent moat mark the eastern entrance to the Old City and serve as a natural meeting point, public square, and pigeon-feeding spot.

Highlights

• Historic Gateway: The best-preserved and most photographed of the Old City's five original gates.
• Open Plaza: The brick-paved square hosts events, street performers, and evening gatherings.
• Pigeon Flocks: Hundreds of pigeons gather in the plaza—a classic Chiang Mai photo opportunity.

History

The original walls and moat were built when King Mengrai founded the city in 1296. Tha Phae Gate was reconstructed in 1985 using original bricks excavated from the site; the flanking wall sections date from various restoration periods.

Visitor Tips

• Starting point: An ideal landmark from which to begin an Old City walking tour heading west.
• Songkran: The gate is the epicentre of the Songkran water fight each April.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes.