Ban Prathup Jai House

This huge teak house was built on 130 enormous teak logs with intricately carved bases and, after five years’ work, was completed in 1977. It is filled with just about everything imaginable that can be made from teak, much of it for sale. Although really a large shop, it is still worth a visit - though do not expect the intricate carvings that are the hallmark of Phrae’s Vongburi House and Khum Chao Luang.

The house stands two kilometers west of the intersection of Muang Hit and Ratchadamnoen roads. On the way you will pass another handsome wooden house on the right (look for the fence posts); it is worth a peek over the fence and is far less over-the-top than Ban Prathup Jai, whose own collection of spectacular carvings stands around the garden. Admission is 40 baht, and visitors receive a small elephant souvenir.

• What is it? An enormous teak house a few kilometers outside Phrae.
• Opening hours: 08:00 - 17:00 daily.
• Entrance fee: 40 baht.
• Address: 59 Moo 13, Tambon Pramadt.
• Where: about 5km west of Phrae on Highway 1023, the road to Long.

Take a trishaw, songthaew or rented motorbike from Phrae town center. Phrae is a 30-minute drive from Den Chai, from where trains run to Bangkok in about seven hours.