An impressive teak house set a short walk north of the river that bisects Lampang, Baan Sao Nak is more than 100 years old -- it was constructed during the reign of King Rama V -- and demonstrates both northern Thai and Burmese influences in its design. Ban Sao Nak means "house of many pillars", which seems like a fair label for the place given the roof is supported by some 116 teak columns a throwback to Lampang's rich teak harvesting past.
This is easily one of the primary attractions of downtown Lampang both to look at from outside, but also to browse the interiors, antiques and furniture. Look out for the lacquerware and ceramics in particular, while outside there is a rice barn and a cute buggy along with a collection of other displays around the lawn grounds.
Ban Sao Nak (the house of many pillars) was built in 1895 by Mong Chan Ong Chandraviroj as a resident. The house was designed in a combination of northern Thai and Burmese architectures. The verandah around the house shows a distinct Burmese architecture, while thhe roofs and general structures are typical Lanna Thai. The wonder of the house is that it is supported by 116 teak pillars. In front of the house stand a huge 133 years old Sarapee (Ochocarpus siamensis) tree. Ban Sao Nak has become one of the tourist attraction in Lampang. Antiques collections are shown together with a souvenir shop selling handicraft products. At this house special arrangement can be made for the traditional Kantoke Dinner. The place is sometime used for wedding ceremony where faciliities and dresses are fully arranged. an Sao Nak is located at No 6, Rat Wattana Road, Wiang Nuea Sub-district, Mueang District, Lampang. It is the very house that has a substantial number of wood pillars, which amounts to 116 from which its name 'Ban Sao Nak' is derived. As per a northern dialect, the word 'nak' means many or a lot. It was built in 1895 by Lady Chan Ong (Tontrakul Chantaraviroj) in Burmese-Lanna style. It comprises a grand Thai stilt house, or Ruen Thai in Thai, the inside of which consists of minor stilt houses which are, staggeringly, composed of 116 teakwood pillars that create a stable and consistent frame. At the front stands a formidable 133-year-old butter tree belonging to the Clusiaceae family. Ban Sao Nak was formerly used for accommodating and entertaining distinguished guests, as well as high-ranking aristocrats and state officials. Furthermore, it was used for holding traditional Khantoke dinner and other auspicious events. It is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. The fee is 30 baht including beverages. Monks, children and students are free of charge.