Phayao

Things to see and do

Kwan Phayao

Kwan (Lake) Phayao covers around 17 square kilometres and was formed by the construction of a dam by Thailand's Fisheries Department in 1941. Prior to the dam's construction the area was filled by a number of smaller lakes and swamps, with their levels changing seasonally with the rains. Today ... read more
Wat Sri Khom Kham

Although best known for its impressive 17-metre sitting Buddha, what really turns heads at Wat Sri Khom Kham is the scuplture garden within the temple's grounds. Sometimes called the Heaven Hell Park, the somewhat dilapidated sculpture garden sits just north of the temple entrance and contains a ... read more
Wat Analayo

Set on a ridge outside Phayao proper, Wat Analayo is a must-see if you have your own transport. The eclectic mix of religious architecture and iconography rambles across a fascinating area stretching out along a hilltop ridge. White rabbits, large mandalas, towering seated Buddhas and stretching ... read more
Wat Tilokaram

In the middle of the lake, Wat Tilokaram offers a novel experience and an excellent opportunity to get out onto Kwan Phayao for some pictures. The small platform and shrine in the lake was supposedly built to commemorate and replace a sunken wat of the same name established many years ago. The ... read more
Wat Phra That Chom Thong

This pleasant hilltop temple is set at the centre of a grove and can be reached by either a long staircase or a winding road. Although you'd expect the views to be great, the grove blocks most of them, with the exception of the vista back down the stairway. According to information on site, the ... read more
Phayao Cultural Exhibition Hall

This very interesting two-storey museum has a vast collection of items related to Phayao's history, archaeology and sociology. Particularly intriguing is a section giving information on prominent Phayaoians (living and dead) and why they are important to the locals. Well-designed with English ... read more
King Ngam Muang Monument

Born in 1238, Ngam Muang was schooled in Lopburi and returned to take over his father's role as ruler of Phayao in 1258. Eighteen years later, when expansionist King Mangrai marched on Phayao from Chiang Rai, King Ngam Muang went out and met him. Rather than fighting, the two struck a deal making ... read more
Champatong Waterfall

Located about 20 kilometres northwest of town, this waterfall provides a perfect opportunity to get out of the city and into the jungle. Champatong waterfall can be found in the mountainous area west of Phayao city, and is surrounded by small trails and forest scenery. The waterfall has five ... read more