Phayao

Things to see and do

Kwan Phayao

Kwan (Lake) Phayao covers between 17 and 18 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 whose levels changed 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. Described as 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 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 what they mean 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