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Welcome to Phayao
Source: Tourism Authority of Thailand
General
Virtually enveloped by mountains and valleys, Phayao is a peaceful province. Though with only modest facilities and conveniences, it is an enchanting community with delightful natural beauty and fascinating religious sites. Dating back to more than 900 years, it used to be an independent state with its own rulers before it became a part of the Lanna Thai kingdom in mid-14th century.
Phayao is about 691 kilometres from Bangkok and covers an area of 6,335 square kilometres. Administrative, it is divided into the following districts: Muang, Chun, Chiang Kham, Chiang Muan, Dok Khamtai, Pong, Mae Chai, Phu Sang, and Phu Kam Yao.
Attractions
Ho Watanatham Nithat
Next to Wat Si Koam Kam is Ho Watanatham Nithat . The indigenous museum deals with the history and ancient relics of Phayao, including native culture and traditions and creativity. Open Wednesday-Sunday from nine in the morning to four in the afternoon.
Kwan Phayao
An extensively fresh-water lake, Kwan Phayao is the largest fresh-water fish habitat in the upper North which provides the livelihood of many of the local people. The surrounding scenery, particularly at dusk, is stunning. Along the banks are located food-shops and recreation sites.
Nam Tok Champa Thong
Nam Tok Champa Thong is a beautiful and tall waterfall amid natural surroundings. It can be reached by taking the Phayao - Chiang Rai route. After reaching Km. 7, take a turn and proceed on for a further 16 kilometres.
Phayao Fresh-water Fishery Station
The Phayao Fresh-water Fishery Station, on Highway No. 1 in town, is the first facility in the world to successfully breed Pla Buk, the giant catfish. There is an aquarium displaying many species of fish and waterplants. Open during official working hours.
Pho Khun Ngam Muang Memorial
The Pho Khun Ngam Muang Memorial , located in the public park on the bank of Kwan Phayao, commemorates a former king of Phayao, or Phu Kam Yao, who was in power some 700 years ago. During his reign, the state prospered and expanded its territory. As a close ally of King Mengrai, the ruler of Chiang Rai, and King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai, they formed an alliance of harmony, loyalty and non-aggression.
Wat Analyo
About 7 kilometres north of town on Highway No.1 and further 9 kilometres after a left turn is a hilltop temple, Wat Analyo . Covering an extensive area, cool and shady under leafy canopies of large trees it features building and sculptures of religion-based characters by contemporary craftsmen of great skill. From here an expansive view of Kwan Phayao, the fields and the town is visible.
Wat Phra That Chomthong
Wat Phra That Chomthong , just opposite Wat Si Khom Kham, can be reached by the 1.5-kilometre-long uphill road. Surrounded by an arboretum, the temple offers a panoramic view of the town and the lake.
Wat Si Khom Kham
Wat Si Khom Kham is a temple located on the bank of Kwan Phayao. It houses the largest Buddha statue of Lanna Thai, Phra Chao Ton Luang, a sitting Buddha with a lap width of 14 meters and height of 16 meters. It is said that it took no less than 33 years to complete it. Celebrations are held every May.
Wat Si Umong Kham
The Chiang Saen-style Chedi at Wat Si Umong Kham is still in good condition. The Lanna-style Buddha statue, Phra Chao Lan Tu , is regarded as the most beautiful anywhere.
Transportation
Bus
Bus companies which operate daily bus services from Bangkok’s Mochit 2 Bus Terminal to Phayao are such as Transport Co. Ltd Tel: 0 2936 2852-66; Siam First Tour, Tel: 0 2954 3601, Sombat Tour, Tel: 0 2936 2495.
Car
From Bangkok, take Highway No. 32 and Highway No. 1 to Phayao via Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, Nakhon Sawan, Tak and Lampang, a total distance of 966 kilometres. For an alternative route, take Highway No. 1 to Amphoe Tak Fa via Saraburi, Lop Buri before turning into Highway No. 11 to Phrae via Phichit, Phitsanulok, Uttaradit, and then proceed to Phayao along Highways No. 101, No. 103 and No. 1.
Train
Visitors can take a regular train from Bangkok to Lampang or Chiang Mai, then connect a bus to Phayao. Call 1690 for more information.
Air
Visitors can fly from Bangkok to Chiang Rai and then connect a bus to Phayao. Contact Thai Airways at Tel: 1566 for more information.
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