Nestled between the borders of Laos and neighboring provinces of Chiang Rai, Nan, and Lampang, Phayao is one of northern Thailand’s rarely-visited gems. It is the kind of place that is truly charming with natural wonders and easy-going lifestyles.

Phayao

The province mainly lies in a valley surrounded by mystical mountain ranges and flaunts a beautiful serene lake at the edge of the city.

Having spent two lovely nights in Phayao, I thought to share some of my experiences that you may consider as a mini travel guide.

Here’s what you can do in Phayao.

Hang around Phayao Lake

Known to be the largest freshwater lake in northern Thailand and fourth-largest in the country, Phayao Lake is simply a sight to behold.

Other than being a part of the history of this province, the lake has also become a massive social and cultural hub for locals and travelers.

After spending just a few hours here, it was clear that this lake is the heart and soul of Phayao.

On one side of the lake, the streets are dotted with markets, vendors, hotels, restaurants, bars, historical monuments, and tourist attractions.

You will also find locals fishing, exercising, socializing, and even partaking in water sports such as kayaking and paddle boarding. To book your excursions, contact We Pa Pai.

On the other side of the lake, while I did not explore it, I could see there were more scenic viewpoints, charming fishing villages, and other natural wonders.

The lake also holds the remains of Wat Tilok Aram. Yes, a temple is right in the middle of the lake!

The temple is over 500 years old and only part of emerges above the water. The rest is submerged underwater. That is astonishing!

Here is more info and how you can get to the temple.

Phayao Lake is definitely an amazing place to hang out at any time of the day or night.

A trip to Magic Mountain Café

Perched upon a mountain in Pong District, a little over 100 km from the lakeside town of Phayao is a popular cafe and viewpoint that locals and tourists often visit.

You can see why right? It boasts some incredible views of the valley below with mountains in the distance. The rock formation in the middle of the valley in particular is quite unique and interesting.

Not only is the view worth the visit, but the drive there is also quite lovely. The scenic view of route 1148 is especially impressive. Sadly, on the day of our visit, the cafe was closed. Luckily, Route 1148 Cafe right across from it was open. We had some snacks and coffee here.

If you can, take the slight detour to Phu Langka Forest Park for more views. You can even hike up further but you need a lot more time for this. We neither had the time or energy.

Where to eat?

Phayao city has a lot of restaurants, especially on the Chai Kwan (lake-side) road. Although there is not a lot of western options here, you will find way too many Thai restaurants along the road.

From restaurants and pubs to street vendors, you will find everything from everyday Thai staples found in Bangkok to more local delicacies.

Meal at Saeng Chan Restaurant

Some of the top restaurants here are So Good, D Day, Saeng Chan Restaurant, and The Lake Cafe – Coffee & Restaurant.

If you want to escape the large restaurant vibe, there are smaller vendors that can be found in the nooks and cranny (smaller roads) from Chai Kwan road.

  • khao soy phayao

One in particular is Khao Soi Sang Pean where you can get a generous serving of delicious broth of Khao Soi with beef or chicken.

Related post: foodie northern trip

There is also a couple of night markets spread across town. There is one by the lake, located close to the health garden park. Another market is on Nguammoung Road near the skate park. Finally, you can find fresh food, vegetables and fruit at Maneerat market, located at the northern end of the lake.

Quaint nightlife

Phayao does not have a nightlife, unlike Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai but that does not mean there is nothing to do at night. Almost all the restaurants (mostly around the lake) are open till 12 or 1 am and serve beers, cocktails and Thai spirits.

Thais will frequent these restaurant and pubs in the late evening to eat and drink. Some of the lively and popular venues are Slum Bar, Feel comfortable (สบายอารมณ์), Meeting Point Phayao, Saeng Chan Restaurant, Rama 8, and So Good. These are decent places to chill with your friends.

There are plenty other smaller drinking holes worth checking out too. Just drive up and down the road along the lake and you will come across a “bar” that may interest you.

Where to stay in Phayao

Unlike Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, Phayao doesn’t have an endless range of accommodations. However, there are plenty of guesthouses, apartments, and luxury hotels available in town and the outskirts. Just try to avoid the holidays as it might get a little difficult finding a place to stay. Thais love to visit Phayao on long weekends and holidays.

We stayed at the Nagatara Resort, located at the northern end of Phayao Lake. It turned out to be the best choice for many reasons. Location-wise, it is close to town but also recluse enough for some privacy and tranquility.

The rooms are also quite spacious and comfortable with quick access to a shared swimming pool.

  • Naga Tara Phayao

Another exciting thing about Nagatara is that the lake view is exceptionally scenic. There is also a garden and over-the-water walkway, making perfect backdrops for photography during sunrise and sunsets.

Phayao has certainly left a heartwarming memory and is now one of my favorite underrated Thai destinations alongside Nan, Chanthaburi, and Chumphon.

Have you been or plan to go (after COVID is over)?