PHAYAO ATTRACTIONS
PHAYAO ATTRACTIONS The modern provincial capital of Phayao is set beside an attractive mountain-fringed lake on the banks of which are located several interest- ing sights. Accommodation and other facilities are modest, but offer simple comforts.ruled by its own kings, one of whom, King Ngam Mueang, is believed to have assisted his close friend, King Mengrai, in establishing Chiang Mai as the new capital of Lanna in the late 13th century. As with other northern principalities, the most vis- ible reminders of regal connections are the Buddhist temples ei- ther built or patronised by former rulers. The modern provincial capital of Phayao is set beside an attractive mountain-fringed lake on the banks of which are located several interesting sights. Accommodation and other facilities are modest, but offer simple comforts.
KWAN PHAYAO
This is the largest freshwater lake in the upper North, and itsstocks of fish provide a livelihood for many of the local people.The surrounding scenery, particularly at sunset, is stunning Along the shores of the lake are food shops and recreation areas.
WAT SI KHOM KHAM
The temple, located on the shore of Kwan Phayao, enshrines the largest Lanna style Buddha image, the seated statue measuring16 metres high and 14 metres across the lap. It is said that it took 33 years to complete. Celebrations are held here every yearin May.
HO WATTHANATHAM NITHAT
Situated next to Wat Si Khom exhibits relating to the history, Phayao. Native culture and traditions of Phayao.
WAT PHAR CHOM THONG
Opposite Wat Si Khom Kham and reached by a 1.5-kilometre uphill road, this attractively sited temple offers panoramic views of the lake and Phayao town.
FRESH – WATER FISHERY STATION
Located in town on Highway 1, this is the first facility in theworld to successfully breed the giant pla buek catfish. There is an aquarium displaying many species of fish and water plants.
PHO KHUN NGAM NUEANG MEMORIAL
Situated in a park beside Kwan Phayao, the memorial com-memorates the 13th century ruler of Phu Kam Yao, during whose reign the state prospered and expanded its territory. Phu Kam Yao is also famous for the alliance of harmony, loyalty and non-aggression that Pho Khun Ngam Mueang forged with King Mengrai of Chiang Mai and King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai.
WAT ANALAYO
The hilltop temple of Wat Analayo, set in an extensive tree- shaded area about 7 kilometres north of town and a further 9 kilometres along a turn to the left, is noted for its collection of religious-based sculptures by contemporary artists.
CHIANG KHAM
The district, about 74 kilometres northeast of Phayao town on Highway 1021, is home to many Thai Lue people whose ances- tors migrated from Yunnan, in southern China, some 200 years ago. Also interesting is Wat Nantaram, a Burmese-style temple constructed from teak.
WAT NATARAM
An interesting temple in Chiang Kham is Wat Nantaram, a Burmese-style site built entirely with teak. The woodwork on the windows, gables, corridors and other parts are beautifully chiseled in elaborate designs.
NAMTOK PHU SANG
Namtok Phu Sang is a scenic waterfall about 20 kilometres to the north of the district town of Chiang Kham on Highway No.1093. The surroundings are still in perfect natural condition.Phu Sang is different than other waterfalls. It is fed by a hotspring on the mountain which flows into the brook before cas- cading over the rocks.
NAMTOK CHAMPA THONG
A high waterfall in a beautiful natural setting, Champa Thong is reached by turnoff at Km. 7 along the Phayao-Chiang Rai road.
DOI PHU NAG NATIONAL PARK
This national park is 48 kilometres south of Amphoe Dok Khamtai along Highway No. 1251 and 4 kilometres along an access road. A variety of birds flock here, especially peacockswhich come to the park area for breeding from January to March. The park also has a scenic waterfall called Namtok Than Sawan. Camping in the park is possible.
BAN THAM INDIGENOUS CULTURAL CENTRE
Located about 15 kilometres from the district town of Dok Khamtai on the way to Chiang Muan district, the centre has a large collection of agricultural implements, as well as ancient artefacts.
