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.
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.
Namtok 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.
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.
The Pho Khun
Ngam Mueang 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.
About 7
kilometres north of town on Highway No.1 and further 9
kilometres after a left turn is a hilltop temple, Wat Ananlayo.
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, 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 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.
The Chiang
Saen-style Chedi at Wat Si Umong Kham is still in good
condition. The Lanna-style Buddha statue, Phra Chao Lan Tue, is
regarded as the most beautiful anywhere.
