Top reasons to visit Phayao
- Scenic Lakes: Phayao is renowned for its stunning lakes, particularly the serene Phayao Lake and tranquil Kwan Phayao Lake, perfect for relaxation and picturesque views.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy unique activities such as trekking along scenic trails and bamboo rafting, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Cultural Heritage: Explore rich cultural sites like Wat Si Khom Kham, offering insights into local traditions and history.
- Vibrant Walking Street: Stroll through Phayao Walking Street, filled with shops and local delicacies, perfect for leisurely exploration.
- Charming Accommodation: Choose from a variety of lodgings, from modern hotels to cosy guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in Phayao
Experience the charm of Phayao with a variety of accommodation options tailored to suit every traveller. From the modern amenities of Win Hotel Phayao to the cosy atmosphere of local guesthouses like Phuthong Place, you'll find the perfect retreat. Enjoy pet-friendly options and nature-themed stays while ensuring a comfortable experience with private bathrooms and essential business services. Embrace the beauty of Phayao as you unwind in a welcoming environment.
- Phayao Gateway Hotel: Positioned in the heart of Phayao, the 3.5-star Phayao Gateway Hotel caters predominantly to business travellers seeking a comfortable and efficient stay. With a commendable guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, this hotel features modern amenities including well-equipped meeting rooms, high-speed internet access, and a business centre. Its strategic location allows easy access to local attractions and business hubs, making it an ideal choice for those balancing work with leisure. Guests appreciate the hotel’s professional service and inviting atmosphere, ensuring a productive yet relaxing stay.
- Phuglong Hotel: Embracing a nature-themed experience, the 3-star Phuglong Hotel boasts a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This accommodation focuses on harmonising with its natural surroundings, offering outdoor amenities such as private balconies where guests can enjoy the serene views of lush landscapes. Ideal for nature lovers and wellness enthusiasts, the hotel promotes a peaceful retreat that combines relaxation with outdoor activities. The tranquil setting and thoughtful design create a soothing atmosphere, appealing to those looking to reconnect with nature while enjoying comfortable lodging.
- Naga Tara Resort: With an impressive guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, the 3-star Naga Tara Resort stands out as a haven for adventure and relaxation in Phayao. Offering a variety of dining options and recreational activities, including hiking and biking nearby, this resort invites guests to indulge in both culinary delights and outdoor pursuits. The presence of entertainment amenities such as billiards and smart TVs adds to the enjoyment of your stay. Situated near picturesque lakes, the resort provides stunning views and a peaceful ambiance, ideal for those seeking both excitement and tranquillity.
Where to stay in and around Phayao
Phayao, a charming city in northern Thailand, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and romantic scenery. Visitors can unwind by the serene Phayao Lake, explore the rich cultural heritage at Wat Si Khom Kham, or enjoy excursions to nearby attractions like Doi Phu Nang National Park. With its picturesque landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, Phayao is the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway infused with cultural experiences.
- Dok Khamtai: Located a mere 8km from Phayao, Dok Khamtai is a charming city that offers a balanced blend of nature and education. With a moderate influx of visitors, especially in September and the months of November to December, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking a romantic escape or scenic outdoor adventures. The area is renowned for its picturesque lake and proximity to a modern college university, providing a unique backdrop for leisurely strolls and educational experiences. Whether you're looking to unwind or explore, Dok Khamtai's inviting atmosphere is sure to enchant.
- Ban Tom: Nestled in the heart of Phayao Province, Ban Tom is a quaint village that captures the essence of rural Thai life. Visitor numbers peak between December and February, making it a popular destination for couples and nature enthusiasts alike. The village is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including serene lakes and lush green scenery, perfect for outdoor activities. Ban Tom also features educational venues that cater to curious minds. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this village, where scenic beauty meets a warm community spirit.
- Tha Wang Thong: Tha Wang Thong is another delightful village in the vicinity of Phayao, attracting travellers with its stunning scenery and romantic atmosphere. Like its neighbours, it sees a surge in visitors during the cooler months from December to February. The village is not only picturesque but also rich in culture, with landmarks such as a striking monument and a modern college university nearby. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities while soaking in the captivating views. Tha Wang Thong promises a unique blend of education and natural beauty, making it an enriching stop on your journey.
Things to do in Phayao
Shopping
In Phayao, you can visit local markets like Phayao Walking Street for unique souvenirs and handicrafts. If you're up for a drive, head to Central Plaza Chiang Rai, about 69km away, for a wider selection of shops and dining options.
Recreation
Phu Sang National Park offers tranquil surroundings with hot springs and lush forests, ideal for relaxation and nature walks. Nearby, the serene Wat Analayo features stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for meditation and reflection amidst beautiful landscapes.
Adventure
Explore Phayao Lake for kayaking and paddleboarding while enjoying scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, trek through the nearby Phu Sang National Park, where you can discover stunning waterfalls and lush flora, perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking a bit of excitement.
Nightlife
Experience Phayao's vibrant nightlife at the lively Riverside Bar, where you can sip cocktails with stunning lake views. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the local night market, offering an array of delicious street food and unique souvenirs to explore after sunset.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Phayao
To save money on your trip to Phayao, consider visiting in the cheapest months of January, March, or July, when prices are lower. Book your hotel at least a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Stay on a Saturday for the best rates, and use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and location. Consider combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings for added savings. Also, explore free activities in the area to help keep costs down.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Phayao are January, March and July, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to September and December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Phayao is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Phayao is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Phayao is Monday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you identify the most affordable hotels right away. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservations in Phayao with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Phayao
Phayao is an enchanting destination perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways, offering stunning scenery and rich cultural experiences. Key attractions include the serene Phayao Lake, the vibrant Phayao Walking Street, and the tranquil Kwan Phayao Lake. This charming province caters to travellers seeking a blend of culture, nature, and leisurely strolls in urban parks, making it an ideal spot for a memorable holiday.
- Anal Yothiparam Temple: Discover the serene atmosphere of Anal Yothiparam Temple, a spiritual haven nestled in Phayao. This temple showcases intricate architecture and offers a glimpse into local culture, making it a tranquil spot for reflection and appreciation of Thai traditions.
- Wat Li: Experience the cultural richness of Wat Li, another beautiful temple in Phayao. With its stunning design and peaceful surroundings, it provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the spiritual heritage of the region, inviting quiet contemplation and exploration.
- Phayao Lake: Enjoy the natural beauty of Phayao Lake, renowned for its picturesque scenery and outdoor activities. The tranquil waters and surrounding landscapes create a romantic setting, ideal for leisurely strolls or simply soaking in the serene environment.
Best time to go to Phayao
The best time to visit Phayao can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Phayao falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Phayao falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Phayao
Reaching Phayao, Thailand, is convenient via three major airports. Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) is situated 87km away, with excellent hotels such as The Riverie by Katathani and Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, both offering various transportation options to the airport. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), located 108km from Phayao, features luxurious hotels like Shangri-La Chiang Mai and Melia Chiang Mai, providing shuttle services. Finally, Nan Airport (NNT) is 101km away, with nearby accommodations like Nantrungjai Boutique Hotel and Nan Seasons Boutique Resort, both easily accessible from the airport. Each airport presents a range of facilities to ensure a smooth arrival.