Price: $250 per person
Duration: 2 days, 1 night
Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather and clear skies. April-May can be hot, and rainy season (June-September) might make some temple paths slippery.
Group Size: Small, up to 8 people to keep it intimate and easy to explore.
What’s Included: Transport, English-speaking guide, 1 night in a comfy Phayao guesthouse (shared twin rooms), 2 lunches, 1 breakfast, 1 dinner, and all entrance fees.
What to Bring: Light scarf or shawl for temple etiquette, comfy walking shoes, bug spray, water bottle, and a small backpack for day trips.
About Phayao’s Spiritual Side
Phayao, in Northern Thailand, is a quiet province with a deep spiritual pulse. Its temples aren’t just buildings—they’re woven into the land’s history, from ancient Lanna kingdoms to ethnic Pa-O traditions. This 2-day tour dives into Phayao’s sacred spots, mixing serene forest shrines, hilltop views, and crumbling ruins that whisper stories of the past. You’ll get a real feel for the region’s soul, with enough time to soak it all in and enjoy local flavors along the way.
Tour Program
Day 1: Forest Temples and Hilltop Serenity
7:30 AM – Pick-Up and Kick-Off
We’ll scoop you up from your Phayao hotel or a central meeting point. Your guide, probably a local who loves sharing temple tales, will give a quick intro about Phayao’s spiritual history as we head out in a cozy van.
8:30 AM – Wat Analayo Thipphayaram
First stop: Wat Analayo Thipphayaram, a jaw-dropping forest temple tucked in the hills. This place is like something out of a dream—golden Buddhas, colorful pagodas, and statues scattered through lush greenery. You’ll wander the grounds, checking out quirky monk statues and serene meditation spots. The temple’s still active, so you might see monks chanting or locals offering flowers.
Neat Tidbit: The temple’s name means “peaceful mind,” and you’ll totally get why when you’re there.
12:00 PM – Lunch in the Countryside
We’ll stop at a nearby eatery for a spread of NorthernThai dishes—think khao soi (curry noodles), larb (spicy minced meat salad), and fresh veggies with chili dip. It’s a chance to refuel and chat about the morning’s sights. Veggie or vegan? Just let us know ahead.
2:00 PM – Wat Phra That Chom Thong
Next, we climb (by van, don’t worry!) to Wat Phra That Chom Thong, perched on a hill with killer views of Phayao’s lake and mountains. This Lanna-style temple has a gleaming white chedi and a vibe that’s pure calm. Your guide will point out the intricate carvings and tell you about the temple’s history, tied to ancient Phayao kings. Take your time snapping pics—the panorama’s worth it.
4:30 PM – Check-In and Evening
We’ll head to a cozy guesthouse in Phayao town for check-in. You’ll have some downtime to freshen up before dinner at a local spot, serving up classics like grilled pork and sticky rice. After, feel free to stroll Phayao’s night market or just chill at the guesthouse.
Day 2: Pa-O Culture and Ancient Ruins
7:00 AM – Breakfast and Departure
Start the day with a simple Thai breakfast—rice porridge, boiled eggs, and coffee or tea—at the guesthouse. Then we’re off to Chiang Kham, about an hour’s drive, for a deep dive into Phayao’s diversity.
8:30 AM – Wat Nantaram
Welcome to Wat Nantaram, a Pa-O temple in Chiang Kham that’s totally unique. Unlike Thai temples, this one’s got Burmese and Shan influences—think teak wood carvings, red-and-gold details, and a massive seated Buddha. The Pa-O are an ethnic group with their own traditions, and your guide will explain their story while you explore. You might catch locals in colorful traditional clothes if there’s a ceremony.
Cool Fact: The temple doubles as a community hub, with a small museum of Pa-O artifacts inside.
11:30 AM – Lunch in Chiang Kham
We’ll grab lunch at a local joint, likely serving up khanom jeen (rice noodles with curry) and fresh fruit for dessert. It’s a laid-back spot where you can watch daily life in Chiang Kham unfold—kids on bikes, vendors chatting, the works.
1:00 PM – Phra That Bunnak Ruins
Last stop: the Phra That Bunnak ruins, an ancient site that’s more mysterious than flashy. These crumbling brick structures date back centuries, tied to Phayao’s early Buddhist days. There’s not much left, but the quiet setting and scattered relics give it a haunting charm. Your guide will share theories about what the site once was—maybe a monastery or a royal shrine.
Pro Tip: Look for tiny pottery shards in the dirt (don’t take them, though!). They’re clues to the past.
3:30 PM – Return to Phayao
We’ll drive back to Phayao town, dropping you at your hotel or the meeting point by 4:30 PM. If you’re staying longer, ask your guide for tips on Phayao’s best sunset spots or hidden cafes.
Temple Etiquette: Cover shoulders and knees at temples. A light scarf works if your outfit’s casual. Shoes off before entering main halls—socks might save your feet on hot tiles!
Fun Fact: Wat Analayo’s forest is home to wild peacocks. Keep an eye out, but don’t chase ‘em.
What’s Not Included: Extra drinks, snacks, or souvenirs. Bring about 200-300 baht ($6-9) for small buys.
Heads-Up: Some paths at Phra That Bunnak are uneven, so watch your step. Not great for folks with mobility issues.
Why This Tour Rocks: It’s a mix of stunning temples, cultural quirks, and off-the-beaten-path history. You’ll leave with stories most tourists never hear.
