Tour Program

Day 1: Lake Vibes and Historical Icons

8:00 AM – Pick-Up and Kickoff
We’ll scoop you up from your Phayao hotel or a central meeting point. Your guide will give a quick rundown of the next three days as we head to Kwan Phayao, the province’s massive freshwater lake, just a short drive away.

8:30 AM – Boat to Wat Tilok Aram
We start with a 20-minute boat ride to Wat Tilok Aram, a 15th-century temple half-sunk in Kwan Phayao. The chedi juts out of the water, and if levels are low, you might see old brick walls. It’s eerie and beautiful, with mountains in the background. Your guide will share how the lake swallowed the temple and why locals still revere it. Perfect for photos or just soaking in the quiet.

Fun Fact: Fishermen pray here for good hauls, believing the temple’s spirit protects the lake.

10:30 AM – Pho Khun Ngam Muang Monument
Back on shore, we visit the Pho Khun Ngam Muang Monument, a statue of a 13th-century Phayao king known for his fair rule. Set in a shady park by the lake, it’s a quick stop but rich with history. Your guide will spill stories about his life and Phayao’s golden age. The lake views here are a bonus—great for a quick snap.

12:00 PM – Lakeside Lunch
We’ll hit a local restaurant by Kwan Phayao for a spread of Northern Thai dishes—think grilled tilapia (fresh from the lake), spicy som tam (papaya salad), and sticky rice. Eat with a view of the water, maybe spotting boats or birds. Veggie or vegan? Let us know when booking.

2:00 PM – Lakefront Chill and Check-In
After lunch, we’ll take a short stroll along Kwan Phayao’s promenade, lined with trees and small stalls. You’ll have some free time to grab a coconut ice cream or just relax by the water. Then we’ll check into a cozy guesthouse in Phayao town. Dinner’s at a nearby spot, serving up khao soi (curry noodles) and mango sticky rice. If you’re up for it, wander Phayao’s night market for snacks or souvenirs.

Day 2: Forest Temples and Cliff Hikes

7:00 AM – Breakfast and Departure
Start with a simple breakfast at the guesthouse—rice porridge, eggs, and Thai coffee. Then we’re off for a day of nature and spirituality, driving about an hour to Wat Analayo Thipphayaram.

8:30 AM – Wat Analayo Thipphayaram
This forest temple is pure magic, tucked in the hills with golden Buddhas, colorful pagodas, and quirky statues scattered through the trees. It’s like a spiritual art garden. You’ll wander the grounds, checking out meditation huts and intricate shrines. Your guide will explain the temple’s peaceful vibe and its role as a monk retreat. Keep an eye out for wild peacocks—they love this place.

11:30 AM – Lunch in the Countryside
We’ll stop at a village eatery for lunch, digging into sai ua (herb sausage), nam prik ong (tomato-chili dip), and fresh veggies. It’s a shady spot with a breeze, perfect for recharging after the temple. Dietary restrictions? Just tell us ahead.

1:00 PM – Hike to Ship’s Prow Cliff (Bo Sip Song)
Get ready for a highlight: a hike to the Ship’s Prow Cliff at Bo Sip Song. The trail’s about 2-3 km round trip, with some uphill but nothing too intense—moderate fitness works. At the top, you’ll get jaw-dropping 360-degree views of Phayao’s forests and mountains. The cliff’s shaped like a boat’s bow, hence the name. Your guide will share local myths, maybe about spirits guarding the rocks. Bring your camera—this is a stunner.

4:00 PM – Back to Phayao
We’ll drive back to the guesthouse for a second night. Dinner’s at another local spot, maybe with grilled pork and green curry. Crash early or hit the lakefront for a quiet evening stroll.

Day 3: Pa-O Culture and Village Life

7:00 AM – Breakfast and Off to Chiang Kham
Fuel up with breakfast—think toast, fruit, and rice soup—then drive about an hour to Chiang Kham for a dose of Pa-O culture.

8:30 AM – Wat Nantaram
Wat Nantaram is a Pa-O temple with a vibe all its own. Think teak wood carvings, red-and-gold details, and a massive seated Buddha, blending Burmese and Shan styles. The Pa-O are an ethnic minority with deep roots here, and your guide will share their story. Check out the small museum with Pa-O artifacts, and if there’s a ceremony, you might see locals in colorful traditional clothes.

Cool Tidbit: The temple’s a community hub, and some of its carvings date back over 100 years.

11:00 AM – Ban Dok Bua Village
Next, we head to Ban Dok Bua, a traditional village where life’s slow and authentic. You’ll walk through rice fields and wooden houses, guided by a local host (with your guide translating). Learn how villagers farm, weave, and keep old traditions alive. You’ll try a mini craft activity, like folding a bamboo leaf into a toy—simple but fun. It’s a 1.5-hour visit that feels like stepping into a different world.

1:00 PM – Final Lunch
We’ll wrap up with lunch at a local spot near Ban Dok Bua, serving home-cooked dishes like chicken curry, stir-fried veggies, and fresh fruit. It’s a relaxed meal, with time to swap stories and reflect on the tour.

2:30 PM – Return to Phayao
We’ll drive back to Phayao town, dropping you at your hotel or meeting point by 3:30 PM. You’ll have the afternoon free—maybe chill by Kwan Phayao or grab a coffee at a local cafe.