Located on the Khwan Phayao (lake), the ancient town of Phayao has a long history and much charm. Several good restaurants line the road along the lake front and the Phayao Cultural and Exhibition hall (Wed-Sun 09:00-16:00. 20 Bt.) attached to Wat Sri Khom Kham (Wat Phrachao Ton Luang) with its bilingual information is one of the best small museums in Thailand. The temple itself is famous for its large seated Buddha image.

From Phayao go south on H1 to H120, or via Wat Analayo (see ST14). H120 climbs to a pass where there is a rest stop with a good view over Phayao (after 20 kms.). After the pass the route drops down to the small district town of Wang Nua. A second low pass takes the road into the valley of the Mae Nam Lao River and Mae Kachan.

At Mae Khachan you may turn south to return to Chiang Mai on H118, or turn right (north) to take a much longer alternative return route via Phrao on H1150 (4WD only in the rainy season).

DAY 5: SIDE TRIPS

ST15 Wat Analayo (approx 14 kms.)

Follow the narrow road north around the lake (Wat Analayo is signposted left 1 km north of the junction of the old route for H1 from the town centre and the bypass). Turn left at the intersection with H1193 for Wat Analayo (or go straight for 9 kms. to the Khun Tom Falls. The road past the falls leads to a viewpoint in the uplands). Grassy groves atop low hills and elegant wooden halls with an interesting variety of Buddha give the temple an atmosphere of a Buddhist resort.

You may return by going south on H1193 and then heading for H120 without returning to Phrao. Mae Khachan to Chiang Mai (all routes). The intersection of H118 and H120 (from Phayao) at Mae Khachan Key Point 19. The intersection of H118 and H11 (Chiang Mai -Lampang Superhighway) South from Key Point 17, H118 is a fast return route to Chiang Mai.

You can stop off at the Bo Nam Ron Hot Springs (KM.64) and enjoy a meal (Wiang Doi Restaurant). Side Trip 16. Ban Huai Muang and Trekker's Lodge (H118. KM. 63. east turn. 9 kms.).

ST15 Ban Huai Muang and Trekker's Lodge

Trekker's Lodge serves as a good starting point to explore the upland valley and Lahu villages. Side Trip 17. KM.16 right [east] turn through market to Wat Doi Saket (1 km.). The main hall contains some of the most remarkable murals in the country.

Overview

• Day 1 Chiang Mai-Thaton (173 kms)
• Day 2 Thaton - Mae Salong - Mae Sai - The Golden Triangle (Ban Sop Ruak) (140 kms.)
• Day 3 The Golden Triangle - Chiang Saen - Chiang Khong (53 kms.)
• Day 4 Chiang Khong - Doi Pha Tang - Phayao (220 kms.)
• Day 5 Phayao - Chiang Mai (162 kms.)
• Accommodation