Solo Female Travel in Phayao

Phayao is a serene and beautiful province located in the north of Thailand, lavishly adorned with natural attractions. This charming lakeside town is flanked by the scenic Phayao Lake, known locally as Kwan Phayao, which is notably one of the largest semi-natural freshwater lakes in the country. Phayao’s appeal is in its simplicity; offering a slower-paced life, it's known for its enchanting landscapes, from verdant hills to picturesque valleys. The province is also rich in historical significance, featuring age-old temples such as the Wat Si Khom Kham and the Wat Analyo Thipayaram, displaying the incredible workmanship of ancient times. The evening 'Walking Street' is a lively array of local food, handicrafts, and live performances, embodying the friendliness and warmth of the local community.

Travel rating

4.1 /5

Based on our research

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Is Phayao good for solo travel?

Safety:Very safe

Phayao is generally a safe destination for solo female travelers. The locals are friendly, helpful, and respectful towards tourists, including women. There are not many instances of serious crime reported in the area. However, as with any travel, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding deserted areas late at night and always keeping an eye on your belongings.

Transport:Easy

Phayao is not extremely crowded making getting around relatively easy. There are various methods of transport including traditional tuk-tuks, motorcycles, and bicycles which you could rent. While it's not a common tourist destination, English isn't widely spoken, but people are quite friendly and willing to help. It's quite peaceful and a good place to relax, with the local transport enhancing the vibe.

Things to do:Interesting

Phayao offers a substantial range of activities that warrant good exploration. The city provides a beautiful mix of nature and history. The major attraction is the serene Phayao Lake where one can enjoy boating and savor delicious local cuisine at the waterfront restaurants. It is surrounded by stunning mountains which are great for hiking. Interesting historical sites include the Analyo Thipayaram Temple which features an open museum of Buddha statues and the Wat Si Khom Kham, the biggest temple in Phayao. Kwan Phayao - Non-hunting area is a wildlife haven. It's noteworthy that the city is less crowded compared to more popular Thai destinations, offering a peaceful environment to explore at your own pace.

Food:Above average

The food in Phayao is quite impressive. Local dishes showcase diversity of flavors that are unique to Thailand. Seafood is abundant and usually fresh due to the town's proximity to the lake. Street food is prevalent and offers a myriad of choices for every palate. Different Thai curries, fried rice, and noodle dishes are must-try. However, the variety may slightly fall short when compared to larger cities in Thailand. Nevertheless, the fresh, fragrant, flavorful cuisine ensures a delightful culinary journey.

Budget:Affordable

Phayao is fairly budget-friendly, offering a range of options for accommodations, food, and activities that cater to different budgets. Staying in guesthouses or budget hotels can be incredibly affordable. Local markets and street food present an inexpensive way of enjoying authentic Thai cuisine. Public transportation and renting bikes or motorbikes is also quite economical. However, certain attractions or activities may have an entrance fee or take a bit of negotiation to get a good price, which is why it's not rated as a perfect 5.