I've never made a secret on this blog of how much I love Lampang – neither years ago during my first visit nor on subsequent trips. For Lampang and me, it was love at first sight.

Phayao, on the other hand, is a relatively new discovery for me. I enjoyed it much more than expected, and I would love to return. At the same time, however, it lacks the diversity and richness of Lampang. Or perhaps those are the wrong words.

I'll find the right ones later; I don't want to be hasty now. After all, our discussion about Phayao vs. Lampang has only just begun.

Why I left the beaten path of Northern Thailand even further

Whether comparing Phayao and Lampang, or more generally, I detest the term "off the beaten track"—I only use it because people search for it and find my website that way. As true as that may be, it's equally true that hardly any other province in Thailand lives up to this description as much as Phayao.

Why did I do this? Well, although I loved Lampang and still do, the fact is that with each passing year (not least thanks to my reporting on the city), more and more foreigners are discovering Lampang. I want to continue delving deeper into rural northern Thailand, both for my own enrichment and to offer new inspiration to travelers who are just as curious and open-minded as I am.

Comparisons between Phayao and Lampang

Arrival from Bangkok

Lampang is significantly easier to reach from Bangkok. You can take one of the two or three daily direct flights from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Lampang Airport (LPT), or fly to Chiang Mai and then make the approximately 90-minute overland journey. Conversely, the only realistic way to reach Phayao from Bangkok is to fly to Chiang Mai (CNX) and then drive for at least 100 minutes – this should be your primary route, not just a backup.

locomotion

If you're choosing between Phayao and Lampang solely based on their city centers, Lampang is easier to explore – almost all the main attractions are within walking distance. Many sights in Phayao are also within walking distance, but in this less touristy city, the destinations on the outskirts (which you absolutely need a car to reach) make a bigger difference overall. Even so, I would probably recommend renting a car for both places.

Activities

I suggest this, in part, because my favorite attractions in Lampang are on the outskirts of the city—the “sky temples” Wat Chalermprakiat and Wat Phra That Doi Phra Chan. Although these places have a similar effect, they are actually on opposite sides of the city. Beyond Phayao Lake in central Phayao, I love the nearby attractions Wat Nantaram and Phu Sang Waterfall, both located to the northeast.

Hotels and restaurants

Comparing Lampang and Phayao in this respect, Lampang once again emerges as the clear winner. Nowhere in Phayao (and frankly, in very few other places in all of Thailand) will you find anything comparable to the Riverside Guest House in Lampang. However, the family who runs Baan Ma Grood (literally: Kaffir Lime House) in Phayao is extremely friendly, generous, and incredibly hospitable.

Day trips and excursions

As I almost gave it away, Lampang is reachable on day trips from its two heavenly temples (as well as the more famous Wat Phra That Lampang Luang); there are also temples and waterfalls in the center of Phayao. In other words, both cities offer numerous options for onward travel: from Lampang to Chiang Mai, Lamphun, and of course Phayao; from Phayao to Chiang Rai and Nan.

Lampang easily defeats Phayao, but…

Lampang is probably the better choice for most travelers, for two main reasons. Firstly, Lampang is simply easier to reach logistically. It's less than 90 minutes from both Chiang Mai city center and the airport, making a day trip quite feasible. This alone makes Lampang more attractive than Phayao, and the variety of activities there is truly impressive.

Nevertheless, and even considering that the center of Lampang can be explored entirely on foot, the decision between Lampang and Phayao isn't entirely straightforward, especially if traveling by car. What Phayao lacks in comfort and spectacular sights, it makes up for in its secluded atmosphere. You encounter far fewer other foreigners than in Lampang; the Thais you do meet are completely open-minded and genuinely happy to chat.

More FAQs about Phayao and Lampang

Which is better, Lampang or Phayao?

Choose Lampang if a destination off the beaten track is your top priority, but still easily accessible from a popular tourist destination like Chiang Mai. Phayao, on the other hand, is the better choice if logistics are less of a concern and you primarily want to experience an unspoiled and authentic destination.

How do I get from Lampang to Phayao?

Compared to other destinations in Northern Thailand, getting from Lampang to Phayao (or vice versa) is quick and easy. The fastest way is by car, but there are also regular direct buses that cover the distance in under three hours.

How many days do I need in Lampang and Phayao?

Lampang and Phayao are relatively close to each other, whether you travel by bus or car. However, getting around between the two provinces can be very time-consuming if you don't have your own vehicle. Therefore, the time required varies: 3-5 days, split between the two provinces, is ideal with your own car; however, you should plan for about a week if you rely on ride-sharing.

Conclusion

I've always made my position clear in the Lampang-Phayao debate, even in the title of this article. At the same time, I don't want you to think that my love for Lampang means I'm disparaging Phayao. Unless you're pressed for time or certain you'll never return, I highly recommend visiting these two fascinating places in northern Thailand at least once in your life. And I'd love to hear your thoughts if you happen to have the time to comment. Alternatively, you could entrust me with planning your Thailand trip and rely on my judgment instead of trying to make a decision yourself.