Phayao Province
Phayao (Thai พะเยา) is one of the northern provinces (changwat) of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are (from east clockwise) Nan, Phrae, Lampang and Chiang Rai. In the north-east it borders Laos.
Geography
The city of Phayao is located at the Kwan Phayao lake, surrounded by three big mountains, the Doi Luang (1697m), Doi Khun Mae Fat (1550m) and Doi Khun Mae Tam (1330m).
History
After Phayao was founded in 1096 it was a small city-state kingdom. In the 13th century it gained enough importance to be equal partner of King Mengrai of Lannathai and the Sukhothai kingdom. However a later king of Lannathai captured Phayao in 1338, and made it part of Lannathai. During the Burmese rulership of Lannathai the city became deserted, and in 1897 became part of the province Chiang Rai. Becoming effective on August 28, 1977 it was split off from Chiang Rai again, and became a province of its own.
Symbols
Administrative divisions
The province is subdivided in 7 districts (Amphoe) and 2 minor districts (King Amphoe). These are further subdivided into 68 communes (tambon) and 632 villages (mubaan).
External linksProvince page from the Tourist Authority of ThailandGolden Jubilee Network province guide
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