The lake covers an area of approximately 12.8 square kilometers, formed by damming the Ing River.
Wat Tilok Aram is a historic 500-year-old temple that was submerged when the lake was created in 1939.
The lake serves as a significant habitat for over 20 species of freshwater fish, making it a primary local food source.
A stone statue of the Buddha is enshrined at the submerged temple site, which is reached by a small wooden boat.
Every year during the Visakha Bucha, Asahna Bucha, and Makha Bucha festivals, locals hold a unique candlelit boat procession around the submerged temple.
Phayao Lake, locally known as Kwan Phayao, is the largest freshwater lake in Northern Thailand. It serves as a vital economic and ecological hub for the surrounding Phayao province, supporting a significant inland fishery. The lake was artificially created in 1939 by the Department of Fisheries to improve irrigation and water management for local agriculture. A submerged temple ruin, Wat Tilok Aram, lies in the center of the lake and becomes visible or accessible via boat during certain water level conditions. The shoreline features a bustling promenade with public parks, outdoor exercise areas, and numerous small-scale vendors. It acts as a primary center for community recreation and religious gatherings during major Thai festivals.
The lakeside promenade overlooking the water with the mountain silhouette in the background.
Rent a small traditional wooden long-tail boat from the pier to visit the submerged temple island.
Visit the promenade in the late afternoon to join locals for evening exercise and enjoy street food snacks.
Bring binoculars if you are interested in observing local birdlife attracted to the wetland ecosystem.
Feeding the fish bread or processed foods, which disrupts the delicate lake ecosystem.
Dress modestly when visiting the temple island; cover shoulders and knees.
