Phayao

Phayao (, ; Northern Thai: ) is one of Thailand's seventy-seven provinces (changwat) lies in upper northern Thailand. Neighboring provinces are (from east clockwise) Nan, Phrae, Lampang, and Chiang Rai. In the northeast it borders Xaignabouli of Laos. Geography The Phi Pan Nam Range runs across the province from north to south. The city of Phayao is on Phayao Lake (Kwan Phayao) in the valley of the Ing River. Three big mountains surround the valley, the Doi Luang (1,694 m), Doi Khun Mae Fat (1,550 m) and Doi Khun Mae Tam (1,330 m). The total forest area is or 51.4 percent of provincial area. National parks There are a total of five national parks, four of which are in region 15 (Chiang Rai) and Tham Sakoen in region 13 (Phrae) of Thailand's protected areas. Doi Luang National Park, Doi Phu Nang National Park, Mae Puem National Park, Phu Sang National Park, Tham Sakoen National Park, Wildlife sanctuaries There are two wildlife sanctuaries in region 15 (Chiang Rai) of Thailand's protected areas. Doi Pha Chang Wildlife Sanctuary, Wiang Lo Wildlife Sanctuary,