“A striking Thai-style pavilion on Tha Kwan Road, Phayao City Pillar Shrine is a spiritual and cultural center that locals highly respect and frequently visit for prayers throughout the year.”
Phayao City Pillar Shrine is the official city pillar of Phayao province, symbolizing the spiritual heart of the community. Originally, Phayao was a district of Chiang Rai Province before being officially elevated to provincial status on August 28, 1977. To bring auspicious energy to the city, the first shrine construction began the same year, was completed in 1987, and relocated within Wiang subdistrict.
The shrine officially opened on March 20, 1992, becoming the spiritual center of the province. Locals believe that paying respects at the shrine can enhance luck, improve fate, and ward off misfortune. Annual ceremonies, including city merit-making and shrine rituals, are held on August 28 each year.
Architecture and Art:
The shrine features a four-sided Thai-style pavilion with traditional tiled roofs and golden decorated pillars. Each cardinal direction has a symbolic meaning:
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North: Health
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South: Career
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East: Wealth and prosperity
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West: Love and relationships
Inside, visitors can make offerings and try fortune sticks (siam see) at all four directions.
Visitor Activities and Experiences:
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Making merit with offerings of flowers, incense, and candles
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Fortune-telling with Siam See sticks for guidance on various aspects of life
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Best visiting times are in the morning or evening, or during important ceremonies
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Photogenic spots are available both during the day and at night when the pavilion is beautifully illuminated
Surrounding Area and Nearby Attractions:
The shrine is surrounded by peaceful greenery, close to Wang Phayao, Wat Sri U Mongkham, and Wat Ratchakhrue, allowing visitors to explore several spiritual sites in a single day. Nearby cafes and local restaurants offer convenient places to rest and enjoy local cuisine.
How to Get There
Private Car:
- From Phayao city center, take Pratu Chai Road heading toward Tha Kwan Road. Continue 1–2 km and turn left at the main intersection onto Tha Kwan Road. The shrine is clearly visible on the left-hand side. Parking is available near Wat Sri U Mongkham or beside the shrine, with sufficient space for vehicles.
Public Transport / Taxi / Tuk-Tuk / Songthaew:
- Visitors can take local transport from the Phayao market or city center, approximately 5–10 minutes travel. The shrine is easy to locate and near major attractions such as Wat Ratchakhrue and Wang Phayao, making it convenient to continue sightseeing nearby.
Travel Tips
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Dress respectfully and follow local customs at sacred sites
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Morning or evening visits are ideal to avoid the heat
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Ask staff for guidance on offerings and rituals at each direction
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Bring or use incense and candles available at the shrine
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Best suited for visitors who enjoy cultural heritage, peaceful sites, and spiritual
Admission Fee:
- Free entry
Opening Hours:
- Daily, 06:00 – 21:00