Phayao is one of the northern provinces of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are (from east clockwise) Nan, Phrae, Lampang and Chiang Rai. In the north-east it borders Xaignabouli of Laos.
The city of Phayao is located at the Phayao lake (Kwan Phayao) in the valley of the Ing River. Three big mountains surround the valley, the Doi Luang (1697m), Doi Khun Mae Fat (1550m) and Doi Khun Mae Tam (1330m).