The Land of Plateaus, National Parks, and Wildflower Fields of Isan
Chaiyaphum Province is a geographically diverse and naturally rich province located in Western Northeastern Thailand (Isan). Known for its vast plateaus, dramatic cliffs, expansive national parks, and famous wildflower (Dok Krachiao) fields, Chaiyaphum acts as a natural bridge between Central Thailand and Isan.
🏛️ Formation & Historical Background
Chaiyaphum has a long history connected to migration, frontier settlement, and national defense.
Key Historical Timeline
| Year/Period | Major Event |
|---|---|
| Ancient era | Early Mon–Khmer and Lao settlements |
| Late 18th century | Founded by Phraya Lae (Chao Phaya Phakdi Chumphon) |
| 1826 | Resistance during Lao rebellion (Anouvong) |
| 19th century | Integrated into Siam |
| 1933 | Established as a modern Thai province |
Phraya Lae is revered as the founding hero of Chaiyaphum.
🧭 Basic Provincial Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Chaiyaphum Province |
| Capital City | Chaiyaphum |
| Region | Northeastern Thailand (Western Isan) |
| Governor (2025) | Appointed by Ministry of Interior |
| Area | ~12,778 sq km |
| Population (2025 est.) | ~1.1 million |
| Time Zone | UTC +7 |
| Main Languages | Thai, Isan (Lao dialect) |
| ISO Code | TH-36 |
Chaiyaphum is one of Isan’s larger provinces by area.
⚖️ Government & Administration
Chaiyaphum follows Thailand’s provincial administrative framework.
| Level | Authority |
|---|---|
| Province | Governor |
| District | District Chiefs (Amphoe) |
| Local | Municipalities & Subdistrict Administrative Organizations |
The Chaiyaphum Provincial Hall coordinates administration.
🗺️ Administrative Districts of Chaiyaphum
Chaiyaphum Province consists of 16 districts (Amphoe):
Mueang Chaiyaphum
Ban Khwao
Khon San
Kaset Sombun
Nong Bua Daeng
Chatturat
Bamnet Narong
Nong Bua Rawe
Thep Sathit
Phu Khiao
Ban Thaen
Kaeng Khro
Khon Sawan
Phakdi Chumphon
Noen Sa-nga
Sap Yai
🌐 Geography & Environment
Topography: Plateaus, cliffs, forested mountains
Major Range: Phang Hoei & Phetchabun ranges
Borders: Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Phetchabun, Lopburi
Natural Highlights
Pa Hin Ngam National Park
Sai Thong National Park
Tat Ton National Park
Dok Krachiao (Siam Tulip) fields
Chaiyaphum is one of Thailand’s top eco-tourism provinces.
🏘️ Local Government Structure
Chaiyaphum City Municipality
Phu Khiao Municipality
Thep Sathit Municipality
Subdistrict Administrative Organizations (TAO/SAO)
Local governance emphasizes environmental protection and rural services.
🧩 Provincial Development & Priorities
Key development focuses include:
Eco-tourism & national parks
Sustainable agriculture
Water resource management
Rural connectivity
Cultural heritage preservation
Chaiyaphum promotes nature-based sustainable growth.
🛡️ Law Enforcement & Safety
| Agency | Function |
|---|---|
| Chaiyaphum Provincial Police | Law enforcement |
| National Park Rangers | Environmental protection |
| Disaster Response Units | Drought & flood management |
The province is generally safe and environmentally monitored.
🕊️ Religion, Language & Culture
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Major Religion | Buddhism (Theravada) |
| Cultural Identity | Isan frontier culture |
| Local Language | Isan (Lao dialect) |
| Key Figure | Phraya Lae |
Major Religious & Cultural Sites
Phraya Lae Monument
Chaiyaphum City Pillar Shrine
Local forest temples
Chaiyaphum culture reflects frontier resilience and harmony with nature.
📈 Economy & Key Sectors
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Rice, cassava, sugarcane |
| Forestry & Eco-tourism | National park tourism |
| Livestock | Cattle farming |
| Services | Local commerce |
Agriculture and eco-tourism jointly support the economy.
🎓 Education & Healthcare
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Universities | Chaiyaphum Rajabhat University |
| Major Hospitals | Chaiyaphum Hospital |
Education supports teacher training and rural development.
✈️ Transport & Infrastructure
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Roads | Regional highways |
| Rail | No direct rail |
| Nearest Airports | Khon Kaen / Nakhon Ratchasima |
Transport links connect Isan to Central Thailand.
🏞️ Tourism & Attractions
Top Attractions
Pa Hin Ngam National Park
Sai Thong National Park
Tat Ton Waterfall
Dok Krachiao flower fields
Cliff viewpoints & hiking trails
Chaiyaphum is famous for seasonal wildflower tourism.
🌍 Regional & National Role
Western gateway of Isan
National park & biodiversity zone
Eco-tourism leader
Agricultural support province
📝 Summary
Chaiyaphum Province is a land of high plateaus, wildflower fields, and protected forests. Serving as a natural bridge between Central Thailand and Isan, Chaiyaphum stands out for its environmental richness, eco-tourism leadership, and strong rural communities.
📢 News & Articles
“Dok Krachiao Bloom Season in Chaiyaphum”
“Eco-Tourism Development in Western Isan”
“National Park Conservation Efforts”
🎯 Our Mission
This profile is part of the AFP Global Knowledge Hub, delivering structured, link-ready, and authoritative provincial knowledge.