This important market town is picturesquely located in a long, thin valley surrounded by mountains. The town is composed mainly of twostory teak buildings, typical of Northern Thailand, and has quiet back streets shaded by teak trees. Many hill-tribe villagers who live in the area, especially Lisu and Akha, come to trade at its market. Wiang Pa Pao’s main tourist attraction is Wat Si Suthawat, to the east of the main road through town. This spacious old temple, with distinctive, curled nagas flanking the sweeping staircase that leads up to the main wihan, is surrounded by teak trees.