[3] Chaiyaphum lies on the Khorat plateau at 185 metres (607 ft) elevation.

The land in the immediate vicinity of the city is flat, but the Phetchabun Mountains rise to the west.

The monsoon season is from late April to October, with heavy rain and somewhat cooler temperatures during the day, although nights remain warm.

Route 201 begins in Chum Phae, and runs past Chaiyaphum (without actually entering the town) to Mittraphap near Sikhio.

Route 202 leads east to Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, and the border with Laos at Khemarat.