Visit Doi Tung (Chiang Rai)
Presentation
Doi Tung is another mountain in Chiang Rai Province. At its summit is the Mae Fah Luang Garden, a beautiful floral park and a royal villa, the Phra Tamnak Doi Tung. There are 5 top attractions there with an entrance fee for each or a global ticket (except the Tree Top Walk always apart). I went to see only the two main attractions: the floral garden and the royal villa. Mae Fah Luang Garden is located on land that was originally an Akha village which was formerly a major road for opium traffic. At the request of the Doi Tung development project, the villagers agreed to relocate to a new site 500 meters away with expansive land, running water, electricity and a paved road. The flower garden was designed according to the wish of Princess Mother (the mother of King Rama 9), to give Thais who have never traveled abroad the opportunity to enjoy a garden of temperate flowers. Bloomming all year long, it is probably at its maximum beauty during the months of December and January. Note that there is also a long Tree Top Walk, which may be fun to do.
The Royal Villa was also built according to the wishes of H.R.H Princess Srinakarindra, Princess Mother,
on its own funds. A subtle mix between Swiss wooden chalet architecture (she lived for years with his sons in Switzerland), and the Lanna style typical of this part of Thailand. The Royal Villa is open to the public who can visit it with an audio guide. A very interesting tour to learn more about the recent history of Thailand and Royalty.
Practical information about Doi Tung
Entrance for Mae Fah Luang Floral Garden: 90 THBTree Top Walk Entrance: 150 THB
The Royal Villa is open daily from 7:00 to 17:30 (90 THB entrance)
The summit of Doi Tung is about 45 kilometers from Chiang Rai. It is recommended to have your own transportation to get there (or take a tour agency) otherwise you can contact the Doi Tung Travel Company at 053 667 422 and see with them. Note that there is also a resort at the top, the Doi Tung Lodge for those who want to spend the night and a restaurant and a self (40 THB for a dish with rice).
Find Doi Tung on the map
