Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

Come for the gardens and consider everything else a bonus. This is the winter residence of the royal family in the hills above Chiang Mai. Open to the public are the grounds, a large rose garden, greenhouses full of rare Thai plants, and a water reservoir with unusual ventilation systems. The palace buildings themselves are often closed, and many interior areas are permanently off-limits. Those expecting a palace tour will be disappointed. However, those who enjoy leisurely strolls through well-maintained gardens can easily spend a few hours here.

The altitude is a real advantage. Up here it's noticeably cooler than in the city, making the long walks between the different areas much more pleasant than in the lowlands. It's usually quiet on weekday afternoons. Entry costs 50 baht for adults, and as at any royal site, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is expected.