Doi Tung is another mountain in Chiang Rai province. At its summit are the Mae Fah Luang Garden, a beautiful flower park, and the Phra Tamnak Doi Tung Royal Villa. There are five main attractions, each requiring an entrance fee or a combination ticket (except for the treetop walkway, which can always be purchased separately). I only visited the two main attractions: the flower garden and the royal villa. The Mae Fah Luang Garden is located on the site of a former Akha village, which was once an important opium trade route. At the request of the Doi Tung Development Project, the villagers agreed to relocate to a new area 500 meters away, with ample land, running water, electricity, and a paved road. The flower garden was created at the request of the Princess Mother (the mother of King Rama IX) to give Thais who had never been abroad the opportunity to enjoy a garden featuring flowers from temperate climates. It blooms year-round, but likely reaches its peak beauty in December and January. Note that there is also a long treetop walkway, which is a worthwhile experience. The Royal Villa was built at the request of Her Royal Highness Princess Srinakarindra, the Princess Mother, using her own funds. It harmoniously blends Swiss wooden chalet architecture (she lived in Switzerland for many years with her sons) with the Lanna style typical of this region of Thailand. The Royal Villa is open to the public and can be visited with an audio guide. It's a very interesting tour to learn more about the recent history of Thailand and the royal family.

Entrance to the Mae Fah Luang Flower Garden: 90 THB, entrance to the treetop walkway: 150 THB. The Royal Villa is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM (entrance: 90 THB). Note that there is also a resort, the Doi Tung Lodge, for those wishing to stay overnight, as well as a restaurant and a self-service restaurant (40 THB for a dish with rice).

The summit of Doi Tung is about 45 kilometers from Chiang Rai. It is recommended to travel there by private vehicle (or book a tour). Alternatively, you can contact the Doi Tung Travel Company at 053 667 422 for more information.

How to get there

How do you get to Doi Tung? The summit of Doi Tung is about 45 kilometers from Chiang Rai. It is recommended to travel by private vehicle (or book a tour). Alternatively, you can contact the Doi Tung Travel Company at 053 667 422 for information.