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

Plan at least half a day for this visit and don't try to explore everything on foot. Royal Park Rajapruek was the site of the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek Expo, held from November 2006 to January 2007 to celebrate King Bhumibol's 60th Jubilee and 80th birthday, and again in 2011 and 2012. What remains is a vast botanical park in Mae Hia, about 10 to 15 km southwest of the old city, encompassing Thai gardens, international gardens from over 30 countries, and corporate gardens.

At the center is Ho Kham Luang, a royal pavilion in the traditional Lanna style, built by over 60 artisans from northern China for Expo 2006. It serves more as a ceremonial building than a photo opportunity; therefore, cover your shoulders and knees before entering. Other highlights include the Tropical Rainforest Dome, the Flower House, the Desert Plant Garden, and the Garden of the New Theory of Agriculture. Lunch is available at the Royal Project kitchen.

Foreign adults pay 200 baht and children between 100 and 140 cm tall pay 150 baht, while Thai visitors pay 100 and 70 baht respectively. Children under 100 cm tall enter free of charge. The park is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with last entry around 5:00 p.m. according to current guidebooks. The open-air tram is free. I recommend riding the entire circuit first and then getting off at your desired stops. A bicycle costs 60 baht per day and a golf cart with a driver costs 1,000 baht per hour. This makes the park suitable for anyone who doesn't want to walk long distances in the heat.

There is no direct songthaew service, so you will need a Grab or a taxi. The journey from the Old City takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and parking is free. The Chiang Mai Night Safari is right next door, so it's a good idea to explore the gardens in the afternoon and take the safari train in the evening.