Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden

The first international standard botanical garden in Thailand, the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden, located in Mae Rim outside of the city of Chiang Mai, features beautifully manicured grounds combined with a collection of greenhouse gardens as well. Attached to the complex is the Botanic Resort which offers accommodation and meeting facilities. Here, guests can explore the rich and varied Thai flora including a number of rare and endangered Thai plants. Part of the garden’s appeal is its secluded location. In the foothills of Doi Suthep and Doi Pui mountains, the garden is set in a stunning area and surrounded by jungles. While out of town, it’s still surprisingly simple and straightforward to get to. To complete the day trip, try exploring the surrounding area either before or after your stop at the garden – there are a number of other gardens and eating places to explore, like Mon Cham, and the botanical garden is on the same road as the Samoeng Loop, a popular circular drive that takes you back into town. There is an admission fee to visit the garden as well as a vehicle fee for buses and cars.