Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden

Introducing Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, nestled on a hillside in the Mae Sa Valley waterfall area, spans 227 hectares. The garden boasts a diverse array of local and imported flowers, including species that thrive in diverse climates. The scenic beauty and elegant surroundings are rarely visited, making it a perfect place for a relaxing stroll.

The Botanical Garden is quite far from downtown Chiang Mai, so it's worth stopping by after visiting the nearby Mae Sa Elephant Camp. Renting a car and driving yourself will allow you to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. The Botanical Garden is quite large, and driving around the area costs an additional 100 baht. Motorbikes are not allowed, so exploring the area is primarily on foot.

After purchasing your ticket at the Botanical Gardens entrance, you can pick up a guide brochure at the Visitor Information Center. There are several recommended walking routes, including a stroll from the Rock Garden to the Thai Orchid Nursery, or a botanical research trail through the Arboreta to see bananas, palms, ferns, and other plants. Alternatively, you can spend one to two hours hiking the hills, enjoying the scenery and breathing in the fresh air. The Botanical Gardens also have a rose garden, a herbal museum, a research center, and other areas worth exploring.

Climate and best time to travel

Tropical monsoon climate; Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden is filled with a variety of local and imported flowers, including plants that grow in different climatic conditions, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Rose garden, herbal museum, plant greenhouse area, research center, etc.;

It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours

Tickets

40 baht/person

Attraction opening hours

8:30-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Established in 1992, Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden is Thailand's first national botanical garden. It is named after Queen Sirikit of Thailand, who has contributed significantly to the development of botany and conservation in the country. The garden showcases a variety of plant species native to Thailand and around the world, promoting research and conservation efforts for biodiversity.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden is located in Mae Rim, Chiang Mai Province, approximately 40 kilometers from Chiang Mai city center. The best way to reach the garden is by taxi, private car, or rental car. Public transportation is not readily available, so taxis or a self-driven vehicle are the most convenient options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The garden is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the cooler months of November to February, when the weather is more comfortable. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the midday heat.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for adults is around 100-200 THB, and for children, it's usually around 50-100 THB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on-site. Online ticket sales are not commonly available, but you can inquire about group discounts or special offers in advance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for individual visitors. However, for groups, booking in advance is recommended to ensure smooth entry. Generally, booking a few days ahead should suffice.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, allocate about 2-3 hours, especially if you plan to visit the main gardens and walk along the trails. If you're a photography enthusiast or enjoy learning about the plants, you may want to spend up to 4 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Some of the must-see areas in the garden include:

• Themed Gardens: Tropical and temperate plant displays showcasing various species.
• Canopy Walk: A treetop bridge offering a unique vantage point of the garden.
• The Orchid Garden: Home to a diverse collection of orchids.
• The Cactus Garden: Featuring a variety of succulents and cacti.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Thai and English. Audio guides may also be available at the entrance, though it's best to check availability on-site. It’s recommended to arrange for a guide in advance if you want more in-depth explanations.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are along the Canopy Walk, where you can capture the surrounding forest from above. The Orchid Garden also provides great opportunities for close-up plant photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance and visit the main garden areas: the Tropical Garden, Temperate Garden, and Orchid Garden. Afterward, head towards the Canopy Walk for a bird's-eye view of the garden and the surrounding forest. Finish your visit with a walk through the Cactus Garden before leaving.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not currently available at Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden. It is primarily a daytime attraction.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The garden is relatively peaceful during weekdays, especially in the early mornings. Weekends and public holidays can get crowded, especially during the cooler months (November-February). Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for a quieter experience.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities include toilets, water fountains, rest areas, and a small café. There is also a gift shop selling souvenirs and local handicrafts. It’s a good idea to bring water and snacks if you plan on spending a lot of time exploring the gardens.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The garden is accessible for most visitors, with paved paths and rest areas. However, the Canopy Walk and some trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It’s best to inquire about accessibility when you arrive if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the entrance and for on-site purchases. Mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay may be available at the gift shop, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Inside the garden, there is a small café serving drinks and snacks. For a wider variety, visit Mae Rim town, which has several local restaurants offering Thai cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available at the café inside the garden, and there are several vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in Mae Rim. Halal food options are available in Mae Rim as well.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses in Mae Rim, ranging from budget to mid-range options. For luxury stays, you can consider resorts such as the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, which is nearby.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Elephant Nature Park, the Mae Sa Waterfall, and the Chiang Mai Zoo. All of these can be easily combined into a day trip with the botanic garden.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The garden has a gift shop selling local handicrafts, botanical-themed items, and souvenirs like postcards, books, and garden tools.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, taxis or rental cars are the most convenient way to continue your trip. Mae Rim also has several local tour operators that offer transportation and guided tours to nearby attractions.