“Famous for wide terraced highland vegetable fields stretching endlessly, cool weather all year round, a highland agricultural learning center, and a location connected to Mon Jam viewpoint”
Nong Hoi Royal Project Development Center (Nong Hoi Royal Project Development Center) was established in 1984 under the royal initiative of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great (Rama IX) to promote alternative agriculture and replace opium cultivation and shifting cultivation practiced by the Hmong hill tribe people
This area originally started as an “experimental highland crop cultivation area”, and later developed into a full-scale agricultural learning center covering research, livelihood promotion, and eco-tourism, focusing on sustainable agriculture and natural resource conservation
Today, it has become one of the key destinations along the Mon Jam route, with the highlight being terraced vegetable fields designed along natural mountain slopes to reduce soil erosion and create beautiful layered green landscapes. Crops grown throughout the year include lettuce, baby bok choy, purple cabbage, and artichoke
In addition, there are highland mushroom houses, demonstration orchards such as plum, peach, and Royal Project strawberries, as well as herb plots including rosemary, thyme, and chamomile, used for research and product development
Another important charm is the lifestyle of the Hmong ethnic community, which still preserves its traditional identity in clothing, language, and culture. Visitors can experience a real local community atmosphere surrounded by layered mountain scenery, making this place a complete destination for agriculture, culture, and nature tourism
How to Get There
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Private car / motorcycle: From Chiang Mai city, take Highway 107 to Mae Rim District, then continue onto Highway 1096 (Mae Rim–Samoeng). At around kilometer 15, there is a sign to turn right toward Mon Jam and Nong Hoi Royal Project. The road is steep and has many sharp curves, so drive carefully
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Public transport: You can hire a red songthaew or a van from Chiang Mai city (such as Warorot Market or Chang Phueak Bus Terminal) to go directly to the area
Travel Tips
- Golden period: October–January is the best time to see lush green vegetable fields and possibly morning sea of mist
- Support local products: Fresh seasonal products such as strawberries and avocados, as well as Hmong handicrafts are sold along the way
- Try Royal Project food: The restaurant inside the center uses fresh ingredients from the research plots to create healthy dishes with mountain views
- Go early morning: Best lighting, cool weather, and fewer tourists
- Bring warm clothes: The weather is cold all year round, especially in the early morning and winter season
Admission Fee:
- Free (charges may apply for food, products, and community activities)
Opening Hours:
- 08:00–17:00 daily (surrounding outdoor areas can be visited from around 06:00)