Doi Pui Research Station  under the Faculty of Agriculture, Kasetsart University, has a long history dating back to 1962. It was established with support from the Rockefeller Foundation as one of the first highland cold-climate horticultural experimental stations in Thailand. Its primary objective during the early years was to research new economic crops to replace opium cultivation and shifting cultivation practiced by the highland ethnic groups. This served as a crucial foundation that revitalized the Doi Pui forest into a creative agricultural area and an essential learning center for highland crops to this day.

The highlight that attracts travelers during the winter season is the Nang Phaya Suea Krong, or Thai Sakura, which blooms and turns the entire valley into a striking shade of pink. Typically, these flowers bloom from mid-January to late January (subject to change based on weather conditions). The specialty of this location is that the Himalayan Cherry trees are planted alongside agricultural research plots, creating a landscape that looks both natural and orderly. Popular photography spots include the roadsides and the area surrounding the research guest houses, where the flower-laden branches gracefully lean down toward visitors. Since this location has fewer tourists than other sites, you can fully immerse yourself in the pink atmosphere with peace and quiet.

In addition to the beautiful flowers, this site is the Kingdom of Lychee. Doi Pui Research Station houses one of the largest collections of lychee varieties in Thailand. International varieties were experimentally introduced and improved until they became the primary parent stock distributed throughout Northern Thailand. Inside the station, visitors can see experimental plots for various sub-tropical and cold-climate crops such as Arabica coffee, persimmons, peaches, plums, and strawberries, as well as rare highland flowers grown for academic study. Visiting here is not just for relaxation but is an opportunity to witness actual plant research processes in an environment over 1,500 meters above sea level.

The overall atmosphere of the Doi Pui Research Station is solemn and lush, surrounded by evergreen mountain forests. The air remains cool year-round, even during the day. In the morning, a light sea of mist often blankets the coffee plantations and hillsides, creating a lasting impression for eco-nature lovers. This place serves as a model for the harmonious coexistence between research work and nature conservation, reflecting the dedication of the researchers who have worked on these highlands for decades.

For photographers and nature enthusiasts, Doi Pui Research Station is a perfect Natural Studio. The soft morning sunlight filtering through the Himalayan Cherry branches and cold-climate crop plots offers a unique perspective full of stories. If you are looking for a place that combines agricultural history, tranquility, and the world-class beauty of highland flowers, Doi Pui Research Station is an unmissable destination for your Chiang Mai trip.

Red Songthaew (shared taxi):

• Hire or use public transport from Chiang Mai Zoo or the parking area at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Motorcycle/Private Car:

• Drive along Siwachet Road (Highway 1004) past Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Phuping Palace to reach the station.

• Best time to visit: Winter (November - January), when cold-climate flowers are in full bloom

• Nearby attractions: Phuping Palace and Doi Pui Hmong village

• Etiquette: Since this is a research area, plucking or bending the flower branches and crops is strictly prohibited. Please strictly maintain cleanliness.

Admission Fee:

• Free to enter (parking may have a fee)

Opening Hours:

• Generally 09:00 – 16:30 (check with the station before visiting)