“A large botanical garden in Chiang Mai featuring the Canopy Walkway, giant glasshouses, and scenic rainforest nature trails.”
Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden (Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden) is located amidst the lush natural landscapes of Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai. It is the first botanical garden in Thailand developed to international standards, covering more than 3,500 rai. The garden preserves and showcases a wide variety of Thai and international plant species, beautifully arranged according to ecological and geographical classifications, making it an ideal destination for relaxation, nature study, and botanical education.
The garden is managed by the Botanical Garden Organization under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. It plays an important role in plant conservation, botanical research, and environmental education for both the public and academic communities. The area houses collections of tropical plants, rare species, and endemic Thai flora, making it one of Northern Thailand’s most important natural learning centers.
The most famous attraction is the Canopy Walkway, a treetop skywalk rising over 20 meters above the forest floor and considered one of the longest canopy walkways in Thailand. Visitors can enjoy panoramic rainforest views while experiencing the excitement of walking across transparent glass sections along the pathway. The walkway also offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and lush forest scenery.
The Canopy Walkway was designed as an educational trail through the montane rainforest ecosystem. Along the route, visitors can observe epiphytes, mosses, ferns, and wild orchids naturally growing among the treetops. During the rainy and cool seasons, the forest becomes especially vibrant, often covered with light mist and refreshing mountain air, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for photography and nature lovers.
Another major highlight is the Glasshouse Complex, a modern group of climate-controlled greenhouses divided into several themed zones. These include the Rainforest Glasshouse with its artificial waterfall and tropical vegetation, the desert house featuring diverse cactus and succulent collections, orchid houses, and lotus displays. Each greenhouse is carefully designed to simulate different climate conditions, allowing plants from various ecosystems around the world to thrive.
Inside the Rainforest Glasshouse, visitors can experience the atmosphere of a tropical jungle with towering trees, vines, ferns, and fine mist from cascading waterfalls. Meanwhile, the desert greenhouse showcases cacti and drought-resistant plants from different continents, displayed alongside educational botanical information suitable for both children and adults.
The garden also features various nature study trails, ranging from short family-friendly paths to longer trekking routes for those wanting to explore the forest more deeply. Visitors can discover native plant species, giant fern groves, scenic viewpoints, streams, and the peaceful Mae Sa Noi Waterfall flowing through the botanical garden.
Another interesting attraction is the Natural Science Museum, which presents exhibitions on biology, geology, ecosystems, and environmental science through modern multimedia displays. It offers an engaging learning experience, especially for children and young visitors interested in nature and conservation.
Within the grounds, visitors will also find royal commemorative gardens and seasonal flower zones, where colorful temperate flowers bloom beautifully during the cooler months. These landscaped gardens provide excellent spots for relaxing walks and photography throughout the year.
For photography enthusiasts, the garden is considered one of Chiang Mai’s top nature photography destinations. Popular photo spots include the treetop walkway, modern greenhouse architecture, shaded forest trails, and panoramic mountain views. Morning hours, when soft sunlight and mist fill the area, are especially ideal for capturing stunning images.
In addition, the botanical garden provides visitor facilities including restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, and tourist service centers. Guests can relax comfortably while enjoying refreshments and browsing nature-related products, books, and local souvenirs.
During certain times of the year, the garden hosts flower festivals, botanical exhibitions, and environmental activities, such as tree-planting workshops, educational programs for children, and guided ecosystem walks. These activities help promote eco-tourism and environmental awareness among visitors.
The best time to visit is during the cool season and late rainy season (October–February) when the weather is cool and pleasant, skies are clear, and light morning mist enhances the scenery. During the rainy season, the forest becomes especially green and vibrant, making it ideal for enjoying tropical plants and lush landscapes.
With its peaceful atmosphere, cool climate, and countless scenic viewpoints, Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden remains one of Chiang Mai’s most popular nature attractions, suitable for families, couples, students, photographers, and anyone seeking a relaxing escape into nature.
How to Get There
- From Chiang Mai city, take Highway 107 (Chiang Mai–Fang Road) toward Mae Rim District. Then turn left onto Highway 1096 (Mae Rim–Samoeng Road). Continue past Mae Sa Waterfall for about 2 kilometers, and the entrance to the botanical garden will be on the left side.
Travel Tips
- Driving a private car is highly recommended due to the large area inside the garden
- Visit the Canopy Walkway first before exploring the Glasshouse Complex
- Allow at least 2–3 hours to fully explore the main attractions
- Bring a hat, umbrella, or sunscreen for outdoor walking areas
- Early morning offers the coolest weather and best lighting for photography
Admission Fee:
Thai Visitors
- Adults: 40 THB
- Children: 20 THB
Foreign Visitors
- Adults: 100 THB
- Children: 50 THB
Private Vehicle Entrance Fee
- 100 THB per car
Senior citizens aged 60+ and people with disabilities enter free
Opening Hours:
- Open daily from 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM