“A peaceful roadside arboretum known for its beautiful rows of tall pine trees that resemble European forests, perfect for walking and photography, along with a small open zoo and diverse plant collections in a shady natural setting.”
Thung Kwian Arboretum, also known as Suan Pa Thung Kwian, is a large green area located along the Lampang–Chiang Mai highway. Managed by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, the arboretum was established as a conservation site for valuable plant species and as a public recreational area for both locals and travelers.
The park is beautifully landscaped with a peaceful atmosphere, and its most iconic feature is the long rows of tall pine trees that line the pathways. These pine forests create a cool and scenic environment that many visitors say resembles forests in Europe, making it a popular location for photography, portrait shoots, and relaxing walks.
Inside the arboretum, visitors can explore a wide variety of plant collections, including colorful ornamental plants, flowering plants, palm species, cacti, and various herbal plants. The area also serves as an educational site where visitors can learn about plant diversity and conservation.
Another interesting attraction within the park is a small open zoo, where visitors can observe animals at close range such as barking deer, deer, hog deer, and peacocks. It is especially enjoyable for families and children who want to experience nature and wildlife in a peaceful environment. The park also offers rare plant species for sale, allowing visitors to bring home ornamental plants or unique species.
The arboretum is also suitable for camping and outdoor relaxation, particularly during the cool season when the weather is pleasant. One of the most beautiful periods to visit is around November, when wild Mexican sunflowers (Bua Tong) bloom in the area. Due to Lampang’s basin-like geography, the flowers here usually bloom about 10–15 days earlier than those at Doi Mae U-Kho in Mae Hong Son.
Throughout the year, the park also hosts activities and events such as the Thung Kwian Mountain Bike event in October and the “Dok Mai Ban Wan Phop Chang” Flower Festival held every December, adding vibrant seasonal attractions for visitors.
Located right next to Kad Thung Kwian Market, one of Lampang’s famous local markets, many travelers stop by to buy food or local products before relaxing in the cool shade of the arboretum. This makes Thung Kwian Arboretum an ideal rest stop and nature attraction for travelers journeying between Lampang and Chiang Mai.
How to Get There
- Private car: Drive along Highway No. 11 (Lampang–Chiang Mai Road). If coming from Lampang, the arboretum will be on the right side of the road (U-turn required). If coming from Chiang Mai, it will be on the left side before entering Mueang Lampang District.
Travel Tips
-
The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when sunlight shines beautifully through the pine trees.
-
You can buy local food from Kad Thung Kwian Market and enjoy a picnic inside the park.
-
The area is ideal for stretching your legs and relaxing during long road trips.
-
If planning to camp, check regulations and camping areas with park staff beforehand.
-
Please help keep the park clean and protect the natural environment.
Admission Fee:
- Free admission
Opening Hours:
- Open daily: 08:30 – 17:30 PM