“An award-winning agro-tourism site featuring a breathtaking natural tunnel formed by hundreds of sugar palms and live demonstrations of traditional palm sugar production.”
Uncle Thanom's Sugar Palm Garden is a living agricultural tourism destination dedicated to the conservation of sugar palm trees, a traditional economic crop and an important symbol of Phetchaburi Province. Covering an area of more than 10 rai (approximately 4 acres), the garden is home to over 400 neatly planted palm trees. Founded and carefully maintained by Mr. Thanom Poon-ngern, the garden was established as a learning center to pass on local wisdom and help future generations recognize the value of cultural heritage that has been preserved for centuries.
One of the most distinctive and eye-catching features of the garden is the Palm Tree Tunnel, where rows of sugar palms stretch straight into the distance, creating a rare and serene landscape seldom found elsewhere in Thailand. The tunnel offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for leisurely walks, photography, and quiet relaxation surrounded by nature.
Beyond its visual appeal, the garden provides visitors with hands-on learning experiences in traditional palm sugar production. Guests can observe every step of the process, from climbing the palm trees to collect fresh sap from the flower stalks, to slowly simmering the sap in traditional lotus-leaf-shaped pans until it becomes fragrant solid palm sugar. This process reflects generations of inherited local wisdom and craftsmanship.
Visitors can also enjoy interactive activities such as tasting fresh palm sap directly from the tree, known for its naturally refreshing sweetness, and watching live demonstrations of palm tapping by skilled local farmers. The garden remains cool and comfortable throughout the day thanks to the shade provided by palm leaves, making it an ideal place to stroll while listening to stories about the deep-rooted relationship between local communities and the sugar palm—a tree valued for its ability to be fully utilized without waste.
For photographers and content creators, Uncle Thanom Palm Garden is a must-visit destination. The silhouettes of palm crowns against the sky and soft sunlight filtering through the leaves create stunning depth and composition for both portrait and landscape photography. Couples and families also enjoy participating in shared activities such as trying palm sugar simmering or selecting high-quality palm-based products as souvenirs, all emphasizing freshness and authentic local craftsmanship.
More than just an agricultural garden, Uncle Thanom Palm Garden preserves the living spirit, lifestyle, and cultural identity of Phetchaburi. Visitors are warmly invited to experience the hospitality of the local community and savor the pure, natural sweetness that will leave a lasting impression and deepen their appreciation for the Thai way of life.
How to Get There
Private Car:
- From Phetkasem Road, turn into Ban Lat District and follow the signs toward Tham Rong. The garden is well-signposted along the route.
Local Transport:
- Motorized tricycles or songthaews can be hired from Phetchaburi city center to take you directly to the plantation.
Travel Tips
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The best time to visit is during the morning (08:00 – 10:00) or late afternoon (15:30 – 17:00) to enjoy the best lighting and cooler temperatures.
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It is advisable to apply insect repellent or wear long sleeves as the garden environment can have mosquitoes.
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To capture the "tunnel effect" in photos, use a telephoto lens to compress the rows of trees for a more dramatic look.
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Don't miss out on trying "Luk Tan Sot" (fresh palm fruit) and pure palm sugar—the taste is far superior to commercial versions found in general markets.
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If visiting as a large group, it is recommended to call ahead to ensure you can witness the live sugar-simmering demonstration.
Admission Fee
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Local Visitors: Adult Free (Donations or purchasing local products are encouraged), Child Free
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Foreign Visitors: Adult Free, Child Free
Opening Hours:
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Open Daily: 08:00 – 17:00
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Special Note: Palm climbing and sugar simmering demonstrations usually occur in the morning hours.