Kaen Makrut, or Kaen Makrut Subdistrict, is a distinctive ecotourism and cultural destination located in the highland area at the border between Uthai Thani and Kanchanaburi provinces, near the Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary. The mountainous and rugged terrain gives the area a landscape and atmosphere that clearly differ from lowland regions. Due to its elevation, the climate remains cool throughout the year, with particularly cold conditions during winter when temperatures may drop to single digits. This makes Kaen Makrut a popular destination for travelers seeking cool weather and a northern-style atmosphere without having to travel far.

One of Kaen Makrut’s key highlights is its large winter flower fields, developed through an integrated model project aimed at addressing issues related to illicit crop cultivation and forest encroachment. The area features a variety of winter flowers, including lilies, tulips, Christmas flowers, and chrysanthemums. These flowers are carefully arranged in colorful patterns across the highland terrain, creating a vibrant and lively landscape. The site also offers symbolic photo spots, such as statues of the Seven Great Wildlife Species of Huai Kha Khaeng and traditional hill tribe house replicas scattered throughout the gardens and flower plots, enhancing the educational and experiential value of the visit.

Beyond its natural beauty, Kaen Makrut provides visitors with opportunities to experience the way of life of the Pwo Karen people, the indigenous community that has long inhabited the area. The community is well known for practicing integrated agriculture based on royal initiatives, alongside sustainable forest and natural resource conservation. Their lifestyle reflects a close relationship between people and nature. Traditional customs and cultural heritage remain strongly preserved, from colorful handwoven clothing to simple dwellings designed in harmony with the surrounding environment. As a result, the community atmosphere feels peaceful, warm, and welcoming.

For photographers and nature lovers, Kaen Makrut is especially enchanting in the early morning, when white mist gently drifts over mountain peaks, strawberry fields, and surrounding farmland. This scenery creates a tranquil and inspiring experience for visitors. Soft sunlight in the morning or late afternoon casts beautiful light over cabbage terraces and flower fields arranged along the hillsides, further enhancing the area’s scenic charm. The destination is also suitable for family trips, offering opportunities for children to learn about natural resource conservation and the balanced coexistence between humans and forests.

Kaen Makrut is therefore a land where rich natural environments blend harmoniously with highland cultural lifestyles. Visiting this area offers not only the experience of cool weather and colorful winter flowers, but also a sense of peace, simplicity, and the genuine charm of a community that lives closely with nature.

By Private Car:

• From Ban Rai district center, take Highway 3011 (Ban Rai–Phu Bon). Drive uphill for approximately 21 km. The road is steep and winding in some sections, but accessible by all types of vehicles.

By Public Transport:

• Take a van from Bangkok to Ban Rai. From the district center, hire a local songthaew or private vehicle to take you up to Kaen Makrut (it is recommended to arrange a round-trip pick-up time with the driver).

Best Season:

• The peak time is December to January for the full floral bloom and cold weather. However, the rainy season (August to October) offers a beautiful, lush green landscape and a different kind of misty charm.

Equipment:

• Bring a heavy sweater or jacket if visiting at the end of the year, as it gets significantly colder than the lowlands. Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the agricultural plots.

Photography:

• The best lighting is from 07:00 to 09:00, providing the best chance to capture mist over the flower fields before the sun gets too strong.

Activities:

• Try the fresh strawberries directly from the farms and support the local community by purchasing handmade crafts from the Karen women's groups.

Admission Fee

• Thai Citizens: Free (Small parking fees or entrance fees of 20-40 THB may apply for specific private flower plots)

• Foreign Visitors: Free

Opening Hours

• Main flower fields are open daily from 08:00 – 17:00

• The general village area and private farms can be enjoyed throughout the day