Bhubing Palace Chiang Mai
A serene royal winter retreat on Doi Suthep, famed for its breathtaking rose gardens and elegant Thai architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Bhubing Palace Chiang Mai
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene royal winter retreat on Doi Suthep, famed for its breathtaking rose gardens and elegant Thai architecture.
"A magical floral wonderland nestled in the misty mountains, offering a glimpse of royal elegance."
🧥 Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & knees. Rent traditional outfits for 20 baht if needed!
🚗 Easy Access
Songthaews or motorbikes are great for the scenic mountain ride.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rose Garden
Suan Suwaree
A breathtaking floral wonderland, especially vibrant with roses and other winter blooms. A true feast for the eyes.
Royal Architecture
Palace Grounds
Admire the elegant traditional Thai architecture of the royal family's winter retreat, nestled in the misty mountains.
Misty Mountain Setting
Doi Suthep Slopes
Experience the serene beauty of the palace grounds, surrounded by lush greenery and often shrouded in mist.
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code Matters
Best Time to Beat Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & knees. Rent traditional outfits for 20 baht if needed!
🚗 Easy Access
Songthaews or motorbikes are great for the scenic mountain ride.
🌸 Flower Power
The gardens are stunning year-round, but especially vibrant in cooler months.
💰 Affordable Entry
Adults 50 baht, kids 10 baht. A small price for royal beauty!
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & knees. Rent traditional outfits for 20 baht if needed!
🚗 Easy Access
Songthaews or motorbikes are great for the scenic mountain ride.
🌸 Flower Power
The gardens are stunning year-round, but especially vibrant in cooler months.
💰 Affordable Entry
Adults 50 baht, kids 10 baht. A small price for royal beauty!
🐶 Beware of Market
Some visitors noted cruel treatment of animals at the market nearby.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bhubing Palace for its stunning, well-maintained gardens, especially the vibrant rose collection, and its serene royal atmosphere. While the inability to enter the main buildings is noted, the beauty of the grounds and the affordable entry fee make it a worthwhile visit for many. Some concerns were raised about animal welfare at the nearby market.
"Winter palace of the Royal Thai Family in Chiang Mai. Fifty baht entrance fee for Adults and ten baht for children between 100-120cm. Under 100cm free. Very nice gardens , unfortunately you are not allowed inside of the buildings for security reasons as the palace is still in use. If you visit Wat Suthep, the palace is only 4km further. If you don't have the proper clothing it can be rented for twenty baht."
Ron Brynaert
"Beautiful place. Great selection of flowers that are very well taken care of.
The only downside is that the market by the palace has chickens tied up on the trees. That's so cruel. Animals shouldn't be treated like this."
Smile Smile
"Bhubing Palace is a royal residence in Chiang Mai, Thailand, known for its beautiful gardens and traditional Thai architecture. It serves as the winter residence for the Thai royal family and is nestled on the slopes of Doi Suthep. The palace is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the stunning grounds, including its famous rose garden, Suan Suwaree."
Unggul Wicaksono
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common ways to reach Bhubing Palace are by songthaew (red truck taxi) or by renting a motorbike. The journey offers scenic views as you ascend the mountain. It's about 4km past Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Finding a songthaew back might require some patience, especially during peak hours. It's advisable to arrange your return trip or have a driver on standby if possible.
Yes, you can drive your own car. Parking is available, though it can get busy on weekends. The road up is well-maintained.
For families, a private car or a pre-booked songthaew might be more comfortable. This allows for flexibility and easier management of children.
The road is generally safe, but it can be narrow in parts, especially after Doi Suthep. Be cautious of other traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically 50 Thai Baht for adults and 10 Thai Baht for children. Children under 100cm tall are usually free.
Yes, as it's a royal residence, visitors must dress respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Traditional Thai clothing can be rented on-site for about 20 Baht if needed.
Bhubing Palace is generally open to the public daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, but it's always a good idea to check current hours before your visit, as they can sometimes change.
No, visitors are generally not allowed inside the main palace buildings as it is still an active royal residence. You can explore the beautiful gardens and grounds.
Tickets are usually purchased on-site upon arrival. Advance booking is not typically required for general admission.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Absolutely! The stunning gardens, vibrant flowers, and traditional architecture offer countless beautiful photo opportunities.
Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. The misty mountain backdrop can also add a magical element.
The famous rose garden (Suan Suwaree) is a highlight. The general grounds with their diverse flora and traditional Thai structures are also very picturesque.
While some videos show dogs, feeding animals is generally not encouraged. Be mindful of any signs or instructions.
It's a peaceful and elegant escape, offering a glimpse into royal life amidst beautiful natural scenery. Many visitors describe it as magical.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are usually food and beverage shops on the grounds where you can relax and grab a bite after exploring.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally best to consume your own food and drinks in designated areas or outside the main palace grounds. Purchasing from the on-site vendors is encouraged.
Expect typical Thai snacks, light meals, and beverages. It's a good place for a refreshing drink or a quick bite.
There are local shops and eateries on the mountain road leading to and from the palace, offering various Thai dishes.
Prices are generally reasonable, reflecting the tourist location. It's a good option for convenience rather than fine dining.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting a songthaew for a more comfortable journey up the mountain with kids. While you can't enter the palace buildings, the gardens provide plenty of room to roam. Be sure to bring snacks and water, though there are vendors on-site.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
+1Aim for morning light for the best results, and don't forget to experiment with different angles to showcase the palace's beauty. The option to rent traditional Thai attire can add a unique cultural element to your photos.
🌿 Nature & Garden Enthusiasts
Take your time to wander through the different sections of the garden, admire the seasonal blooms, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It's a perfect spot to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of botanical diversity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Gardens
+1Beyond the rose garden, the grounds feature charming ponds, manicured lawns, and winding pathways that invite leisurely strolls. The sheer variety of flora ensures that there's always something new and beautiful to discover, making it a photographer's paradise and a tranquil spot for nature lovers.
Pro Tip: While the gardens are beautiful year-round, they are often at their most spectacular during the cooler, drier months (November to February) when many flowers are in full bloom.
Royal Residence & Architecture
The palace complex includes various buildings, some of which are used for official functions. The design emphasizes open spaces, natural ventilation, and integration with the environment, characteristic of traditional Thai architecture. The elevated structures, often built on stilts, are a common feature in tropical regions to allow for airflow and protection from moisture.
Historical Context: The palace was built to provide a cool retreat for the King and Queen during the hot season. Its location on Doi Suthep offers not only a pleasant climate but also stunning panoramic views of Chiang Mai city below.
Getting There: The Scenic Route
For those who prefer not to drive or navigate public transport, hiring a private car or a driver for the day is also a popular option, especially for families or groups. This provides comfort and flexibility, allowing you to combine a visit to Bhubing Palace with other nearby attractions like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep or the Hmong village.
Traveler Tip: Be prepared for winding roads. If you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking precautions. The traffic can be moderate, so allow ample time for the journey, especially if you plan to visit other sites on Doi Suthep.
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