Doi Tung Royal Villa

Doi Tung is a mountain in northern Chiang Rai Province, at the northernmost tip of Thailand. It hosts a non-profit royal project.

Understand

Under the patronage of the late Princess Mother, Princess Srinagarindra, the Mae Fah Luang Foundation was founded to carry out development activities so that the quality of life of Thailand's ethnic minorities in the Doi Tung area could be raised. These activities took the form of livelihood development, which encompassed the reforestation of watershed areas and the development of various social enterprises to benefit local people.

Get in

Doi Tung is just west of Hwy 1 between Mae Chan and Mae Sai.

See

• Doi Tung Royal Villa (km12 on Hwy 1149, to the west of Hwy 1). The final residence of the Princess Mother (mother of King Bhumibol). This magnificent villa was built on the mountain overlooking the surrounding hills and valleys in a unique mix of Swiss and Lanna architectural styles. Adjacent to the villa is the Mae Fah Luang Garden, a large beautiful flower-filled garden, and a memorial hall commemorating the Princess Mother. (updated Feb 2020)
• Doi Tung Zoo. 
• Wat Phra That Doi Tung (Atop Doi Tung). Dating to the 10th century, this temple has a stupa reputed to contain the Buddha's collarbone, making it a major site of pilgrimage. At an elevation of nearly 2,000 m, it probably has the most fantastic view of all the temples in Thailand. 

Mae Fah Luang Garden

Drink

• Mae Fah Luang Garden Cafe (Doi Tung Royal Villa). Good cafe with a stunning view. 

Sleep

• Ban Ton Nam Doi Tung 31 (บ้านพักต้นน้ำ 31, Doi Tung Royal Villa), ☏ +66 53 767015-7, fax: +66 53 767077. 45 rooms. 2,200-2,500 baht.