Bhubing Palace in Chiang Mai: A Royal Residence with Stunning Gardens

Bhubing Palace is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Chiang Mai. Located on Doi Buak Ha in the Muang District of Chiang Mai Province, it is the winter residence of the Royal Family. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers spectacular views of the mountains and the city of Chiang Mai.

Built in the mountains to take advantage of the cool mountain air, Bhubing Palace is a great place to escape the heat and humidity of the city. The palace is open to the public from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm every day, and visitors can explore the gardens, admire the architecture, and learn about the history of the Royal Family.

The palace is particularly famous for its rose gardens, known as Suan Suwaree. The gardens are home to more than 90 different varieties of roses, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful colors and fragrances while strolling through the gardens. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a peaceful and beautiful place to relax, Bhubing Palace is definitely worth a visit.

History

Bhubing Palace is a royal winter residence located on Doi Buak Ha, Muang District, Chiang Mai Province. It was built in 1961 to accommodate the royal family during state visits to Chiang Mai. The palace has become a popular tourist attraction due to its stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens.

The palace was originally constructed on a 4.9-hectare plot of land, which was later expanded to 1,000 hectares. It was named after Princess Bejaratana Rajasuda, the daughter of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who was instrumental in the palace’s construction.

The palace is also used for official ceremonies and state functions. It has hosted several important events, including the royal wedding of Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya and Peter Ladd Jensen in 1972.

Today, the palace is open to the public for tours, which include a visit to the royal garden and the palace building. Visitors can also view the royal family’s collection of antiques and artwork.

Architecture

Bhubing Palace, also known as the Winter Palace, is a stunning example of traditional Thai architecture. Built in 1961, the palace was designed by Thai architect Mom Rachawongse Bhakdi Noraset and is located approximately 22 kilometers from the city center of Chiang Mai.

The palace is constructed in the central Thai architectural style called ruean mu, which is characterized by its steeply pitched roofs, intricate carvings, and ornate decorations. The palace features a combination of traditional Thai and Western architectural styles, with a strong emphasis on the former.

The palace is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, which are open to the public. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and admire the many different species of plants and flowers, including roses, orchids, and chrysanthemums. There is also a large greenhouse on the palace grounds, which houses a variety of exotic plants and flowers.

Inside the palace, visitors can admire the intricate wood carvings, intricate murals, and beautiful furniture. The palace is also home to a museum, which features exhibits on the history of the palace and the royal family.

Overall, Bhubing Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Thai architecture and design. Its stunning beauty and intricate details are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

For more information about Bhubing Palace’s architecture, visit Wikipedia.

Gardens and Grounds

Bhubing Palace is not only famous for its stunning architecture but also for its beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds. The palace is surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers, making it a perfect place for nature lovers.

The gardens are divided into different sections, each with its own unique charm. The Rose Garden, also known as Suan Suwaree, is particularly famous for its wide variety of roses in different colors and sizes. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and enjoy the sweet fragrance of the roses.

Another popular section is the Waterfall Garden, which features a small waterfall surrounded by ferns and other tropical plants. The garden also has a pond with lotus flowers, providing a tranquil and serene atmosphere.

The palace grounds are also home to a variety of trees, including oak, pine, and cherry blossom trees. During the winter months, the cherry blossom trees bloom, creating a beautiful pink and white canopy over the palace grounds.

Visitors can also enjoy a picnic or relax on the benches scattered throughout the gardens. The palace grounds are well-maintained and provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Overall, the gardens and grounds of Bhubing Palace are a must-visit for anyone traveling to Chiang Mai. The natural beauty and tranquility of the gardens make it a perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.

For more information about Bhubing Palace and its gardens, visit TripAdvisor.

Visiting Information

Bhubing Palace is a must-visit attraction in Chiang Mai, Thailand. If you’re planning to visit the palace, here are some important details you need to know:

Opening Hours

The palace is open to visitors every day from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. However, the palace may be closed to the public during the royal family’s visit or other special occasions. It’s always best to check the official website or contact the palace before your visit to avoid any inconvenience.

Admission Fee

The admission fee to enter the palace is 50 Baht per person. Children under 10 years old can enter for free. The fee includes a visit to the palace’s beautiful gardens and museums.

Dress Code

Visitors are required to dress appropriately when visiting the palace. Men and women must wear clothes that cover their shoulders and knees. Wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, or revealing clothing is not allowed.

Guided Tours

If you want to learn more about the palace’s history and culture, you can join a guided tour. The tour guides are knowledgeable and can provide you with interesting information about the palace. The guided tour costs an additional fee of 200 Baht per person.

Getting There

The palace is located about 20 kilometers from Chiang Mai city center. You can take a taxi or a songthaew (red truck) to get there. The ride takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on the traffic. You can also rent a motorbike or a car to drive there. There is a parking lot available for visitors.

Overall, visiting Bhubing Palace is a great way to learn about Thai culture and history. Make sure to follow the rules and regulations to have a pleasant experience.

For more information, please visit the Tourism Authority of Thailand website.

Conclusion

The Bhubing Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Chiang Mai. It is a beautiful royal residence that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and gardens. The palace is well-maintained and offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the Thai royals.

The Royal Garden located within the palace grounds is a botanical paradise that houses a wide variety of plants and flowers. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The garden is also a popular spot for picnics and relaxing with family and friends.

Overall, the Bhubing Palace is a great place to spend a half-day in Chiang Mai. Visitors can combine their visit with a trip to the nearby Doi Suthep temple for a full cultural experience.

When visiting the palace, it is important to dress appropriately and follow the rules and regulations. Visitors should also be mindful of the opening hours and plan their visit accordingly.

For more information on the Bhubing Palace and other attractions in Chiang Mai, visit the official website of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Tourism Authority of Thailand