Exploring Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden: Chiang Mai's Lush Mountain Sanctuary

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden is a premier eco-tourism and scientific attraction in Chiang Mai.

Nestled in the lush, rolling hills of Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden (QSBG) is Thailand's first international-standard botanical garden. Opened in 1993 and originally named the Mae Sa Botanic Garden, it was granted royal permission in 1994 to be named in honor of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. Today, it is maintained under the auspices of the Botanical Garden Organization of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, serving as a world-class center for botanical research, biodiversity conservation, and environmental education.

Spanning over 1,000 hectares (approximately 2,500 acres) at the foothills of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, this expansive sanctuary offers visitors a refreshing mountain escape filled with walking trails, exotic plant collections, and breathtaking vistas.

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden is located at 100 หมู่ 9 Tambon Mae Raem, Amphoe Mae Rim, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand.

Key Highlights & Things to Do

• The Canopy Walkway (Flying Draco Trail): Suspended over 20 meters above the jungle floor, this 400-meter-long steel and glass walkway is the longest of its kind in Thailand. Named after a local species of flying lizard, it features transparent glass floor sections that offer thrilling, bird's-eye views of the rainforest canopy and the surrounding mountains.
• The Glasshouse Complex: Perched on a hilltop, this impressive complex features four massive exhibition conservatories and eight themed greenhouses. Highlights include the Tropical Rainforest House (complete with an indoor waterfall), the Arid House (showcasing a massive collection of cacti and succulents), and dedicated houses for rare orchids, carnivorous plants, and water lilies.
• Natural Science Museum: An educational hub featuring interactive exhibits, 4D screenings, and scientific displays detailing Thailand's diverse plant species and ecosystems.
• Scenic Nature Trails: For those who love to hike, the garden offers several well-marked walking paths, including the Waterfall Trail, the Fern Garden, and the Climber Trail.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Getting Around: Because the garden is incredibly vast and hilly, walking between attractions can take hours. Visitors are highly encouraged to drive their own car or motorbike through the park. Alternatively, an open-air tram service is available on-site for a small fee.
• Transportation: Located about 40 minutes north of Chiang Mai city center, QSBG is a popular stop along the famous Samoeng Loop. If you arrive via ride-hailing apps or songthaew, be sure to book a round-trip or arrange for your driver to wait, as finding return transport from Mae Rim can be difficult.
• What to Wear: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring insect repellent. While the mountain air is cooler than the city, the greenhouses can get warm and humid.

Opening Hours

The garden is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Admission Fees

• Foreign Adults: 100 Baht
• Foreign Children: 50 Baht
• Thai Citizens: 40 Baht (Adults) / 20 Baht (Children)
• Vehicle Entry Fee: 100 Baht for cars / 30 Baht for motorbikes

This article was updated on 2026-08-01