Discover Bhubing Palace: Chiang Mai’s Winter Wonderland
The Royal Winter Residence: Bhubing Palace
Explore the Majestic Bhubing Palace
Nestled in the verdant embrace of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Bhubing Palace is an enchanting winter residence that offers a glimpse into the regal lifestyle of Thailand’s royal family. Built in 1961, this magnificent palace has become a must-visit attraction in Chiang Mai, drawing visitors from around the world to its breathtaking gardens and serene mountain air.
A Jewel in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park
The construction of Bhubing Palace was an ambitious project designed to create a retreat for the Thai royalty amidst the lush landscapes of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Just 17 kilometers from the heart of Chiang Mai, this location was chosen for its cool, fresh mountain air and the natural beauty that surrounds it. The palace complex, built in the traditional Thai architectural style known as Ruen Mu, consists of multiple buildings that reflect the elegance and sophistication of Thai culture.
The main residence, completed in just five months, features an upper floor for the royal family and a lower level for visiting dignitaries. Among its first guests were King Frederick IX and Queen Ingrid of Denmark, who stayed at Bhubing Palace in January 1962. To this day, the Thai royal family, including King Bhumibol Adulyadej, often resides here from January to March, making it a significant part of Chiang Mai sightseeing.
The Gardens of Bhubing Palace
One of the highlights of Bhubing Palace is its meticulously landscaped gardens, which span approximately 2 kilometers. These gardens are a horticultural masterpiece, featuring a stunning array of roses, orchids, ferns, and other flora that thrive in the cool mountain climate. The rose garden, in particular, is renowned for its beauty and diversity, making it a highlight of any visit.
In addition to the floral displays, the gardens also include manicured lawns, serene walkways, and tranquil water features such as ponds and fountains. Visitors can spend hours wandering through this botanical paradise, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and taking in the spectacular views of the surrounding hills.
A Village with a Royal Touch
Just outside the palace grounds lies a quaint village that has become a popular stop for tourists. Here, you can find an array of local handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry, along with food and beverages. This village has a special connection to the royal family; in 1964, King Bhumibol’s mother, Somdet Phra Srinagarindra, visited and was moved by the poverty she witnessed among the hill tribes. She became a patron of the village, supporting efforts to improve the community’s standard of living and fostering a lasting bond with Bhubing Palace.
Plan Your Visit to Bhubing Palace
Bhubing Palace, with its royal charm and natural beauty, is a must-visit destination in Chiang Mai. Whether you’re drawn by the exquisite gardens, the historical significance, or the serene atmosphere, a visit to this winter palace promises a memorable experience. Don’t miss out on this gem during your Chiang Mai sightseeing adventure.
Opening hours :
The palace is open to the public between 8.30 AM and 3.30 PM each day when the Thai royal family are not in residence. A strict dress code does apply to all people who wish to visit this site, so modest clothing should be worn by both men and women.
Entrance:
- Foreigners: 50 baht
- Thai adults: 20 baht
- Students: 10 baht
How to Getting there :
The travel to the palace is easy because it is the same way to Doi Suthep, a renowned mountain, which is about 18 km from Chiang Mai Town.
- By local taxi : Bhubing Palace is 4 kms. beyond Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. You can take a red pick-up passing in front of Chiang Mai Zoo. You can also stop over to pay homage to Khru Ba Si Wichai Monument. Khru Ba Si Wichai is the one who constructed Phra That Doi Sutheip Temple. The red pick-up services are provided to lead to Doi Suthep, Bhubing Rajanives Palace and Doi Pui Hilltribe Village.
- By car : The best way to travel to Bhubing Palace is by taking either a shuttle bus tour or private transport from Chiang Mai city which is only about 50 minutes away.
- By renting the mountain bike or Motorbike.
- By making tour from Chiang Mai to Bhubung Palace and the other attraction nearby like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (Doi Suthep Temple) and Doi Pui Hmong Village.
Note : The circular path is roughly 2km in length whereas visitors receive a map that explains the various buildings and its functions. Wheelchair users or if you aren’t up to walking around the gardens, a trolley car service with driver is available. The cost is 300 Baht for a maximum of 3 people.
It’s possible to consume the information about the palace via audio, you can get a handheld translation device near the entrance for a rental fee of 100 THB.
Bhubing Palace Map
Other Must-Visit Attractions Nearby
While exploring Bhubing Palace, don’t miss the opportunity to visit other iconic attractions in Chiang Mai. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Thailand’s most revered temples, offers stunning views of Chiang Mai from its mountain perch. Another gem is Wat Pha Lad, a serene temple nestled in the forest, providing a peaceful retreat for visitors. Additionally, the Doi Pui Hmong Village offers a unique cultural experience, showcasing the traditional way of life of the Hmong people.
Nearby Places
Wat Pha Lat is a jungle temple paradise. Jungle temples, as opposed to community temples that are found in the city, serve primarily as a calm place for monks to live and meditate. With old stone buildings, intricate carvings and statues, and plenty of breathtaking places to meditate, it’s clear why people claim Wat Pha Lat is a hidden gem in Chiang Mai.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is visited by thousands of tourists a year, but also the locals come here to pay respect to Buddha at one of the small stupas. This is the place that you cannot miss in Chiang Mai. It is located on the Suthep Mountain and its golden roofs are visible from almost any point in the city. From the temple’s terrace you can admire wonderful views of Chiang Mai.
Agricultural research station and training center at Khun Chang Kian. Hmong village Ban Khun Chang Kian. The source of the queen tiger is very Both sides of the village. The cherry blossoms are a mountain near the city. I have not long. Maybe it’s because the path of the Phu Ping Royal Palace. Khun Chang Kian is quite narrow, and along the hillside. Tour was not large. The group of tourists to the city itself is mostly But tourists are increasing every year because sakura Dong Doi. Khun Chang Kian, the most beautiful unbeaten.
Within Doi Pui area, there’s the Hmong Tribal Village. The village is about 4 kilometers away from Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. It offers an insight into how Thailand’s tribes live. The villagers wear traditional Hmong clothes, sell traditional Hmong handicrafts, and live in traditional Hmong-style homes. A visit to the Tribal Village is often combined with a visit to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep and some of the waterfalls in the area, as well as a jaunt to the Hilltribes Museum.
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