Doi Tung, a little slice of Switzerlan in n Asian Kingdom

At 1000 meters above sea level, the highlands of Doi Tung spread out towards the lowlands of the Chiang Rai Valley in Northern Thailand. The misty mornings cover the view with creamy clouds, but when the sun appears, we can see the landscape before us, reminiscent of Lausanne, Switzerland.

The Doi Tung Royal Villa

The reforestation and development of the Doi Tung Royal Project is a gift of love and vision to the people of Thailand by Her Royal Highness Srinakarindra, the Princess Mother during the last years of her life. Having spent many years retreating to her residence in Switzerland for rest after rigorous work in Thailand, the Princess Mother decided that when she reached the age of 90 years, she would no longer travel back to Europe. Instead, she spent her remaining years creating a project of vast scope which lives on in her memory.

Phra That Doi Tung, erected in 911 A.D., is considered the oldest pagoda in northern Thailand

In 1987, the Princess Mother travelled to the Doi Tung mountains, and it is here where she vowed to reforest the denuded highlands and mountain sides, provide a productive and secure future for some of the Kingdom’s poorest people, and establish a lasting economy which would turn away from the destructive methods of ‘slash and burn’ farming, and opium poppy production. Now the surrounding mountains are again covered with forests and visitors to this beautiful region can see that it is truly possible for people and forests to live together successfully.

The Mae Fah Luang Gardens

Twenty six villages of ethnic minorities nestle within the Doi Tung development area. The province of Chiang Rai is the northernmost section of Thailand, and consists of mountainous highlands and large fertile valleys. Myanmar (formerly Burma) nudges Thailand’s northern border, and the hill tribe communities are settled primarily by Akha, Lahu, Lue, and Lisu, but a traveller will come across settlements of Shan from Myanmar, and there is even a Chinese Haw village in the region. Although dramatic changes have taken place through the years, these ethnic people still retain their ancient culture, dress and customs. Their way of life is unique in a nation which has seen rapid industrialisation and modernisation. Here in Doi Tung, these tribal villagers continue to celebrate their ancient festivals and religious rituals. Dressed in their tribal costumes and draped in magnificent silver ornaments, the indigenous women engage in daily work creating fine crafts or weaving, while the men work the fields.

The hill tripe peoples of the Doi Tung region are distinctive in their culture and costumes

The Doi Tung Royal Villa was the residence of Her Royal Highness, the Princess Mother for many years. It was planned and created in the traditional northern Thai style of culture referred to as Lanna. One of the most beguiling features of this Royal residence is the ceiling in the reception hall which is decorated with symbols of the planets and constellations, reflecting a life-long interest of astronomy by the Princess Mother. The Mae Fah Luang Garden is a loving work of art located on the hillside just below the Royal Villa. This massive garden, sculptured with rocks and fountains, and alive with flowers and colour year round, covers 4 hectares of land.

The Mae Fah Luang Arboretum at Chang Mub rises to 1,509 meters. It is the highest point in the Doi Tung development, and lies just inside Thai territory along the border with Myanmar. As one follows the walkways through flowering trees and magnificent foliage, bright orchids and numerous varieties of rhododendron and azalea, it is difficult to remember this is a pocket of pure heaven in South East Asia. The view to the lowlands spreads before the eye. A touch of Switzerland? Perhaps. Certainly a legacy of kindness and love to a nation.

A Festival for September