Royal Park Rajapruek, Chiang Mai (must see)

Royal Park Rajapruek is a gorgeous and expansive botanical garden. The park was created to celebrate both the 60th anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej's accession to the throne and his 80th birthday.

The beautiful Ho Kham Luang Royal Pavilion overlooks the extensive gardens. Discover the Thai garden, international garden, and corporate garden.

The Thai garden has over 1,900 species of plants. The orchid house is incredibly stunning, and the bonsai garden is sure to delight. You'll also find a Palm Plantation, Sawasdee Garden, Grape Field, Lotus Garden, and Blessing Garden. In the New Theory Agricultural Park, visitors can learn about new technologies in plant cultivation. Admire the beautiful, traditional-style Thai buildings throughout the gardens.

The International Garden represents 24 different countries. You'll find gardens representing India, South Korea, Canada, Nepal, Kenya, Vietnam, Spain, China, and more. The gardens have structures and plants representing their unique country. There's even a Mars garden to take you into outer space.

Check out the butterfly garden, where you can examine the life cycle from pupae to butterfly. After the butterfly garden, explore Bug World, filled with different insects and fun facts. Don't miss the live tarantula display.

If the kids need to burn off some energy, there's an extensive playground.

The on-site Royal Project Kitchen offers delicious Thai food. The outdoor setting keeps you connected to the gardens while you enjoy a meal with ingredients from local farms.