Doi Tung Royal Villa stands as a memorial to the environmental project in the area pioneered by the much-loved late Royal Highness Princess Srinagarindra, the Princess Mother, and was her favorite home.
Built in 1988 with her own funds as a place to stay whilst overseeing her project, the villa nestles among the beautiful reforested hills near Doi Tung.
The Princess Mother’s project involved not only the restoration of natural beauty in an area decimated by logging, but also the establishment of sustainable cottage industries amongst the local people, especially the women, as an alternative to the production of opium which was once the main activity in these hills.
Various projects were introduced, including weaving, carpet-making, paper-making using bark from mulberry trees growing in the forests and the growing, roasting and marketing of Arabica coffee beans.
Additional training was given in fashion design and other areas including crafts, using traditional methods and designs enhanced by modern methods. The projects are now highly successful, with the products sold worldwide.
The interior design of the villa is an elegant blend of European and Thai design features and was created using recycled pine wood and other materials. The ceiling of its main reception hall is inlaid with different-colored woods in a design which represents the Princess Mother’s favorite constellations, with the ceiling lights doubling as stars.
Visitors are provided with an audio guide that gives an explanation of over 20 aspects of the villa. Photography is prohibited inside but you can photograph the outside with its colorful garden. You must also remove your shoes and carry them with you in a plastic bag that is provided.
Getting There
By car, take Highway 110 from Chiang Rai toward Mae Sai turn left on to Highway 1149 at Ban Huay Khrai, following the signs to Doi Tung on a journey that will take less than an hour.
Need to Know
- What is it? The favorite residence of a much-loved royal figure.
- Opening hours: 07:00-17:30 daily.
- Entrance fee: 90B, or 190B as a combination ticket that also allows entry to the Mae Fah Luang Garden and Hall of Inspiration.
- Website: www.doitung.org
- Where: south of Doi Tung, just off Highway 1149.