Welcome to Switzerland.  Well, if you were brought to Doi Tung blindfolded and not told where you are, you might just think it is Switzerland.  Beautiful plants and flowers, cool weather and overall peaceful atmosphere reminds one of the European country.  In fact, the locals here call Doi Tung the Switzerland of Thailand.  Of course, minus the snow, it is hard to argue with them.

Doi Tung rises steeply and majestically over the surrounding area in Northern Thailand.  Because of this, breathtaking views of the valleys below can be seen and appreciated.  Even Thailand’s northern neighbor Myanmar is visible from up here.  If you brought your camera, this is the perfect time and spot to snap away at the postcard like scenery!

The weather here is quite different from the rest of the country.  It’s northern location and high elevation above sea level obviously makes Doi Tung cooler than the rest of Thailand.  During the winter months, which correspond with the country’s peak tourist season, the weather can get pretty cold, especially at night (it can get a low as 5 degrees Celsius).  If you do come during this time, make sure to pack a jacket or sweater.  The summer is obviously much warmer (but still cool when compared to weather in the rest of the country), so there is no need for it, unless 23 degree Celsius weather is cold for you.

One of the main attractions in the mountain is Wat Phra That Doi Tung, a 10th century temple and a major Buddhist pilgrimage site.  Why is it so important?  Well, a major relic is housed here; Buddha’s collarbone.  Because of the temple’s close proximity to Myanmar, its designs incorporate elements from both Burmese and Lanna designs.  The temple itself also commands great views, possibly one of the best from a temple mountain in Thailand.  Enjoy!

Now, we all know the history behind the Golden Triangle regarding the opium trade.  Doi Tung was once a major hotspot in the opium trade.  Not so anymore!  A major part of the eradication of the production, trade and distribution of the drug in the area can be traced to Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagarindra.  The mother of Thailand’s current King and affectionately known as the Princess Mother spearheaded the reforestation of the area’s bare hills and old opium fields.  At the same time, she made sure former opium farmers were re-trained in traditional agriculture techniques or into other professions.  The result?  Acres and acres of beautiful evergreen forests, blooming flowers and locals contributing to the community.

Doi Tung Royal Villa was also built, which served as a palace for the Princess Mother and now is now a museum, displaying her humanitarian work.  The villa overlooks the surrounding hills and is uniquely built with a combination of Swiss and Lanna styles, a tribute to the local area and the time the Princess Mother went to Switzerland.

On the slopes below the royal villa is Mae Fah Luang Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden.  The plants here flourish and are in bloom all year round, making Mae Fah Luang one of the most colorful sites in Thailand.  Pacific Asia Tourist Association (PATA), www.pata.org, presented the garden with their Gold Award recognizing the development of the site as a new & emerging tourist destination.

You can turn these colorful descriptions of Doi Tung into real tangible experiences with Exotissimo’s Discover North Thailand tour.  After visiting all the major cities and towns of the north, we’ll take you to the wonders of Doi Tung as well as the edges of Laos and Myanmar for that truly memorable Golden Triangle experience.  Whether it is the beach, islands, mountains, bustling cities, charming people or lively and colorful culture you are looking for; Thailand has it all!  You can see our Thailand tours page for other suggested tours into this amazing country.

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