Thailand has a garden tradition. The annual flower festival in Chiang Mai is a feast for the eye. It takes place in February each year. Orchids have been part of Thai culture since centuries. Most festivals in Thailand feature flowers, either on floats or as decoration. North Thailand now boast a number of wonderful botanical gardens.

Most famous are the Queen Sirikit gardens in the Mae Sa Valley, Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai also has Rachaphruek and Tweechol Botanical Gardens. Flower arrangements are stunning and these gardens also feature plants and trees that are not native to Thailand. In Chiang Rai the Mae Fah Luang Gardens are spectacular. Views are fantastic.

Apart from the gardens there are flower markets and orchid gardens that are worth a visit. The flower market that is part of the Tonlamyai market in Chiang Mai is worth a visit as is the well known Khamtieng market.

Also very much worth a visit are the Flower Gardens on Doi Suthep. The gardens are adjacent to the Royal Palace.