By Liu Jiawen, reporting
Since its opening in December last year (2011), the Chiang Mai Flower Expo has attracted many visitors. The exhibition will run until March 14 of this year and is being held at the 80-hectare Royal Rajapruek Park (Royal Rajapruek Park), with a total of 30 countries participating. The exhibition period coincides with the 84th birthday of the King of Thailand, the 80th birthday of the Queen, and the 60th birthday of the Prince, making the celebration of these three important royal occasions a highlight of this year’s flower expo. Throughout the exhibition area, photos of the three royal family members can often be seen, and there is also a royal products zone displaying the results of organic farming projects in remote areas guided by the royal family.
The Grand Golden Pavilion (The Royal Pavilion), an example of Lanna architecture, is one of the key pavilions at the Chiang Mai Flower Expo. (Photo by Liu Jiawen, Spotter)
Different colored lights and landscape designs create a dreamy atmosphere in the park. (Photo by Liu Jiawen, Spotter)
The Grand Golden Pavilion (The Royal Pavilion) is one of the must-see pavilions at the Chiang Mai Flower Expo. Its exterior mimics the office hall of early Chiang Mai kings and is built in the Lanna architectural style. Inside, it displays many photos of the Thai King’s participation in teak development activities. This year’s flower expo also introduced the Dream Garden (Imagination Light Garden) display area for the first time. At night, you can admire various butterflies, flowers, and leaves made from millions of small bulbs and fluorescent tubes, emitting a mesmerizing glow that makes you feel like you’re in a virtual garden. If you’re tired of walking, consider taking a ride on the 40-meter-high Giant Flora Wheel to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the entire park’s beautiful scenery. Each ride lasts about 15 minutes.
The Chiang Mai Flower Expo features a floral parade every evening. (Photo by Liu Jiawen, Spotter)
The exhibition area includes a giant floral Ferris wheel for visitors to ride. (Photo by Liu Jiawen, Spotter)
The Chiang Mai Flower Expo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and until 10:00 PM on holidays. Tickets are purchased on-site. Due to the large size of the park, shuttle bus services are available at the venue, with a total of 12 stops for getting on and off, which require a separate ticket. For those planning to visit, free shuttle buses are available from Chiang Mai Railway Station and the City Hall, taking visitors directly to the flower expo site. For more information, please visit the official website of the Chiang Mai Flower Expo: www.royalflora2011.com.
The floral parade is the most anticipated activity for children at the event. (Photo by Liu Jiawen, Spotter)
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