Seeing nature in the city is a little harder these days, but Royal Park Rajapruek (royalparkrajapruek.org; adult/child 200/100฿) takes the gold as the best park in the city, especially if you’re not quite ready to venture into the jungley void.
Built in 2007 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the late Rama IX's accession to the throne, the park has the highest number of tropical plants and flowers in one park in all of Southeast Asia, as well as 33 international gardens that show off plants and landscaping from other nations. It’s hard to imagine that when it opened, it drew over 20,000 visitors a day – now, you’ll likely have most of the park to yourself.
Free shuttle buses loop the main park circuit, but you can also rent bicycles (check they work before you head out) or golf buggies. No doubt the highlight of the park is the Royal Pavilion, a grand temple-like structure dedicated to the Rama dynasty and modeled after Lanna-style Wat Phan Tao in town. Be on the lookout for events while you’re here, such as the Chiang Mai Flower Festival from December to February. While events are infrequent, they can add a bit of extra fun and activity to your visit.
