The province of Chiang Rai in northern Thailand borders Burma and Laos. There is Doi Tung, the 1,389-meter mountain, with the Doi Tung Royal Villa built on its slopes. The surrounding areas were afforested on the initiative of the mother of Rama IX. The residence is now surrounded by a beautiful English-style garden where colorful flowers and neatly trimmed lawns seamlessly integrated with the rock formations. The garden’s design was the Queen Mother’s idea and was not only meant to contribute to environmental protection, but also provide jobs and tourist promotion of the region.
