The Chiang Mai cherry blossom viewing is undoubtedly one of northern Thailand’s most highly anticipated events each year, and for a good reason.

 

While the rest of the world associates these sakura flowers with Japan, only a few know that you can see them in full, glorious bloom right here.

 

The cherry blossoms thrive in the chilly climates of the Doi Suthep mountain, where they are grown in the Khun Chang Kian Highland Agriculture Research Centre. Locally known as the Tiger Queen, the best time to witness the flowers in bloom is during the winter, which runs from the end of December through mid-February. It tends to get especially crowded during the weekends of January, so you may want to plan around that.

Keep in mind that for a hassle-free experience, seeing these flowers bloom will require planning and preparation. The roads leading up to the gardens are unpaved and narrow, so the most efficient way to get here will be by hiring a songthaew from the city center of Chiang Mai. Other options include renting a car or booking a packaged day tour. 

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After you’ve taken in the beauty of the cherry blossoms and taken those photos, head over to the small village located at the end of the route past Khun Chang Kian. You’ll find a handful of small shops and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal of comforting noodle soup and coffee – perfect for the cool mountain weather.

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