The Royal Medicinal Garden: A Hidden Gem in Nan Province

Nestled in the village of Ban San Charoen, Tha Wang Pha district, Nan province, lies the "Royal Medicinal Garden", a hidden gem often overlooked by visitors. Situated approximately 80 kilometers from Nan city, this tranquil haven offers a unique glimpse into the rich biodiversity and traditional healing practices of the region.

Reaching the Royal Medicinal Garden requires a scenic journey, whether by motorbike or car. From Bangkok, the distance spans over 700 kilometers, leading travelers through breathtaking landscapes. Upon arrival in Ban San Charoen, visitors are greeted by the welcoming smiles of the Mien (Yao) hill tribe community, who have long resided in this mountainous area.

Historically, the Mien people relied on opium cultivation for their livelihood. However, in recent times, they have transitioned to growing coffee, which has become synonymous with Nan province. The Doi Suan Ya Luang, or "Royal Medicinal Garden Mountain," stands as a testament to this transformation.

Due to the rugged terrain, accessing the Royal Medicinal Garden requires a four-wheel drive vehicle, especially during the rainy season. The challenging ascent is rewarded by the breathtaking views and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the serene atmosphere of this natural sanctuary.


The day I arrived, the rain poured down all day. Cars couldn't go up, even 4WDs couldn't reach the top. 4WDs that could go up had to have chains wrapped around their wheels to get a grip. As for me, I took my motorbike and had no chance of going up. But I had come all this way, I had to go up, so I had to walk. The distance from M. San Jarean was about 15 km. It made me sweat a lot…


The mountaintop boasts breathtaking scenery, with constant rain, overcast skies, and mist-shrouded vistas. The campsite offers stunning views, but food must be brought up. During the winter, the atmosphere is exceptional, and overnight stays allow for breathtaking sunrise views.

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#doi suan ya luang#royal botanical garden#nan#forest hiking#tourist attraction#thailand#hiking in the rainy season
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