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LANNA – KINGDOM OF MILLION RICE FIELDS
Chiang Rai, the first capital of the ancient Lanna Thai kingdom, evolved from the flourishing principality of Yonnokpan or Yonnok Chiang Saen. Founded over 700 years ago, the province bathes in the glory of its magnificent past. It is a treasure trove of cultural splendour and enjoys the exalted status of being the original Thai home of the Emerald Buddha, which to this very day remains the divine guardian and protector of the Thai kingdom. Although constantly challenged by the forces of change in modern times, the essence of this glorious civilisation lives on.
Chiang Rai province is blessed with natural and cultural diversity. No less than thirty of the Kingdom’s ethnic minorities have settled on the mountain slopes of Chiang Rai province. While each proudly displays a distinctive culture, folk traditions, and way of life, all inhabitants of this enchanting highland community co-exist in perfect harmony.
Nature thrives in the surrounding highland wilderness and forests, featuring a rich biodiversity of exotic as well as endangered flora and fauna. Chiang Rai’s diverse landscape presents a myriad of fascinating natural spectacles. The fine spray from the cascading waterfalls rises into the air like plumes of misty smoke; hot springs; rice fields in the lowland valleys; a lush verdant landscape of young “kla” saplings in the spring gradually changes to brilliant gold with the onset of the cool season: nature’s vignettes blend seamlessly to form a picturesque tapestry.
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To address rural poverty and alleviate some of the hardship experienced by the inhabitants of the harsh mountainous terrain of the north, Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagrindara, the Princess Mother, late mother of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, inaugurated the Doi Tung Development Project under Royal Initiative in 1988. For over twenty years, the project has played a vital role in the positive transformation of the cultural and social fabric of Chiang Rai, paving the way for a brighter future. Hence to the local population, the Princess Mother is also affectionately known as Mae Fah Luang - the “Royal Mother from the sky”. Through the years, the name has come to symbolise the Royal Mother’s kind benevolence and tireless efforts to improve the lives and well-being of her subjects. More than a legend forever cherished in the hearts and minds of her people, Doi Tung marks a significant chapter in Chiang Rai’s history.
DOI TUNG - SWITZERLAND OF THAILAND
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