Bhubing Palace, also called Phu Phing Palace, is a royal winter residence on Doi Buak Ha in the mountains above Chiang Mai. Its grounds are the main draw: Suan Suwaree rose garden, greenhouses and beds of seasonal flowers sit among landscaped paths, with ferns, camellias, orchids and giant bamboo also growing here. The palace buildings use an applied Thai architectural style, but visitors cannot enter them. The gardens open to the public when the royal family is not in residence, so check access before making the drive.
A royal residence on Doi Buak Ha
Bhubing Palace, also known as Phu Phing Palace, stands on Doi Buak Ha in the mountains outside Chiang Mai. Built in 1961, it was created as a residence for the royal family during visits to northern Thailand. The grounds and residence have also served as a guesthouse for notable visitors from abroad.
The complex includes several buildings in an applied Thai architectural style, with high-rise masonry and Thai-style roofs. The palace itself is not open to visitors. Public access is to the gardens, and only when the royal family is not staying there.
Suan Suwaree and the flower gardens
Suan Suwaree is the palace’s rose garden and one of the main reasons to visit. The landscaped grounds also contain greenhouses and a range of plants, including ferns, camellias, giant bamboo and colourful orchids. Seasonal and winter flowers bring changing displays through the year, with rare Thai plants among the collection.
Paths lead through the cultivated gardens and outdoor areas. The grounds also include a large reservoir with a fountain, and the gardens support bird and insect life. Take time to look beyond the rose beds for the variety of plants growing around the palace.
Planning a visit
The palace is a mountain stop that can be paired with Doi Suthep on a drive from Chiang Mai. A car with a driver can make the trip more convenient if you do not want to arrange the mountain journey yourself. Public access is listed for Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, but access depends on whether the royal family is in residence, so confirm that the grounds are open before setting out.
Visitors can explore the gardens, but should not expect to tour the palace interiors. Bring toilet paper in case the bathrooms are not stocked. The grounds are the focus here, so allow time for a walk among the rose garden, greenhouses and seasonal flower displays.
FAQ
Can you go inside Bhubing Palace?
No. Visitors can explore the gardens, but the palace buildings are closed to the public.
When is Bhubing Palace open to the public?
The gardens are open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays when the royal family is not in residence. Check access before travelling.
What can you see at Bhubing Palace?
The grounds include Suan Suwaree rose garden, greenhouses and seasonal flowers, as well as plants such as ferns, camellias, giant bamboo and orchids.
How long do you need at Bhubing Palace?
Allow about an hour to walk through the gardens.
