Mae Fah Luang Art and Culture Park

Hours (Open/Closed) Tuesday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Wednesday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Thursday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Friday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Saturday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Sunday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

📍 Location of Mae Fah Luang Art and Culture Park 🚘 Directions to Mae Fah Luang Art and Culture Park

About Mae Fah Luang Art and Culture Park

Mae Fah Luang Art & Cultural Park is a treasure trove of the region's largest collection of folk art and teak artifacts from the Lanna Kingdom. This unique destination in northern Thailand has been recognized for its outstanding contribution to arts and culture, earning the Thailand Tourism Award in 2006. However, it's worth noting that the park may not meet everyone's expectations. Some visitors have found the park to be underwhelming, with a lot of walking required to see a relatively small number of exhibits. The park is filled with grass and trees, and some of the buildings may appear abandoned and dusty. For those seeking a more concentrated experience, the Oub Kham museum is suggested as an alternative.

Despite these criticisms, many visitors have found the park to be a highlight of their trip. The grounds are beautifully maintained, and the exhibits, particularly the one nearest the entrance that houses a rich collection of temple decorations, are stunning. The entrance fee, while initially off-putting for some, is generally considered to be well worth the cost.

The park also includes a villa where the mother of King Rama IX lived. The villa is large and well-made, but kept quite modest for royalty. Across the road from the villa is a beautiful park, laid out on a hill. There is also a museum on the premises, although it is currently under renovation.

The park is often described as a sea of tranquility. While there may not be an abundance of sights to see, the park is staffed by friendly individuals and features lovely temples and beautiful nature. The park also hosts events, which can add to the overall experience.

Visitors with an interest in architecture will appreciate the Thai-Northern style of the buildings. Highlights include Haw-Keaw and the structure of the chapel’s roof. The park also features exhibitions about the history of tattoos in Thailand and the various uses of teak.

The park is located about 6km west of the Clock Tower in the centre of Chiang Rai. It is set in a tranquil setting and is often quiet, particularly on weekday afternoons. The park consists of beautifully landscaped gardens around a central lake, planted with indigenous and rare plants and trees from the region. The park's centerpiece is Haw Kharm (Golden Pavilion), a large wooden building constructed in teak. The first floor houses a collection of religious items, including Buddha images and candelabras. Visitors are given a short tour by a guide who explains the history of the building and its collection in English.

In addition to the Golden Pavilion, the park also features Haw Kaew, a modern exhibition hall built in traditional style. It contains travelling exhibitions and several rooms displaying items built from teak, including agricultural machinery, household and personal artifacts. The items are displayed in an elegant, aesthetic and professional manner, allowing visitors to study them up close. The park charges an entrance fee of 200 baht per person.

The Rai Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park is a gem of a place, with large and beautiful grounds and a main building composed of repurposed traditional Lanna buildings. The park also features a lovely gift shop with hand-crafted items. Supported by the Queen Mother, the park is more than just another tourist attraction. It is truly one of a kind.