Chiang Mai to Wat Chamthewi and Botanical Tweechol: Day trip

Founded as a Buddhist monastery in the 8th century, Wat Chamthewi is renowned for its two historic chedis. The larger and more famous of the two was built by King Mahantayot to enshrine the ashes of his legendary mother, Queen Chamthewi. Built in the 9th century Dvaravati style, the very unusual square, ‘stepped pyramid’ bears Buddha images on each of its 5 tiers, and is beloved to be the oldest surviving example of the style. The smaller chedi was built by King Athitayarat in the 12th century to celebrate his victory over the mighty Khmer empire. The viharn is much more recent, but is also worth visiting, particularly for the colored glass Buddhas, each of which is costumed to represent the three seasons observed in Thailand.

Founded in 1997, Botanical Tweechol is a 144 acre green oasis, making it one of the largest gardens in Thailand. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day out while receiving a botanical education from the informative signs. Many opt to start their journey at the Huen Chaiharn Museum, which exhibits sacred Buddha images and ancient artifacts before heading to Center Point. This cluster of domes houses a rich variety of flora from different ecosystems including orchids, bromeliads, anthurium, colocasia, monotera, cacti and succulents. In the dedicated Palm Garden there are 58 species of palm from around the world, including specimens from South America and Japan. If you’d prefer to just stretch your legs, the car-free path provides a scenic place to walk or ride a rented bike. Animals are also a key part of the Tweechol experience, be it the large topiaries, or exotic animals at the small zoo. For more information, please visit tweecholbotanicgarden.com