Doi Tung:
Switzerland in Thailand
Many People Have Called Doi Tung "Switzerland in Thailand" (correct pronunciation is "Doi Dtoong"). This description seems apt when viewing the crisp line of mountains of Chiang Rai in the cool winter season, or when the mist and clouds of the rainy season roll in above the verdant forest against a background of an ever-changing sky.
This natural beauty has been enhanced through the effort and perseverance of the people of Doi Tung in reviving their once deteriorated forests. The now lush forests are their legacy to pass on to their descendants. It is through their work that they accomplished the gracious commands in the memory of Her Royal Highness, the Princess Mother, through the Doi Tung Development Project under Royal Initiative, that has returned the mountains to their natural environment. The Princess Mother has passed away, but her inspiration has lived on through the dedication of the loyal staff of the Doi Tung Development Project.
Visitors to Doi Tung can experience for themselves the natural beauty of the hills, and appreciate the efforts of the people of Doi Tung. They can see how people and forests can live together, while the people preserve the forests, the forests support the livelihood of the people.
"The Villa on Doi Tung"
The Royal Villa was built at Doi Tung for Her Royal Highness the Princess Mother to stay while she carried out her environmental and development work. On deciding to live there, Her Royal Highness told her private secretary, "If there were no Doi Tung Development Project, I will not have a house here". The Doi Tung Royal Villa is thus a symbol of Her Royal Highness' constant efforts to improve the lives and well-being of her subjects.
The Doi Tung Royal Villa
The Doi Tung Royal Villa was the first residence of Her Royal Highness Princess Srinakarindra, the Princess Mother, built under her supervision, Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana, gave the architects a concept of simplicity and multi-functionality for the Royal Villa.
Construction started on December 23, 1987 with a traditional northern Thai ceremony (Called "Pork Sao Huen") of erecting the main house pillar.