Anonymous Post Country: Thailand Region: Chiang Mai Cost: 300 baht for single entry or 600 baht for 1 year. Website: www.dokmaigarden.co.th Date: 13th December 2009

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Location: 386 Moo 10, Namprae, Hangdong
Chiang Mai 50230, THAILAND

Dokmai Garden is the perfect escape for the discerning tourist who wishes to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Chiang Mai. It is just 25 minute drive from Central Chiang Mai, and yet it feels like you are a world away! The garden itself would be perfect for the avid gardener, or the curious new comer looking for some information on local flora. There are over 800 species of plants, 500 of which are signposted with information and names in Thai, English and Japanese.

The staff speak English, Thai and Swedish and are more then happy to give you a private tour of the garden at no additional cost. Eric, the husband of garden owner, Ketsanee Seehamongkol, is a wealth of knowledge, having obtained a PhD in Biology, and he seems more than happy to answer as many questions as you can throw at him!
The staff are very familiar with all plants in the grounds and if you are specifically interested in one thing, eg, flowering plants, they are more then happy to customise the tour to include this.
There is also many activities to keep the children entertained, canoeing or fishing in the large pond, or playing with Reuben, the resident Golden retriever!!
After strolling around the garden for a few hours, it was lovely to come and relax in the open air restaurant. The menu incorporates local specialities and some new dishes created by the Seehamongkol family! The ingredients are all taken from the garden where possible and drinks are make using special ingredients like Rosella, and teak wood! Very exotic!

Altogether a wonderful experience and a great opportunity to get in touch with nature for a day!

I will definitely be coming back next time I am in Chiang Mai!!