As part of the AIPH Spring Meeting, representatives from the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) visited Royal Park Rajapruek to explore the enduring legacy of the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006 Expo. Nearly two decades since hosting Thailand's first AIPH-approved International Horticultural Expo, the site remains a thriving center for eco-tourism, horticultural education, and sustainability.
Welcomed by the Highland Research and Development Institute (HRDI), the AIPH delegation toured the expansive park, which has transformed from an Expo site into an internationally recognized botanical garden and environmental learning hub. HRDI personnel detailed the park's ongoing conservation efforts, eco-tourism initiatives, and its role as a global model for green city development.
A model for sustainable growth
Since the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006, the park has continued to evolve, maintaining its international gardens, horticultural research programs, and environmental conservation projects. It is now a member of Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) and holds Level 3 ArbNet Accreditation, a prestigious recognition that only 49 botanical gardens worldwide have achieved.
AIPH representatives learned about the extensive plant conservation efforts, including the park's cultivation of 23,831 plant species and its ongoing research into medicinal plants, climate-resilient species, and biodiversity conservation. HRDI personnel also shared insights into the meticulous maintenance and restoration of the park's 22 international gardens, ensuring they remain a true reflection of each country's horticultural and cultural heritage.
Eco-tourism and sustainable development
After the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006 Expo, the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) bestowed the name "Royal Park Rajapruek" meaning the Garden of the King. The Ratchaphruek tree produces Thailand's national flower (Cassia fistula Linn). This delicate yellow blooms in clusters and cascades like golden waterfalls from the trees during the hot season, from February to May. Yellow is associated with the Royal Monarchy and symbolizes glory, harmony, and unity.
Royal Park Rajapruek has become a leading eco-tourism destination, attracting visitors who experience its seasonal plant transformations, including vibrant displays of red, yellow, purple, and golden foliage throughout the year.
The park also hosts the annual Flora Festival, with the latest event running from November 2024 to February 2025, drawing thousands of visitors under the theme 'Grow Green'.
As part of its commitment to sustainable tourism, the park follows the Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR) (Level 5), an initiative by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Fighting to reduce carbon
The HRDI has been instrumental in implementing initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote climate resilience. Since 2019, HRDI personnel have conducted research into plant adaptation, carbon sequestration, and climate resilience.
The park has assessed the carbon storage capacity of 11,217 trees, calculating a sequestration potential of 3,080.78 tons of CO2 equivalent, with further community-led reforestation efforts underway.
A legacy of growth
The Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006 Expo and its successor in 2011 have positioned Chiang Mai as a global leader in horticultural exhibitions and green innovation. The continued success of Royal Park Rajapruek underscores how an AIPH-approved International Horticultural Expo can provide lasting social, economic, and environmental benefits.
AIPH Secretary General Tim Briercliffe stated: "The transformation of Royal Park Rajapruek highlights the long-term impact an AIPH-approved Expo can have on a host city. The site continues to inspire future host cities, proving that horticultural Expos can foster sustainable development, enhance biodiversity, and drive economic growth for generations to come."
AIPH has extended its gratitude to HRDI, the Ministry of Agriculture & Cooperatives, the Department of Agriculture, the Horticultural Science Society of Thailand, TCEB – Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, and all supporting organizations for their ongoing commitment to the success of Royal Park Rajapruek.
For more information:
AIPH
www.aiph.org