As we explored Chiang Mai, we finally found what we’d been searching for while looking for the magic of Thai Orchids.
Don’t get me wrong, orchids are everywhere in the country. It seems that every corner you turn has incredible displays of flora and fauna, with stunning orchids in a kaleidoscope of colors, especially plentiful.
On previous trips to the country, we had toured Orchid Farms outside of Bangkok, and along the Myanmar border. Along the way, we regularly admired not just the stunning and varied orchids throughout the country, but also the rich tapestry of gorgeous floral displays.
While in Bangkok, we had attempted to find the same farm we had been to with Jim’s parents years ago….and to no avail. During our trip to the Damnoen Saduak floating market, we were brought to an incredibly sad “orchid farm” with few orchids, but lots of art and crafts for sale.
How Many Orchid Varieties are there?
Orchids are so prevalent in Thailand, I incorrectly assumed that they had a massive number of species. How wrong I was.
Apparently, there are more than 28,000 types of orchids in the world, existing on every continent except Antarctica!
Although the land of smiles is well known for its orchids, in reality, the country has just over 1000 individual varieties. to call their own.
Bai Orchid & Butterfly Farm
Having found nothing exceptional during our time in Bangkok, we jumped all over the chance to head to the Bai Orchid & Butterfly Farm just outside Chiang Mai. The reviews were excellent, so we called a GRAB and made our way through the endless traffic clogging our route.
The farm itself was lovely. Although small, the display of orchids was a delight.
Jim’s mom had been a master gardener, and was in awe of the varieties of the country when we took them for a trip to Thailand back in 2002. Now living in assisted living, she no longer has her fantastic yard to putz about, so we called her on FaceTime so she could share in the stunning beauty that surrounded us.
Row after row of orchids. Seemingly dozens and dozens of colors and, perhaps more extraordinary, different designs of each variety. While they were all somewhat similar, it is endlessly delightful to examine the minute differences from one plant to the next.
Butterflies!
In addition to the stunning floral display, Bai Farms had a small butterfly garden with a good number of lovely butterflies, displaying their unique natural decoration on their wings.
Next time you’re in Chiang Mai, make sure to check out this lovely stop, highlighting some of the best of Thailands natural wonders.
Bai Orchid & Butterfly Farm: Mae Raem, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
Phone: +66 81 992 7440