Imagine standing amidst the serene landscapes of Chiang Mai. Here, the story of Wat Roi Chan unfolds. This is not just any temple. It’s a testament to agricultural innovation. It embodies royal dedication.
Wat Roi Chan began with King Rama IX. In 1979, he visited the local people of the Wat Chan Sub-district. He sought to improve their quality of life. Most were Karen farmers struggling with highland plantations.
Transportation was a major hurdle. The King envisioned developing Wat Chan and nearby villages. This would uplift about 17 villages. The Wat Chan Royal Project Development Center emerged. It was established to cultivate agricultural products. This was part of His Majesty King Rama IX’s Royal Initiative Project.
The project focuses on research. It aims to develop, conserve, and reserve crops suitable for the local area. These products are then introduced to local agriculturists through the Wat Chan Royal Project Foundation. The foundation also receives products from local farmers. These are examined for quality at the Wat Chan Royal Project Development Center. The center operates under the Royal Forest Department. This is separate from the Wat Chan Royal Project Foundation.
Getting to Wat Roi Chan involves a journey. Minibuses from Chiang Mai’s Chang Peuk station take about 4-5 hours. These yellow minibuses go directly to Samoeng District and Kalayaniwattana District. The cost is around 160 Baht per trip.
Alternatively, driving offers flexibility. From downtown Chiang Mai, take the route to Pai via Mae Ma Lai Market. Then, turn left towards Pai and Wat Chan. This route is about 157 kilometers and takes approximately 4 hours. Another route goes through Samoeng to Wat Chan. It is 154 kilometers long.
Once here, the largest pine tree forest in South East Asia awaits. It’s a highlight of Wat Chan district. You can camp here throughout the year. Fog and sunrise create magical scenes. Next to the forest is a reservoir. During the right season, maple trees display vibrant colors.
At the Wat Chan Royal Project Development Center, walk among agricultural products. This center researches quality and disease resistance. The products suit the season and local geography. There are 19 types of fruits and vegetables across 25,600 square meters.
Explore the reservoir and demonstration field. Taste the fruits. The area slopes gently. Pine trees cover the landscape. Here, you can relax and soak in the atmosphere.
Wat Roi Chan is more than a temple. It is a center for agricultural research. It’s a place where royal initiatives meet local needs. It’s a story of development. It is a story of conservation. It is a story etched in the landscape.