Nong Nooch Tropical Garden,Thailand
Location & Overview: Nong Nooch Tropical Garden is a large, privately owned botanical garden near Pattaya in Chonburi Province, Thailand. Founded in the mid-20th century (established by the Tansacha family), it evolved from a fruit plantation into an internationally renowned garden and horticultural training center showcasing tropical plants, extensive palm and cycad collections, and themed landscape gardens. It is important for plant conservation, horticultural display, and as a major cultural tourism destination in eastern Thailand.
Places to visit
- Themed Gardens – multiple European- and Asian-inspired gardens (e.g., French Garden, European garden, and themed landscape areas)
- Orchid & Cycad Collections – extensive orchid houses and an important cycad collection
- Topiary & Bonsai Displays – large-scale topiary sculptures and curated bonsai exhibits
- Thai Cultural Shows & Elephant Performances – daily cultural dance shows, Muay Thai and elephant demonstrations (note: formats may change)**
- Palm Hill & Tropical Plant Displays – diverse palms, ferns, and tropical tree collections
- Butterfly & Rock Gardens – smaller specialty displays and scenic spots for photography
Unique Aspects
- Large-scale, beautifully maintained themed landscapes and lawns
- Extensive orchid nursery and horticultural research/training facilities
- Traditional Thai architecture and staged cultural performances
- Well-developed visitor facilities including restaurants, gift shops, and guided-tour options
- Photogenic viewpoints, lakes, and sculptural topiary scenes
Things to do
- Walking the themed gardens and scenic trails (self-guided or with a guide)
- Attending cultural shows and elephant performances (check schedule)
- Photography of landscapes, orchids, and topiary
- Visiting the orchid nursery and plant sales area
- Relaxing at on-site cafes and dining areas
- Joining guided horticultural tours or workshops (when available)
Best Time to Visit
Best months: November to February (cooler, drier weather) — ideal for walking and photography. Avoid peak rainy season (June–October) if you prefer minimal rain interruptions.
Weather Conditions
Tropical climate: hot and humid much of the year (March–May hottest), rainy season (June–October) with heavy but often short showers, and a cooler, drier period from November–February.
Entry Fees & Permits
Typical hours: generally open daily (approx. 08:00–17:00 or 18:00). Entry fees vary by package (garden-only, garden + shows, etc.) — tickets commonly range from roughly 300–900 THB for adults depending on inclusions; children discounts often available. Recommendation: check the official website or contact the garden for current prices and show schedules before visiting.
Accessibility
Location: about 15–25 km southeast of central Pattaya (roughly 30–45 minutes by car depending on traffic). Nearest airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is the major international gateway (~1.5–2 hours by car); U-Tapao Rayong–Pattaya Airport is closer (~40–60 minutes). Public transport options are limited — best accessed by private car, taxi, or organized tour transfer. Facilities within the garden generally support visitors of various mobility levels, but terrain includes landscaped paths and some uneven surfaces; check on wheelchair access for specific areas.
Recommended Duration
Plan for 3–5 hours for a relaxed visit including a show; a full day (6–8 hours) if you want a slower pace, multiple shows, and dining.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light, breathable clothing, sun hat, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and a light rain jacket if visiting during the rainy season.
Local Food & Souvenirs
On-site restaurants serve Thai and international dishes; try local Thai staples like pad Thai, som tam (papaya salad), and fresh fruit/drinks. Souvenirs include orchids and other plants (check export/regulation rules), botanical-themed gifts, locally made handicrafts, and postcards or prints of the gardens.