The Government Teak Forest, the first of its kind in Thailand, is located in Moo 5, Ban Mae Phok, in the Huai Rai sub-district, right across from the Mae Phok railroad station, which was previously the office of the Phrae Forest District under the Forest Department. It was initiated by Phaya Wanphruek-Pijarn (Thongkham Sewatsila) using the hole-planting method inspired by Myanmar in 1910. Today, the area spans a total of 133 rai, featuring some of the finest teak trees, most of which are over 100 years old. When fully grown, these trees reach heights of 20 meters or more, with branches appearing closer to the top. During the rainy season from July to October each year, a natural phenomenon occurs where orange flowers known as "Aow" or "Orange Ginger" bloom abundantly beneath the teak trees, creating a stunning landscape of orange flower fields. Nearby, the now-defunct Mae Phok train station, constructed during the reign of King Rama V, has been preserved by the community as a tourist information center, complete with an exhibition showcasing the history of the Ban Mae Phok community. For more information, you can contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phrae Office at 0 5452 1127.
Photo Credit: ป่าปลูกแห่งแรก
The first government planted teak plantation in Thailand.
Province: Phrae