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The Royal Flora Ratchaphruek is a flower festival scheduled for November 1, 2006, to January 31, 2007, in the Thai city of Chiang Mai. It is one of the grand celebrations being hosted by the Royal Thai Government in honor of King Bhumibol, the world’s longest reigning monarch.
The Ratchaphruek (Cassia Fistula L.) or Golden Shower Tree is the national flower of Thailand. It is also named "Khun" or "Chaiyaphruek". The reasons that Ratchaphruek is used for symbolizing is the yellow color is the color of Buddhism and the Thai people regard yellow as the color of King as well.Moreover, all Golden shower trees bloom at the same time which means the unity and identity of Thai people.
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The event is located in 80 hectares of land at the Royal Agricultural Research Center in Mae Hia sub-district, Muang district, Chiang Mai Province in northern Thailand. During the 92 days of the expo, 30 international gardens, such as Japan, South Korea, Belgium, Netherlands, South Africa, Canada, are arranged, and more than 2.5 million trees of 2,200 species of tropical plants and flowers are presented to the world in this exhibition. AIPH, the Association of International Horticultural exhibition, gives this expo to be A1 status which is the highest level and allowed to be organized only once a year in the worldand a host country can only once hold such an exhibition once in a decade.
There are many wonderful highlights to attract tourists;
Gardens for the king There are 2 features in this zone; one is International gardens are presented by 30 participating nations cover 21,000 square meters and one is Corporate gardens,cover 27,475 square meters, are presented by state enterprises,and domestic and international major corporation.
Hor kham Royal Pavillion This building shows Lanna architectural style,and inside, visitors will see the pictures of his majesty the king's works and dedication.
Thai Tropical Garden The enormous 100,000-square-meter classroom showcases the diversity of tropical horticulture fruits, plants, flowers, herbs, and rare plants.
Expo Plaza This is the center point of the exposition of fun-filled activities, amenities, and services. Visitors can purchase products from the Royal Projects and authentic local products in Chiangmai such as handicrafts, paper umbrellas, and souvenirs.
Cultural shows All 45 cultural shows from various regions of Thailand will be performed here; including traditional music and dance. In addition, Cultural performances from other nations will be presented in this place.
Thai government expects an average of 20,000 visitors per day, with over 100,000 visitors on a crowded day, and 2 million visitors in total to attend the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006. This magnificence will be a gorgeous event in the world to visit.