Khao Hin Son Royal Development Study Centre

Khao Hin Son Royal Development Study Centre is located in Tambon Khao Hin Son on Highway 304, between Km 51-52, and 17 km from the town of Phanom Sarakham. The centre has a vast area of around 1,895 rai. It was established by H.M. the King on 8 August 1979. In the past, the area was degraded with infertile and sandy soil. Soil erosion was highly found. H.M. the King has developed the land, environment and eco-system in the area. There were the development of water sources, the improvement of forest conditions, development of land, and planning of planting and animal husbandry. As a result, the area has been totally changed. By the introduction of a new agricultural theory on a sufficiency economy, the people have been given an opportunity to live a self-reliant life. The area can be considered a living natural museum and a comprehensive development centre. It can also serve as a model and set an example of development for other areas, with cooperation from government agencies and the private sector. Within the centre, the area is divided for demonstrative and experimental works, such as land development, livestock, aquatic animal culture, arts and craft, an herbal forest plantation project, etc. There are experimental fields of various plants, such as rattan species found in Thailand, avocado, and mango of Thai and foreign species. The Botanical Garden of the East has been established here to supervise research on benefits from herbal plants. Inside the building, there are an exhibition and a demonstration on how to produce herbs. An herbal steaming room is open on Saturday and Sunday from 8.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m.. The centre won the 2002 Tourism Award for Outstanding Performance in the category of Tourist attractions and the 2004 Tourism Award for Excellence in the category of Agro-tourism Sites.
A two-hour guided tour for a group of visitors is available. Advance contact should be made to the Director of the Khao Hin Son Royal Development and Study Centre. Accommodation is also provided by the centre. A fan room is 100 Baht per person. An air-conditioned room is 600 Baht per night (3 persons). For more information, contact the Khao Hin Son Development Study Centre at Tel. 0 3859 9105-6, 08 1686 0639 during office hours from 8.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.