From November to January, when the cool season blesses Thailand, the countryside becomes a sun-dappled paradise.
The seas of sunflowers in the provinces of Lop Buri, Saraburi, and Nakhon Ratchasima spill gold hues as far as the eye can see along the highways, creating a brilliant escape just hours from Bangkok.
Photo: A seemingly endless sunflower field provides a radiant escape into Thailand’s picturesque countryside.//Photo: Manesornsunflower Facebook page
For photographers, nature lovers, or even those on a quest for just a serene weekend getaway, this tour could be the shining fulfillment of the need for beauty around every bend.
Land of Monkeys and Sunflowers
Start your journey in Lop Buri, famed for its mischievous monkeys and ancient ruins. But during the winter, the province dons a different charm: vibrant sunflower fields blanket its rolling hills.
The fields at Khao Chin Lae, just a short ride from the town center, rank as the most popular. Nestled amidst mountains, this one sunflower area spans over 150 acres.
Photo: Khao Chin Lae, a short drive from Lop Buri town center, stands out as the top sunflower attraction.//Photo: TAT Lop Buri Office
The ebullient stretches of golden blossoms, deftly framed by the mountains of the area, are a real sight to behold.
Adding to the charm is a far-off glimpse of Wat Weluwan, a stunning white temple that stands serenely against the cacophony of yellow.
At Rai Wichan, one of the best in Khao Chin Lae Valley, the sunflowers stretch along both sides of a central path, with a dramatically beautiful backdrop of emerald mountain ranges in the distance.
The field offers plenty of scenic photo spots and a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere for visitors. For those who prefer not to walk too far, ATVs are available for rent, letting you explore the flowers up close while doubling as a stylish photo accessory.
Many sunflower farms here also set up striking platforms and backdrops perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.
Photo: At Rai Wichan in Lop Buri, visitors climb a white-painted ladder set amidst a sea of sunflowers, capturing the perfect photo moment.//Photo: TAT Lop Buri Office
Situated 38 kilometers east of Khao Chin Lae, Rai Khun Ramyong sunflower field is something any photographer would want: full of such picture-perfect spots that perhaps no other place in the country can match.
A white ladder and swing contrasting with the gold sea of sunflowers assure a perfect selfie each time. For added fun, ATVs are available for rent here too, either to get around in the field or as a stylish prop to enhance your photos.
Winter brings an explosion of blooms to Lop Buri, and Basil and Coffee offers the perfect blend of delightful cuisine and sweeping fields of cosmos and sunflowers.
Stroll along the elevated walkway and snap stunning selfies with a quaint wooden cottage surrounded by a vibrant wildflower meadow. Lop Buri is also an historic province with Hindu ruins and royal palaces.
If time allows, a stop should be made at King Narai's Palace and to appease the monkeys at Phra Prang Sam Yot, the 13th-century Hindu shrine.
Photo: King Narai's Palace in Lop Buri offers a glimpse into royal history and is well worth a detour.//Photo: Phoowadon Duangmee.
A Melange of Gold and Green
The next stop on your road trip takes you to Saraburi, just an hour’s drive from Lop Buri. Known for its scenic beauty and proximity to Khao Yai National Park, Saraburi is also famous for its stunning sunflower fields.
From November to December, the province comes alive with a vibrant display of sunflowers in full bloom, stretching as far as the eye can see.
With over 10,000 acres of sunflower fields, Saraburi’s districts—such as Phra Phutthabat, Kaeng Khoi, Nong Don, Nong Khae, and Muak Lek—are all great spots to visit, with Wang Muang being home to the largest fields.
For a fun, family-friendly adventure, head to Hin Son and Tha Klo in Kaeng Khoi district. Between November and December, you’ll find over 4,000 acres of sunflowers blooming in a beautiful valley setting.
If you prefer a leisurely drive, Wang Muang and Muak Lek offer sunflower fields surrounded by rolling hills, grassy meadows, and rustic farmsteads and dairy farms.
From December to January, this area is particularly beautiful, with the sunflowers in full bloom.
While the sunflower fields are the main attraction, Saraburi has plenty more to offer. You can visit Phra Phutthabat and Phra Phutthachai temples, explore caves and waterfalls, or relax at vineyards, where you can enjoy wine tasting and delicious steaks.
These spots are conveniently located along the route to the sunflower fields. And if you're up for some extra fun, many places offer activities like horseback riding, cycling, and ATV rides to make your visit even more memorable.
The Grand Finale in Khao Yai
From Saraburi, this is the final leg of your sunflower road trip. Your flowers await you in Nakhon Ratchasima's Pak Chong district – one last dazzling field of sunflowers to see before you return home.
Pak Chong serves as an entranceway to the magical Khao Yai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its charming hotels, cottages, and agro-tourism spots.
It is the perfect place to round off your sunflower adventure with nature trails, vineyard visits, and even a bit of stargazing.
As you make your way back to Bangkok, with the sweet scent of sunflowers still in the air and the golden memories of the trip etched in your mind, you'll be reminded of the timeless beauty of Thailand’s countryside.
From the vibrant sunflowers of Lop Buri to the serene landscapes of Saraburi and the majestic charm of Nakhon Ratchasima, this road trip is a truly rewarding chase for sunshine.
