WHERE TO SEE THE TULIPS

Every year soon after the arrival of the rainy season, the deciduous forests of Pa Hin Ngam and Sai Thong national parks celebrate this refreshing time of year with not only a lush, lively greenery but also the pink bulbs of Siam tulips ( Curcuma alismatifolia), which appear in abundance. The two parks of Chaiyaphum province invite nature lovers to enjoy this annual natural floral extravaganza from today until the end of August. Siam tulip is widely known as krajiao, which is actually a general term for several species of curcuma, because the word has long been used to promote this phenomenon as the province’s primary tourist attraction. Some, for the sake of being specific, refer to the plant as pathumma. Despite the confusion about their proper Thai name, Siam tulips never fail to add vibrant beauty to the two parks, making the green season their high season. During this period, tourists are not allowed to drive deep into either of the two parks as usual. In the interest of traffic-management and income-generation for the locals, visitors are required to leave their vehicles at designated parking areas and take a shuttle bus to the flower sites. To avoid crowds, visit the parks on weekdays rather than weekends. Also, it is important to note that there is no need to rush there. As of this week, only about 10% of the Siam tulip plant is in bloom. Mid-June would be a better time to go. Pa Hin Ngam National Park is located in Thep Sathit district, while Sai Thong National Park covers the forestland northwest to it in Nong Bua Rawae district.