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Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 09:00 - 17:00

 

La-ong Fah Orchard in Nakhon Nayok Province is a uniquely distinguished ancient durian orchard in Thailand. It serves as a conservation hub for more than 50 traditional durian varieties, which have been expanded to over 100 cultivars today. This place is not just an ordinary fruit orchard, but a living landscape that reflects the deep relationship between people, nature, and long-established agricultural wisdom within Thai society.

 

Within the broader context of Nakhon Nayok Province, widely known for its natural attractions such as waterfalls, reservoirs, and mountains, La-ong Fah Orchard adds another dimension through agro-tourism. It enhances the province’s appeal by offering not only natural scenery but also an authentic experience of rural life and traditional agriculture.

 

The orchard is located in Ban Hubluek, Khao Phra Subdistrict, Mueang Nakhon Nayok District. This area is surrounded by mountainous terrain, enjoys favorable weather conditions, and is highly suitable for fruit cultivation. Durian, in particular, thrives in this balanced environment of soil, water, and climate. Covering more than 30 rai, the orchard provides sufficient space for a rich and diverse ecological system.

 

The origin of La-ong Fah Orchard dates back approximately 40 years when Mr. Chom Sowannatrakul brought traditional durian varieties from the Thonburi area to plant in Nakhon Nayok. At that time, many ancient durian varieties still existed in Bangkok and nearby regions but were gradually disappearing due to commercial farming practices. Relocating these varieties was not only about cultivation, but also about preserving valuable plant genetics for future generations.

 

Over more than four decades, the orchard has continuously expanded its collection. From only a few varieties initially, it has grown into a repository of more than 50 traditional durian types and now exceeds 100 varieties. This makes it one of the most diverse ancient durian conservation sites in Thailand.

 

Today, the orchard is managed by Mr. Chatree Sowannatrakul, who continues to uphold the family’s original philosophy. Rather than converting the orchard into a commercial enterprise, he has chosen to preserve its natural identity and maintain the intrinsic value of its plant varieties.

 

The core concept of La-ong Fah Orchard is “ecological agriculture.” This approach allows nature to determine the growth cycle of plants. No chemical fertilizers are used, no artificial ripening agents are applied, and production is not controlled according to market demand. As a result, plants grow in harmony with their environment, reducing long-term ecological impact.

 

This philosophy clearly distinguishes the orchard from commercial farms. While many orchards rely on chemicals and production control to meet market demands, La-ong Fah Orchard allows natural cycles to dictate yield. Although this may result in lower output, it produces fruits with unique characteristics and superior natural quality.

 

The orchard practices mixed planting, featuring rows of tall bamboo along pathways, along with banana trees, rambutan, pineapple, and various other fruit crops. This biodiversity enhances ecological balance, minimizes pest outbreaks, and naturally enriches soil fertility.

 

La-ong Fah Orchard is widely recognized as a “living museum of ancient durian” due to its extensive collection of rare varieties. It also plays a significant role in food security through plant genetic conservation. The orchard is part of a botanical initiative for food sustainability, supported by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth), Chulalongkorn University, and the BioThai Foundation.

 

Notable durian varieties found here include “La-ong Fah,” known for its rich sweetness and dense texture; “Kanyao Chanee,” which has yellow flesh and relatively small seeds; “Chai Mangkhut,” a unique variety named after a mangosteen tree nearby, offering a sweet taste with a mild aroma; and “Fresh Milk Durian,” which has a creamy texture and a distinctive milky fragrance.

 

In addition to conservation, the orchard also serves as a learning center for visitors, especially children and families. Visitors can learn about planting techniques, experience rural lifestyles, and engage in hands-on agricultural activities. These experiences help foster a deeper understanding of sustainable living and environmental awareness.

 

The orchard also grows a variety of fruits and vegetables without chemical inputs, allowing them to develop naturally. These include longkong, mangosteen, rambutan, pineapple, Marian plum, and other seasonal fruits, further enriching the biodiversity within the orchard.

 

The atmosphere of the orchard is peaceful, simple, and deeply natural. Visitors are surrounded by durian trees of varying heights, interspersed with other fruit trees, creating a layered and vibrant landscape. This is not a staged tourist attraction, but a genuine working orchard where nature remains the central element.

 

In terms of visitor experience, guests can walk through the orchard, learn about different durian varieties, participate in agricultural activities, and during the harvest season, taste fresh durian directly from the trees. This provides a rare and authentic experience that is not commonly found in commercial orchards.

 

The best time to visit La-ong Fah Orchard is between April and June, which is the peak durian season. During this time, visitors can fully enjoy the lively atmosphere of the orchard and taste durian at its highest quality.

 

Travel to La-ong Fah Orchard is most convenient by private car. From Bangkok, take the Rangsit–Nakhon Nayok Road, which takes approximately 1.5–2 hours. Then continue to Khao Phra Subdistrict where the orchard is located. This route also allows for easy travel to nearby attractions.

 

Overall, La-ong Fah Orchard is more than just a tourist destination. It represents a way of living in harmony with nature, conserving plant genetics, and strengthening food security at the community level. For travelers seeking a deeper and more meaningful experience, this orchard stands out as a valuable destination in Nakhon Nayok Province.

 

 

A: It is located in Ban Hubluek, Khao Phra Subdistrict, Mueang Nakhon Nayok District, Thailand.

 

A: It conserves more than 50–100 ancient durian varieties and practices chemical-free ecological farming.

 

A: Between April and June, during the durian season.

 

A: It is suitable for agro-tourists, durian enthusiasts, families, and those interested in sustainable living.

 

A: Yes, it is most convenient to travel by private car from Bangkok via the Rangsit–Nakhon Nayok Road.