Uthai Thani Botanical Garden is located approximately 5 kilometers past the local Cultural Center. It is a serene natural retreat, offering visitors a cool and refreshing atmosphere, perfect for those who wish to experience the tranquility of the forest and explore the region’s rich plant biodiversity. A walk around the garden typically takes about one hour, allowing visitors to closely observe a wide variety of native plants while enjoying the natural scents and freshness of the surroundings.

 

The garden cultivates many indigenous plants that have practical uses in daily life and traditional Thai medicine. For example, the forest neem tree (sada pa) has leaves and fruits traditionally used to make natural insect repellents. The soap tree produces ripe fruits that can be used for bathing, washing hair, and laundering clothes in a natural and sustainable way. Medicinal herbs such as rang jud are also grown here, known for their ability to relieve symptoms of intoxication, making them a valued part of traditional herbal remedies.

 

Some plants in the garden are toxic. For instance, the hairs of the chang rong tree can cause itching and a burning sensation if they come into contact with the skin. The yan nong tree produces toxic sap, which ancient hunters traditionally applied to the tips of their arrows for hunting. These practices reflect the deep knowledge and wisdom of local communities in utilizing native plants.

 

Uthai Thani Botanical Garden is not only a natural tourist attraction but also an educational hub, highlighting the value of indigenous plants for medicine, agriculture, and everyday life. It is ideal for nature enthusiasts, those interested in herbal medicine, and anyone seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life to immerse themselves in the peace and beauty of nature.