Thai tourists have flocked in thousands to appreciate the beauty of wild Himalayan cherry trees, also known as Thai Sakura, which are in full bloom during December to February.
Apart from the cold weather, another reason why thousands and thousands of Thais travel to the North of Thailand in winter is that many kinds of plant in the region look much more beautiful in the coldest season. One plant in particular which is more attractive than the rest is the Wild Himalayan cherry, or Nang Phaya Sua Krong in Thai. It is similar to the Japanese Sakura and is in full bloom in many northern provinces from December to February.
Wild Himalayan cherry trees are usually spotted in Doi Suthep, Mae Taeng, Doi Ang Khang, and Doi Luang Chiang Dao in Chiang Mai, Khun Tan in Nan, Mae Sa Long in Chiang Rai and some parts of Lampang. Generally, they are found on mountain tops, 500-1,500 meters above sea level.
Wild Himalayan cherry is in the same family of plum, peach and cherry blossom. This kind of tree breeds by nature and is found most in China, Japan, and Taiwan. The tree stands 10-15 meters in height and is deciduous.
Why spend huge sum of money going to Japan to take great delight in Sakura in blossom, simply go up north and have an eyeful of the equally beautiful wild Himalayan cherry there. You won’t be disappointed.
