Dasada in full bloom

The eastern province of Prachin Buri is being promoted as a hub of green tourism. Chaophraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital is a jewel of Thai herbal medicine, while neighbouring Khao Yai National Park and Wang Nam Kheow are popular for green tours. Another jigsaw piece to fulfil the panoramic view of this green city is Dasada Resort, set against the backdrop of Khao Yai’s greenery.

Just about a two-hour drive from Bangkok and set in a lush 800-rai landscape, this is an ideal place to get closer to nature and catch the flowers in full bloom. While the resort offers accommodation with views of a petal-shaped pool and garden and visits to flower farms, the highlight is the nearby giant greenhouse – the Dasada Gallery – which boasts a floral exhibition that changes with the seasons.

Divided into two periods, the current exhibition is “Flower Ocean”, ending tomorrow, to be replaced by “Pink Ocean” from February 1 to 17. 

Created by well-known florist Pitak Hangsajara and his team, they offer different kinds of cut flowers and decorative plants in various shades, arranged beautifully in the form of coral and marine creatures, just begging to be photographed.

Over 100,000 flowers were used to set up the floral paradise. Greeting visitors at the entrance are mermaids whose tails are decorated with an abundant supply of chrysanthemums and marigolds in pink, white and green. Hanging from the ceiling is a group of jellyfish formed from countless gerbera and carnations in green, white, pink and orange. And the highlight is a giant whale decorated with numerous gerbera in yellow and white. 

Roaming around the glasshouse are garland orchids in purple and white, while the pathway is lined up with bromelaid and ornamental pepper plants in various hues.

“Prachin Buri is known for its mountainous scenery, but I want to go against this typical perception. My flower arrangements take inspiration from the ocean. The water creatures are taken on shore to be photographed. The giant whale, however, is painstakingly done in yellow to celebrate His Majesty’s the King birthday. These flowers are planted at Dasada Resort and come from its farm in Chiang Mai,” says Pitak.

“To celebrate Valentine’s Day, pink will be the dominant hue for many flowers during the month of love to provide a soft and romantic ambience.”

If you don’t have plans yet for New Year’s, Dasada Gallery is another choice to take a one- or two-day break. 

 

BUDDING FOR YOU

>>> Dasada Resort and Gallery is on Prachin-Khaoyai Road in Prachin Buri province. 

>>> The entrance fee to the gallery is Bt200 but it’s free for children under 130 centimetres in height. 

>>> Call (037) 239 800 or visit www.Dasada-happiness.com.