Credit: Richard Barrow This is one of the most recently initiated Royal Projects in Phetchaburi, a short drive from the seaside resort of Cha-Am. Initiated in 2009 on 250 rai of land, the Project is an experimental farm where a range of experimental crops are being tested, not only to help the local people of the Phetchaburi area, but farmers around the nation. 

Getting to the Project is a pleasure in itself. The road from Cha-Am winds its way into the green hills past picturesque paddies. If you really want to get into the eco-friendly spirit of the Royal Project, get on your bike and take the newly-constructed cycle path, alongside the road, that goes nearly all the way to Chang Hua Man. 

There are many different crops grown here with fruits including bananas, papaya, limes and pineapples; over 40 species of vegetables as well as rice and rubber. And all these crops are grown organically without chemicals – sustainability and environmental protection are a large part of all the Royal Projects. The Chang Hua Man Royal Project takes full advantage of its position in the hills with a small wind farm to produce clean electric power. The impressive windmills can be seen from miles away and produce enough energy to power the Project with the excess being fed back into the local grid. Also a dairy farm has been added that uses free range techniques, so the Holstein Friesian cows have lots of space to wander. There are nearly 40 cows and the milk they produce can be brought in the Chang Hua Man shop and local markets. One of the main exhibitions is about Thai soil types. Most of us give soil very little thought and presume it is much the same wherever you are in the world. But actually soil changes not just from country to country but from region to region, and farmers need to know the exact makeup of the soil and its minerals so that can plant suitable crops. It’s an exacting science of one of the reasons why the work being done at Chang Hua Man is so important. But all the Royal Projects give us a vital insight into where food comes from and the effort that goes into growing crops. And as our climate changes and we face an uncertain future, the Royal Projects are becoming more important than ever. The Chang Hua Man Royal Project also offers a fun and informative day out to families where they can spend time in the fresh air, get their hands dirty and be more in touch with rural Thailand. And before you leave, stock up on fresh fruits, milk or vegetables at the Golden Place shop. You can taste the hard work of Thailand’s farmers and appreciate the countryside in a whole new way.