Chang Hua Man Royal Project – Simple, yet profound through Royal resolve

tourist attraction

The Chang Hua Man Royal Project is another royal initiative of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great (Rama IX). His Majesty intended for it to be a learning center for sustainable agriculture and a hub for economic crops in Tha Yang District, Phetchaburi Province, emphasizing integrated resource management and community participation.

The Origin of the Name “Chang Hua Man”

The origin of the project’s name stems from a simple incident that reflects the genius and attentiveness to agriculture of His Majesty King Rama IX. While residing at Klai Kangwon Palace, a sweet potato presented to him by local villagers was left on a weighing scale in his royal working room. Over time, that sweet potato sprouted on its own without being planted in the soil.

His Majesty recognized this as a sign of the possibility to develop agriculture, even in areas that appeared infertile. Therefore, he initiated the establishment of an integrated agricultural project in a real-world setting, and that became the origin of the “Chang Hua Man Project” (literally meaning “weighing the sweet potato”).

A Model Farm for Self-Reliance

The area of over 250 rai of the Chang Hua Man Project is utilized as an integrated agricultural farm. There are experiments in growing various crops and raising different types of animals. The focus is not on quantity or commercialization, but rather on serving as a “model” that farmers can apply in their real lives.

Interesting Attractions within the Project:

• Economic crop plantation plots such as sweet potatoes, pineapples, bananas, and coconuts.
• Pesticide-free vegetable greenhouses and a solar energy farm.
• Animal farming zones featuring cows, goats, ducks, chickens, and pigs.
• Nurseries for fruit trees and local plants.
• “Sufficiency House,” a simulation of a simple lifestyle using renewable energy.

In addition, there is a learning center and an exhibition clearly showcasing the royal initiatives and the concept of the Sufficiency Economy.

Highlights for Tourists

Local Product Shop: Sells souvenirs and processed agricultural products directly from the project.

Large Wind Turbine Field: A popular photo spot featuring a backdrop of dozens of wind turbines lined up against the sky.

Tram Tour: There is a tram service for touring inside the project, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.

Travel Information

• Location: Ban Nong Kho Kai, Khao Krapuk Subdistrict, Tha Yang District, Phetchaburi Province.
• Distance from Phetchaburi city: Approximately 50 km.
• Opening hours: Every day from 08:30 AM to 04:30 PM.
• No admission fee (Donations can be made on a voluntary basis to support the project).

Summary

The Chang Hua Man Project is not just a tourist destination, but it is a space of hope, simplicity, and learning that beautifully carries forward the philosophy of King Rama IX.

If you want to experience the true meaning of “sufficiency” and witness the valuable use of resources in a way that is simple yet grand.