Durian

King of Thai fruits - 14 varieties protected by geographical indication

14 GI varieties April - August
Durian

The King of Fruits

Durian is nicknamed the "king of fruits" in Southeast Asia. Its strong and distinctive smell divides opinions, but its creamy and sweet flesh is highly appreciated by connoisseurs. Thailand cultivates 14 varieties protected by geographical indication, each with its unique characteristics.

The 14 Protected Varieties

Each variety has its own characteristics of taste, texture and aroma

Monthong (Golden Pillow)
หมอนทอง

Most popular and exported. Thick golden-yellow flesh, creamy texture, mild sweet taste. Low odor.

2-4 kg May-August (peak June)
Chanee (Gibbon)
ชะนี

Intense complex flavor, orange-yellow flesh, firm texture. Strong aroma. Highly appreciated by connoisseurs.

2-3 kg April-July (peak May-June)
Kan Yao (Long Stem)
ก้านยาว

Recognizable by its long stem. Pale yellow flesh, smooth texture, balanced sweet-bitter taste. Powerful aroma.

2-3 kg May-July (peak June)
Kradum Thong (Golden Button)
กระดุมทอง

Small size but very fragrant. Intense yellow flesh, creamy texture, rich complex taste.

1.5-2.5 kg April-June (early)
Phuang Manee (Cluster of Jewels)
พวงมณี

Bright yellow flesh, fine creamy texture, mild taste with floral notes. Delicate aroma.

2-3 kg May-July
Kop Khai (Egg Frog)
กบไข่

Distinctive shape. Pale yellow flesh, dense texture, pronounced slightly bitter taste. Strong aroma.

2-3.5 kg June-August (late)
Luang Lai (Royal Striped)
หลวงไล

Distinctive patterned rind. Golden yellow flesh, creamy texture, balanced taste. Moderate aroma.

2.5-3.5 kg May-July
Ni Thon (Escape Resistant)
หนีทน

Firm flesh that doesn't run. Dense texture, intense persistent taste. Powerful aroma.

2-3 kg May-August
Chani
ชานี

Chanee variant. Orange flesh, creamy texture, rich complex taste. Very aromatic.

2-3 kg April-July
Thong Yod (Dripping Gold)
ทองหยอด

Bright yellow very creamy flesh, almost liquid. Mild smooth taste. Delicate aroma.

2-3 kg May-July
Kan Yao Nonthaburi
ก้านยาวนนทบุรี

Specific Nonthaburi variety. Pale yellow flesh, silky texture, refined taste. Characteristic aroma.

2-3 kg May-July (peak June)
Monthong Chanthaburi
หมอนทองจันทบุรี

Chanthaburi Monthong, considered the best. Thicker flesh and more pronounced taste.

2-4 kg May-August (peak June-July)
Chanee Rayong
ชะนีระยอง

Rayong Chanee, renowned for superior quality. More intense flavor and creamier texture.

2-3 kg April-July (peak May-June)
Kan Yao Uttaradit
ก้านยาวอุตรดิตถ์

Uttaradit Kan Yao, prized for exceptional aroma and smooth flesh.

2-3 kg May-July (peak June)

Production Regions

The main durian growing areas in Thailand

Chanthaburi

Durian capital, 60% of national production. Rich soils and ideal climate.

Rayong

Recognized premium quality. Proximity to the sea brings unique flavor.

Chumphon

Southern varieties. Perfect tropical climate for aromatic durians.

Nonthaburi

Famous for its Kan Yao. Ancestral tradition of durian cultivation.

Uttaradit

Northern region. Mountain durians with distinctive aromas.

Geographical Indications Map

Location of the 14 protected durian varieties in Thailand

GI Map of the 14 Durian varieties in Thailand

Click on the map to enlarge

Durian Season

The main durian season runs from April to August, with peak production in May-June.

April May June July August

Discover Lava Durian

A unique specialty grown on volcanic soil in Si Sa Ket

Learn more about Lava Durian
Back to Durian