Lumpini Park, Bangkok

During the day, Lumpini Park is one of the most happening places in the city of Bangkok.  People of all types, from all places come to the park to relax, exercise, and enjoy the many activities which the park has to offer.  It is the center of many events, and serves as a gathering place for many families and festivals on a daily basis.

The main entrance to the park is located about a five minute walk from the Sala Daeng BTS station, where you will notice the monument of King Rama VI of the Chakri Dynasty, who ruled Thailand from 1911 until his death in 1925.  Upon his passing, he donated the land which became Lumpini Park to the people of Bangkok to be used as a public gathering area.

The first thing that most people notice who have never before visited the park is that it is very clean and spacious.  There seems to be attention paid to every detail, the gardens are manicured, and there is an abundance of well-kept sculptures, benches and covered pavilions.  Pets are not allowed, in efforts to keep the park clean and safe for families, joggers and people who wish to sit in the grass and read a book, perhaps from the public library located within the park.  There is a very large man-made lake, and visitors can rent small paddle boats for a perfect picnic on the water.  

Lumpini Park is a paradise for photographers, as many events occur here on a regular basis.  It is a perfect place for picnics, friendly gatherings, or if you are traveling through Bangkok on a family vacation, it is perfect for children.  In addition, the well maintained flower gardens and multi-cultural monuments provide for a perfect point of interest for those unfamiliar.  The park is also home to many different types of health enthusiasts.  There are outdoor fitness areas, running paths which attract joggers, and in the early hours you will see groups of people practicing yoga and tai chi as well as very large groups exercising an aerobics routine lead by an instructor.

The park is open from 6am until 9pm seven days a week, and admission is free.