The parks of Bangkok

Posted by Sukhumwit Steve on January 14th, 2010 filed in Sightseeing

Those who think that Bangkok is jut about bars, tuk-tuks and temples need to think again. The city contains a number of green zones, which are the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Lumphini is Bangkok’s largest, oldest and perhaps best known park. Easily reachable from Saladaeng Skytrain Station, the park covers a colossal 50km². Not only is Luphini Park a beautiful green zone, it is also a great place to see Thai life at its best. Large extended families picnic on blankets under the trees, young couples walk along holding hands, stalls are set up for barbers to ply their trade and merchants to sells snacks while all over the park you can see Indian men playing cricket and young Thais and westerners cycling and playing football in the sunshine.

From Lumphini Park you can take the Skytrain straight to Mo Chit and explore Bangkok’s second largest green area. Located next to the famous weekend market, Chatuchak Park is extremely beautiful and features a large lake and tennis courts.

Cross the road behind Chatuchak, walk a few meters and you will come to one of Bangkok’s best kept secrets. Known as Suan Rotfi or Railway Park, this is perhaps Bangkok’s most beautiful and least visited park, full of great facilities guaranteed to keep you coming back time and again.

The best way to explore this lush wonderland is by bike, and bicycles can be hired from the far end of the park. As you pass, pause to explore the Insectarium and Butterfly Centre, where you will find a colourful collection of butterflies, plants and insects. The park also contains a gym, swimming pool and some beautiful places to sit and relax.

When it’s time to make a move, take the Skytrain to Prompong station and walk to The Emporium Shopping Centre, which is located on Sukhumvit Road. Here you will discover Benjasiri Park, which was built to celebrate the Queen’s 60th birthday in 1992 and contains some magnificent Thai sculptures.

Situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, there is always something interesting to see at Santichaiprakan Park, especially in the evening, when the cool dusk air attracts jugglers, bongo players and Thai teenagers to show off their break dancing skills or play takraw.