This so-called “Lung of Bangkok” is an attractive destination for any visitor. Lumphini Park is a green and pleasant haven giving visitors to the thronging metropolis that is Bangkok to take a breather, rest and relax.
Lumphini Park is where many Bangkok residents come to get away from the often relentless Bangkok traffic. This is an ideal spot to see the traditional Thai practice of tai chi, or even take part yourself, as open air classes are frequently held here. There is also the opportunity to enjoy one of the frequent concerts that take place here.
The park was originally created back in the 1920s, when the then monarch King Rama VI recognised and acted upon the need for a green and pleasant open space within Bangkok. As a result, 57 hectares of royal land were dedicated to setting up a park in the central business district of Sathon, with the completed park being named after the birthplace of Buddha in Nepal.
There is no doubt that Lumphini Park offers residents an oasis from the frenetic pace of life in the centre of Bangkok, a break from the cacophony of noise and frantic activity. It’s the ideal place to recharge your batteries for a few hours before you thrust yourself back into the hive of activity that is Bangkok. This is a beautiful setting which encompasses a wide open park, with attractive palm groves, orchids and a lake providing a decorative aspect.
However, there is no shortage of life here, with tai chi participants sharing the park with yoga enthusiasts and joggers, along with occasional sword dancing displays taking place on the lawns. Another fascinating spectacle that you can observe is the daily ritual that takes place at 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., as the entire park pauses to listen to the national anthem played through loudspeakers.
There are plenty of ways to give yourself a bit of a workout here, with free open air aerobics classes taking place every day. Stalls are also available that sell delicious traditional Thai food such as pad thai (noodles) or a jim joom (hot pot).
Lumphini Park is open to the public every day. There are two easily accessible metro stops nearby, namely Lumphini and Si Lom. Smoking is not permitted in the park.