Lumpini Park
 Named after the Buddha's birthplace in Nepal,
this is Bangkok's largest and most popular park.
The park is bordered by Rama IV Road to the
South, Sarasin Road to the North, Witthayu Road
to the East and Ratchadamri Road to the West,
with entrance gates on all sides. A large
artificial lake in the center is surrounded by
broad, well-tended lawns, wooded areas and
walking paths. In other words, it is the best
outdoor escape from Bangkok without leaving
town.
This 360-rai (58 hectare) plot of land was
formerly known as the Sala Deang field, and was
the private property of King Rama VI. In 1925,
the King donated the land to the nation to be
used as a public and fair ground. The Siamrath
Phiphithapan Trade Fair held here to promote
Thai producta among Thais and forigners was
discontinued after the death of the King Rama
VI.
One of the best times to visit the park is in
the early morning. Suan Lumpini is a place of
moods rather than sights. In the morning it's
full of people exercising. More striking and
graceful than the joggers are Chinese tai chi
groups, making slow movements to music. Along
the gates, vendors set up tables to dispense
fresh snake blood and bile considered a health
tonic by many Thais and Chinese. Rowing boats
and puddle boats can be rented at the lake. A
weight-lifting area in one section becomes a
miniature "muscle beach" on the weekends. Other
facilities include a snack bar, several areas
with tables and benches for picnics and a couple
of tables where ladies serve Chinese tea. Rest
rooms are placed at intervals throughout the
park.
Koh Loy or Floating
Island
King Rama VI arranged for example of native
plants from all regions of the country to be
planted here for the education of the people.
Royal Monument of King
Rama VI
Located at the park's main entrance. Alumni of
Vajiravudh College built the memorial with the
additional funding from the government of F.M.
Plaek Pibulsongkram and public donations.
Clock Tower
This Chinese style structure was built in 1925
as preparations for the Siamrath Phiphitthapan
Trade Fair.
Public Library
This is the first public library in Thailand. It
has 30,000 books and has opened audio and visual
educational services, promotions to encourage
reading, and book exhibitions etc.
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