Lumpini Park

Overview

Lumpini Park is Bangkok's oldest and most beloved public park, a 57.6-hectare green oasis in the heart of the commercial district. Named after the Buddha's birthplace in Nepal, it offers lakes, jogging paths, and a famous population of resident monitor lizards.

Highlights

• Monitor Lizards: Dozens of large water monitors — some over 1.5 metres long — roam freely through the park.
• Boating Lake: Rent a swan-shaped pedal boat on the park's artificial lake.
• Morning Tai Chi: Join locals practising tai chi, aerobics, and yoga at dawn.

History

Created by King Rama VI in the 1920s on royal land that was formerly used as a paddock. The park's monumental entrance arch was designed by the same Italian sculptor who created the Democracy Monument.

Visitor Tips

• Early morning or evening: Avoid the midday heat; the park is most active before 07:00 and after 17:00.
• Food banned inside: Eat at the surrounding street stalls before entering.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.