Lumpini Park Bangkok: What to Do, See, and Practical Guide
Bangkok’s Lumpini Park is an emblematic green space in the heart of the city, ideal for a stroll, sports and watching monitor lizards.
Fresh air, greenery and peace and quiet: these are the 3 words that come to mind if you’ve spent too long in Bangkok! Fortunately, the city has this beautiful 58-hectare setting at its heart, which is not to be sniffed at in this over-polluted megalopolis.
History of Lumpini Park: from its creation to the present day
The park was created under Rama VI on land belonging to the crown. A statue in honour of the monarch stands in front of the main entrance. The first buildings were erected around an artificial lake in 1925. It was named Lumpini or Lumphini after the place where the Buddha is said to have been born in southern Nepal: Lumbini.
A library was built in the centre of the park in 1925. It was the first public library in the kingdom (and was renovated in 2020). In the south-eastern part of the park, there is also a Chinese-style clock tower, which was built in the same year as the library. For many years, the park also had an aquarium. It has now been closed (for over 20 years) but the building still remains.
The most significant event in the park’s history is that it was transformed, by force of circumstance, into a military camp for the Japanese army during the Second World War. In 2014, it was also converted (illegally) into a huge campsite by the Yellow Shirts, who were challenging the current government. It took several months to restore the park to its former glory.
The park regularly hosts cultural events throughout the year. The park is transformed into a huge fairground, notably for the Red Cross festival, regional promotion days organised by the TAT, etc.
What to see in Bangkok’s Lumpini Park?
The park is home to many different species of trees that blend harmoniously together. It is not a park designed to showcase flowers or rare species, but rather to offer a balanced green space, without ostentation. The emphasis is on harmony between wooded areas, small meadows and islands of greenery.
The park also has several lakes, including a central one. The main advantage of this stretch of water, apart from the freshness it provides, is the depth and skyline it creates. It also allows the eye to escape. This is one of the problems of big cities: the visual field is constantly restricted. To live in an urban environment is to see your gaze blocked by a building, a street, a bridge… Here, space opens up, green dominates and the noise of cars fades away.
Activities in Lumpini Park: sport, cycling and relaxation
Going to the park is often essential for families, and Lumphini Park is no exception. Many families go there after school and/or at weekends. There are two play areas for children. The first is somewhat outdated and is located near rue Rama IV. The other, the main one, is not far from the east entrance to the park. Swings, apparatus, slides, etc. are grouped together in this area, where the little ones can have fun with their feet in the sand.
The other main activity is of course cycling and scootering. There are no restrictions on what children can do.
Cycling for adults is accepted, but with a specific time slot: 10.00 am to 3.00 pm.
As well as strolling and lazing around, Lumpini Park offers plenty of opportunities for sporting activities. For example, there are a number of apparatus available for jogging. There are also outdoor gyms. There’s no need to sign up, just pay a small entrance fee. There is also a weight room next to the swimming pool. Entry is subject to conditions. See below for details. Tennis lessons are also available (membership required).
Every evening, from 5pm, two sound systems are set up, one at the main entrance, the other at the kiosk, to get dozens of people moving to the sounds of aerobic music. There’s no charge to take part, and the show is guaranteed to go on.
The monitor lizards of Lumpini Park: Bangkok’s emblematic animal
The park is also a great place to watch animals. Two tenants squat the place. The first, is just about everywhere and is the delight of pet lovers: the cat or rather cats. They are fed free of charge by kind-hearted souls who hand out kibbles and other delicacies at set times every day.
The other animal to look out for is Thailand’s famous monitor lizards. It is not as aggressive and dangerous as its Komodo cousin. Even though they are large, they are still very shy. They are usually found all over Bangkok’s khlongs. Here, they are a little more used to seeing people and you can approach them without much problem. Be careful though, this is a wild animal! They don’t like to be cuddled or stroked.
Pedalo ride in Lumpini Park: prices and timetable
November 2022 saw the return of pedalos and canoes to Lake Lumpini. The time of the pandemic was fatal for the old pedal boats. The fleet has been rebuilt! The white pedal boat in the shape of a swan is back in service. All new, all beautiful! Longer and higher, they seem less comfortable than the old ones! A debatable point of view, no doubt. On the other hand, the swan has grown, so it’s impossible to go under the bridges now. The only way to reach the other lake is by canoe.
Hire is free. You can canoe on the lake every day from 9am to 4pm.
Practical info for visiting Lumpini Park in Bangkok
- Address : Lumpini Park - Rama IV Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330.
- How to get there: BTS Sala Daeng station. MRT Silom station or Lumpini station.
- Smoking is not permitted in the park.
FAQ about Lumpini Park
Do I have to pay to enter Lumpini Park?
No, entry is completely free.
What are the park opening times?
The park is open every day from 4.30am to 9pm.
How do I get to Lumpini Park?
You can take the BTS and get off at Sala Daeng, or the MRT at Silom or Lumpini.
Can I cycle in the park?
Yes, but only between 10am and 3pm for adults. Children can cycle without restriction.
Are there any free activities in the park?
Yes, there are free aerobics classes every day from 5pm. There are also sports equipment and the pedalo ride is free.
Are there any animals in the park?
Yes, there are Thai monitor lizards and lots of cats.
Is swimming permitted in the park’s lake?
No, swimming is prohibited.
Can I bring my dog to Lumpini Park?
No, dogs are not allowed in the park.
Are there any restaurants or food stalls in the park?
There are a few food stalls around the park, but we recommend that you bring your own picnic.
Can I get to another park from Lumpini?
Yes, you can get to Benjakiti Park by taking the greenway, a pedestrian and cycle path linking the two parks.
What rules should visitors follow?
Smoking, swimming, and bringing pets are prohibited. Please respect nature and dispose of waste properly.
Are there facilities on-site?
Yes, there are restrooms, picnic areas, and a small café at the park entrance.
Things to Do in Lumpini Park
Lumpini Park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to relax, exercise, or observe wildlife, there’s something for everyone.
Activities at a Glance
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Walking & Jogging | Dedicated paths for running and morning walks. |
| Cycling | Bicycles allowed at specific hours (10 AM - 3 PM). |
| Paddle Boating | Rent a swan-shaped pedalo on the lake. |
| Outdoor Gym | Free exercise equipment available. |
| Yoga & Tai Chi | Morning sessions led by local groups. |
| Wildlife Spotting | Monitor lizards, birds, and turtles can be seen. |
| Picnicking | Shaded areas perfect for a relaxing meal. |
| Children’s Playground | Play area with swings and slides. |
Detailed Activities
Walking & Jogging
Lumpini Park is a favorite spot for joggers, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. The park features well-maintained paths and a 2.5 km jogging loop.
Cycling
Cycling is allowed only between 10 AM and 3 PM to maintain safety for pedestrians. Visitors can bring their own bikes or rent one nearby.
Paddle Boating
For a unique experience, visitors can rent paddle boats shaped like swans and enjoy a relaxing ride on the lake.
Outdoor Gym & Fitness Classes
Fitness enthusiasts can make use of the free outdoor gym, while others may join Tai Chi, yoga, or aerobics classes held in the mornings.
Wildlife Spotting
Lumpini Park is home to various species, including the famous monitor lizards. Birdwatchers will also find many species of birds and turtles near the water.
Picnicking
With plenty of shaded areas, the park is an ideal place to enjoy a picnic while soaking in the natural surroundings.
Children’s Playground
Families with kids can take advantage of the playground equipped with swings, slides, and climbing structures.
Things to see and do near the park :
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