Best Free Things in Bangkok

Description:

Although greenery may be hard to come by in Bangkok, Chatuchak Park surely has a lot of it. A sanctuary for joggers, bicyclists and picnickers alike since 1980, Chatuchak Park is home to a variety of trees, a winding artificial lake and public exercising equipment for all to enjoy. It borders Chatuchak Weekend Market, thus also making it a haven for exhausted shoppers who need a break from the crowds. And although it is a bit hidden, the rolling extension of the park to the northwest cannot be missed.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you're not too busy watching the group fitness routines, look out for Lumphini's wildlife. Giant monitor lizards and tropical birds make you forget you're in the middle of a city!

Description:

Smack in the heart of the city lies Lumphini Park, an oasis of nature within bustling Bangkok. The first of its kind in Bangkok, plans for the public park began in 1925. Lumphini Park is named after the Buddha's birthplace and covers approximately 58 hectares, gracing the city with greenery and waterways for picnics, pick-up sports and paddleboat rides. Early mornings are unforgettable: hordes of fitness group regulars engage in synchronized aerobics, while others jog peacefully and practice tai chi. Lumphini Park is a great place to take a timeout during a long day of sightseeing.

Our Local Expert Says:

Just strides away from Central World, one of Bangkok's largest and most upscale shopping malls, the Erawan Shrine presents the shopaholic tourist with a convenient chance to soak up some culture.

Description:

In the middle of the glitz and traffic of downtown commercial Bangkok stands Erawan Shrine, a very unique place of worship that is a must-see. Devoted to the Hindu god Brahma, Erawan Shrine was built in 1956 to honor the spirits that once resided in trees that were chopped down during construction of the nearby Erawan Hotel. Nowadays, the shrine is constantly flooded with worshippers praying for good fortune as they burn incense, light candles and place carnation garlands at offering tables. Traditional Thai dancers perform on a stage around the clock, and tourists are welcomed to partake in the spirituality. The open-air fills with pleasant scents and the good vibes are abundant. Erawan Shrine is a Bangkok must.

Description:

An oasis of peace and beauty in the heart of the busy Sukhumvit Road area, Benjasiri Park, also known as the Imperial Queen's Park, is located next to the Emporium shopping complex at the Phrom Pong BTS SkyTrain stop. It is popular for exercise and a casual stroll. In botanical garden fashion, the trees show Thai and Latin names, and the lush lawn and flowering plants such as frangipani are carefully maintained. At the heast of it lies a small artificial lake. Exercise and playground equipment get much use and it is not uncommon to see a pickup game of full-court basketball while the badminton courts are typically occupied by Thai playing a sort of cross between volleyball and hackysack. A wide asphalt road encircles Benjasiri's green space and paving-stone paths with plenty of benches take a more circuitous route through the trees and grassy knolls around the central lagoon. The park is frequented by joggers and walkers as well as couples, children and people simply looking for a bit of shade without the pressure of Bangkok traffic. A couple of concession stands serve refreshments and vendors at the front gate near the fountains serve common street foods. During Loi Krathong Festival Benjasiri Park is a popular gathering place for releasing "krathongs" into the water. Admission is free.

Description:

The Club is part of a project to promote family togetherness and an appreciation of our natural environment. Activities take place in the scenic surrounds of an oil refinery, which is actually the habitat of thousands of birds. An expert guide conducts a basic half-day course providing knowledge about the nature and specific information on birds and bird watching. Interested parties are still welcome to view the area of their own accord. Please note that courses may be canceled during rainy season (Jun-Oct) due to limited numbers of wildlife.

Description:

This temple was built during the reign of King Rama III in 1846. Its main attraction is its architecturally unique Loha Prasat, which stands 36-meters high with 37 surrounding spires. Next to the temple is an area for welcoming important foreign guests and a memorial statue of King Rama III. The temple has a well-known market selling Buddhist amulets, or magic charms, in all shapes and sizes. These are believed to protect the wearer from physical harm or are considered 'love charms'. Admission is free and the temple's full name is Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan.