Rama IX Park (Rama IX Park)

Rama IX Park, also known as Suanluang Rama IX, is located on Nongbon sub-district, Pravet district, Bangkok, on an area of 80 hectares. Suanluang Rama IX Public Park is divided into 6 areas:

Area 1 - "King's Garden" occupies an area of nearly 3.5 hectares, is home to the Ratchamangkhala ruins, Ratchaphruek garden (Cassia fistula) and three large ponds with fountains beautifully decorated with flowers and trees. The site has a building consisting of nine rooms with mirrored walls displaying many facts about the King's life including photographs, paintings and information on royal projects. There is also a meeting room with a capacity of 500 seats.

Area 2 - "Botanical Garden" The garden, located on an area of 24 hectares, houses a large collection of plants that are cared for for conservation and educational purposes. On the premises of the "Botanical Garden" there is also a library and an office for the administrative staff as well as the technicians of the garden to work. The office building of Suan Luang Rama IX Public Park is owned by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, whose main responsibility is to maintain the garden as well as plant trees and sow seeds. There is also a fern and orchid greenhouse, a nursery greenhouse, a geodesic dome and a gallery.

Area 3 - Reservoir (Traphang Kaew Keb Nam) is an initiative of the King, the reservoir was built to mitigate the impact of flooding on the eastern suburbs of Bangkok. The lake covers an area of 6.4 hectares and today it is popularly used for water sports. The north bank of the reservoir houses the Chai Chon Pavilion, the office of the Suan Luang Rama IX Public Park Executive Committee, as well as a souvenir shop and a restaurant.

Area 4 - The "Romanee Garden" is approximately 8 hectares in size, designed to resemble the natural habitats and environments found throughout the Thai highlands. Stones, trees and flowers are taken from different parts of the country and arranged to simulate the natural scenery, which makes visitors feel like entering the beautiful forests of Thailand. Mountains, waterfalls and streams are placed in the center of the garden. Here, you will admire a sculpture depicting the Queen's activities on the banks of the River Reservior.

Area 5 - "Water Garden" with an area of about 6.4 hectares. By order of the King, the "Water Garden" was created to have a natural habitat such as a swamp and to house waterfowl and other aquatic species. Visitors to the garden can study the aquatic species in their habitat and learn about different plants.

Area 6 - "Sanam Rasdara and Sports Center" area is about 11.2 hectares. There is a large lawn at this area that is used as an outdoor stage for various performances. The lawn is also used as a market to sell ornamental plants during the "Suan Luang Rama IX Flower Festival" event held in early December every year. The sports center has a swimming pool and tennis courts.

In addition to the above 6 areas, Suan Luang Rama IX public park also has an area divided into small gardens inspired by some countries around the world such as:

• The Chinese Garden and the Japanese Garden are representative of the eastern countries of the world.
• The Spanish, English, French and Italian gardens are representative of the countries of the western world.
• The American Garden is set under a giant dome with an image reminiscent of the Nevada desert, full of sand and lots of cacti.

In addition to exploring the gardens, you can experience duck riding to roam the lake. Those who arrive early in the morning can join a tai chi class or public aerobics. There is also an outdoor gym with fun exercise equipment suitable for adults and children.

The park also has small trains that take visitors from the gate to popular sites and picnic spots. There are many small stalls selling ice cream and drinks around the park.

Opening hours: The park is open every day of the week from 05:00 to 19:00