Sanam Luang’s lawn and parking areas badly damaged
If you will be traveling to Thailand in the next few months, or currently in the country and planning on visiting Bangkok’s Sanam Luang, be aware the site is being closed down for repairs starting August 25th and running through November 15th.
The Phra Nakhon District Office announced the closure after they concluded damage to the lawn and parking areas, due to constant use, has become significant.
With end of year festivities on their way for the King’s Birthday, Father’s Day and New Year, the office has decided now is the best time to refurbish the area before those festivities kick off.
Thailand’s Department of Public Works will be overseeing the repairs, which are necessary not only for aesthetics but also for safety.
What is Sanam Luang?
For those who are new to Bangkok, Sanam Luang is the area directly opposite the Grand Palace (which will remain open, by the way).
It is popular with both tourists and locals, who use it for relaxation and exercise.
Sanam Luang is also used for official public gatherings and ceremonies, with the annual Ploughing Ceremony, 1982’s Bi-Centennial Celebration of Bangkok, the 1996 cremation of Princess Mother Srinagarindra, and the 2017 cremation of the much-loved King Bhumibol Adulyadej (which saw enormous crowds) just some of the ceremonies held there.
Once the repairs are complete, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will look at the site to assess how it may be used in the future.
They have announced they will consider government agencies, the private sector, and the general public as that assessment is made, so that each group is able to use the site.
Meanwhile, as the Sanam Luang repairs are ongoing, some parts of the area may still be available for specific events.
