Sanam Luang

Historic Site and Park in Bangkok

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Uthen Smantai

Sanam Luang, a renowned public open space in Bangkok, is situated in front of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and The Royal Grand Palace. Originally known as Thung Phra Men, this area served primarily as a royal cremation ground for kings, queens, and princes, a tradition that began during the reign of King Rama I.

During King Rama III’s reign (1824–1851), amid a conflict with Vietnam over the Cambodian border, the site was converted into a rice plantation to symbolize Thailand’s fertility and prosperity.

In 1855, King Rama IV renamed the area Thong Sanam Luang, commonly shortened to Sanam Luang. He also introduced the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, constructed a hall for a Buddha image, built several pavilions, and established a stage for propitiating the gods.

Later, King Rama V expanded Sanam Luang in 1897 to mark Bangkok’s centennial celebration, removing existing structures and planting two rows of tamarind trees around the field. This redesign was inspired by the palace gardens he had seen during his visit to Java.

Over the years, Sanam Luang has hosted various activities, including kite flying, racing, and even golf. It has also been the site of annual ceremonies, such as the Royal Ploughing Ceremony and the Calling of the Rain in May. Major events, like the Bicentennial Celebration of Bangkok in 1982 and the Golden Jubilee Royal Ceremony in 1996, have also taken place here.

Sanam Luang continues its historic role as a royal cremation ground. Among those cremated here are King Ananda Mahidol (1950), Queen Savang Vadhana (1956), Queen Rambhai Barni of King Rama VII (1986), Princess Mother Srinagarindra (1996), Princess Galyani Vadhana (2008), and Princess Bejaratana Rajasuda (2012).

The Sanam Luang appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bangkok!

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