Bangkok, Thailand's Most Beautiful Park - Phra Sumen Fort
STORY: I don't know why but whenever i am in Bangkok, i always try to find solitude in an area that's massively chaotic. I always try to find peace in a place where silence is a luxury. And starting from Khao San Road, all the time, i always wind up going to this place, very same place, very same spot always. It's called Phra Sumen Fort. If you're doing it on foot and walking around Khao San Road and Banglamphu, it's probable that the only place where a white fortress can be seen is this.
One of the two remaining forts in old Bangkok, Fort Phra Sumen was constructed in 1783 to fortify the old city during the reign of King Rama I. When Bangkok was established as the new capital, forts were built to cover the Chao Phraya River. The defensive rings of canals protected the old city to the east. The fort is sited at the confluence of the Chao Phraya River and the Banglamphu Canal which was the second ring of canals to be built around the old city of Bangkok in 1782. The first canal was Lord Canal just east of the Grand Palace. The Banglamphu Canal joins up with the Ong-Ang Canal and extents all the way to the Chao Phraya River to the south, forming a moat to the east of the old city. With the Chao Phraya River to the west, the old city is virtually an island, thus the name Rattanakosin Island. The fort has two levels of battlements where cannons are deployed and an observation tower. It covers the bend of the Chao Phraya River at the northern end of Rattanakosin Island. The old cannons are still in place.
Located right smack in the middle of the city, this complex or fortress, as it's most commonly known, is a great difference to the hustle and bustle of the rest of Bangkok City. With green grass, blue skies, and a great view of the river, going here is always a treat, to unwind, and let time not pass you by.
Located right smack in the middle of the city, this complex or fortress, as it's most commonly known, is a great difference to the hustle and bustle of the rest of Bangkok City. With green grass, blue skies, and a great view of the river, going here is always a treat, to unwind, and let time not pass you by.
Santichaiprakarn Park
No wonder many people go here to relax, read a book, listen to music, meditate, recover from a bad hang-over from last night. The chirping of the birds, the quietness of the surroundings, and the calmness of the people - all make this place truly a gem in the city. You can also watch time as it passes you by here. I never miss going to this place over and over again. The first time i went here was to think about life and the many ramblings in my head. The second time i went here was to recuperate from a really bad hang-over courtesy of Chang. Third time i went here just to cool off and lie down for a second after an exhausting marathon. Sometimes, the city will get into your nerve.
I highly recommend spending an afternoon here catching up and just breathing in. Life has its tolls. Traveling to Thailand may sometimes take the most out of you, so it's best to lie down, chill for a bit and enjoy what a great sunny day it is. Additional information courtesy from here
6 Comments:
the hotel where I stayed at, Navalai River Resort, was just a few meters from this fort.
I love the calm, almost Iloilo-like atmosphere of this area of Bangkok.
@givemetravelfuns i know that resort. do you know how much does it cost you? I love this area!!! It's perfect for me. I could walk going to Khao San Road, yet still enjoy silence with the view of the river. Plus, one of the best thai fried rice i've ever eaten is located near the river port! We think alike, my friend!
the hotel is named Navalai River Resort.. just a few sois away from Khao San. It is a bit pricey, but I chose this hotel because I had my wife with me. the best thing is riding the river ferry, which is so cheap, to go near the temples.
Silence is needed even just for a while. Letting you think deeply of the things that boggles the mind. Have it for a couple of minutes, and that's already enough. Thanks for sharing this place. :)
@Anonymous Thanks for the tip. Will check out this place next time. Cheers!
@Jeff 100% Agree. It's a pocket of luxury that your mind badly needs. Take care!
Post a Comment