Sanam Luang

Sanam Luang, known variously as 'field of kings', 'royal ground' and 'Phramane ground' is the broad grassy area in front of the Grand Palace, between Na Phra That and Ratchadamnoen Roads. Sanam Luang is used for royal cremation ceremonies-the most recent being the funeral rites for HRH the Princess Mother in 1996-and the annual Royal Ploughing Ceremony held at the start of the rice-planting season in May. Prior to 1982, Sanam Luang was the site for the Weekend Market, now relocated to Chatuchak Park in northern Bangkok. These days, the area provides space for picnics, soccer and takraw games, kite-flying and just relaxing.

Situated next to the Grand Palace and the City Pillar, Sanam Luang is considered to be one of the most auspicious sites in the city. Around the field, fortune-tellers and amulet hawkers crowd the pavements with their wares. At the northern end of the field can be found the shrine of the Hindu Goddess Mae Torani, or 'Mother Earth', whose plaited tresses flow with water. Erected at the end of the 19th century, the shrine was once a well supplying public drinking water.

Visit Sanam Luang to witness first-hand how Thai families like to relax and enjoy themselves, and sample some of the tasty hawker food available in the area.

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