Sanam Luang, Royal ceremonial square in Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok, Thailand
Sanam Luang is a wide open field between the Grand Palace and the Chao Phraya River in central Bangkok. The grounds span several city blocks and form one of the few large open areas in the densely built old quarter.
The square originated during the reign of King Rama I as ceremonial grounds for royal cremations and state events. Over the centuries, the field has been used for this purpose during important transitions in the Thai monarchy.
The Royal Ploughing Ceremony occurs annually in May at Sanam Luang, marking the start of rice growing season in Thai agricultural traditions.
Visitors reach the grounds from several sides, with main access points toward the Grand Palace wall and nearby riverside streets. The open field offers little shade, so an early morning or late afternoon visit is more comfortable during daylight hours.
Under King Rama III, the entire field was once planted with rice to showcase Thailand's agricultural strength to foreign envoys. This demonstration turned the royal ceremonial grounds temporarily into a working rice paddy in the heart of the capital.
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