BANGKOK CANAL BRIDGES RUN – 8 KM
Runner on the ground - RATCHANEE
Enjoy a running Bangkok canal bridges tour in the morning along Bangkok’s old town canals and visit the bridges over the historic canal. When the city of Rattanakosin (the formal name of the capital city today known as Bangkok) was founded by King Rama I in 1782, it was set within fortified walls, and Khlong Rop Krung was constructed as a moat to protect the city’s eastern flank.
Here is an 8k route that you can enjoy on foot from Ku Muang Derm canal on the east. We explain the meaning of lesser-known but still significant landmarks such as the Pig Memorial, Chang Rong Si Bridge, the Bridge’s Dog Head Sculpture and Crying Bridge, a sculpture of a woman crying and carrying her own son at Mahadthai Autid bridge. You will see interesting landmarks, old temples, and Thai styled houses along both sides of the river and canals.
The tour starts from MRT Sanam Chai Station to Charoenrat 31 Bridge in Pak Khlong Talad (Flower Market). The round tablets at the end of the rails contain the number 31 which was the king’s age at the time of opening the bridge. Highlights along the way include the Phan Fa Lilat Bridge, Bridge of ‘Who Passes The Sky’, which refers to “King’s Cross Bridge”. It is a historic bridge across the Bang Lamphu canal on Ratchadamnoen Avenue on the border of Ban Phan Thom and Bowon Niwet sub-districts. The elegant bridge was designed in Roman style. It is flanked by four marble pillars embellished with cast iron boats that evoke the power of the Siamese Navy as well as the various victories of King Rama V, who consolidated his regional power and prominence in Bangkok. The most amazing element is the cast-iron balustrade. During your run, we can change perspective and pop into national-level historical sites (mostly temples, palaces and government buildings that were built between the reigns of Kings Rama 1 and 5).
The landmarks that you see while running include the Grand Palace, National Museum, Prasumen Fort, Mahakan Fort, Golden Mount Temple, King Rama I Monument and etc.
Ernest –
Was not sure if I could make it to the start of the run so Ratchanee provided an alternate run. I had never been to Benjakitti Park and Ratchanee came to my hotel and ran with me to the park. Very thankful that Ratchanee toured the park with me.
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