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If you’ve been to one of Bangkok’s parks before, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about.
They’re not just home to joggers, picnickers, and cyclists.
No, no, no, my friend—they’re also home to lizards that can grow as big as a freakin’ Labrador.
And Bangkok’s Lumphini Park, is no exception.
But here’s the thing: you definitely won’t be playing fetch with these crafty critters.
So, let’s dive in and find out—is it safe to wander through these easy-to-get-lost-in green spaces? What is life like for Bangkok’s cold-blooded reptilian residents?
📰 What’s Happening?
First up, Lumphini Park is amazing.
It’s a huge 142 acres of green space right in the heart of Bangkok, easily accessible by hopping off the MRT at Silom station.
You’ll spot all kinds of creatures here, from —
- Joggers getting a workout in
- Chillers just chilling
- Families enjoying some quality time together
And If you’re up for it, there’s even free pedal boating available to try out at the parks main lake.
It really is a much-needed escape from the sometimes relentless hustle and bustle that is Bangkok.
Security guards stand watch at every entrance and exit, but there’s one park regular they just can’t seem to keep away — the infamous monitor lizard.
So, here’s the real question: does security, or anyone for that matter, actually want them gone?
🔍 Why Are The Lizards There?
To put it bluntly, it’s their home.
Spoiler alert: Bangkok wasn’t always the mega-metropolis it is today.
Way before all the fancy condos and Korean buffets showed up, Bangkok was a low-lying, dense, swamp-like jungle laced with rivers and canals, teeming with all sorts of flora and fauna — the perfect home for these cold-blooded crusaders.
Lumphini Park carries on this trend, making it the perfect place for monitor lizards to roam freely — explore, maybe have a quick dip in the drink, and doing whatever else it is that lizards like doing.
But beware — things could get ugly real quick if you start messing around with these crusading creatures…
🇹🇭 Is Lumphini Park Safe?
It’s not the lizards per se you should worry about.
See, they’re super chill.
Sure, if you take the biscuit—like with any animal—they might act out.
But honestly, they’ll walk right by you like you’re nothing, worthless, just like how you feel inside.
The thing is, they’re a protected species, so security will be quick to give you a verbal grilling on the spot if necessary — and you could even get slapped with a fine if you take things too far.
So, it’s not the lizards, or security you should be worried about — it’s your own behaviour that could create a potential problem.
But how SHOULD you behave around these tiny dinosaurs?
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✅ What You Should Do
Here’s a list of 5 things you should remember — without poking the dragon so to speak:
- Keep your distance.
They’re wild animals — not dangerous unless provoked, but definitely not house pets. - Stay calm.
If one walks past you, just chill. They usually don’t care you exist. - Enjoy the moment.
It’s not every day you see a giant prehistoric-looking lizard chilling by a lake in a city park. - Take photos — from afar.
Zoom in if you want a good shot. Don’t creep up for a selfie. - Respect their space.
No feeding, poking, or trying to make them “do something cool.”
If you stick to these, things will be fine. It’s awesome seeing them for the first time, so don’t ruin it.
💭 Final Thoughts
What if you get cornered by a gang of hungry reptiles?
Well, I’m sorry — looks like you’re on the menu.
Thank god you’re delicious.
I’m kidding, of course.
Before I go, one quick request:
Follow me on both Instagram and Facebook, post the best photo you have of monitor lizards in Lumphini Park, and tag me in it.
The best one will get 30% off their first e-SIM with BNESIM — because everyone deserves a little reward for dragon spotting.
🦎 Lizard Laced Facts
- Their real name is Varanus salvator
- Can grow as big as 1.5–2 meters long (5–6.5 ft)
- Excellent swimmers, often seen in lakes and canals.
- Usually shy and avoid people unless provoked.
- Protected by Thai law — harming them is illegal.
- Related to ancient reptiles — living fossils in the city!
🧭 Let’s keep the adventure going:
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