On weekends, everyone wants to find a place to relax and unwind from the stress of the week.

While shopping malls are a popular option, they can get repetitive.

Today, we'll take you to a place not far from Bangkok: Bang Pu Recreation Center.

Bang Pu Recreation Center: A Haven for Migratory Birds

The Bang Pu Recreation Center, located within the grounds of the Royal Thai Army's Welfare Department in Samut Prakan province, offers a unique opportunity to witness the spectacle of thousands of migratory birds, particularly the majestic black-headed gulls.

Open from 6:40 AM to 6:00 PM, the center provides a haven for these feathered visitors, who flock to the area from November to April each year to escape the harsh winter conditions elsewhere. Visitors can purchase food to feed the gulls, capture stunning photographs, and simply enjoy the serene atmosphere and refreshing sea breeze.

Getting There:

The most convenient way to reach the center is by car. Take Sukhumvit Road and turn left at the BTS Samrong Station onto Samut Prakan Road. Follow the road, keeping an eye out for the Ancient City on your left. The Bang Pu Recreation Center will be on your right. Simply make a U-turn and enter the premises. Ample parking is available.

Alternatively, you can take the BTS to Samrong Station and then hail a taxi to the center. The fare will likely be around 160-190 baht each way.

Recommended Time to Visit:

The ideal time to visit is between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM. The weather is pleasant, and the sunset offers breathtaking photo opportunities. However, it's best to avoid staying past 7:00 PM, as the gulls return to their nests.

Peak Season:

The peak season for birdwatching is during the winter months, from November to April. During this period, tens of thousands of black-headed gulls descend upon the area, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Entrance Fee:

Admission to the Bang Pu Recreation Center is free, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for all.

Additional Information:

• The center features a scenic bridge, the "Saphan Sukta," which leads to a designated birdwatching area.
• Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the birds and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
• The center provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and witness the wonders of bird migration.

As you stroll along, you will be greeted by seagulls on both sides of the path. At the end of the walk, you will find the Sala Sukjai, where you can relax and enjoy a meal. The sala offers both air-conditioned and open-air seating, allowing you to choose between comfort and enjoying the natural breeze.

If you don't want to walk, you can hire a tuk-tuk from the entrance to take you inside.

Besides seagulls, there are also mangrove forests on both sides of the road. The water is so low that we can see the mud.

As we walked further, the number of seagulls increased. I thought to myself, I've never seen so many seagulls before.

Seagulls stood by to welcome visitors along the way.

Seagulls can be fed with pork rinds, which range in price from 10 to 50 baht. After feeding the seagulls, you can wash your hands. There are water tanks and soap available, so you don't have to endure the smell of pork rinds all the way home.

Some people feed the seagulls by placing food on the ground and letting the birds pick it up themselves.

Some people choose to feed the seagulls by throwing the food in the air for them to catch. This requires a certain level of courage, as it is unpredictable when and how many birds will come. It can be quite a thrill, especially when a flock of seagulls arrives. However, once you get used to it, it becomes less intimidating. If you're interested, we recommend giving it a try. It's a unique and exciting experience.

Some people throw food to the seagulls perched on the bridge's edge, or they may scatter it to attract the seagulls to come and eat.

As the sun began to set, the number of people increased significantly. This is because the location offers stunning sunset views, making it a popular spot for photography. Additionally, the atmosphere and temperature become pleasantly cool during this time.

As the sun sets, the atmosphere becomes romantic. Seagulls begin to return to their nests. Everyone is busy taking pictures as a souvenir before heading home.

If you are feeling tired and bored with life, try taking 2-3 hours to travel to this place.

Come and soak up the atmosphere, sit and enjoy the view, watch the birds fly, relax and prepare to fight for the next day.

It's a good choice, isn't it? Try it and you won't be disappointed.

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Today, I'm leaving. See you again on our next trip.