While exploring Bangkok you may come across a rather intriguing structure which resembles a huge red swing; this is not a modern art exhibit but rather an attraction linked with the city’s history!
Finding the Swing
The Giant Swing is in the Old Town area, across from Wat Suthat and within easy reach of properties like Somerset Park Suanplu Bangkok. Hard to miss, this swing is 21 metres high and those staying at a hotel or long term serviced apartment Bangkok has to offer can easily plan a visit here.
A Daring Ceremony
The original Giant Swing dates to 1784 and was part of the Brahman Festival held in December. During this time, groups of young men would swing as high as they could to try and reach a bag containing gold coins, hung around 50 feet in the air; those who succeeded could keep the coins!
The Tradition Ends
In 1935, it was decided to halt this tradition however due to the accidents and even deaths of those who participated in the ceremony. The structure has since been remodelled and replaced through the years; the current swing was a 2007 reconstruction, though the old version can be seen at the Bangkok National Museum.
Plan Your Visit
One has only to do an image search for “Giant Swing in Bangkok” to see what amazing shots you can get of this structure be it day or night! Ideally, plan to also visit the nearby Wat Suthat; this historical temple has exquisite traditional architecture, fascinating murals and a Sukhothai-period bronze worth seeing.
