Snake Farm (Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute)

The basics

Part of the Thai Red Cross, the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute and Snake Farm in Bangkok aims to show that snakes are more than just reptiles to be feared. You can learn all about the evolution of snakes and their life cycle by touring the informative exhibits, and there are terrariums on display with live reptiles. There are even shows where you can see how venom is extracted from snakes to make antivenom medication. To see more of Bangkok’s attractions in one day, you can visit the farm as part of a customizable private tour of the city.

Things to know before you go

• Tickets are required to visit the snake farm, and discounts are available for children.

• Live venom extraction shows are held daily.

• You’ll be able to see rare species at the farm, including pit vipers, anacondas, and Burmese pythons.

How to get there

The snake farm is located at the corner of Rama IV and Henri Dunant Roads in downtown Bangkok. It’s a short walk away from Lumpini Park (Lumphini Park), and the closest metro station is Sam Yan.

When to get there

The farm is open 7 days a week; on Saturday and Sunday, it closes at lunchtime. It makes for an interesting rainy-day activity, and kids are sure to be fascinated by the venom-extraction display.

Visit Lumpini Park

Bangkok is an extremely developed city, which makes its green spaces such as Lumpini Park (the city’s largest park) even more appealing. Here you’ll find families sharing space with joggers and people practicing Tai Chi. Stroll past the lake, or rent one of the swan-shaped pedal boats and set out to see the park from a different perspective.