Make peace with the animals

Dusit Zoo, or Khao Din as the locals call it, is a popular place for families at the weekend.

It's in central Bangkok between Chitralada Palace and the Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall.

It was originally a private garden with wild deer from Java, established by King Rama V, however, the Royal Family later donated it to the government to be operated as a private zoo and garden.

It was first opened to the public in March 1938 and named Dusit Zoo. Now it has more than 2,000 animals from both Thailand and overseas. It covers an area of 47 acres, which includes 12 acres of lakes.

People go to the zoo not just for the animals, but also to rent boats and to have picnics in the shade of the trees.

It can get very crowded at the weekends and long holidays, so if you wish to avoid the crowds visit during the week.

While Dusit Zoo isn't as big and comprehensive as, say, Safari World, there is a large variety of animals that will keep any child amused.

And it's cheap. The entry fee is Bt100 for foreigners and Bt50 for Thais and children (kids under 100-centimetres in height can enter for free).

One of the zoo's highlights is the superbly entertaining Bird Show. It is held three times a day during the week, and five times a day during the weekend.

Though you have to pay extra, it only costs Bt20 for adults and children for Bt10 or free.

The zoo is clearly not just about animals. When we first arrived, we took a Bt20 tramride around the zoo to help us get our bearings. During our tour we saw several fairground attractions that were ideal for younger children.

The cost of rides varied from Bt10 to Bt20.

If you get hungry there are numerous places to snack or have a meal. There is even a KFC and a 7-Eleven.

Read the full version of this report on www.thai-blogs.com.

Xtra

if you go...

Dusit Zoo is open every day from 8am to 6pm. Currently it is open several extra hours in the evenings for a Night Safari.

Buses to the zoo include the ordinary No 18 or 28 and the air-con No 10.

Call (02) 281 2000 or (02) 281 1039 for details.By Richard Barrow