Butterflies are free
Do you like insects? The answer can be "yes" or "no". But if it is a butterfly, the sight of its bright coloured wings might drive us to learn about its life. I have been curious about the wonderful life of butterflies for so long and it's that curiosity that drove me to Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium.
Only a short walk from Chatuchak weekend market, it is located in the southeastern part of Wachirabenchathat Park - better known as Rodfai or Railway park - in Chatuchak district. The butterfly home was initiated by former Bangkok governor Samak Sundaravej at a cost of 9.5 million baht.
It was built as a source of information on the nature of butterflies, presented in a relaxing atmosphere where people from all walks of life could come and study the fascinating, colourful insects.
It was about 10am when I arrived at the park. Blue skies and warm morning sun made for a pleasant weather fit for cycling, so I rented one those colourful bicycles from a shop there and began pedalling, following the road signs to the butterfly garden.
 |
The main entrance of Bangkok Butterfly
Garden and Insectarium. |
 |
| Children making merry on weekends. |
It immediately became evident this was a family park. I came across other bikers heading in the same direction as me. Some rode mountain bikes, wore helmets and glasses, and some were there with their families. Towering trees provided shade along the route, intermingled by the sounds of laughter of frolicking children. I hung around this section for a while, enjoying the easy atmosphere, before heading to my real destination.
The white dome of the butterfly garden appeared into view as I got closer. The building, covering an area of 1,168 square metres, is surrounded by colourful flowers and lush green shrubbery. A distinctive feature outside are giant models of colourful butterflies on the wall of the dome-shaped building. I parked my bike and took pictures before entering the dome.
The first thing I saw inside the building was a long counter behind which sat a woman with a ready smile. She provided me a brochure and briefed me the house rules - butterflies are so delicate that they can be harmed by human touch. I wrote my name in the log book and proceeded to explore the place.
Unfortunately, the first section that normally features exhibitions was closed for renovation so I walked to a huge butterfly cage. It is decorated with a spectacular waterfall, a stream and colourful flower beds imitating the natural habitat of the insects.
There're an estimated 500 butterflies from 20 species in the cage, ranging from common species such as the Plain Tiger and Clipper to rare ones like Orange Oakleaf whose underside appears like a leaf with dark veins, and the Golden Birdwing that lives in damp areas such as waterfalls.
Also present are butterfly-specific flowers and plants: for example the Plain Tiger, whose orange wings are decorated with black and white stripes, that feeds on crown flower. Since butterflies can live longer than their usual lifespan of seven to 10 days if they can find sufficient nutrients, the garden has flowers rich in nectar like ixora, lantana and cat's whiskers (Orthosiphon aristatus).
For me, the real interest here lay in viewing butterflies in flight in a natural habitat, not watching them in glass bottles, jars or in collection boxes. However, when butterflies die, they are put on display in the exhibition hall now closed for renovation.
It was about 11am when I left the building. Although the sun shone brighter and stronger, the atmosphere was still nice and cool. I travelled around the park for a while before calling it a day.
The park visit taught me a great deal about the endlessly fascinating world of butterflies, and I also found it a perfect place to relax on weekends.
MORE INFO
Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium opens Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30am to 4:30pm. Admission is free of charge.
Non air-conditioned buses connecting Chatuchak weekend market on Phahonyothin Road are Nos 3, 8, 10, 12, 26, 28, 34, 39, 44, 59, 63, 77, 90, 96, 104, 112, 134, 136, 138 and 145.
For those driving there, take the Vibhavadi Rangsit Road and turn left at the PTT headquarters; parking space is limited.
An easier way is to take the Skytrain or the underground train and get off at Mor Chit and Chatuchak stations respectively. Then walk to Chatuchak Park and cross over to Kamphaengphet Road that connects to the Railway Park.
Visitors can rent bikes from shops located at the main park entrance. Cost ranges from 20-40 baht per bike.
For more information, call 02-272-4359 to 60 and 02-272-4680.
