Sanam Luang (Thai: สนามหลวง, pronounced [sā.nǎːm lǔa̯ŋ]; lit: 'royal turf') is a 74.5 rai (119,200 m2)[1] open field and public square in front of Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace, Bangkok, Thailand.

[3] Sanam Luang was officially known as "Thung Phra Men" (the royal cremation ground) (Thai: ทุ่งพระเมรุ).

King Rama II followed this example of performing royal ceremonies there, including the cremation of the Front Palace of his reign, who was also his beloved brother.

The Royal Chronicles mention the close link between the two brothers as follows: During the reign of King Rama III, when Thailand was engaged in a conflict with Vietnam over the Cambodian border, the king wished to demonstrate to other nations that Thailand was such a fertile, flourishing country that even the area in front of the Grand Palace was cultivated.

The space was needed for the preparation of the centennial celebration of Bangkok in 1897 which took place soon after King Rama V's return from Europe.

Following a visit to the Javanese court, where he was impressed by the gardens surrounding the sultan's place, Rama V ordered that two rows of tamarind trees be planted encircling Sanam Luang.

Following the 13 October 2016 death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, massive crowds flooded Sanam Luang to pay their respects to the late-king.