The thought of a trip to Bangkok immediately conjures images of the vibrant city life, cultural gems, royal palaces and majestic temples. Still, it is unlikely to think of a forest park right in the heart of the city. The sprawling Benjakitti Park is Bangkok’s recently developed lung space that was built on land previously occupied by the Tobacco Authority of Thailand. Welcoming both tourists and citizens alike, this expansive forest park offers just the space to relax, exercise and revitalise. Walking paths, cycling tracks, ponds and even a museum are just a few reasons to visit this place.
History Of Benjakitti Park
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Although the park was established in 1992, when the Queen turned 60, the park was officially opened in 2004 to commemorate Queen Sirikit’s 72nd birthday. Spanning across an area of 720,000 sq.m., this rectilinear park, owned by the Treasury Department and Ministry of Finance and developed by Arsomslip Landscape and Turenscape, was completed in 2022.
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Benjakitti Park Design And Concept
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The design and concept of Benjakiti Forest Park Bangkok are simple yet effective, helping preserve and promote a green environment and ecology. Using the idea of a sponge, the park absorbs 128,000 cu. m. of rainwater, which helps generate nearly 1600 cu.m of clean, purified water daily. Employing green solutions, Benjakitti Park has emerged as a well-developed ecosystem that helps minimise floods and reduce the chances of droughts. The swampland has been transformed into an ecosystem emerging as a habitat for over 350 species of trees and plants. The rich landscaped gardens and canopy of beautiful trees, plants and beds of flowers dotted along the walking trails and cycling paths create a space for the local community and travellers to enjoy recreational activities.
Facilities At Benjakitti Forest Park In Bangkok
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The park is open to everyone, from locals to tourists. It offers a bicycling path, tree canopies, seating areas, and more.
- The park offers 5.8 km of walkways, 2.8 km of jogging tracks, and 3.4 km of cycling tracks and sitting facilities throughout the area.
- Low walkways allow you to observe reeds, mangroves, and lily pads closely, whereas the raised sidewalks offer serene views, especially in the evening.
- There are separate paths made for bikes. These tracks are made by reusing the construction material left after factory demolition.
- Paddle boat and kayak rentals are recreational activities that attract most visitors to the park. For 60 baht, you can take a 30-minute boat ride on the lake and enjoy the spectacular sunset.
- There is a brass band that you may listen to from all over the park. The sound reaches and echoes to every visitor’s ears.
- Even though the park has a large water treatment plant, the place is completely odorless and offers a clean drinking water facility too.
- The buildings left after the demolition of the Tobacco factory were renovated into useful places, such as the Benjakitti Forest Park museum and sports centre.
- The forest area offers an opportunity for those interested to learn more about nature and different types of ecosystems.
- The amphitheatre constructed from giant tracts belonging to the tobacco factory can accommodate up to 15000 people.
- A bridge/skywalk (named ‘The Green Mile’) connects Benjakitti Park with Lumpini Park. This can be a time-saving option if you wish to visit both parks.
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How To Reach
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Primarily three main stations connect you to the park. The park is just a few meters behind the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre. Take the BTS Sky Train, Sukhumvit line, and get off at Asoke station. Then take exit number 4. The park is just a 5-7 minute walk away. Take the MRT underground train. Get off at Sukhumvit station, which is located just below Asoke station. You may also book a taxi to reach your destination directly.
Best Time To Visit Benjakitti Park
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Early mornings and late afternoons are good times to visit if you want to avoid the evening crowd, as many flock to the park after working hours. You will experience a comparatively lesser crowd, a mild breeze, the chirping of birds, lighting all around the park, and a beautiful sunset. Just do not forget to bring a mosquito repellent.
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Nearby Attractions
A walk in the park is always refreshing, but if you want to explore more of Bangkok’s offerings, you can always combine your visit to Benjakitti Forest Park with a few nearby attractions.
Emporium Bangkok Mall
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Luxury designer brands, high-end cinema, epicurean restaurants, food court, and an exclusive entertainment zone occupy the six-story Emporium Bangkok Mall in Sukhumvit. High-end international brands have their stores on the ground floor, while the first and second floors are dedicated to the upmarket and designer brands. Those with a penchant for electronics can shop on the third floor, while those allured by fascinating interiors can head to the fourth floor. Foodies will be spoilt for choice on the fifth floor, which houses high-end restaurants and mid-range eateries. For entertainment, head to the sixth floor to catch a movie at the SFX Cinema or browse through the impressive collection of 15000 design books and publications at the Thailand Creative and Design Center.
Khlong Ong Ang Walking Street
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This award-winning street is not your usual street; it is a vibrant and bustling street in the heart of the Chinatown district. Radiating with an exuberant and infectious atmosphere, Khlong Ong Ang Walking Street is perfect for enjoying an evening relishing delicious food, browsing through the shops, watching a band play live or choosing to kayak on the canal. The variety of street food available is truly delectable. While you are busy gorging on sumptuous food, don’t miss the experience of taking a leisurely stroll along the beautifully decorated walkways. This enchanting Walking Street occurs Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 4 pm to 10 pm.
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Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World:
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Spanning across an area of 10,000 sqft. Home to a diverse array of marine life species, SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia. Open every day from 10 am to 9 pm; exploring the entire aquarium will take approximately 2 to 3 hours. Different aquarium zones give you a glimpse into the rich and varied marine species, such as the Jellyfish Zone, Rainforest Zone, Shark Walk Aquarium, Coral Reefs, Penguins Zone, Rocky Hideout and Tropical Ocean. While visiting the various zones, you can view the myriad marine life and choose multiple experiences and activities, such as a 4D Cinema experience, undersea explorer VR, or a ride in the glass bottom boat.
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The Benjakitti Park is truly an urban oasis in the heart of the bustling metropolis offering environmentally friendly green space for recreational activities. The park creates a harmonious balance between the urban concrete jungle and a clean and green cover by creating a thriving ecosystem. The verdant forest park, landscaped gardens, serene lake, amphitheatre and ample walking and cycling paths create a community space for visitors to enjoy fitness and recreational activities. Don’t miss out on visiting this beautiful and scenic park, and include it as part of your itinerary the next time you decide to plan a trip to Bangkok.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Benjakitti Park
Are there any entrance fees for the park?
There is no entrance fee to the park. It is freely accessible to all
Are there any restaurants near the park?
If you have worked up an appetite after exercising at the park, you can always grab a quick bite at the nearby restaurants and cafes, such as The Coffee Club—Shama Hotel, Ten Sui, Bacchus&Co, Makan Makan, and Baan Thai Suk 16.
Is the park pet-friendly?
Being the very first of its kind, this park is the first pet-friendly park in Bangkok. There is a separate play area for them which also facilitates poop bag dispensers.
What are the timings for visiting Benjakitti Park?
The Benjakitti Park is open from 4:30 am to 9 pm.
What is the concept of the Benjakitti Park?
The park has been designed to incorporate natural elements that help promote urban ecology and raise awareness of the importance of green cover, even in the heart of the city. The objective is to ensure community well-being and help maintain the city's ecological balance.
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