Benjakitti Park in Bangkok
Whilst Benjakitti Park has been in existence since 1994, it has only recently completed its expansion in 2022 – a transformation that got locals referring to it as one of Bangkok’s newest “green lungs”. Standing at a massive 480,000 square metres, we went down to the park to check out its new look and snap some photos while we’re at it.
If you’re an exercise enthusiast or a visitor seeking a bit of an escape from Bangkok’s hustle and bustle, read on to find out more about the city’s newest green space.
Here are more TSL articles on Bangkok:
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An oasis of greenery with a stunning lake that overlooks Bangkok’s skyscrapers
When they claimed that Benjakitti Park was the newest green lung of Bangkok, they weren’t kidding. It was apparent to us that the park was a literal oasis of green, with perfectly well-groomed trees and marshes at every turn.
Perhaps, we were lucky and picked the perfect time to visit. As we had arrived around 5PM in the evening, the day was heading towards the golden hour. With the sun (and heat) taking their leave, I couldn’t think of a better time to take a walk around the park’s lake.
The lake offered us a clear view of some of Bangkok’s brilliant skyscrapers. Since we were so used to the constant noise and infamous traffic of Bangkok, getting a peaceful skyline at the heart of the city was definitely a welcome change.
I think we spent a solid hour or so simply snapping pictures of the greenery and skyscrapers when we were here – @ urban photographers, don’t say I didn’t warn you. Of course, while all that was happening, we also caught locals and expats exercising along the park’s tracks.
And boy, does Benjakitti Park pack a punch for any exercise enthusiast.
Newly painted and renovated running tracks
Since the park is newly renovated, all the tracks are perfectly well-maintained and newly painted.
Whether you’re looking for a cycling track that cuts through the entire park or a red running track for some stadium-like vibes during your daily workout, the park probably has just what you need.
For those looking for a simple stroll, the park also has some geometric bridges built. And while strolling across those quirky bridges, you’d be able to get a bridge-eye’s view of some of the park segments here, such as their expansive lotus marsh.
Lotus marsh with a walkway above the water
While I love everything else about the park, I definitely enjoyed my walk through the lotus marsh the most. The lotuses reminded me of what I’d see in a Chinese fantasy series – wu xia films, anyone?
The area was quiet and serene – a perfect setting almost for an intimate walk in the park with a partner or just an evening stroll with the family. If anything, it was calming and surreal to be surrounded by the beautiful lotuses in bloom, especially when set against the evening sun.
Getting to Benjakitti Park
To be honest, I was expecting the park to clear out after sunset. However, I was very surprised to see so many people – couples, family and friends alike – simply laying out picnic mats and chatting whilst seated on some of the greener spots by the park’s lake. Even we succumbed to the peer pressure and ended up doing just that, sharing a couple of chill drinks whilst reminiscing about our day.
So if you’re in search of a quiet escape – something in contrast to the constantly up and moving nature of Bangkok – we’d definitely recommend that you paying this lovely park a visit.
Benjakitti Park
Address: Ratchadaphisek Rd, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Opening Hours: Daily, 5AM – 9PM
Google Maps
Cover images adapted from: The Smart Local