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Bangkok's concrete jungle hides a surprising gem - Benjakitti Forest Park, a sprawling green sanctuary that offers respite from the city's hustle and bustle. What began as a smaller park has transformed into one of Bangkok's most impressive urban green spaces. If you're planning a trip to Thailand's capital, here's everything you need to know about this natural retreat.
What is Benjakitti Forest Park?
Benjakitti Forest Park is a large public park spanning approximately 450 rai (about 178 acres) in the Khlong Toei district of Bangkok. The park was expanded in 2022, transforming from the original Benjakitti Park into a much larger forest park with wetlands, creating Bangkok's first true urban forest park.
The park honors Queen Sirikit and was developed on former land of the Tobacco Authority of Thailand. Its recent expansion has made it a key element in Bangkok's effort to increase green spaces in the metropolitan area.
Location and How to Get There
Benjakitti Forest Park sits in a prime location in central Bangkok:
- Address: Ratchadaphisek Road, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
- Nearest MRT Station: Queen Sirikit National Convention Center MRT station
- Nearest BTS Station: Asok BTS station (about a 15-minute walk)
Getting to the park is easy with Bangkok's public transportation:
- By MRT: Exit at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center station and walk about 5 minutes
- By BTS: Exit at Asok station and walk about 15 minutes
- By taxi or ride-sharing: Simply show the driver the address or park name
Opening Hours and Entry Fees
- Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily
- Entry Fee: Free admission
Main Features and Attractions
The Elevated Skywalk
One of the park's most striking features is its elevated walkway that weaves through the forest canopy. This wooden skywalk offers:
- Bird's-eye views of the park and surrounding cityscape
- Shade from the tropical sun
- Perfect photo opportunities
- Access for visitors with mobility challenges
- A unique perspective of Bangkok's skyline
Wetland Areas
The park features extensive wetlands with:
- Boardwalks that take you through water gardens
- Native aquatic plants
- Water purification systems that showcase ecological principles
- Bird watching opportunities
- Cool breezes and tranquil water views
Cycling and Jogging Tracks
Active visitors will appreciate:
- Dedicated cycling lanes spanning over 5.8 kilometers
- Separate jogging paths
- Bicycle rental services
- Shaded routes that make exercise pleasant even in Bangkok's heat
- Water stations along the way
The Lake
At the heart of the original park section lies a large lake offering:
- Swan boat rentals
- Reflective views of the surrounding skyline
- Fish feeding opportunities
- A central landmark for orientation
- Cool breezes and bench seating
Forest Areas
The newer forest section features:
- Over 30,000 trees representing numerous species
- Forest trails and pathways
- Shaded rest areas
- Educational signage about local flora
- Wildlife habitats supporting urban biodiversity
Amphitheater
The outdoor amphitheater hosts:
- Occasional free performances
- Community events
- A resting spot with good views
- Morning exercise classes
- Cultural activities
Best Time to Visit
- Morning (5:00 AM - 8:00 AM): Perfect for joggers and those wanting to see locals doing tai chi and morning exercises
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Ideal lighting for photography with cooler temperatures
- Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Beautiful park lighting and a lively atmosphere with families and after-work visitors
The park is less crowded on weekdays, while weekends see more local families and activities.
Activities for Travelers
Photography
The park offers countless photo opportunities:
- Skyline reflections in the lake
- Sunset views from the skywalk
- Wetland boardwalks framed by greenery
- Bangkok's urban landscape from unique vantage points
- Close-ups of tropical plants and flowers
Exercise
Stay active during your travels with:
- Morning jogs along dedicated paths
- Bike rentals for exploring the full park
- Exercise stations with equipment
- Yoga on the grass (bring your own mat)
- Walking the full circuit of pathways
Nature Experience
Immerse yourself in nature through:
- Bird watching (bring binoculars if possible)
- Identifying tropical plants and trees
- Listening to the sounds of nature in the middle of the city
- Observing small wildlife like butterflies, dragonflies, and lizards
- Experiencing the microclimate differences between the forest and open areas
Relaxation
Find your perfect spot to unwind:
- Benches overlooking the lake
- Quiet corners under shade trees
- Peaceful wetland boardwalks
- Grassy areas for picnicking (bring a mat)
- Cool breezes along the elevated walkways
Nearby Attractions and Connections
Benjakitti Forest Park is well-positioned among other Bangkok attractions:
- Lumphini Park: Connected via the Green Bridge, allowing for an extended park experience
- Terminal 21 Shopping Mall: About 15 minutes walking distance
- Queen Sirikit National Convention Center: Right next to the park
- EmQuartier and Emporium Shopping Malls: A short taxi ride away
- Sukhumvit Road: Easy access to this main thoroughfare with numerous restaurants and amenities
Practical Tips for Visitors
What to Bring
- Water bottle (there are refill stations in the park)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Mosquito repellent, especially for evening visits
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Small towel for wiping sweat in hot weather
- Cash for refreshments or bike rentals
Food and Drinks
- Small vendors sell snacks and drinks near park entrances
- There is no formal restaurant inside the park
- Consider bringing your own snacks for a picnic
- Respect the park rules by not littering
- The nearby Asok area offers numerous dining options before or after your visit
Accessibility
- Most areas, including the skywalk, are wheelchair accessible
- Restroom facilities are available throughout the park
- Some pathways may be challenging during rainy season
- Clear signage in Thai and English helps with navigation
- Security personnel are present to assist visitors
Safety and Etiquette
- Stay on designated paths
- Do not feed wildlife except where permitted (fish feeding at designated spots)
- Keep noise levels reasonable
- Smoking is prohibited throughout the park
- Cycling is only allowed on marked cycling lanes
Best Seasons to Visit
- Cool Season (November to February): The most pleasant weather with temperatures between 20-30°C
- Hot Season (March to May): Very hot but the park offers good shade and water features
- Rainy Season (June to October): The park is at its most lush and green, but be prepared for afternoon showers
Conclusion
Benjakitti Forest Park represents Bangkok's commitment to creating green spaces within its urban landscape. For travelers, it offers a perfect balance of nature, exercise, and relaxation without leaving the city center. Whether you're looking for a morning jog location, a peaceful afternoon retreat, or simply a different perspective on Bangkok, this park delivers a refreshing experience.
The park's relatively new forest expansion makes it even more worth visiting now than in past years. Its innovative design incorporating wetlands, forest areas, and recreational facilities creates a model urban park that both tourists and locals can enjoy.
For the most comfortable and convenient way to visit Benjakitti Forest Park, consider using a chauffeur service. A professional driver can drop you at the most convenient entrance, wait while you explore, and then take you to your next destination without the hassle of finding transportation in Bangkok's busy streets. This is especially valuable if you're planning to visit other attractions in the area on the same day.
PAL tracks flights, briefs drivers, and prepares name boards before the car leaves, so you do not have to wonder whether anyone is there. If you need Airport Transfer Service in Bangkok for an upcoming arrival, or Corporate Chauffeur Service in Bangkok for a working day, PAL is ready to support you.
