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Anyone can spend a day at Benjakitti Park in Bangkok. It's a great spot for local residents and tourists to relax and enjoy nature in a peaceful environment - or get some invigorating exercise.
This help guide contains useful information about Benchakitti Forest Park at Khlong Toei District, including a list of outdoor attractions and activities available at this popular urban oasis and parkland.
So, why would foreign tourists be interested in visiting this huge public parkland, in fact 720,000 square metres of greenery, situated in the center of Thailand's capital city - Bangkok?
First of all, unlike the nearby "noisy" Lumpini Park, it's a peaceful way to escape the endless noise and unrelenting traffic problems of the metropolis.
Not only is Benjakitti Park quieter and more scenic, it's also a great location for photography. Imagine the amazing pictures you can get as the sun rises and sets over the Bangkok skyline.
Yet, it's free to enter Benjakitti Forest Park and this green space is family-friendly, clean, and well-maintained - so don't hesitate to take the kids along with you for a picnic in the sunshine.
It's fair to say that Benjakitti Park surrounds a large central boating lake. This is a good place to rent rowboats or paddle boats to get around the lake.
The designated tracks and pathways that traverse the water are ideal for landlubbers to enjoy some cycling, walking, or jogging.
If you're feeling really energetic, you can rent a bicycle to go exploring the landscapes. The "fitness zone" has an outdoor gym and sports courts for playing tennis and basketball.
The new section, known locally as the "Green Mile", is a 1.3 kilometres skywalk that connects Benjakitti to Lumpini Park.
The observation deck also offers fascinating views of the Bangkok horizon. It's made of elevated wooden walkways that overlooks several lush wetlands - ideal for a spot of birdwatching.
Apart from the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, renowned for hosting popular exhibitions and events, the nearby attractions for foreign tourists also include a multitude of eateries.
Pro Tip: When tourists talk about central Thailand food, they think mainly about Bangkok. But, there's much more to Central Thailand than the capital city.
City Hall opened a new pet-friendly area at Benjakitti close to the Ratchadapisek and community gateway entrance at the end of Soi Sukhumvit 10.
So, put your pooch on a leash and let them enjoy a runaround at the popular public parklands in Bangkok. But, make sure you follow the City Hall's strict rules:
Terminal 21 Mall is a themed shopping center close to Asok BTS Station and only a 10-minute walk from Benjakitti Park.
The different themes on each floor relate to a world city (e.g. London, Tokyo). This is the ideal stop off if you want great shopping, such as fashion and souvenirs, and delicious Thai food at Pier 21 in a fun atmosphere.
EmQuartier and Emporium is a large luxury high-end department store around fifteen (15) minutes walk from the park at Benjakitti (near Phrom Phong BTS Station).
This is one of the premier Bangkok shopping malls for luxurious designer brands and fine dining at superb gourmet restaurants. Don't forget to take a picture of the stunning indoor waterfall garden.
Pro Tip: Khlong Toei Market is also quite close to Benjakitti urban park. A short taxi ride (around 15 minutes) will get you to this traditional fresh market where you can buy exotic Thai fruits and traditional street food.