In the Khlong Toei region of central Bangkok, Benjakitti Park, which initially opened in 1994, has gone through a significant expansion with the addition of a new Forrest Park. This extension which quietly opened to the public in December 2021 and will be opened officially a little later this year, expands the park’s size to 72 hectares.
Next to the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, the original park focused on the 800 x 200-meter Lake Ratchada with walking and cycling paths that circumnavigated this central water feature. The greatly expanded park’s naturalistic, modern and minimalist design offers visitors a new and different experience from other public parks.
The nearly two-kilometre long skywalk crisscrosses new wetland while separate cement walking trails puts visitors in the middle of it at ground level. Both on the upper and lower levels, the paths encourage you to keep walking and explore and seem to be laid out randomly, making getting ‘lost’ a fun element.
Converted from Tobacco Authority of Thailand donated land with an entrance from Ratchadaphisek Road, high-rise buildings are evident from all directions. Yet, there is a feeling of being lost in nature standing at the centre of the new park. Even though BTS Asok station and MRT Sukhumvit are just a 15 to 20 minutes walk, traffic noises are not audible.
It is very much a multi-purpose park, comprising a 5.8 km nature trail, 2.8 km running path and 3.4 km dedicated cycling path and a large amphitheatre and sprawling lawn. Some Tobacco Authority of Thailand buildings and facilities on the site are being repurposed, including converting one building into a fitness centre and museum. A raised 1.3km pedestrian and cycleway connect the extended Benjakitti to Lumpini Park.
One thousand seven hundred mature trees already in the park have been preserved, with a further 7,000 natives to be planted. The park’s design will give rise to a biological community that depends on the intricate network of water channels – all crucial to the growth of trees and shrubbery and habitats for many animal species. Additionally, like a super-absorbent sponge, the park’s unpaved grounds can soak up more than 128,000 cubic meters of stormwater during the rainy season.
As well as providing a tremendous new recreational resource, this urban forest project provides new “green lungs” for the city by removing pollutants and giving residents and visitors cleaner air to breathe. And in line with the Bangkok Metropolitan Authority’s Green Bangkok 2030 goals, it also increases the ratio of green space for the city. On completion of the park’s final development phase, Benjakitti will be the largest park in Bangkok, almost 16 hectares bigger than the renowned Lumpini Park.
Benjakitti’s Benefits to Neighbouring Bangkok Residents
Can living close to a park make you healthier? International research suggests significant benefits of having parklands nearby where people reside. Results show easy access to such spaces increases the likelihood of being more active, whether it’s running, walking the dog or playing with the kids. And for children and families, exploring, discovering nature, and interacting make everyone smile. Breathing cleaner, fresher air is an obvious advantage, especially for those living in city apartments. Parks usually have attractive scenery, a range of recreational facilities for all ages and are free, providing no-cost exercise and entertainment for singles, couples, friends and families.
In summary, research indicates that living near and visiting parks does have a positive impact on happiness and mental health. So what options do people have if thinking of moving to Bangkok, whether buying property or renting, or already residing here and looking to move closer to this remarkable new green space?
Tempting Developments Close to Benjakitti Park
FYNN Asoke
Escape the Bangkok hustle and bustle into an oasis of calm. The FYNN Asoke comprises two eight-story buildings separated by a gorgeous 60-year-old rain tree. The striking design of the one and two-bedroom apartments captures natural light and leafy surrounds. Onsite facilities include a fitness lounge, 25m swimming pool, yoga room, sauna and steam room and the stunning rooftop garden, with an outdoor kitchen, BBQ and courtyard. Benchakitti Park is just 200m away. FYNN Asoke is due for completion in early 2022.
Noble Above Wireless-Ruamrudee
This stylishly designed condominium was completed in 2019 and consists of two buildings with eight floors and 104 condos in total. Spacious one-bedroom apartments range from 54-85sqm and two bedrooms from 87-119sqm. The open space offers a lush garden, leading-edge gym and swimming pool on the Ground floor, plus the Rooftop area. The development is in the vicinity of Benchakitti and Lumpini Parks.
The Rich Ploenchit-Nana
This recently completed 32-floor tower is in the heart of Bangkok, surrounded by luxurious shopping malls, a world-class hospital, and an extraordinary variety of dining and entertainment venues and is right on the BTS line. One and two-bedroom, elegantly finished apartments range from 34 to 87sqm. The complex features a trendy chromotherapy healing swimming pool, gym, yoga retreat and serene gardens on various floors, including the rooftop.
Hyde Sukhumvit 11
This eye-catching development designed by renowned architects A49 consists of two buildings. The taller, 39 floors has 478 apartments ranging from studios to penthouses, all luxuriously furnished and ready to occupy. The second crystal-shaped building houses the carpark. Facilities include a gym with amazing Bangkok views, a swimming pool, golf simulator and more. It is close to BTS Nana, in the thick of shopping, eating, and entertainment precinct and about a 20-minute walk to Benchakitti Park.
The ESSE Asoke
This breathtaking tower is 55 floors with 419 condos Soars 240 metres above the city. It is conveniently located near BTS Asoke, MRT, Srirat Expressway and Benchakitti Park. Contemporary designed one and two-bedroom and penthouse apartments are available to buy and rent. Excellent onsite facilities include a Sky panoramic swimming pool, kids pool and jacuzzi, Sky gym, residence lounge, business facilities, etc. Leading schools, universities, hospitals, the commercial centre, and the entertainment district are on its doorstep.
The Bangkok real estate market is thriving, with many opportunities to invest in Thailand or rent while you take time to explore this captivating city. Wherever you choose, being close to the city’s growing green spaces may positively add to your Bangkok experience.
You may also be interested in this article: Building a Greener Future: Real Estate Green Evolution
