From a bustling tobacco factory to a serene green oasis, Bangkok’s Benjakitti Park has undergone a remarkable transformation. For over 50 years, the state-owned tobacco monopoly churned out cigarettes at the industrial estate, but now, the sprawling complex has been replaced by a 102-acre park that offers respite from the city’s congestion and smog.
The new section of the park, which opened in August 2022 to commemorate Queen Sirikit’s 90th birthday, features a mile-long elevated walkway, water-purifying wetlands, sports courts, and thousands of new trees. The Skywalk, as it is known, has become a popular spot for visitors, especially at sunset when the heat of the day subsides.
With Bangkok lacking sufficient green space for its 11 million residents, the addition of the park is a welcome change. The $20 million project, nearly double the size of the original park, provides a much-needed escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Designed with input from the military to expedite construction during the pandemic, the park incorporates innovative features like water-purifying wetlands fed by a sewage-contaminated canal. The self-sustaining ecosystem has already attracted a variety of wildlife, creating a harmonious balance between nature and urban development.
The park’s unique design also includes repurposed buildings from the former tobacco factory, now converted into sports facilities with open walls and roofs for natural air-conditioning. The juxtaposition of industrial remnants with lush greenery creates a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors.
As Bangkok continues to evolve, Benjakitti Park stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to sustainability and green spaces in the midst of rapid urbanization. With its blend of nature, recreation, and history, the park offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of the bustling metropolis.
