Virtual Tour: Benchasiri Park in Sukhumvit
For the full experience of Benchasiri Park, please feel free to enjoy my virtual tour on Youtube. The tour is a non-interrupted, non-commentary, virtual tour so please sit back and enjoy the peace and tranquility of Benchasiri Park. Please remember to Like and Subscribe if you haven’t already.
A Brief History of Benchasiri Park
Like a forgotten middle child, Benchasiri Park on Sukhumvit Road, tucked beside the uber hip and trendy EmSphere Shopping Complex, is welcome retreat from materialism and consumerism and reminds us of how peaceful our lives can be in the midst of chaos.
Benchasiri Park was established in 1992 to commemorate the 60th birthday of Queen Sirikit. The name itself translates to “The Park Commemorating the Fifth Cycle Birthday Anniversary.” Catchy. A golden commemorate coin statue honoring Queen Sirikit greets you as you enter the park.
A Pocket of Paradise: Exploring Benchasiri Park
At only 11.6 acres, Benchasiri Park pales in comparison in terms of geological size to its big brothers nearby, but like the middle child vying to get some attention, it does have its own playful charm.
The focal point centers around a large pond in the mesial bowels of the park. This epicenter of the park is the central gathering point of most of its occupants in order to stretch out in the grass and lounge under a tree to avoid the unforgiving Bangkok sun.
A spacious jogging track encompasses the park and is perfect for a quick walk on a lunch break. If you are feeling vigorous, a couple laps around the track, followed by a quick workout with the park’s exercise equipment will earn you that plate of Swedish meatballs from the IKEA next door.
Art in the Heart of the Benchasiri Park
Much of the art that you will see in Benchasiri Park was donated by local Thai artists. The centerpiece of this outdoor art exhibit is the golden pyramid surrounded by yellow flowers found near the back of the lake overlooking the skyline.
The art found in Benchasiri Park is a combination of contemporary and traditional pieces. Set against the park’s natural beauty, combined with the sprawling Bangkok skyline, the sculptures invite the visitor to take a moment of reflection and appreciate the craftsmanship of these monuments.
Kick Flips, Jump Shots and Volleys.
If lounging aimlessly on the grass, admiring traditional and contemporary Thai artwork isn’t your jam and are looking for something more active, Benchasiri Parks offers recreational areas for your recreational exercise needs.
Benchasiri Park is home to a skate park, a couple of playgrounds for the little guys, an outdoor workout area, basketball court and a badminton and tennis court. Grab your racket and challenge one of the locals; you’ll probably be humbled pretty quickly.
Food, Drink and other Amenities
There isn’t much in terms of food or drink, with the exception of a couple of small concession stands selling snacks and sodas. However, you are in luck! You are a few meters away from EmSphere which offers a plethora of international and local fare.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes the best things remain hidden. One of the reasons I really enjoyed Benchasiri Park was that it was step away from the incessant noise of the city. It is rare that a green space can be so compact in size and yet so peaceful and relaxing.
If you are looking for a quiet park that you can spend a lunch break at in the heart of the city, Benchasiri Park should be high on the list.
Thailand Walks 