Taking a skywalk in the Park

Bangkok, Day 32

So yesterday (Day 31) we had a fairly chilled day and there was nothing very exciting to report, as we caught up on some household type chores, did some grocery shopping (including a visit to the nearby Makro where we got some fab bargains), and planned some future stuff etc., so I'll not bore anyone with the detail of that.

Fast forward to today and we decided to take a walk on the "Green Mile", an elevated walkway between Lumphini and Benjakitti parks.

To get onto the Green Mile (from the Lumphini side), you need to exit Lumphini Park via the gate at the northeast corner, next to the Suan Lumphini school. Turn left and follow for around 100 meters, and you will see an overpass with green steps; enter via the gate.

The green bridge that connects Lumphini and Benjakitti parks in Bangkok was built in 1999. The bridge was renovated in 2022 to include an elevated park, better bike and running lanes, and a rest area.

Before you reach the more pleasant-looking Benjakitti Forest Park or the Benjakitti Park itself, you pass by a small area on the skywalk, which covers the poorer section of the Ruamrudee area. Whilst there is a lot of affluence in Ruamrudee, as can be seen from the fee-paying international school based here, the community and the houses located close to the skywalk tell a very different story. These houses are primarily made of wood and were built very close to one another, with very little space between the houses themselves and the alleyways. The community is a thriving one, and even from the skywalk we could hear and see various street sellers, small restaurants, and motorcycles whizzing about beneath us.

However, the sight of a series of loudspeakers attached to poles throughout the area appears to act as a fire alarm warning system and a stark reminder that a fire in this area would be devastating for the people and the community, so that must be a constant threat to them.

The Benjakitti forest park and the park itself are just beautiful, especially once you get into it.

Not only can you appreciate the city landscape, which is like 360° all around you, but you can also enjoy the nature that you are right in the middle of. We loved watching and listening to the various birds, seeing the fish and turtles in the water, people jogging, cycling, walking and families enjoying themselves having a picnic. The space and greenery were just lovely and a stark contrast to the busy central Bangkok and tourist areas.

There is so much space and nature to enjoy in this little oasis of a park. That said, it was hot and there is not much shade available on much of the skyway, so ensure you are prepared with sunscreen, hats and water (we had 2 out of the 3!)

After tiring ourselves out by walking all around the forest and park area, we then made our way back to the apartment by the route we had gone with a short stop off in Lumphini Park for a snack and a drink (as we were all out of water by this stage).

The events in the park were in full swing, and perhaps because it was a Saturday, it was a lot busier than our previous visit. It was good to see but our batteries by this stage were on

low and after a quick rest and refreshment, we were delighted to get back home and chill.

Bangkok, Thailand

21 December 2024