Thailand
The island of Bang Kachao, known as Bangkok's green lung, is a recommended destination for family outings. Seeking fresh air or cycling paths to burn off energy? Look no further. Here's an overview of the attraction.
Bang Kachao: A green oasis in the heart of bustling Bangkok
Escape the stifling atmosphere of Bangkok and find respite by heading to Bang Kachao. It's undoubtedly the capital's green oasis, where a dense forest of trees combats pollution and provides cooling relief. Cyclists traverse tropical forests, delighting in their surroundings. Naturalists encounter species like drongo cuckoos and kingfishers at Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park, a highlight of the site. History buffs explore small Buddhist temples nestled deep within the woods. Navigate freely through this lush jungle with signs in both Thai and English guiding your way. Located just a 10-minute drive from Bangkok, the man-made island of Bang Kachao hopes to welcome you as a visitor.
History: An environmental project stymied by commercial interests
Bang Kachao is surrounded by water following irrigation efforts along the Chao Phraya River. Protected from urban sprawl, development authorities have strictly forbidden construction in this stretch of the river. Only a few farmers cultivating small plots of land reside scattered throughout the forest.
Following the death of King Rama IX in 2016, the military junta expressed interest in preserving Bang Kachao. Stakeholders in the project include forestry authorities, universities, and the national oil company, aiming to reclaim 60% of the island's territory for wild nature. However, the project faces opposition from real estate developers eyeing the land.
Today
Administratively part of Phra Pradaeng District in Samut Prakan Province, Bang Kachao, alongside Lumphini Park, is a favored weekend destination for Bangkokians. Locals and foreigners mingle here for a green escape, far from the city's hustle, skyscrapers, and congested streets.
Visiting Bang Kachao Island
Bang Kachao is a haven for cyclists, offering bike rental services near the main pier. As you venture deeper into the forest, numerous attractions await.
- Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Botanical Garden
Mangrove apple trees thrive along the waterways of Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Botanical Garden. Coconut palms, queen sago palms, and rhizophoraceae alternate in this mangrove forest. Birds feast on mollusks and invertebrates in the muddy environments. Migratory species like peregrine falcons, verditer flycatchers, oriental magpie-robins, black-headed bulbuls, and mourning doves flutter through the park to the delight of birdwatchers. Not to mention butterflies and twinkling fireflies visible from the observation tower.
- Small Buddhist Pagodas
Ancient Buddhist temples dot both sides of the island, architectural legacies of the Mons. Since the Rattanakosin era, a Mon community of Burmese origin has migrated to northern and central Thailand.
- The Siamese Fighting Fish Gallery
A visit to the Siamese Fighting Fish Gallery is worthwhile during your island visit. This small museum showcases a variety of colorful fish known for their aggressive nature, housed in tanks.
- Bang Nam Peung Market
For fresh, local cuisine in a traditional setting, Bang Nam Peung Market is hard to beat. Food and drink stalls line the canal, open only on weekends.
Practical information
· Best time to visit
The site sees peak visitation between November and February. Temperatures are more bearable during this time of year, with minimal rainfall.
· Getting there
Due to its insularity, Bang Kachao is accessible only by water. Boats departing for the island pick up passengers at the small Kloei pier closest to downtown or at the Wan Na Nok pier.
· Nearby attractions
Enjoyed your getaway to Bang Kachao? Nearby, visit the Erawan Museum or the Asiatique Riverfront night market. Alternatively, continue with a boat cruise to the dreamy temples of Ayutthaya.
