The slightly cooler weather in Bangkok makes for the perfect chance to enjoy what the city has to offer at its fullest. Here are some outdoor activities in Bangkok you may want to try out before the sun is unbearable again.
It’s a big thing for Bangkok to drop a few degrees Celsius, for sitting in traffic feeling like we’re melting in the burning sun is a very common thing for us throughout the year. With the cool breeze in the air for the season, even if for just a little bit, we’re going to enjoy every moment of it. These outdoor activities in Bangkok are perfect to do just that — whether it’s to enjoy brunch al fresco, or take a walk in the park and enjoy some music while you’re at it.
While we are aware that the air in Bangkok is currently not the cleanest, keep a note for when the PM 2.5 does eventually clear up.
[Hero and featured image credit: Si Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden/Facebook]
Outdoor activities in Bangkok to do before the cooler weather disappears
Bike, birdwatch, and breathe in clean air at Si Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden
Did you know that Bangkok has an island? Bang Krachao is nicknamed the “Green Lung” of city — an artificial island formed by a hard bend in the Chao Phraya river, and a canal in the southwest direction. It makes for an amazing day trip, as the whole green area spans across 236,800 square metres. You can take a stroll along elevated walkways surrounded by flora and fauna, rent bicycles, and even row across the mangrove forest.
Si Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden, 73 Soi Wat Rat Rangsan, Bang Kachao, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan. Open daily, 5am-7pm.
Do a half-day trip to Taling Chan Floating Market and ride around in longtail boats
Floating markets are such a vibe, and even more vibey during winter. You can expect a lot of quality food with prices more than fair, hop into the longtail boats and see the local way of life, or just sit by the river feeding pellets to swarms of catfish. Taling Chan Floating Market features longboats with food in them, from fresh fruits to your favourite Thai dishes. You can also find huge grilled prawns on these boats and in restaurants that you can comfortably sit in, as well as Thai desserts and refreshing herbal drinks.
Taling Chan Floating Market, 333 Chak Phra Rd, Khlong Chak Phra, Taling Chan, Bangkok, Sat-Sun, 8am-3.30pm (some stalls may open until later).
Spend the night camping at Bangkok Backyard
Bangkok Backyard is a dedicated campsite located a 45-minute drive away from BTS Khu Khot station, and being in the outskirts of Bangkok means you get to surround yourself with nature. Set up a tent and spend a night by the serene lake, under the shades of trees, while taking care of the furry friends you’re fully free to bring along. Winter is definitely the best season to camp, due to the general weather in the summer, and more mosquitos during rainy season.
Bangkok Backyard, 894 Maitree Chitr, Sam Wa Tawan Ok, Khlong Sam Wa, Bangkok, +66 099 393 9747. Thu-Tue, 10am-6pm.
Windsurf to the chill breeze at Nong Bon Water Sports Center
Yes, you can windsurf in Bangkok. Nong Bon Water Sports Center is located just off MRT Yellow Line, and it’s arguably the spot for outdoor activities in Bangkok. Cycling, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, and many more — there’s something for everyone. If you’re just starting out, there are ample of workshops and lessons to choose from. They require an annual membership, but at very reasonable prices you won’t think twice.
Nong Bon Water Sports Center, 43 Nong Bon, Prawet, Bangkok, +66 02 328 0236. Open daily, 8.30am-5.30pm.
Listen to Adele while lamenting your breakup at Benjakitti Park
New year, new you — it’s time to Marie Kondo the ones who do not spark joy for you anymore, or still do but won’t take you back. Like the rest of us, you look longingly into the distance, put Chasing Pavements on (or something from Olivia Rodrigo if you’re Gen Z), and think about how you’re a strong, independent person who is whole in your own. One of the best places, in our experience, is on a bench in Benjakitti Park, watching the leaves falling from a tree like how you fell from grace in your love life.
Benjakitti Park, Ratchadaphisek Rd, Khlong Toei, Bangkok. Open daily, 4.30am-9pm.
Brunch and gossip about your coworkers at Caffè Olives
To properly maintain your energy at work, we all need a team brunch where we talk about other coworkers together. It’s the time you properly get things off your chest, and food into your stomach. We feel Caffè Olives is perfect for that session, with their brunch classics and Aperol spritz combo. Their homemade focaccia bread is divine, and definitely works well as a part of eggs Benedict or breakfast platter.
Caffè Olives, 4, 2 Sukhumvit 36, Bangkok, +66 61 613 9588. Open daily, 8.30am-5pm.
Look down on people, literally, from the rooftop at Tichuca
There’s never not a good time for a rooftop bar, and the iconic florescent tree at Tichuca will get you all sorted for the night. At the 46th floor, it’s the best way to look down on people — one of our favourite pastimes. They also have stairs up to the vantage point where there’s a separate bar and many photo opps, so there’s a look-down-on-people-ception you can do from above. Note that they’re generous on the tequila, and the floor is easier to dance on now that the weather is cooler.
Tichuca Rooftop Bar, T-One Building, Floor 46, Soi Sukhumvit 40, Phra Khanong, Khlong Toei, Bangkok, +66 65 878 5562. Open daily, 5pm onwards.
Walk around old town Bangkok after finding Yaowarat road too crowded
At first, we thought Yaowarat road could be a great idea, but the sheer amount of people will make it hard to enjoy the cooler weather anyway. This could be the perfect opportunity to discover other parts of Bangkok Old Town. Browse great deals on wholesale flowers at Pak Khlong Talad. Bring dried seafood back to your kitchen at Tha Tien Market. Dine home-style Thai cuisine by the river at Rongros and Supanniga Eating Room, Tha Tien branch. All of those, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can camp, kayak, and wind-surf in Bangkok, among many other activities, from eating, to drinking.
There are no hiking trails in Bangkok, although there are many beautiful nature trails in Bang Krachao area.
Benjakitti and Benjasiri are among the best parks for outdoor activities. They are popular from day till night, visited by both locals and international visitors.
It depends on your activity, but the best time of the day is arguably during the late afternoon when you can also enjoy the beautiful sunset along with your activity.
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Written by
Vichayuth Chantan
Digital Writer, Drinks and Dining
Writer by day, skinny legend by night, "Kook" Vichayuth works closely with Bangkok's F&B industry. His hobbies include bar-hopping, catching up with friends, and silently judging you from across the room.
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