OK, so I may have a long-standing history with the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) – having lived, studied and currently working there – so this post MIGHT seem biased. But trust me, it’s not! 

In fact most days I don’t even want to get out of bed with the thought of trudging my way through several modes of transportation just to get to work. On a good day, it takes me 45 minutes just one way.

Wait, I’m not doing a very good job at convincing you to go there, am I?

STOP SHAYAN.

So anyways, the other day I’m walking into the campus after being dropped by the Thammasat University van and I notice how beautiful the campus is.

Really? I just noticed it?

Maybe it’s a new found love for nature or appreciating the simple things in life but whatever it was, I was actually enjoying the walk and it inspired me to write this post.

Looking back I actually had an awesome childhood growing up in AIT before I moved to Bangkok city. So here are a few awesome reasons that you should take a day trip to the AIT campus when in Thailand.

AIT is not that far

To start it off, it’s actually not that far if you know how to get here – and there are many ways. It takes about 45 minutes or less with no traffic. I’ve made it in 30 minutes on occasions.

You could simply take a taxi straight from Bangkok and tell them you want to go to AIT in Rangsit, Pathumthani. The taxi would cost you about 300 Baht plus another 100 baht for toll. Great if you share it with 2-3 other people.

Alternatively, you can take the van (30 Baht) that are parked next to Victory Monument or Mo chit BTS stations. Just say to one of those van people “AIT”. They’ll know.

Bus # 32 and #29 also go past AIT and stop at Thammasat University (another university that is worth exploring). Just drop off as soon as soon as you see the AIT sign on the right.

It’s bloody beautiful

As soon as you walk into AIT, there’s greenery all around. Lush gardens, trees, colorful flowers and small lakes make up majority of the campus. There are no tall buildings as they are all limited to 3 floors. Everything is kept clean and there is fresh air all around. 

Even the ponds and lakes are green!

It’s not just green in terms of nature but the entire University is built upon the concept of sustainability. It’s actually in their vision/mission statement.

Lots of Facilities & Eateries

AIT is like a little town on it’s own. You don’t really need to get out to enjoy a whole day or night. From convenience stores, arcade shops, cafes, restaurants, bookstore and library to a fitness center, sports field (for football, cricket and track), basketball, badminton and tennis courts to even a massive golf course, AIT has got it all!

Bakery | Coffee shop | Arcade with many shops

Swimming pool | Tennis court | Basketball court

Sports field

However, if you’re planning to host a big sporting event or use the sports field for a match, best contact the university or the Student Union first.

You won’t find Starbucks or other pop-culture food chains here like at other University campuses in Thailand but maybe that’s a good thing.

If you’re looking to hit the malls, there are a few – namely Future Park and Major Cineplex Rangsit – about 15 minute drive from the campus.

You can see all that AIT has to offer in this interactive map.

A Thriving Community

If you step away from the bustling streets of Bangkok, you realize how simple life can be. At AIT people do the same thing as us in the city – they go to work, they pay their bills, they exercise, they eat. But there is a different charm here. For one you won’t be stuck in hours of traffic, there’s no sound of constant construction around you but most importantly, there is a sense of comradery here.

People go about riding their bicycles, greeting each other on the way. Everyone basically knows everyone and are always willing to join hands in difficult times and the good ones.

AIT holds yearly talent/cultural shows and other events such as international food fair or AIT unity day where people come together and exchange cultures, ideas and interests. You feel a sense of belonging. Sometimes I feel that despite having so many events in Bangkok, it’s all pretty superficial.

Of course you won’t know anyone when you come to AIT but don’t be scared to spark up a conversation with the students, staff and the rest of the AIT family here. They are pretty humble, open and friendly folks.

A bit of adventure and photo opp

If nothing else, getting here is an adventure on it’s own and not to mention, there’s a high chance you might come across a monitor lizard or a python on the campus. That will surely get your adrenaline running but not to worry, they are more scared of you than you probably are of them.

Getting away from city and coming to AIT will not only give you a chance to capture some amazing photos and videos if you’re into nature and landscape, you’ll also be able to breath some fresh air!

It’s definitely worth a trip if you’re in Bangkok and have some time to spare for a different kind of adventure.