Nong Chok district

Nong Chok (หนองจอก, ) is one of the 50 districts (khet) of Bangkok, Thailand. It is bounded by other districts (from north clockwise): Amphoe Lam Luk Ka of Pathum Thani province, Amphoe Bang Nam Priao and Amphoe Mueang Chachoengsao of Chachoengsao province, Lat Krabang, Min Buri and Khlong Sam Wa of Bangkok. It is the biggest, easternmost and the most sparsely populated district of Bangkok.

History
The district was established as an amphoe in 1897 during the reign of King Chulalongkorn. The original settlers were Muslims relocated from southern Thailand. In 1902, it became an amphoe of the newly setup Min Buri province. Due to economic hardship during 1930–31, Min Buri Province was disbanded in 1931 and Nong Chok was transferred to Chachoengsao Province. However the administration was moved under Bangkok the next year due to inconvenience of travel between Nong Chok and Chachoengsao. , about 75% of the population were Muslims while 22% were Buddhists. The name Nong Chok means water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) swamp.

Administration
The district is sub-divided into eight sub-districts (khwaeng).

Economy
Agriculture was and remains the most important part of Nong Chok economy. Rice, vegetables, fruits, and livestocks are the main products. It is famous for its gamecocks and birdcages. Many canals were dug for irrigation and transportation.

Environment
With a rural environment and surrounded by agricultural areas. Nong Chok is therefore the last habitat of the flying fox colony in the Bangkok area.

It is said that in the past when the environment was still pure. Scenery from Nong Chok can be seen as far as Chachoengsao and some of the mountains in the Bang Pla Soi, Chonburi.

Places

 * Bangkok Arena
 * Mahanakorn University of Technology
 * Nong Chok National Football Center
 * Nong Chok Park
 * Wetchakarunrasm Hospital

Education
International schools include:
 * Korean International School of Bangkok