The kingdom of Thailand lies in the centre of South-East Asia and it shares borders with Myanmar to the west and to the north, Laos to the north-east, Cambodia to the south-east and Malaysia to the south. Thailand has been a constitutional monarchy since 1932 and it is divided into 76 provinces, which are subdivided into districts. It has a population of over 65million people and an area of over 500 thousand km2. The capital of Thailand is Bangkok, the political and industrial centre. Thailand enjoys a tropical climate with three distinct seasons: dry, rainy and cool. Thailand is worldwide known mainly for its exotic cuisine, hospitality and precious cultural heritage.

Landscape of Thailand

The shape and geography of Thailand divide the country into four natural regions: the North with forests and mountains, where multi-colored orchids can be found, the North-East plateau with its archeological mysteries, the Central Plains with fertile rice and fruit-growing areas and the Peninsular South full of unspoiled beaches and beautiful tropical islands.

People of Thailand

The majority of the citizens of Thailand are ethic Thai, 10% of the inhabitants are Chinese, 3% Malay and the rest are minorities like Mons, Kmers etc. About seven million people live in the capital city of Bangkok. Thanks to integration there is enormous cultural and social unity in the entire country. The official language is Thai, however, English is widely understood, particularly in Bangkok. The main religion of Thailand is Buddhism, 4% of citizens are Muslims. Thai people are well-known mainly for their kindness and hospitality.

Culture of Thailand

Thailand’s cultural heritage was mainly influenced by the powerful kingdom of Khmers and also by ancient India. Present Thai culture is deeply influenced by its religion and monarchy. Thailand's Buddhists follow the Therevada School, which is closer to its Indian roots. Typical Thai Buddhist temples known as wats are multicolored, decorated with gold and with pointy roofs. Thailand has many traditional arts, for example traditional Thai dancing and music, based on old religious rituals and court entertainment. The famous Thai boxing has developed from the military training of Thai warriors and it is surely the country's most popular indigenous sport. The worldwide famous Thai cuisine is characterized by strong and spicy flavors.

History of Thailand

In the 6th century AD many independent states were thriving in the area now known as Thailand. One of them, the kingdom of The Khmers, became so powerful that they ruled the whole region. But the earliest civilization of Thailand was probably that of the Mons in the centre of the land. In the 12th century their culture mixed with a Khmer culture and the culture of citizens of the Thai state Nan Chao. The Thai kingdom was established in the 14th century. In 1782 the current royal dynasty, Chakri, was founded by King Rama I and the capital was settled in Bangkok. Known as Siam until 1939, Thailand is the only South-East Asian country which has never been taken over by a European power. The revolution in 1932 led to a constitutional monarchy. The present king Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) has reigned for about 60 years, thereby he is the world's longest-reigning monarch.

In conclusion

With its tropical climate, rich cultural heritage, delicious food and idyllic sandy beaches, Thailand is a magnet for travelers from all over the world. For a civilization over 8 centuries old with a modern progressive society Thailand is moving forward quickly to become the tourist capital of Asia.