Pass The Passport

Places / Asia

Thailand

Visited

At a glance

Region
South-Eastern Asia
Capital
Bangkok
Population
71.6 million (2025)
Area
513,120 km²
Languages
Thai
Currency
Thai baht (THB)
Drives on the
left
Calling code
+66
Visited: Thailand

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Before you go

Overview

The Kingdom of Thailand is located in Southeast Asia. It was formerly called Siam. It is a constitutional kingship and parliamentary democracy.

Thailand recorded a population of 69.43 million in 2018 and covers an area of 513,120 km2.

Bangkok is its capital and largest city. It is also the most populated city. Chiang Mai city is famous for its ancient Buddhist temples like the Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang.

Pattaya city at eastern Gulf coast is famous for its beaches, fishing activities, hotels alongside and night clubs.

The Capital, Bangkok.

History

Thailand was founded in 1238 during the Sukhothai Period. It has never been colonized by the Europeans.

Between 1932 and 1973, it was ruled by a military dictatorship.

Food & culture

Its culture is based on Buddhism religion and Thai culture.

The major crops grown are rice, rubber, sugarcane, tobacco, cotton, cocoa, peanuts, soybeans, maize, palm oil, coconuts and jute. The cuisine is mainly the Thai dishes.

Wildlife

The common wildlife animals includes tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, bears and sambars.

Festivals & events

Some of the major events include the Phia Ta Khon, which is a three-day Buddhist festival held in Dan Sai around March and July.

There is also the Songkran Festival is the Thai New Year festival.

Citizens also celebrate the Chinese New Year.

Things to see

Thailand is the second country with the highest number of Buddhist temples after Cambodia. They are located in the major cities like Pattaya, Chiang Mai and Bangkok.

Thailand also has many islands like Phuket Island and Phi Phi Islands. It is known for its tourist attractions at its beaches. It has resorts, plenty of seafood and a good atmosphere.

The Grand Palace in the centre of Bangkok has lasted since 1782. It is the official king’s residence.

Andaman Coastline

Interesting facts

The most popular religion is Buddhism, but there is freedom of worship except for the king who must be a Theravada Buddhist.

Bangkok city is known for prostitution. Nightlife and street life is very vibrant.

Thailand has been ranked as the world’s biggest rice exporter.

The country’s official language is Thai.

City guides

Cities & towns I’ve visited

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Thailand

0 of 9 visited. See every site I've been to.

My photos from Thailand

December 2013 Thailand & Australia

RUReptile, PP Island Speed Boat Tour of Jc., Ko Poda, Bangkok

Whole trip gallery
  • A smiling man with a large orange iguana resting on his shoulder.
  • A man with arms outstretched standing in turquoise water between towering limestone islands.
  • A man standing in clear shallow sea water with limestone islands in the background.
  • Two men flexing in front of golden demon guardian statues at a temple in Bangkok.

Plan your trip to Thailand

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Neighbours

Bucket List goals in Thailand