Thailand is one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and diverse countries, a destination filled with rich history, stunning landscapes, and a culture that combines ancient traditions with modern flair. Whether you’re dreaming of a beach vacation, an adventure in the mountains, or diving into the bustling life of Bangkok, Thailand has something for everyone. Here are 17 amazing facts about Thailand that might surprise you!
1. Geography and Borders: A Country at the Heart of Southeast Asia
Thailand is strategically located in Southeast Asia, sharing borders with Myanmar (to the west and northwest), Laos (to the northeast), Cambodia (to the southeast), and Malaysia (to the south). The country is blessed with coastlines along two major bodies of water: the Gulf of Thailand to the east and the Andaman Sea to the west. With its central location, Thailand serves as a gateway to some of the region’s most stunning natural wonders and diverse cultures.
2. Size and Scope: Bigger Than You Think
Covering a vast area of 198,120 square miles (513,120 square kilometers), Thailand ranks as one of the larger countries in Southeast Asia. It’s almost twice the size of the United Kingdom, providing enough room for a wide variety of landscapes, from lush forests and towering mountains to long stretches of sandy beaches. If you’re looking for a tropical getaway, check out the serene beauty of Ko Lipe, where you’ll find a variety of hotels ko lipe for a peaceful retreat.
3. A Growing Population
As of 2020, Thailand’s population stands at about 69.8 million people. This is quite similar to the population of the United Kingdom, but spread out over a country that offers both bustling urban centers and tranquil rural areas. From the crowded streets of Bangkok to the quiet villages in the north, Thailand’s people are warm, welcoming, and proud of their cultural heritage.
4. The Heart of Thailand: Bangkok
The capital city, Bangkok, is the beating heart of Thailand. With a population of over 10.5 million (as of 2020), it’s not only the most populous city in Thailand but also one of the most dynamic in Asia. Covering 605.7 square miles (1,568.7 square kilometers), Bangkok is known for its towering skyscrapers, glittering temples, and vibrant street life. It’s also a hub for business, culture, and nightlife, attracting millions of visitors each year.
5. A Diverse Landscape
Thailand’s diverse geography is one of its most striking features. The country is divided into several regions, each with its unique topography. To the north, you’ll find mountainous regions and valleys, perfect for hiking and exploring. The central region, where Bangkok is located, features a vast plain that’s rich in agricultural activity. Further south, the coastline stretches out into pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, while the east and northeast are known for their rolling plateaus and rice fields.
6. A Unique Location
Thailand sits at the coordinates of 15.0000° N, 100.0000° E, placing it right in the center of Southeast Asia. This prime location makes it easy to access from virtually any corner of the region, and gives visitors access to everything from the cool mountain air of the north to the tropical heat of the islands.
7. The Longest Place Name in the World
Bangkok’s full ceremonial name holds the record for the longest place name in the world. It is a tongue-twister to pronounce, but here it is for the curious: Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahintharayutthaya Mahadilokphop Noppharatratchathaniburirom Udomratchaniwetmahasathan Amonphimanawatansathit Sakkathattiyawitsanukamprasit. Thankfully, locals usually just call it “Krung Thep,” which translates to “City of Angels.”
8. Reaching New Heights
The highest point in Thailand is Doi Inthanon, which rises to 8,514 feet (2,565 meters) above sea level. Located in the Thanon Thong Chai mountain range in the north, Doi Inthanon is a popular spot for trekking and birdwatching, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a cool escape from the tropical heat.
9. A Tropical Paradise
Thailand enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, which means it’s warm for most of the year. Temperatures during the hot season (March to May) can range from 30°C to 36°C (86°F to 97°F), making it an ideal place for sun seekers. The rainy season (May to October) brings refreshing monsoons, particularly beneficial for agriculture, while the cool season (November to February) offers more pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.
10. Life Expectancy: Living Well in Thailand
The average life expectancy in Thailand is 75 years (as of 2019), a figure that reflects both the advances in healthcare and the generally healthy lifestyle of the Thai people. With access to quality medical facilities in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and a diet that features fresh ingredients like rice, fish, and vegetables, the people of Thailand lead healthy, long lives.
11. Currency: The Thai Baht
Thailand’s official currency is the baht, symbolized as ฿. Whether you’re shopping in Bangkok’s street markets or staying at luxury resorts in Phuket, you’ll be paying for your goods and services in baht. It’s also worth noting that Thailand is relatively affordable for travelers, with a wide range of options depending on your budget.
12. Festivals That Celebrate Culture and Nature
Thailand is famous for its vibrant festivals. One of the most unique celebrations is the Lopburi Monkey Festival, where the local monkeys are treated to an extravagant banquet of fruits and treats. The festival is held annually in Lopburi, a city located just north of Bangkok, to honor the monkeys who have long been part of the city’s charm and history.
13. Thailand’s National Dish: Pad Thai
No trip to Thailand would be complete without trying Pad Thai, the country’s national dish. This delicious stir-fried noodle dish is a mix of rice noodles, eggs, tofu or shrimp, peanuts, bean sprouts, and a tangy tamarind-based sauce. You can find it at street stalls, in restaurants, and even at fancy hotels.
14. A Multilingual Nation
While Thai is the official language, Thailand’s linguistic diversity is notable. Many people also speak Burmese, Khmer, and English, especially in major tourist areas and cities. If you’re traveling, you’ll find that English is widely understood in tourist hotspots, although knowing a few words in Thai can always earn you a smile from locals.
15. Agriculture and Production Powerhouse
Thailand is a major player in agriculture, producing large quantities of rice, cassava, corn, sugarcane, coconuts, and soybeans. The country is also one of the world’s leading producers of rubber, making it an essential part of the global supply chain for products ranging from tires to shoes.
16. A Booming Export Industry
Beyond agriculture, Thailand has a diversified industrial base. Key exports include textiles, footwear, fishery products, rice, rubber, and electronics. The country is also a hub for tourism, which plays a crucial role in its economy, attracting millions of international visitors every year.
17. Calling Thailand: Dialing Code +66
If you’re planning to call Thailand from abroad, you’ll need to use the international dialing code +66. It’s always a good idea to have this handy if you’re making arrangements for travel or staying in touch with someone in Thailand.
