Overview of Thailand

Profile

Kingdom of Thailand is constitutional monarchy under Chakri Dynasty, with capital Bangkok at center of over 500,000 km² territory and 66 million population. Known as world's leading tourism nation through abundant natural and agricultural resources nurtured by tropical monsoon climate, historical heritage of ancient kingdoms, and hospitality described as 'Land of Smiles'. ASEAN founding member, also grown as industrial nation centered on automotive and electronics industries. Majority of citizens are Theravada Buddhists, with unique culture and customs respecting royal family and Buddhism rooted in daily life.

Official name: Kingdom of Thailand
Common name: Thailand
Numeric code: 764
Alpha-3 code: THA
Alpha-2 code: TH
Population: 66.09 million (2022)
Population density: Approximately 136 persons/km²
Primary languages: Thai
Major religions: Theravada Buddhism, Islam, Christianity
National anthem: Phleng Chat Thai
Calling code: +66
Internet TLD: .th

History

Through Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, and Thonburi, Chakri Dynasty opened in 1782, rare Southeast Asian nation maintaining independence.

Sukhothai Kingdom rose in 13th century, followed by Ayutthaya Kingdom as Southeast Asian powerhouse from 15th century onward. After 1767 Burmese destruction, Taksin established Thonburi Kingdom; Rama I relocated to Bangkok in 1782 opening current dynasty. 19th century modernization reforms by Rama IV and V avoided colonization by great powers. Transitioned to parliamentary system after 1932 constitutional revolution, achieving economic development as Western bloc during Cold War after WWII. Entering 21st century, repeatedly experiencing coups and elections, maintains presence as regional middle-income country with tourism and manufacturing as pillars.

Geography & climate

North mountainous terrain, northeast Khorat Plateau, central fertile plains of Chao Phraya River Delta, south narrow Malay Peninsula hills and limestone karst continuing coastline.

Tropical monsoon climate

Area: Asia / 513120 km²
Capital: Bangkok
Largest city: Bangkok
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Songkhla Lake
Bordering countries: Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia

Natural resources

Natural gas, Petroleum, Tin, Tungsten, Timber, Limestone, Seafood, Rubber trees, Rice, Cassava, Hydropower, Sugarcane, Gems (sapphire), Gypsum

Politics

Government: Constitutional monarchy (Parliamentary democracy)

Economy

Currency: Thai Baht (THB)

GDP (nominal): 543.7 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 1.46 trillion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Thai

Time zone: Indochina Time (ICT)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Thai, Chinese, Malay, Khmer, Hmong, Karen, Akha, Lao, Lisu, Yao

Life expectancy

77.7 years

Literacy rate

93%

National sports

Muay Thai, Football, Sepak Takraw, Badminton, Taekwondo