Go to: All about Chiang Mai for getting around, history, culture, food, shopping, education, attractions and more…

Location: Thailand is located in the middle of the Indochinese peninsula. Thailand is bordered to the north and west by Myanmar (Burma) and the Andaman Sea, to the south by Malaysia and the Gulf of Thailand, and to the east by Laos and Cambodia. Thailand is partially separated from Laos and Cambodia by the Mekong river. See more Click for map of Thailand.

Size and population: Thailand ranks as the world’s 50th largest country with a population of 65 million. The capital of Thailand and seat of government is Bangkok and is the country’s largest city with 10 million people and ranked as the world’s 17th largest city. Chiang Mai is Thailand’s second largest city with a total population of 700,000 people with 250,000 living in the city center. See more

Geography: Thailand is divided into 7 regions: The North, Northeast, Central Plains, East, West, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Region. Each of which has its own distinctive geographical character.

The central region, encompassing the Bangkok metropolitan region and the central plains, is the economic and cultural heartland of the Thai nation. The mountainous north is Thailand's largest region. The second largest and poorest region is the sprawling northeast largely bordered by the Mekong River. Just south of the northeast lies the eastern region where pristine beaches support the growth of summer resorts such as Pattaya. The west has its beautiful mountains, which rise up towards the Burmese border and its lush valleys remain relatively unspoiled. The towns here have a frontier atmosphere. Last but not least, the peninsular south. See more

Culture: The people of Thailand are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Thais welcome foreigners making them feel very comfortable. Thais are respectful, quiet and always have a smile. Thailand is often called the “Land of Smiles”. See more

Weather: Thailand's monsoons arrive around July and last into November (the 'rainy season'). This is followed by a dry, cool period from November to mid-February, followed by much higher relative temperatures from March to June.

The north and north-east are generally cooler than Bangkok in winter, and hotter in summer. In the far north, around Mae Hong Son temperatures can occasionally drop as low as 2°C . . See more

Currency: - Baht (THB,Symbol: ) for the current currency conversion rate go to: www.xe.com

Religion: Theravada Buddhism 95%, Muslim 3.8%, Christianity 0.5%, Hinduism 0.1%, other 0.6% See more

History: In 1782, the Siamese expelled the Burmese and the current Chakri dynasty was founded by King Rama I. The capital was moved one last time to the city of Bangkok. Thailand changed its name from Siam in 1939 and became a constitutional monarchy 1932. Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia never to be colonized by a Western power. 700 years of independence has resulted in the truly unique character of Thailand. See more

Government: Thailand is a constitutional monarchy. King Rama IX Bhumibol Adulyadej has reigned since June 9, 1946, he is the world's longest-serving current head of state and the longest-serving monarch in Thai history See more

Health, Immunizations: Travelers should consult their local health agencies for information regarding recommended immunizations before traveling to Thailand. Many good sites exist on the internet for travelers. See more

Visa requirements: Most visitors may enter Thailand without a visa for 30 days. Entry rules and length of stay varies by country of origin. Travelers should consult the Thailand Embassy for specific information prior to making travel plans. See more or visit the Thai Embassy website at: www.thaiembassy.com

Electricity: 220V 50Hz


Official Language: Thai See more

Time Zone: GMT/UTC +7 http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock

Country Dialing Code: +66 http://www.countrycallingcodes.com

Weights and Measures: Thailand uses the Metric system, speed limits are stated in kilometers per hour and you drive on the let side of the road.