LAND PACKAGE

While the official Thai language is widely spoken throughout Thailand, many Thais also speak and understand English, though more so in Bangkok and the major tourist areas.  As visitors to Thailand also include many Europeans and other Asians, Thai people's language skills often also include these other languages to varying degrees.  The Thai language itself is challenging to master, but Thai people are happy to help foreigners learn a few words to help them get around.  However, English is typically the common currency for cross-cultural conversation as Thailand hosts visitors from around the world.

With so many visitors, the Thailand communications system has many features that make it very accessible to foreigners.  In regards to telephone use, it is possible to get a Thai SIM card at most international airports and both rental mobile phones and SIM cards are readily available in destinations including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.  Workers in post offices generally speak some English, and there are internet cafes throughout Thailand that feature Skype headsets specifically to cater to visitors wishing to communicate with friends and family back home.  The Thailand communications system is both modern and convenient for visitors to use.

THAI LANGUAGE

While the Thai language is the official language of Thailand, one could say English is its unofficial second language.  As tourist and business visitors from around the world have traveled to Thailand, English naturally has become the common linguistic “currency” even while many of those visitors learned how to speak Thai. Consequently, population centers that host many foreigners, such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the islands have many people who can speak both Thai and English quite well.  That said, visitors may experience difficulty picking up the Thai language as it is considerably different from many foreign languages.  The Thai language features five tones: high, mid, low, rising, and falling, each of which changes the meaning of particular ‘words’.  Visitors unfamiliar with tonal languages often have difficulty pronouncing even the most basic terms when learning to speak Thai, but with some practice visitors find that Thai people enjoy helping them with their pronunciation of the Thai language. Written Thai is based on an alphabet adopted from the Khmers of Cambodia and is said to have become standardized during the reign of King Ramkhamhaeng during the Sukhothai period.  The Thai alphabet consists of 44 consonants, 18 vowels, and 4 diphthong (tonal) notations.  Learning to read Thai can be more complicated than learning to speak it as the pronunciation of written words does not follow a straightforward progression of letters and written Thai does not place spaces in between words.  Fortunately, road signs are written in both Thai and English, and many tourist areas provide maps, menus, and other literature in both Thai and various other foreign languages.  One problem that does occur for foreigners trying to pronounce Thai words correctly is caused by the transliteration of Thai words into Romanized characters.  An obvious example would be the island of Phuket, pronounced “poo-ket” rather than “foo-ket” as it would be pronounced in English.  Furthermore, there is no official standard for the transliteration of words and thus many Thai words are spelled differently on different maps or street signs (i.e. Even the BTS Skytrain features both Chitlom and Chidlom stations). In addition, while most Thai’s speak and understand the central Thai dialect, there are various regional dialects, including those of Southern Thailand and Northeastern Thailand, the latter of which is essentially just the Lao language (as most of the population is of Lao descent).   In northern Thailand, which had been the independent kingdoms of Lan Na and Chiang Mai from 1259-1939, a distinctive form of Thai is still spoken by the local inhabitants, all of whom can also speak central Thai.  All variants of Thai use the same alphabet.

Thailand Communications Network

The Thailand Communications network is both easy and convenient for foreigners to utilize.  Thailand features numerous public telephones, mobile phones are easy for visitors to procure, internet cafes and wireless internet services are widespread, and there is a post office in every major town in the Kingdom.  From telephones to the internet, the Thailand communications network allows visitors to stay in touch with comfort and ease.

Telephone (Thailand Phones)  The telephone system in Thailand is both modern and widespread, with reliable pay phones found throughout the kingdom and Thailand cell phone reception covering all but the most remote Thai islands.  Furthermore, purchasing a second-hand Thai phone and a SIM card is both cheap and easy, and internet cafes in most urban areas and all tourist areas have Skype installed on their public computers.

If you are using a Thai phone to call home or call Thailand from overseas, both are quite easy. Thailand’s international country code for calling Thailand from overseas is +66, and the code for placing a call to another country from a Thai phone is 001 followed by the country code of the nation you are dialing, (though other long distances providers allow you to dial 007, 008, or 009 rather than 001, but at different, typically higher rates).  International operator assistance is available by dialing 110.

When calling Thailand from overseas or calling a Thai phone from within Thailand there is a slight difference.  Phone numbers within Thailand begin with an area/city code or a cell phone prefix that is not always used when calling from overseas; For example, the city code for Bangkok is (0)2, the city code for Chiang Mai is (0)53, and the prefix for cell phones is (0)8.  When dialing from a Thai phone, one includes the 0, while those calling Thailand from overseas should not include the 0.  Consequently, an overseas call to Bangkok would be +66-2…, whereas a call from within Thailand would begin 02….

Emergency numbers are often three or four digit numbers, including Tourist Police, which is 1155.

Public Telephones

Coin operated pay phones are available throughout the country and cost around 1 baht per minute for local calls.  Card phones, which operate with either prepaid phone cards or, less frequently, credit cards are also widely available, particularly in large urban and tourist areas; Card phones have variable rates, but can cost up to 18 baht (.50 USD) per minute.  Prepaid phone cards, which are generally available in 300 baht denominations (just under 10 USD), are available at convenience stores such as 7-11 and phones accepting these cards are painted yellow and are usually not far from the local 7-11 store.Public telephones that charge by the minute for local and overseas calls are also available at general post offices throughout the kingdom.

Thai Cell Phones

The Thailand cell phone coverage is widespread, with reception available in all areas except at the most remote islands and isolated mountainous regions.  Many overseas cell phones will work in Thailand, provided they are GSM compatible, as Thailand features both GSM 900 and 1800 networks.  While it may be convenient to have friends and family call Thailand to reach you on your “home” cell phone number, receiving and sending calls is likely to be quite expensive.  If your cell phone has a slot to insert a SIM card, such cards are available for a few dollars, either at the airport or in IT markets throughout the country.  These SIM cards are funded by prepaid phone cards that are available at nearly all convenience stores in the country.  If your phone doesn’t have a slot for a SIM card, a Thailand cell phone can be picked up at the airport for a reasonable rate or an inexpensive new or second hand cell phone can be easily obtained at locations such as MBK shopping mall in Bangkok.

Thailand Climate & Weather

Thailand is located between vast areas of land and water, so it is impacted by both the summer and the winter monsoons. As a result, Thailand weather consists of six months of rainfalls during the wet season, three months of dry and cooling breezes during the winter, and three months of heat during the summer. The average temperature of Thailand ranges from 18 to 38°C.

Hotel check in and check out tips

Check in and check out hotel is very easy as the same as check for flight. But those who may not travel often, we have some tips to help your check in to hotel easy and smooth. First, know about different type of hotel which provide service in Southeast Asia, preparation, time for check in and request for more service from hotel staff.

Know what type of hotel that you plan to stay when visit the Southeast Asia

Why this is matter? Different type of hotel has different service that provide to customers. So it is better to know who you deal with. Definitely, a big brand hotel will have more restriction, and regulation for check in and check out. It is better to know who do you deal with.

Start with Accor which is a big hotel chain to operate in different sub brand such as Pullman, Novotel and Ibis. Inter-Continental. Meanwhile, Crowne Plaza runs with the IHG group. Best Western, Hyatt, Shangri-La, Renaissance, Meriden, Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, Sheraton, Pan Pacific, Hilton and numerous others also have a presence.

The high-end local hotel chain is including Centara, Dusit, Imperial, Amari, Anantara and Serenata which offer range of service rate.

Small and boutique hotel which is run by local, no chain support could be very stylish and nice.

Hotel in different category has different terms and conditions for check in / check out the guideline. That is why we introduce different hotel chain in the beginning of the article.

Check In

Things to do during checking in hotel

Preparing

Your passport and all visitors

TM 5 form or ตม5 (Thai language) which is the form you fill out when come to Thailand and it will attach with your passport. However, those who visit different country will have a different paper.

Credit card for deposit (1 Credit card/ room/ small group)

Soft copy or hard copy of hotel voucher

Check in hotel procedure

It is very quick process, if you travel in a small group

Meet reception and give them a voucher and all passports of visitors

They will make copies of credit card and ask you to fill the form and sign your name.

They will request your credit card or money to the credential

Get a receipt from hotel staff if you deposit money

Then visitor get the key to the room and breakfast coupon. Please make sure key card is in good condition.

Note:

1 The. Big hotel chain may request to have an imprint of your credit card for guarantee, this copy will be destroyed during the checkout process after the charges are settled.

2.Small hotel or guest house may just ask for deposit some cash. They just want to make sure that a visitor did not break anything.

Late Check out and early Check in, is it possible?

It is recommended that late check outs should be requested prior the leaving date to avoid additional charges. Some hotels allow you for 2-3 hours extra stay of your check out time which is depends on occupancy rate. During high season hotel trend to be busy and not allow late check out.

4-star Hotel or less standard in Thailand, clients who travel or arrive early before check in time, you can tell the hotel about your flight detail. The hotel may allow you to get the room early if they are room available.

Check in and check out time in general

Check in is about noon (day time) or 2.00 p.m. The latest check out will be about 2.00 p.m., which depends on occupancy. Travelling during December, January and February are high occupancy period.

What if I do not want to pay for late check out?

If you leave the hotel late and you do not want to pay another night, it may not possible if you do with big chain or local high-end hotel. You have the option of leaving your luggage at the concierge. Make sure that you keep the luggage store number when you return, you can take luggage back.

In case that your flight is late at night, this is activities that you can do swimming at a hotel, shopping, using massage or spa at hotel or join our sightseeing.

In case of late checkout, and you travel with a group tour. Tour agent may help to request a shower/changing room for guests to use (subject to availability).

Is it possible to do early check in?

Early check-in after 08:00 hours (8 a.m.) may be granted based on availability. (Most of 5-star hotel are not allowed)

It is better to give hotel information and send a request, some hotel may let you do that.

If they do not let you in, what to do with luggage before hotel check it. This is very easy, just leave it at hotel bell boy / concierge.

What do you get after check in?

Get the room key. Make sure it has not broken and function property.

Breakfast coupon. But some hotel, they are no longer requesting a breakfast coupon any more.

Is it possible to access get in to hotel check in time late?

Let’s say if your arrival flight is 1.00 a.m. and you wonder can you check in at that time.

Three-to-Five-star hotel, you can check in 24/7.  This is a service from what you pay.

Guest house, small hotel and Airbnb, you must ask them first. I highly recommend to send your flight detail.

Guideline for Thailand Hotels

What hotel in Thailand served for breakfast?

Breakfast is normally included as a room with ABF. Make sure you know this and double-check when you’re booking and confirm when you check in.

What time breakfast served and where to eat?

Generally, breakfast serve at 07.00-10.00 a.m., Some visitors can manage this a branch since the luxury hotel often has various kinds of things to eat.

so far, I know only one hotel that served breakfast till 12.00. That is Photo hotel in Phuket. It is a fantastic to be waking up late and do not need to pay for the meal which lunch and breakfast combine together.

Basic buffets are typical, with eggs, yogurt, fruit, bread, stir-fry rice or noodle dishes. High end hotels feature elaborate buffets, with salad, fruit carvings and a mind-boggling assortment of Thai and Western dishes.

Normally, the breakfast area is very near the lobby where guests check in. 

Hotel check in for pet policy 

 So far, we did not know which hotel allow pet stay. But if you want to bring one this is interesting things that you should consider and review the property before, make a booking.

Dogs and cats less than 20 kilograms are welcome and must not be left unattended in the room.

Advance booking for a pet-friendly room is required and based on availability for the desired dates, as we only have a limited amount of these rooms.

Guests requiring a pet-sitter, pet supplies or pet salon service, must contact the hotel staff with advance notice. We may attempt to arrange these services on your behalf during with proper notice.

Visitors are responsible for all property damages and personal injuries resulting from the pet.

If stay at air bnb or resident, what to do? And caution

Prepare paper as hotel check in as regular recommendation

Make sure you can access internet during travelling, so you could stay in touch with host if there are any trouble that may occur or missing meeting point and you could stay in touch with them.

The breakfast, may not valid

Only about check out and check in, it’s quite a long article. I hope this is helpful and make your trip to South East Asia Smooth and fun.

If there are any things, that I have not mentioned and you would like to know. Please fill free to lets us know or comment below.

There are various transportation options provided for tourists – by land, by air, and by boat.

Land: Traveling on the road is the main choice if you wish to go through provinces within Thailand.

Public Transportation: either long-distance or short-distance trips in Bangkok or other provinces, tourists can travel around by bus, by train, by sky train, by subway, by van, and by Song Taew (small pick-up truck with two rows of bench).  Taxi: Bangkok and big provinces have metered taxis.

Tuk Tuk: a three-wheeled motorcycle which becomes a symbol of Thailand and can be found around Bangkok and in some provinces.

Motorcycle Taxi: motorcycle taxis can be found close to street intersections or small allies for quick transportation and short distances.

Rental Car and Motorcycle: visitors who want to have independent travel or do not want to waste their time waiting for public transport can rent a car or a motorcycle from local companies as well as international chains. Some companies also provide a driver for tourist’s convenience and safety. Vehicle rental companies can be found in big cities, airports, and bus or train stations.

Traveling by car, motorcycle and bicycle is quite convenient for tourists because there are traffic signs available both in the Thai and English languages.

Boat: Thailand has two long coastlines – the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman coast islands. Also, there are many rivers and canals throughout the country including Bangkok, which once was called ‘the Venice of the East.’ The long-tail boats are a main transport on rivers and canals in Bangkok and neighboring provinces. Visitors can also have a boat trip or river cruise in Bangkok or a trip for snorkeling, fishing or squid fishing in other provinces.

Air There are many domestic air routes from Bangkok and provincial capitals. Two main airports in Bangkok are Don Mueang International Airport and Suvarnabhumi International Airport.

Moreover, for those who want to have more privacy and independence, they can rent a private plane as well.

Thailand’s air transport has grown rapidly since the World War II. The first Thai airport was Don Mueang International Airport, which started providing service since in 1914 and was closed in 2006 when Suvarnabhumi International Airport was officially opened. However, Don Mueang Airport was reopened again in 2007 for domestic flights.

These days we have many international airlines from many countries all over the world operating from Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi, making these some of the most important airports in South East Asia.

There are also international airports in tourist popular provinces of Thailand such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Hat Yai, Udon Thani, and Krabi.

This network of airports bolsters the Thai tourism industry and encourages those tourists who don’t want to spend too much of their time travelling by bus, van, or boat.

With long periods of Thailand’s History, according to evidences and studies, Sukhothai was the first kingdom of Thailand.  At that time, an early Thai script was invented by King Ramkhamhaeng, the great king of Sukhothai, and there also were records about events in the king’s reign.  After Sukhothai period, the new kingdoms arose that are Ayuthaya, Thonburi and Rattanakosin which is the present kingdom of Thailand.  Each period owns its important historical events and interesting cultural changes.

In Sukhothai period, King Sri Indraditya founded Sukhothai in 1238 governed by the monarchy system.  The glorious era was in the reign of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great and after his death, it came to the fall of Sukhothai Kingdom.

In Ayuthaya Period, King U Thong founded the kingdom in 1350, and the kingdom then became powerful in politics and economy of Southeast Asia.  Ayuthaya became stronger by firmly gathering groups of Thai and connecting to foreign countries such as Portugal, France, Netherlands, China, and Japan.  In 1569, Ayuthaya’s glories fell to Burmese, then King Naresuan regained the city’s independence and expanded more territories.  In the era of King Narai was the rise of international relations, but later because of the big war, Ayuthaya Kingdom was destroyed by Burmese troops in 1767.  That was the end of Ayuthaya period.

After the destruction of Ayuthaya period, King Taksin collected his troops to defeat Burmese troops and chose Thonburi as the new capital.  After his death, King Yot Fa (Rama I) founded Chakri dynasty and decided to move the capital to Bangkok, so it was beginning of Rattanakosin period.

King Rama I was the first king of Rattanakosin.  In the early period, there was an invasion from Western countries.  The kings at that time solved the problems by trading and making agreements with the Western countries for preserving the independence even the country lost some territories.

In 1932, Thailand had a big change of the country’s government system, from the absolute monarchy system to the present democratic system with the King as the Head of State.

HISTORY & CULTURE

Fossilized remains of plants and animals have been discovered in many areas of Thailand, particularly in the Korat Plateau in northeastern Thailand. Most of the animal fossils found are of dinosaurs, which date primarily to the Jurassic era though some are from the late-Triassic, the oldest such evidence of dinosaurs in Southeast Asia. 

The dinosaur bones encased in sandstone in the Phu Wiang hills of Khon Kaen province included Phuwiangosaurus sirindhornae, a gigantic plant-eating dinosaur that had a long neck and tail and a small head. 

Four other species of dinosaur unearthed in Phu Wiang include Siamotyrannus isanensis, a smaller version of Tyrannosaurus rex, Siamosauraus suteethorni, a crocodile-like creature, Compsognathus, the world’s smallest dinosaur, and Ornithomimosaur, an ostrich-like dinosaur. 

In nearby Chaiyaphum province two other new dinosaur species were discovered: Psittacosaurus sattayaraki, a parrot-billed dinosaur, and Isanosaurus attavipachi, which is similar to Phuwiangosaurus. 

Homo erectus fossils have also been discovered in Thailand. Known as the Lampang man for its discovery in Lampang province, the remains have been dated to roughly 1,000,000 - 500,000 years ago in the Pleistocene Era.The first evidence of humans living in modern-day Thailand was discovered at Ban Chiang, near Udon Thani in northeastern Thailand; grave sites and artifacts including bronze tools and pottery provide evidence of a society that is thought to have had knowledge of rice cultivation and occupied the area continuously from 2100 to 200 BCE, spanning the Neolithic to the Iron Age.

PRE-THAI KINGDOMS

Over the centuries leading up to the era of recorded History, Thailand was first peopled by Mon and Khmer groups and later by the Tai, an ethnic group that migrated from southern China to Vietnam and gradually into Laos and northern Thailand. 

In the first millennium of the Common Era, Tai people had dispersed across Yunan, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar fragmenting into various linguistic sub-sects. Relatively minor players in the region throughout this period, the Tai inhabited the northernmost reaches of Southeast Asia, sandwiched between the kingdoms of Nan Zhao, Pyu, and Angkor. 

Beginning in around the 2nd century CE, the Srivijaya Empire of Sumatra expanded its reach up the Malaysian Peninsula into southern Thailand. Nakhon Si Thammarat and Chiaya, Surat Thani were founded during this period to facilitate trade across the Isthmus of Kra. 

Around the 6th to the 9th centuries, the fertile central plains were inhabited by a Mon civilization known as Dvaravati. Distinct from its neighboring kingdoms of Chenla and Angkor, Dvaravati remains a mysterious civilization that established cities surrounded by moats and earthen walls, with Lopburi serving as an important religious center and Nakhon Pathom near Bangkok possibly its ‘capital’. While much is unknown about this realm, the Dvaravati had well established internal and external trading routes that were important to the development of Thailand and left a wealth of Buddhist artwork that testifies to the great influence Indian culture and religion had on the region. 

From the 9th to the 11th centuries the Khmers of Angkor expanded their kingdom to include most of modern-day Thailand, with important provincial cities established at Phimai, Lopburi and even Nakhon Si Thammarat. Over several centuries many facets of the Khmer culture were imposed on/absorbed by the native population, which was becoming increasingly Tai as those populations migrated south. The temples at Phanom Rung, Phimai, and Lopburi are enduring testaments to this period of Thai History. 

Throughout the reign of Angkor, Lopburi often asserted its independence and was clearly an important center for burgeoning Syam culture. The Chinese, who referred to emissaries from the region as representing “Hsien” or Siam (as it was apparently pronounced) documented a request from Lopburi requesting independence from Angkor as early as 1001. 

In northern Thailand, Buddhist scholars from Lopburi founded a city-state known as Haripunjaya in Lamphun, northern Thailand around the 9th century (a Mon enclave that remained independent until the 13th century). Elsewhere in the north, the Tai people were fanning out and establishing their own city states, notably at Chiang Saen, where one of the first powerful Thai kingdoms, Lan Na, was originally established in the 12th century. The establishment of Lan Na, Sukhothai, and Phayao, three allied kingdoms founded by contemporary leaders, represents the beginning of the Thai History as we know it.

SUKHOTHAI

Thais began to emerge as a dominant force in the region in the 13th century, gradually asserting independence from existing Khmer and Mon kingdoms.  Founded by Khun Pha Muang and Khun Bang Klang Thao in 1238, the Kingdom was named by its rulers "the dawn of happiness".  The Sukhothai Period is often considered the golden era of Thai History, an ideal Thai state in a land of plenty governed by paternal and benevolent kings, the most famous of whom was King Ramkamhaeng the Great (c.1279-98), who greatly expanded the Kingdom’s borders. 

In addition to developing some of the most beautiful Thai art, the Sukhothai Kingdom is credited with developing the modern Thai alphabet.  However, following the death of King Ramkamhaeng, the mightier state of Ayutthaya gradually exerted its influence over Sukhothai. 

Following the death of King Ramkhamhaeng, the kingdom of Sukhothai rapidly declined and Lan Na expanded its influence over its neighboring kingdoms, many of which were former suzerains of Sukhothai.   In the middle of the 15th Century Lan Na arts and literature reached a pinnacle during the King Tilokoraj period.   However, after the king's death, Lan Na weakened due to internal conflicts and Chiang Mai fell under Burmese control around 1564; while the Burmese occupied the northern region for a few centuries, they did little development, using Chiang Mai as a military base from which to battle the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, a mighty kingdom in the central plains that was gradually exerting its influence from the mid 14 th century onwards.

AYUTTHAYA

The Ayutthaya kings adopted Khmer cultural influences from the very beginning. No longer the paternal and accessible rulers that the kings of Sukhothai had been, Ayutthaya's sovereigns were absolute monarchs and assumed the title devaraja (god-king). The early part of this period saw Ayutthaya extend its sovereignty over neighboring Thai principalities and come into conflict with its neighbors.  During the 17th century, Siam started diplomatic and commercial relations with western countries. In 1767, after repeated attempts, the Burmese invaded and successfully captured Ayutthaya. 

 Despite their overwhelming victory, the Burmese did not retain control of Siam for long. A young general named Phya Taksin and his followers broke through the Burmese lines and escaped to Chantaburi. Seven months after the fall of Ayutthaya, he and his forces sailed back up the Chao Phraya River to Ayutthaya and expelled the Burmese occupation garrison, though tragically the capital had been looted and nearly razed.

THONBURI

General Taksin, as he is popularly known, decided to transfer the capital from Ayutthaya to a site nearer to the sea, a move that would facilitate foreign trade, ensure the procurement of arms, and make defense and withdrawal easier in case of a renewed Burmese attack. He established his new capital at Thon Buri, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, opposite modern-day Bangkok. The rule of Taksin was not an easy one. The lack of central authority since the fall of Ayutthaya led to the rapid disintegration of the kingdom, and Taksin's reign was spent reuniting the provinces.

RATTANAKOSIN

After Taksin's death, General Chakri (Rama I) became the first king of the Chakri Dynasty, ruling from 1782 to 1809. His first action as king was to transfer the royal capital across the river from Thon Buri to Bangkok and build the Grand Palace. Rama II (1809-1824) continued the restoration begun by his predecessor. King Nang Klao, Rama III (1824-1851) reopened relations with Western nations and established trade with China. 

King Mongkut, Rama IV, (1851-1868) may have achieved western fame through the story "The King and I", but won the hearts of Thais for his accomplishments including the establishment of treaties with European countries, thus avoiding colonialization, and modernizing Thailand through many social and economic reforms. King Chulalongkorn, Rama V (1869-1910) continued his father's tradition of reform, abolishing slavery and improving the public welfare and administrative systems. 

Educational reforms, including compulsory education, were introduced by King Vajiravudh, Rama VI (1910-1925). During the reign of King Prajadhipok, Rama VII (1925-1935), Thailand changed from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy. The king abdicated in 1933 and was succeeded by his nephew, King Ananda Mahidol Rama VIII (1935-1946). The country's name was changed from Siam to Thailand with the advent of a democratic government in 1939. Our current monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej (R. Jun. 9, 1946 - present), is King Rama IX of the Chakri Dynasty.

GEOGRAPHY

Thailand is located in Southeast Asia. The country covers an area of 513,000 square kilometers and, when looking on a map, resembles the shape on an axe. To the north it borders Myanmar and Laos and to the east Laos and Cambodia. The south is next to the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia. Westwards is the Andaman Sea and Myanmar. 

Thailand has six different types of terrain. 

1. Mountains and Plains of the North 

The North of Thailand has many high mountains and is the source of many rivers that become the Mekong, Chao Phraya, and Salawin Rivers. Notable mountains in the area are Luang Phra Bang, Daen Lao, Thanon Thong Chai, Phee Pun Nam, Khao Khun Tan, and Phetchaburi. The tallest one is Doi Inthanon in Chiangmai, coming in at an incredible 2,565 meters above sea level. 

2. Central Plains 

This region is home to the densest and largest sediment plains in Thailand. The most important rivers here are the Chao Phraya, Mae Klong, Tha Jean, Pa Sak, and Bang Pa Kong Rivers. With these river lines and the flatlands of central Thailand, there is no wonder this area is an important agricultural asset to the country. 

3. Northeastern Plateaus 

Flanked on the western and southern edges by steep mountain ranges, the center of the region lies the Korat Basin. The Chi and Moon Rivers run through the region and eventually merge into the Mekong River in Ubon Ratchathani. Local mountains are the Phetchaburi, Dong Phaya Yen, San Kampaeng, and Pha Nom Dong Rak. 

4. High Mountains of the West 

Sparse narrow plains weave between the dominating mountains of the west. The Thanon Thong Chai and Ta Naw Sri Mountains are the sources of the Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai Rivers, which eventually merge into the Mae Klong River. 

5. Mountains and Coastal Plains of the East 

To the north of the region are high mountains and coastal plains, the east is river plains, the middle is a jagged sierra and rolling plains, and the south is coastal plains. Between the Ban Tad and Chanthaburi Mountains is a narrow plain, perfect for growing fruit. The Bang Pa Kong River flows through the region to the Gulf of Thailand. The shoreline is covered with beautiful beaches and offshore sits the islands of Koh Chang, Koh Kood, and Koh Shi Chang. 

6. Mountains, Plateaus, Coastal Plains and Islands of the South 

Southern Thailand sits on a narrow peninsula. Two beach plains to the east and the west are divided by tall mountain ranges running through the center of the peninsula. Notable mountains in the area are San Ka Ra Kiri (which borders Malaysia) Phuket, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. There are also many smaller rivers such as the Kra Buri, Trang, Kirirat, Ta Pee, Pak Panang, and Klok. To the east is the island of Phuket and to the west lie Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan. 

Knowing Thai geography can be useful in helping you decide where to travel to in Thailand. There are many natural wonders and vistas to visit and each province and region of Thailand has its own unique sights.

NATURE

BEACHES AND ISLANDS

History & Geography & Geology

There are three coasts in Thailand : the southeastern coast, the southern Gulf of Thailand, and the Andaman coast.  It is known to most travellers for beautiful Thailand’s beaches and islands. 

Popular attractions 

Southeastern : Bang Saen Beach, Pattaya, Koh Lan, Koh Kham, Koh Samet, Mae Rumpeung Beach, Laem Mae Pim Beach, Koh Chang, Koh Mark 

Gulf of Thailand : Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Thung Wua Laen Beach, Nai Phlao Beach, Thong Ching Beach, Samila Beach, Maharat Beach 

Andaman Coast : Koh Payam, Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lipe, Chaomai Beach, Koh Ngai, Koh Muk, Koh Kradan

NATIONAL PARKS

History & Geography & Geology

Many vast areas of forests in Thailand are the sources of rivers, canals and waterfalls.  Some waterfalls have many levels or come in height and width.  Travellers can swim and enjoy incredible views of waterfalls.  Moreover, rivers and canals give local lifestyles and beautiful waterside views to travellers.  

Popular National Parks 

Phang Nga Bay National Park, Phang Nga province 

Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai 

Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani province 

Erawan National Park, Kanchanburi province 

Mu Koh Ang Thong and Koh Samui National Marine Park, Surat Thani province 

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Pharchuap Khiri Khan province 

Similan Islands National Park, Phang Nga province 

Doi Suthep – Pui National Park, Chiang Mai province 

Khao Yai National Park, Nakon Ratchasima province 

Sai Yok National Park, Kanchanaburi province

FLORAS AND FAUNAS