Thailand Information
History
Archaeological discoveries around the north- east hamlet of Ban Chiang suggest that the world's oldest Bronze Age civilisation was flourishing in Thailand some 5,600 years ago. Successive waves of immigrants, including Mons, Khmers and Thais, gradually entered the land mass now known as Thailand, most slowly travelling along fertile river valleys from southern China. By the 11th and 12th centuries, Khmers ruled much of the area from Angkor. By the early 1200s, Thais had established small northern city states in Lanna, Phayao and Sukhothai. In 1238, two Thai chieftains rebelled against Khmer suzerainty and established the first truly independent Thai kingdom in Sukhothai (literally, 'Dawn of Happiness'). Sukhothai saw the Thais' gradual expansion throughout the entire Chao PhrayaRiver basin, the establishment of Theravada Buddhism as the paramount Thai religion, the creation of the Thai alphabet and the first expression of nascent Thai art forms, including painting, sculpture, architecture and literature. Sukhothai declined during the 1300s and eventually became a vassal state of Ayutthaya, a dynamic young kingdom further south in the Chao PhrayaRiver valley. Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya remained the Thai capital until 1767 when it was destroyed by Burmese invaders. During Ayutthaya's 417 years as the capital, under the rule of 33 kings, the Thais brought their distinctive culture to full fruition, totally rid their lands of Khmer presence and fostered contact with Arabian, Indian, Chinese, Japanese and European powers. Ayutthaya's destruction was as severe a blow to the Thais as the loss of Paris or London would have been to the French or English. However, a Thai revival occurred within a few months and the Burmese were expelled by King Taksin who later made Thon Buri his capital. In 1782, the first king of the present Chakri dynasty, Rama I, established his new capital on the site of a riverside hamlet called Bangkok (Village of Wild Plums). Two Chakri monarchs, Mongkut (Rama IV) who reigned between 1851 and 1868, and his son Chulalongkorn (Rama V, 1868-1910) saved Thailand from western colonisation through adroit diplomacy and selective modernisation. Today, Thailand is a constitutional monarchy. Since 1932, Thai kings including the present monarch, H.M. King Bhumipol Adulyadej have exercised their legislative powers through a national assembly, their executive powers through a cabinet headed by a prime minister, and their judicial powers through the law courts.
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People
Throughout her long history, Thailand has gently absorbed immigrants. Many were skilled as writers, painters, sculptors, dancers, musicians and architects, and helped enrich indigenous culture. People inhabiting Thailand today share rich ethnic diversity – – mainly Thai, Mon, Khmer, Laotian, Chinese, Malay, Persian and Indian stock – – with the result that there is no typically Thai physiognomy or physique. There are petite Thais, statuesque Thais, round-faced Thais, dark-skinned Thais and light-skinned Thais. Some 80% of all Thais are connected in some way with agriculture which, in varying degrees, influences and is influenced by the religious ceremonies and festivals that help make Thailand such a distinctive country.
Religion
Theravada Buddhism is the professed religion of more than 90% of all Thais, and casts strong influences on daily life. Buddhism first appeared in Thailand during the 3rd Century B.C. at Nakhon Pathom, site of the world's tallest Buddhist monument, after the Indian Buddhist Emperor Asoka (267-227 B.C.) despatched missionaries to Southeast Asia to propagate the newly established faith. Besides moulding morality, providing social cohesion and offering spiritual succour, Buddhism provided incomparable artistic impetus. In common with medieval European cathedrals, Thailand's innumerable multiroofed temples inspired major artistic creation. Another reason for Buddhism's strength is that there are few Thai Buddhist families in which at least one male member has not studied the Buddha's teachings in a monastery. It has long been a custom for Buddhist males over twenty, once in their lifetimes, to be ordained for a period ranging from s days to a months. This usually occurs daring the annual Rains Retreat, a a-month period during the Rains Season when all monks forego travel and stay inside their monasteries. Besides sustaining monastic communities, Thai temples have traditionally served other purposes – – as the village hostelry, village news, employment and information agency, a school, hospital, dispensary and community centre – – to give them vital roles in Thai society. The Thais have always subscribed to the ideal of religious freedom. Thus sizeable minorities of Muslims, Christians, Hindus and Sikhs freely pursue their respective faiths.
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Language
Spoken and written Thai remain largely incomprehensible to the casual visitor. However, English is widely understood, particularly in Bangkok where it is almost the major commercial language. English and other European languages are spoken in most hotels, shops and restaurants, in major tourist destinations, and Thai-English road and street signs are found nation-wide.
Thailand Location
Location
Thailand is a Southeast Asian, predominantly Buddhist kingdom almost equidistant between India and China. For centuries known by outsiders as Siam, Thailand has been something of a Southeast Asian migratory, cultural and religious cross-roads. With an area of some 510,000 square kilometres and a population of some 57 million, Thailand is approximately the same size as France. Thailand shares borders with Myanmar to the west and north, Laos to the north-east, Kampuchea to the west, and Malaysia to the south. Geographically speaking, Thailand is divided into six major regions: the mountainous north where elephants work forests and winter temperatures are sufficiently cool to permit cultivation of temperate fruits such as strawberries and peaches; the sprawling north-east plateau, largely bordered by the Mekong River, where the world's oldest Bronze Age civilisation flourished some 5,000 years ago; the central plain, one of the world's most fertile rice and fruit-growing areas; the eastern coastal plain, where fine sandy beaches support the growth of summer resorts; western mountains and valleys, suitable for the development of hydro-electric power: and the peninsular south where arresting scenic beauty complements economically vital tin mining, robber cultivation and fishing.
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Visa Information
Passports
All visitors entering Thailand must possess valid passports
Visas
Immigration Information
According to the Interior Ministerial Announcements dated 1 October B.E. 2545 (2002), 20 December B.E. 2545 (2002), 18 October B.E. 2547 (2004) and 6 May B.E. 2548 (2005), passport holders from 40 countries and 1 special administrative region – Hong Kong SAR – are not required to obtain a visa when entering Thailand for tourism purposes and will be permitted to stay in the Kingdom for a period of not exceeding 30 days on each visit. Foreigners who enter the Kingdom under the Tourist Visa Exemption category may re-enter and stay in Thailand for a cumulative duration of stay of not exceeding 90 days within any 6-month period from the date of first entry.
- Please note that Tourist Visa Exemption does not apply to foreigners holding Travel Document for Aliens issued by these 40 countries.
- Foreigners entering Thailand under the Tourist Visa Exemption category must possess adequate finances for the duration of stay in Thailand (i.e., cash 10,000 Baht per person and 20,000 Baht per family).
Temporary visitors to Thailand for the purpose of pleasure who are exempted from applying for entry visas must be of the nationality of and holding valid passports or travelling documents issued by:
1. Australia : Commonwealth of Australia
2. Austria : Republic of Austria
3. Belgium : Kingdom of Belgium
4. Brazil : Federative Republic of Brazil
5. Bahrain : State of Bahrain
6. Brunei : Negara Brunei Darussalam
7. Canada
8. Denmark : Kingdom of Denmark
9. Finland : Republic of Finland
10. France : FrenchRepublic
11. Germany : FederalRepublic of Germany
12. Greece : HellenicRepublic
13. Hong Kong : Hong Kong SAR
14. Iceland : Republic of Iceland
15. Indonesia : Republic of Indonesia
16. Ireland : Republic of Ireland
17. Israel : State of Israel
18. Italy : Republic of Italy
19. Japan
20. Korea : Republic of Korea
21. Kuwait : State of Kuwait
22. Luxembourg : Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
23. Malaysia
24. Netherlands : Kingdom of the Netherlands
25. New Zealand
26. Norway : Kingdom of Norway
27. Oman : Sultanate of Oman
28. Peru : Republic of Peru
29. Philippines : Republic of the Philippines
30. Portugal : Republic of Portugal
31. Qatar : State of Qatar
32. Singapore : Republic of Singapore
33. Spain : Kingdom of Spain
34. South Africa : Republic of South Africa
35. Sweden : Kingdom of Sweden
36. Switzerland : Swiss Confederation
37. Turkey : Republic of Turkey
38. United Arab Emirates
39. United Kingdom : United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
40. United States of America
41. Vietnam : SocialistRepublic of Vietnam
They must enter the kingdom by passenger transports such as aircraft or sea-going vessels of 500 registered tons and up; or through channels of immigration check-points or border check-points on the Malaysian boundary; or enter by means of passenger aircraft, sea-going vessel, rail, bus, taxi, touring coach or hired motor-cycle and having:
Fully paid ticket or other document belonging to the vehicle owner or to the operator of the vehicle which is to be used for leaving the kingdom within the period specified, or
Documentary evidence of the owner or operator of the vehicle showing fully paid reservation for the departure from the kingdom within the period specified.
Exempted are Malaysian nationals entering the kingdom by means of bus, hired car, touring coach or hired motor-cycle through immigration check-points or border check-points bordering on Malaysian territory, who need not have travelling ticket or documents mentioned under Items I and 2. Persons mentioned in the above conditions are exempted from visas and are permitted to remain in the kingdom for a period not exceeding fifteen days from the day of entry. They are not allowed to extend their stay for more than fifteen days, unless under unforeseen circumstances such as illness or delay of aircraft departure. Visitors wishing to stay in the kingdom for more than fifteen days are advised to apply to missions in their countries. In the event there are no Thai diplomatic missions, they may apply to missions in neighbouring countries, or forward their request and supporting evidence to the Immigration Division, Soi Suan Phlu, Sathon Tai Rd., Bangkok10120, Thailand. Tel: 2873101-10 Visitors to Thailand may Obtain Visas on Arrival at
The BangkokInternationalAirport
The ChiangMaiInternationalAirport
The PhuketInternationalAirport
The HatYaiInternationalAirport
They must also have a fully paid ticket which enables them to travel out of the kingdom within the stipulated time. The application for a visa must be accompanied by a photograph as well as the necessary fee. Visitors from some countries may now visit Thailand for up to 30 days without requiring visas: Please contact your nearest Thai consulate for the list of countries.
Validity of Visas
Every kind of visa is valid for a so-day period from the date of issue
Length of Stay
Transit Visa 30 days
Tourist Visa 60 days
non-immigrant Visa 90 days
Note: Please check the period of stay stamped in your passport by the Immigration officer. Visitors who overstay their visa will, at the time of their departure, be fined 200 Baht for each excess day.
Visa Extensions
Apply for extensions of stay at the Immigration office. Fee 1,900 Baht.
Mobile Visa Extension Service
A good news for tourists who would like to extend their period of staying in Thailand. Immigration Bangkok provides visa extension service at the Emerald Hotel Rachadapisek Road , Bangkok
Working hour 09.00 – 12.00 every Wednesday effective April 23, 2003
One Stop Service for the tourists hold visa and duration for extension as below :
Transit Visa 30 days
Tourist Visa 30 days
Visa on arrival 10 days
Without Visa 10 days
Applicant must bring your passport (with copies of the first page and recent visa page)
1 photo (4x6 cm.) Application fee is 1,900 Baht.
For more information please call 0-2287-3101-10 Ext. 2263 , 2265
Thailand useful information
Health Regulations
No inoculations or vaccinations are required unless you are coming from or passing through contaminated areas, Yellow fever certificates are required for those who are coming from 14 following countries; Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Angola, Barkina Faso, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Mauritania, Mali, Nigeria, Sudan and Zaire. Note: Please check the latest regulations with your local Health Office. (Please re-check with your nearest Thai consulate.)
Customs Regulations
Prohibited Items
All kinds of narcotics (hemp, opium, cocaine, morphine, heroin), obscene literature, pictures or articles. Fire Arms: Importation of firearms and ammunition can be done only after a permit has been obtained from The Police Department or local Registration Office Personal Effects: A reasonable amount of clothing for personal use, toilet articles, and professional instruments may be brought in free of duty. Cameras: One still-camera or one movie camera can be brought in without duty. Five rolls of still-camera film or three rolls of 8 or 16 m.m. movie-camera film may be brought in free of duty. Tobacco, Alcoholic Beverages: Cigarettes, cigars, or smoking tobacco each or in total must not exceed 250 grams in weight but cigarettes not exceeding 200 in quantity. One litre each of wine or spirits may be brought in free of duty. Household Effects: A reasonable amount of used household effects, accompanied by the owner on change of domicile are also free of duty. Plants and Animals: Certain species of fruits, vegetables and plants are prohibited. Please contact the Agricultural Regulatory Division, Bangkhen, Bangkok, Tel: 5791581, 5793576 for details. A permission of Entry for animals coming in by air can be obtained at the airport. If by sea, application must be made at the Department of Livestock Development, Bangkok, Tel: 2515136, 2526944. Vaccination certificates are required.
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Export of Antiques
Objets D'Art from The Kingdom of Thailand
Buddha images, Bodhisattva images or fragments thereof are forbidden to be taken out of Thailand. (With the exceptions only for worshipping by Buddhists; or cultural exchanges; or studying purposes. A license must be obtained from the Department of Fine. Arts).
A license must be obtained from the Department of Fine Arts in order that such objects of antiquity or objects of art, irrespective of whether they are original, or reproductions, may be taken out of the country.
Procedure for license application:
Photograph the front view of objects and make two postcard-size prints (not more than 5 pieces in one photograph)
The passport of the applicant must be photocopied
Objects together with photographs and applicant's passport with photocopy must be taken to:
The National Museums Division, Bangkok
The ChiangMaiNationalMuseum, Chiang Mai
The SongkhlaNationalMuseum,
Songkhla at least four to seven days before the date of shipment or departure of the applicant in order to process the application and for inspection. For further information, telephone the Bangkok. NationalMuseum at 2261661
Currency and Exchange Services
Thai Currency
The Thai unit of currency is the Baht which is worth a little less than 4 US cents. One US dollar = approximately 40 baht. The baht is divided into loo satang. "Copper" coins are valued at 25 and 50 satang. "Silver" coins are in denominations of 1' 2 and 5 baht. A 10 baht coin is composed of both "silver" and "copper". Banknotes are valued at 10 baht (brown), 20 baht (green), 50 baht (blue), 100 baht (red), 500 baht (purple) and 1,000 baht (khaki).
Traveller's Cheques/ Cheques/Credit Cards
US dollar traveller cheques can be conveniently cashed at all provincial banks and authorised money changers. Traveller cheques in other currencies are best changed in Bangkok where better rates prevail. Generally, hotel exchange rates are lower then those offered by banks and authorised money changers. Major international credit cards, such as American Express, Diners, Carte Blanche, Master Card and VISA are accepted by major banks, restaurants, hotels and shops. Thai and foreign banks provide standard services nation-wide, Monday through Friday, except public and bank holidays, between 8.30 AM and 3.30 PM. Major banks such as Bangkok Bank, Thai Danu Bank, Thai Farmers Bank and Siam Commercial Bank operate currency exchange centres in most tourist areas from 7.00 AM to 9.00 PM, seven days a week, including holidays. Many first-class hotels provide 24'-hour money exchange services, but only for major currencies such as American dollars, British pounds, German marks and Swiss francs. Travellers cheques are generally accepted only from bona fide hotel guests.
Exchange Control
Foreign tourists may freely bring in foreign banknotes or other types of foreign exchange. Upon leaving Thailand, a foreign tourist may freely take out foreign means of payments which he brought in with him, with the exception that foreign notes or coins are limited to a maximum equivalent of US$ 10,000 or the amount declared in writing to Customs upon arrival. Failure to do so may lead to arrest, confiscation of the excess amount involved and/or prosecution.
For travellers leaving Thailand, the maxi- mum amount permitted to take out without prior authorisation is 50,000 Baht per person
Foreign visitors may bring in personal effects and other goods which are not prohibited by current customs regulation. Other than personal effects, departing visitors are also allowed to take out merchandise bought from duty free shops, precious stones, gold and platinum ornaments.
Foreign visitors are welcome to open a foreign currency account with any commercial bank in Thailand. As a special gesture to non-residents, no restrictions are imposed on the maintenance of and withdrawal from the account, as long as the funds originate from abroad.
For additional information concerning foreign exchange regulations, please contact any authorised banks.
The regulations might change without prior notice. Please contact your nearest Thai Consulate for confirmation.
How to get to Thailand
By Air
Bangkok is Thailand's major gateway. Most visitors arrive through Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport which is connected by daily flights to Europe, North America, Asia and Australia aboard the world's major airlines. Further international flights, mostly from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Hong Kong, land on a less regular basis at the southern airports of Phuket and Hat Yai and Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. Charter flights from Europe and the Orient sometimes land in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai and at U-Taphao for Pattaya.
By Rail
Regular rail services link Singapore and Bangkok. Intermediary stops include Kuala Lumpur, Butterworth and major southern Thai towns.
By Road
Overland entrance to Thailand is restricted to three road crossings on the Thai-Malaysian border in Songkhla, Yala and Narathiwat.
By Sea
There are no regular steamship connections with Thailand. Cargo ships calling at Bangkok's Klong Toey port sometimes have passenger cabin facilities. Cruise ships, such as Cunard's Queen Elizabeth II, Royal Viking, or Pearl of Scandinavia periodically visit Pattaya
Travel within Thailand
Domestic air, rail and road transport in Thailand is surprisingly inexpensive.
By Air
Thai Airways International, Thailand's national airline, flies to five destinations in the North, five in the Northeast, and seven in the South. Bangkok Airways (Tel: (02) 5237116, 25340'I4-6, 5352497) flies to SamuiIsland and Phuket. Reservations can be made through any authorised Thai Inter Travel Agent. Thai Airways International's Lan Luang Office is on 6 Lan Luang Road, Tel: 2800070,2800080. The airline also organises 'Royal Orchid Holidays' tours to every destination it flies to.
By Rail
An efficient rail system links major northern and north-eastern towns with the capital. A southern route permits the visitor to travel by train into IV1alaysia and Singapore. Domestic express trains comprise first, second and third-class carriages. Slower trains may have only third-class seats. The State Railway of Thailand organises one- day, two-day economy tours to various destinations on Saturdays, Sundays and official holidays. Other tours include trips to SuratThani (for Koh Samui), Chumphon and Chiang Mai. Railway schedules can be obtained from Bangkok Railway Station, Tel: 223- 7010, 223-7020.
By Road
A modern highway system reaches into all corners of the kingdom. Domestic bus services offer fast means of travel. Airconditioned tour coaches offer more comfort. Bangkok's Northern / North-eastern Bus Terminal is on Phahonyothin Road, Tel: 2794484-7 (airconditioned) and 2710101-5 (regular) Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal is on Pinklao-Nakhon Chaisri Road, Tel: 4351190, 4351200 (air-conditioned) and 4345558 (regular). Bangkok's Eastern Bus terminal is on Sukhumvit Road, Tel: 3929227, 3919829 (airconditioned) and 3912504, 3922521 (regular)
Travel inside Bangkok
Public Transportation
Public buses are plentiful and cheap, with 3.50 baht minimum and 5 baht maximum fares to most destinations within metropolitan Bangkok. Air- conditioned buses within Bangkok have minimum and maximum fares of 6 and 16 baht respectively. Red and grey Micro-Buses, also air conditioned, cost 25 baht for single journey. A Bus Route Map is available at most hotels, bookshops and the TAT head office for 35 Baht.
Taxis and Tuk Tuks
Hotel taxis have fixed tariffs. Taxis cruising the streets of Bangkok, and designated "taxi-meters" charge 35 baht for the first 3 kilometres and approximately s baht for every kilometre thereafter. Tuk-Tuk or three wheel taxis are quite popular among the tourists for short journeys inside Bangkok. Fares range from a minimum of 30 baht to a maximum of 150 baht. Fares must be bargained for.
River Taxis
There are many boats plying the Chao PhrayaRiver. Some criss-cross between landings on opposite banks while the Chao Phraya Express boats travel upstream and downstream within the metropolis. Fares range between 5 and 15 baht.
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Thai Cuisine
Thai cuisine is distinctive, thanks to liberal use of spicy ingredients, and combines the best of Chinese and Indian culinary traditions - - noodles, curries, sweet and sour dishes, lengthily cooked and fast-cooked ingredients, exotic spices and condiments - – while retaining its own very special character
International Food
Chinese food in Thailand, normally quite bland is second to none. Major European, Levantine, Asian and Oriental cuisine are represented in gourmet restaurants. American, English and Continental breakfasts are served in most hotels and numerous, ubiquitous coffeeshops specia1ise in European dishes. Western-style fast food shops, snack bars and ice-cream parlours gain increasing popularity with Thais.
Restaurants and Food shops
Food parks, or centres, usually in large shopping malls and hotels, are unusual Thai ventures. Numerous restaurants offer every imaginable type of Asian cuisine and huge colour pictures of dishes assist diners in their choices. Open-air garden restaurants, and riverine restaurants, are more peaceful and are favoured in the evenings by most Bangkokians. Menus are extensive. Service is prompt. Prices are reasonable. All kinds of regional Thai food can be sampled. Special dinners can be enjoyed on boats cruising the Chao PhrayaRiver. Soft breezes, candlelight dining and distant music create romantic moods. Seafood restaurants are also popular. They offer a wide choice of fresh ingredients, charcoal grilled or broiled to individual requests, and a fine selection of local and imported wines. Some tourist-oriented restaurants present selected Thai classical and folk dances. Guests sit around low tables, often in traditional surroundings, with teak panelling and floors, classic paintings and precious porcelain. A combination of Thai cuisine, music, silk, orchids and graceful dances creates memorable evenings
Parks and Gardens
Paragraph.
Bangkok Holiday for single tourist
Tour Destinations
The Central Region
Geographically, the Central Region extends from rugged western mountains bordering Burma to the north-east plateau to the east; extends north- wards to Nakhon Sawan where the Ping, Wang, Nan and Yom rivers unite to form the Chao Phraya River (River of Kings) which flows southwards to dissect Bangkok before entering the Gulf of Thailand; and southwards to Prachuap Khirikhan where Thailand is compressed to its narrowest point, some so kilometres wide between western mountains and the Thai Gulf. The Chao PhrayaRiver largely irrigates the Central Plain, one of the world's major rice and fruit-growing areas, and sustains an intricate network of canals that irrigate bountiful orchards and market gardens; host vibrant floating markets; and support a unique, waterborne way of life. The Central Region is extremely rich in historical sites. These include Nakhon Pathom, Kanchanaburi. Bang Pa-ln, Ayutthaya, Saraburi, Lopburi and, most important of all, Bangkok, Thailand's capital and major point-of-entry.
Bangkok
Briefly, Bangkok's major tourism attractions include the fabulous Wat Phra Keo (Emerald Buddha Chapel) and Grand Palace complex; Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn); Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha): Wat Saket (Golden Mount): Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple); Wirnan Mek Palace, favourite residence of King Chulalongkorn (1868-1910) and the world's largest golden teak building; the fabulous royal barges; the Pasteur Institute's Snake Farm where poisonous snakes are fed daily and venom is 'milked' from cobras and krauts to make invaluable serum; Jim Thompson's House Museum which contains a superb collection of Asian objets d'art: Suan Pakkand Palace's lacquer pavilion which is decorated with medieval gold leaf murals; the world's largest Crocodile Farm: a 200 acre open air museum called the Ancient City; entertainment and recreational complexes such as Siam Water Park, Safari World, King Rama IX Park and Dusit Zoo; unrivalled shopping opportunities for some of the world's most admired handicrafts; exceptionally fine dining in gourmet restaurants featuring the world's favourite cuisine; and a liberated, almost legendary night-life.
Beyond Bangkok
The Rose Garden, a riverside tropical park/ country club one hour west of Bangkok, boasts an ]s-hole championship golf course, fine accommodation and a Thai Village where daily shows feature traditional activities such as folk dancing, the Thai wedding ceremony, a Buddhist ordination and elephants at work. Nakhon Pathom, 30 minutes further west (60 kilometres from Bangkok), hosts the world's tallest Buddhist monument, the 380-foot high Phra Pathom Chedi, which marks the spot where Buddhism was introduced, some 2,300 years ago, to the Thailand to-be. Damnoensaduak, no minutes south of Nakhon Pathom, is Thailand's most vibrant floating market where farmers congregate on canals each morning in produce-laden boats. Kanchanaburi, some 130 kilometres west of Bangkok, is famous for the 'Bridge Over The River Kwai', an Allied war cemetery, and surrounding countryside characterised by waterfalls, broad fertile valleys and caves once inhabited by Neolithic man. The Saiyok Noi, Saiyok Yai, Erawan and Huai Khamin Waterfalls and 12th-century Khmer Prasat Muang Sing are especially worth visiting. Ayutthaya, some 70 kilometres upstream from Bangkok, was the Siamese capital from l350 to 1767. Magnificent ruins of temples, palaces and crumbling fortesses provide eloquent testimony of the former capital's splendour. Wat Panan Choeng, Wat Si San Phet, Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, Phu Khao Thong and the Chao Sam Phraya National Museurn should not be missed. BangPa-In palace, just south of Ayutthaya, was the summer residence of early Chakri kings. The local Wat Niwet Thamaprawat is one of Thailand's most unusual Buddhist temples, the chapel resembling an English Gothic church. Phra Buddha Bat, Shrine of the Buddha's Footprint, is just north of Saraburi, some 110 kilometres north of Bangkok. The Buddha's Footprint was discovered accidentally some 350 years ago when a deer hunter found that a pool of water in the shape of an enlarged human foot had curative powers. Lop Buri, an ancient city dating from the 9th century, and some 150 kilometres north of Bangkok, contains Hindu and Khmer ruins and the imposing RamratchaniwetPalace built by Ayutthaya's King Narai during the laoos as a summer retreat. Major ruins include the Khmer Phra Prang Sam Yot, the Hindu San Phra Kan, and Wat Phra Si Mahathat. Phetchaburi, l20 kilometres south-west of Bangkok, is well known for exotic sweets, the Buddha-filled Khao Luang Caves, the hilltop Phra Nakhom Khiri palace, the lovely Wat Suwanaram with its Ayutthayan meeting hall, murals and scriptural repository, and the mountainous, scenically arresting Kaeng Krachan, Thailand's largest national park. Cha Am, 173 kilornetres southwest of Bangkok, has a popular beach-side resort hotel and public beach. Hua Hin, 198 kilometres from Bangkok, is Thailand's oldest beach resort and has been the Thai royal family's summer residence since the 1920s. A genteel Edwardian ambience characterises a resort with a fine beach, excellent accommodation and opportunities for swimming, sailing, riding, windsurfing, waterskiing, parasailing, snorkelling, fishing, playing tennis and golf. SamRoiYotNational Park, one hour south of Hua Hin, occupies some 60 square kilometres of coastal land. Prachuap Khiri Khan, some 280 kilometres from Bangkok, is a fishing town with a scenic bay and the beach-side Khao Chong Krachok (MirrorMountain) which supports a small pagoda and a resident monkey tribe.
The North
Bordered by Burma and Laos, characterised by forested mountains – – lower extremities of Himalayan foothills – – and fertile river valleys, northern Thailand encompasses part of the fabled Golden Triangle and was the cradle of Thai civilisation where, several centuries ago, small independent kingdoms held away. In 1238, the aptly named Sukhothai ('Dawn of Happiness') become the first truly independent Thai kingdom where the Thai alphabet was created and nascent art forms developed. Diverse elements, including crisp mountain scenery, exotic hill tribes, forests worked by el- ephants, colourful festivals, invigorating Cool Season weather, ancient cities, exquisite northern Thai and Burmese style temples, and friendly people contribute to northern Thailand's enduring charm. Sukhothai, 427 kilometres north of Bangkok, is notable for massive sentinel stone Buddha images that preside over ruins within the old city walls. The largest temple, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Si Chum, with its massive seated Buddha measuring some 11 metres from knee to knee, merit special attention. Phitsanulok, some so kilometres south of Sukhothai, is famous as the site of the riverside Wat Phra Si Rattana Maha That which enshrines the venerated Phra Buddha Chinarat, cast in 1357, and commonly regarded as Thailand's most beautiful Buddha image. Si Satchanalai, 55 kilometres north of Sukhothai, was the ancient seat of Sukhothai's viceroys, and is noted for several magnificent ruins, including Wat Chang Lom and Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo. Lampang, 600 kilometres north of Bangkok, is the sole provincial Thai capital where horse-drawn carriages rernain in daily use. Lampang is noted for several Burmese-style temples, including Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao and Wat Si Chum, the magnificent Wat Lampang Luang, and a Thai Elephant Conservation Centre. Lamphun, 670 kilometres from Bangkok, is famed for beautiful women, bountiful orchards and the stunning Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, a classic example of northern religious architecture. Chiang Mai, the principal northern city, some 700 kilometres north of Bangkok, was founded in 1296 and is located in a fertile valley some 1,000 feet above sea level. Chiang Mai is famous for beautiful women, historic temples dating from the 1300s, crisp rnountain scenery, distinctive festivals and handicrafts, and several formerly itinerant hill tribes of Tibeto-Burman orgin. Wat Phra Sing, Wat Chiang Man, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Ku Tao and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep merit visits. The Bor Sang-San Kampaeng area is particularly rich in cottage industries which produce handicrafts such as parasols, silks, cottons, jewellery, woodcarvings, silverware, ceramics and lacquerware. Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest mountain, lies to the west. A 90 kilometre drive from Chiang Mai brings the visitor to the 8,514 foot-summit, passing the beautiful and popular Mae Klang, Wachirathan and Siriphum waterfalls. Mae Hong Son, a 35-minute flight north-west of Chiang Mai, is the tiniest and most isolated northern provincial capital, nestling in a valley surrounded by mountains containing several hill tribes and Burmese style temples, Chiang Rai, north-east of Chiang Mai, and 785 kilometres from Bangkok, lies in the very heart of the Golden Triangle and is particularly famed for majestic mountains and many high-altitude hilltribe villages. Popular attractions include Chiang Saen, an ancient capital facing Laos across the MekongRiver, and the mountaintop Wat Phra That Doi Tung which commands a spectacular view of surrounding mountains, and several Akha hilltribe villages. Nan, some 790 kilometres from Bangkok, is the site of famous annual boat races, and several historic temples, including Wat Chang Kham, Wat Chae Haeng, Wat Phra That Khao Noi and Wat Phumin with its undulating Naga balustrades and famous murals.
The North East
Known by Thais as I-San, the sprawling Northeast Plateau is bordered to the north and east by the MekongRiver and Laos, and to the south largely by Kampuchea. The Northeast is a distinctive region thanks to a topography of lovely forested mountains and national parks and rolling farmland; to its colourful inhabitants who speak their own melodious dialect, have a delicious highly spiced cuisine, and a hospitable, vibrant and oftentimes boisterous folk culture: and because of archaeologically significant excavations and shrines – – such as Ban Chiang where the world's oldest Bronze Age civilisation flourished some 5,600 years ago; and venerable prasat hin (stone castle) temples, legacy of I-San's former importance to the Angkor-centred Khmer empire. KhaoYaiNational Park, north-east of Saraburi and some zoo kilometres from Bangkok, covers parts of four provinces at an average elevation of 800 metres. Khao Yai is some 540,00 acres in area, has a highest peak of 1,351 metres and contains within its rain forests and high grasslands numerous species of protected wildlife, such as deer, bears, tigers, elephants, giant hornbills, sunbirds and silver pheasants. The park is laced with hiking trails, and has 10 rapids and waterfalls. Nakhon Ratchasima, 259 kilometres north-east of Bangkok, is the gateway to I-San. 56 kilometres to the north-east of the provincial capital lies Phimai, site of an 11th-century prasat hin temple, one of the loveliest examples of classical Khmer architecture found outside Kampuchea. The complex occupies land within boundary walls measuring 250 x 200 metres and was sufficiently important to have been connected by road with Angkor. Other major I-San attractions include Khon Kaen, a university town some 450 kilometres from Bangkok in I-San's geographic centre and famous for its Mat Mi silk; Loei province's Phu Kra Dung National Park, a crisply beautiful forested plateau between 1,000 and 1,350 metres where night-time temperatures sometimes drop to near freezing point, and the Kaeng Khut Khu rapids at Chiang Khan; the scenic Si Chiangmai to Nongkhai road which largely parallels the Mekong River; Udon Thani's Ban Chiang village and museum which house priceless Bronze Age jewellery and pottery excavated from local burial mounds; Nakhon Phanom's Phra That Phanom, the most revered Northeast shrine, the spire of which dates from the 9th century; Ubon Ratchathani, 629 kilometres from Bangkok, which introduces the annual Buddhist Rains Retreat with a lovely Candle Festival, and the pre-historical rock paintings at Pha Taem in Khong Chiam district near the Mekong River; Yasothon, where, each summer, massive home-made rockets are ceremoniously fired into the air to 'ensure' bountiful rains Surin, where an annual Elephant Round-Up each November attracts visitors from all over the world; and Buri Ram's Prasat Hin Phanom Rung, a lovely hilltop Khmer sanctuary once connected by road with Angkor.
The East Coast
Beyond Bangkok, from the estuary of the Chao PhrayaRiver, the East Coast unfolds in a series of bays and beaches to the Thai-Kampuchean border. Many popular resorts, including Pattaya, Asia's premier beach resort, occupy a coast characterised by cliff-hidden bays, palm- fringed beaches, innumerable fishing communities, lovely islands and largely tranquil Gulf waters. The region is rich in natural resources, including rubber, rice, fishing, orchards and gemstones, and scenically arresting with several national parks containing waterfalls, virgin forest and uninhabited, remote islands. Bangsaen, 100 kilometres south-east of Bangkok, is the capital's nearest resort. A cool palm-lined promenade separates Bangsaen's long crescent beach from sea-front bungalows, a water amusement park and a modern hotel. Khao Khiao Open Zoo, 15 kilometres inland from Bang Phra, occupies a 1200-acre hillside setting. Favourite Asian, African and European mammals occupy spacious enclosures. Thailand's most spectacular aviary, nestling against a forested hillside, contains several rare Asian species. Si Racha, 15 minutes further down the coast from Bang Phra, is a fishing community famed for a delicious, tangy sauce and excellent seafood. Pattaya, 147 kilometres south-east of Bangkok, is Thailand's 'Riviera' and internationally famous beach resort. All manner of watersports, motor- racing, offshore coral islands, luxury accommodation and a vibrant night-life comprise Pattaya's main attractions. Bang Sare fishing village, from where game fishermen seek marlin, sharks, king mackerel, tura and other Gulf denizens, and Sattahip, lie within 30 minutes to the south. Rayong, is best known for its Ban Phe fishing village and the narrow, 6 kilometre long Samet island. Ko Samet has some 15 bays and lovely beaches, Coral reefs and limpid waters ideal for swimming. snorkelling, scuba-diving and fishing are found on the island's east coast. Chanthaburi, is famous for historic sites, Thailand's largest Christian church, locally mined star sapphires, bountiful orchards and the Khao Khitchakut and Namtok Phlui national parks which contain attractive waterfalls. Trat, the province bordering Kampuchea, is best known for the 52-island Ko Chang Marine National Park which is dominated by Thailand's second largest island.
The South
Lush tropical islands, dazzling palm-fringed beaches, coral reefs teeming with colourful marine life, picturesque fishing villages with distinctive hand- painted boats, remote national parks, forested mountains, waterfalls, historic cities, ubiquitous rubber estates, scenic wildlife sanctuaries, the juxtaposition of temples and mosques clearly define the region's visual appeal. Geographically, southern Thailand extends through the Kra Isthmus from Chumphon, 460 kilometres south of Bangkok, to the Thai-Malaysian border, and is bordered in the east by the Gulf of Thailand, to the west by the Indian Ocean. Chumphon has several lovely beaches, birds' nest islands and excellent scuba diving waters, particularly around Koh Tao. Ranong, to the south-west, 568 kilometres from Bangkok, has a Hot Spa Health Resort draving water from Thailand's sole potable Geo-Thermal Mineral Water Spring. Surat Thani, is best known for the beautiful Koh Samui, Thailand's third largest island, 268 nautical miles south of Bangkok, and jewel of a sparkling archipelago that contains the lovely Angthong (Golden Bowl) MarineNational Park. Nakhon Si Thammarat, 780 kilometres south of Bangkok, is an ancient city, home of the historically important Wat Phra Maha That, and is the major centre of southern Thai handicrafts such as black and gold neilloware, yan lipao basketry and intricate shadow-play figures. Songkhla, 950 kilometres from Bangkok, a medieval pirate strong-hold, is a historic, albeit sleepy town with a thriving fishing community and the lovely Samila beach. The GreatSongkhlaLake hosts the 520-square-kilometre KhuKhutWaterfowlPark, home to some 140 species. Pattani, some 100 kilometres further south, has Thailand's most beautiful mosque and innumerable fishing communities with hand-painted, lavishly decorated boats. Narathiwat, further south, bordering Malaysia, is noted for its Ba Cho Waterfall, a massive seated golden Buddha at Wat Khao Kong, and the border town of Sungai Golok with its liberated night-life. Hat Yai, 933 kilometres from Bangkok, is southern Thailand's principal commercial, communications and entertainment centre and regularly attracts visitors from nearby Malaysia. Phatthalung, some 95 kilometres north of Hat Yai, has the Talay Noi Nok Nam bird sanctuary at the northwestern end of the SongkhlaGreatLake. Trang's Khao Chong Nature Reserve, some 65 kilometres further west, contains one of southern Thailand, sloveliest waterfalls. Krabi's major attractions are the beautiful Phi Phi islands, the 75-million-year-old Susan Hoi shell graveyard, one of the only three in the world, and the sweeping NoppharatBeach. Phang Nga's major attraction is the eerily beautiful PhangNgaBay where verdant limestone islands, honeycombed with caves and aquatic grottoes, soar perpendicularly to heights of 300 metres and more from almost perpetually calm waters. Phuket, 862 kilometres from Bangkok, is Thailand's largest island (the approximate size of Singapore). Phuket is a resort of international stature, is blessed with a wide variety of magnificent beaches, hidden coves and secluded bays, and has probably the best seafood in Thailand.
Special Interests
Buddhist Meditation
Suan Mok, a 120-acre forest temple in Chaiya district, Surat Thani province, some 580 kilometres south of Bangkok, attracts and accepts meditators from all over the world. Meditation opportunities are also found in Bangkok, particularly at Wat Mahathat (facing Sanam Luang), Wat Pak Nam, Wat Chonprathan Rangsit, Wat Phrathammakai and Banglamphu's Wat Bowon Nivet where English language instruction is available.
Elephant Training
The recently opened Thai Elephant Conservation Centre, 28 kilometres outside Lampang on the main highway to Chiang Mai, has replaced the former ElephantTraining School at Ngao. Logging training sessions for young elephants are held daily at 9.00 AM in an attractive forest setting, and visitors are welcome.
Jungle Treks
Most popularly originating from Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, these 2-6 day treks take visitors through forested mountains and high meadows in what are, actually, the lower extremities of Himalayan foothills. Major attractions are remote hilltribe villages. Mountains surrounding Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai host seven major, once-itinerant hill tribes of Tibeto- Burman origin – – the Meo, Lisu, Lahu, Yao, Akha, Lawa and Karen. Each have distinctive dialects, costumes and customs.
Orchid Farms
Several establishments in the suburbs of Bangkok, and in Chiang Mai and Chonburi province welcome visitors who may wish to admire, purchase or learn more about these fabled blooms.
Traditional Thai Massage
Courses are taught principally in Bangkok's Wat Pho, "home" of traditional Thai massage. Thai massage is also offered in Wat Mahathat and Wat Parinayok, both in Bangkok.
Wildlife Sanctuaries / National Parks
Thailand has some so national parks and wildlife sanctuaries covering more than 25,000 square kilometres. Evenly spread throughout the kingdom, such places afford nature lovers opportunities to enjoy Thai flora and fauna in unspoiled surroundings. The most popular in terms of convenient accessibility and immediately visible attractions are as follows: Khao Yai National Park lies some 200 kilometres north-east of Bangkok, covers more than 540,000 acres, has an average elevation of 800 metres and a highest peak of 1,351 metres. The park supports elephants, tigers, bears, giant hornbills and other protected wildlife, countless species of wild flowers, trees and spectacular waterfalls. DoiInthanonNational Park in Chiang Mai province covers Thailand's highest mountain (2,565 metres). Forest above 1,800 metres is covered with lichens and wild orchids while at lower levels several lovely waterfalls share the mountainside with Meo and Karen hilltribe villages. Ko Samet in Rayong province is the focal point of a MarineNational Park. The narrow, 6 kilometre long island numbers among Thailand's most beautiful islands and is fringed by splendid beaches, dazzling coral reefs and limpid waters ideal for snorkelling and scuba-diving. ErawanNational Park in Kanchanaburi province is extremely popular. The mountainside forest setting contains the seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, widely regarded as one of Thailand's loveliest cascades. SamRoiYotNational Park in Prachuap Khiri Khan province provided major settings for the award-winning movie The Killing Fields. A multi- peaked, thinly forested limestone mass rises majestically from coastal marshes that host numerous waterfowl species. Caves, islands, fine beaches and frequently seen wildlife comprise major attractions. KhuKhutWaterfowlPark in Songkhla province occupies 520 square kilometres of the GreatSongkhlaLake and hosts some 140 resident and migratory species. Ao Phang Nga National Park in Phang Nga province featured prominently in the James Bond movie The Man With The Golden Gun. Verdant limestone islands, honeycombed with caves and aquatic grottoes, soar perpendicularly from almost perpetually calm waters. Major attractions include prehistoric rock paintings and a stilted Muslim fishing village. TarutaoMarineNational Park in Satun province, 31 kilometres off the southern Thai coast near the Thai-Malaysian Indian Ocean maritime border, is a 51-island cluster covering some 1,400 square kilometres, and offers some of Southeast Asia's best scuba-diving waters. Ko Samui and AngThongMarineNational Park, covering an area of over 250 square kilometres, is located in Surat Thani province and composed of various islands noted for silvery sand and colourful coral reefs. Access to the islands can be made either from Ban Don, Surat Thani or Don Sak in Nakhon Si Thammarat.
Thai Fruits
Thai fruits – – including mangoes, mangosteens, durians, pineapples, watermelons, papayas, rambutans, longans, lyches, tamarinds, pomegranates, palm fruits, oranges, pomeloes, jackfruits and more than 20 kinds of bananas- - are available all year round. From January to April, grapes, jackfruits, java apples, tangerines, watermelons and pomegranates are in season. Next corne mangoes, lyches, pineapples, durians and mangosteens. From July on, longans will ripen, and also langsats, jujubes, passionfruits, pomeloes, rambutans, sugar apples and again tangerines, grapes, water- melons. bananas, coconuts, guavas and papayas are available throughout the year. Some harvests are celebrated in style, with colourful festivals, sometimes featuring a pageant of local beauties. In early April, the Paet Riu Mango Festival is organized in Chachoengsao. Probably the most popular and typical of Thai fruits, the mango deserves this honour. In May, Songkhla promotes its fruits with a bazaar, fruit carving demonstrations and a Miss Southern Thailand Pageant. In June, Chanthaburi exhibits delicious provincial fruits, including the king of them all, the exquisitely delicious durian. In September, to honour pomeloes, a fruit and floral float procession is held in Nakhon Pathom, near Bangkok.
Arts and Crafts
During 1976, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit established the Foundation for the Promotion of Supplementary Occupations and Related Techniques, popularly known as SUPPORT, with the object of giving rural Thais alternative sources of income and also of reviving some of the kingdorn's traditional crafts. The result has been a variety of beautiful items available in Thailand through a chain of outlets called Chitrlada Shops. Five Chitrlada Shops are located in Bangkok: on the ground floor of the Decorations PaviIion in the Grand Palace: in the Oriental Plaza shopping centre; in the shopping arcade of the Hilton International Bangkok Hotel; in the compound of Wimanmek Mansion; and at Don Muang International Airport. Others can be found at the Rose Garden in Nakhon Pathom province, in South Pattaya, and at the ChiangMaiAirport. Among the SUPPORT products to be found in these shops are handwoven silks from the Northeast, particularly in subtle ikat designs known in Thai as rnat-mi; elegant yan liphao handbags, made from a vine that grows in southern Thailand and often adorned with gold fittings; jewellery in distinctive designs; supple Thai cotton in classic patterns; T-shirts with motifs designed by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn; and numerous moderately-priced souvenirs. All funds raised from the sale of these crafts go to the SUPPORT project.
Festivals and Annual Events
Thais are fun-loving, sentimental people and annual festivals, both commemorative and celebrative, play important roles in Thai life. Many Thai festivals are joyful, colourful events that invite visitors' participation. Others feature solemn, eminently photogenic ceremonial. Whatever their character, whether dazzling processions, Buddhist devotion, uninhibited merriment or exotic ritual, each affords the visitor pleasant memories and insights into the cultural heritage that makes Thailand Asia's most exotic country. Most festivals are connected either with Buddhism, the annual rice-farming cycle, or commemorations honouring Thai kings. Some occur on fixed dates. Others, particularly those associated with Buddhism, are determined by the lunar calendar. Many merit national holidays. Chronologically, Thailand's major festivals, and events, are as follows:
Makha Puja
Full-moon day, February National holiday This commemorates the occasion when 1,250 disciples spontaneously gathered to hear the Buddha preach. Merit-making, such as offering food to monks, and freeing captive birds and fishes, is interspersed with sermons throughout the day. After sunset, Buddhist monks lead the laity in a lovely triple candlelit circumambulation of Buddhist chapels throughout the kingdom. Each person silently carries flowers, glowing incense and lighted candles in homage to the Buddha, his teaching and his disciples.
Flower Festival
Usually early February. At Chiang Mai, 700 kilometres north of Bangkok. This annual event features displays, floral floats, and beauty contests when the province's temperate and tropical flowers are in full bloom.
Pattaya Festival
Early April. Thailand's premier beach resort celebrates with beauty parades, floral floats, and special events, Highlights include a spectacular beach-side firework display.
Songkran Festival
April 13 - 15. National holiday, April 12 – 14 Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year and is celebrated with special elan in Chiang Mai where because it occurs during a time of relative leisure, it becomes a 3-5 day carousel of religious merit-making, pilgrimages, beauty parades, dancing and uninhibited, good-natured water throwing.
Songkran Festival, Amphoe Phra Pradaeng
The second week of April. The Mon community of Phra Pradaeng district, Samut Prakan province, just south of Bangkok, celebrates Songkran with similar festivities.
Royal Ploughing Ceremony
Usually early May, at Bangkok's Sanam Luang. This ceremony marks official commencement of the annual rice-planting cycle. Presided over by His Majesty the King, elaborate Brahman ritual and ceremonial combine to provide predictions concerning the forthcoming rice crop.
Rocket Festival
The second weekend of May, and best seen in Yasothon, north-east