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For those looking to learn more about this beautiful South East Asian country, keep reading for the 10 fun facts about Thailand! Including historical facts and some good to know information before visiting.
The “Land of Smiles” is the unofficial slogan of Thailand. Even though there is an official one, many still refer to it as the land of smiles. In fact, you can even find it written on signs and ads within the country. During a visit you will understand why that slogan stuck because you are often greeted with an infectious smile. Especially when you head further north to the Chiang Mai region. If want to smile more on vacation then Thailand is the perfect place to be.
You may be familiar with the city of Bangkok, but did you know that Bangkok is actually the (much) shortened version? Get ready for a mouthful and congrats if you can properly pronounce it! Here is the full name: Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.
If you visit Chinatown in Bangkok then be sure to stop at Wat Traimit Withayaram Worawihan, Temple of the Golden Buddha. Inside is the world’s biggest solid gold Buddha. Moreover, it is 5 metres in height and weighs 5.5 tonnes!
Doi Inthanon is a popular mountain to visit for day trips from Chiang Mai. Here, you can stand at the highest point in Thailand! The highest point is 2,565 metres above sea level and you will have to hike up! But don’t worry, it’s just a few minutes from the parking lot. Also, the nature-filled mountain has beautiful viewpoints, waterfalls, and the King and Queen Pagoda’s (pictured). Note that the pagoda’s are about an 8 minute drive below the highest point.
You might be surprised to know that the country has 77 provinces. Technically 76 and 1 administrative area that is the capital, Bangkok. The provinces date back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom when they were semi-independent. Needless to say, there are many unique areas to visit in Thailand! If you want to see where each one is, check out the map here.
The year in Thailand is 543 years ahead because the country uses the Buddhist calendar. That said, in 2023 the year is actually 2566 in Thailand. However, you won’t have to worry about trying to calculate the date at any point. Also, events like New Years Eve on December 31 are celebrated as well.
In 2019, almost 40 million international tourists visited Thailand! In fact, the growth of tourists increased each year before the pandemic. Of course now that travel is back and the government wants to increase tourism, the numbers will likely rise again. Why? Because Thailand has a lot to offer. Such as local experiences, adventure, good food, big cities, mountainous regions, and beautiful beaches. Oh and budget friendly prices!
If you are a man who comes from a Buddhist family, it is expected of you to live the life of a monk at one point in your life. Generally, this happens within your young adult life. After which it is up to you to decide how long you wish to continue. In fact, some men choose to do it for as a little as a couple of days. Nonetheless, it is thought that being a monk will bring good karma. As well as honour to your family.
UNESCO has an extensive list of protected historical and cultural sites and traditions around the world. The list of items are important because they have been recognized for their universal value and importance. That said, Thailand has 6 sites listed, 3 are natural (forest and wildlife) and 3 are cultural (historic places). If you visit Bangkok, there is a good chance you will visit one, the historic archaeological sites of Ayutthaya (pictured).
Elephants are the official national animal of Thailand. It is believed that the elephant brings good luck, longevity, and wisdom, among many other things. But what you may not know is that by law, white elephants have to be given to the King as they are a symbol of great power and prosperity.
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