List of major cities in Thailand. Resort cities of Thailand

Hello, dear readers – seekers of knowledge and truth!

Thailand is beautiful eastern country, which has been attracting travelers from all over the world for decades. There is everything for an unforgettable and active holiday - a hot climate, warm sea, developed infrastructure, unique cuisine, historical monuments and, of course, numerous Buddhist temples, which are called “wat” here.

Let's mentally move today to the Land of Smiles and visit big cities Thailand. In this article we have collected for you the most interesting and rich in cultural attractions of the city. We hope you get some ideas for your next vacation.

Classification of cities

Administratively settlements in Thailand, as elsewhere, they are divided into cities and rural areas. In turn, there are three types of cities:

• large - there are more than fifty thousand citizens;
• average - more than ten thousand inhabitants;
• small, or urban-type settlement - the population exceeds five thousand people, but less than ten thousand.

At the same time, classification occurs not only by population, but also by its density and budget level. There are also cities with an independent type of government - these are the capital Bangkok and the well-known resort Pattaya. However, based on the number of residents, they are also classified as large cities.

Here is a list of cities that are among the ten largest in Thailand (the population is indicated in brackets, in thousands of people):

1. Bangkok – 9,000;
2. Nonthaburi – 270;
3. Korat – 175;
4. Chiang Mai - 175;
5. Hat Yai – 158;
6. Udon Thani – 156;
7. Pak Kret – 153;
8. Chao Phraya Surasak - 133;
9. Khon Kaen – 130;
10. Pattaya – 108.

Let's talk about the three most interesting, spectacular and therefore visited of them and add to them another large city with a population of over 75,000 people, which is located on the very large island countries with the same name - Phuket.

Metropolitan

The Thai capital is Bangkok. Many come here simply as a transit point before further travel, staying only a couple of days. However, there are a lot of places here that can take at least a week to explore.

Bangkok is a city of contrasts. First you are amazed at the unsurpassed beauty of the royal palace, and then you notice the shacks in which some local residents. There may be a Buddhist shrine next door to an adult drag show, and state-of-the-art business centers give way to historic buildings a few blocks away.

The capital is located on the Chao Phraya River, which then merges with the Gulf of Thailand. Initially, it was a small village where people were mainly engaged in fishing, but from the end of the 18th century it began to gain significant weight, and then became the capital.

The official name of Bangkok consists of twenty words - according to the Guinness Book of Records, it is the longest place name in the world.

The city consists of fifty districts - khets, and each, in turn, is divided into several more parts - quangs, of which there are three times more. The most interesting in terms of attractions is the center, namely - man-made island Rattanokosin, because this is where the King's Palace, the Temple of the Golden Buddha, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho and the National Museum are located.

In total, there are almost a hundred large and small temples in the area. The most famous of them is, of course, located near Royal Palace. Its name is Wat Phra Kaew, or Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

In appearance, it is a small figurine of the Teacher, only a little more than 65 centimeters high. However, in reality it is of great historical value. Made entirely of jade, she changes her wardrobe three times a year, and this is a big holiday, which used to be attended by the king and his family.

At Wat Pho, it is worth looking at the statue of the reclining Golden Buddha. Its length is as much as 46 meters. Also noteworthy is the shrine of Bemchanabophit from white marble and Wat Arun.

Wat Arun with poetic translation "Temple morning dawn“The appearance and characteristic facade are somewhat reminiscent of a pyramid belonging to the Mayans or Aztecs, but the interior and exterior are decorated with porcelain tiles. To get to the top, you have to overcome a steep staircase of several hundred steps.

Also worth seeing in Bangkok Golden Mountain and Wat Saket near it with golden spiers, Chinatown with inexpensive souvenirs, the National Museum and the famous Taling Chan floating market. From theaters you can go to the National, Royal and Siam Niramit.

Resort

The next large city, which is also the most popular resort, is located 165 kilometers from the capital, on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand. Pattaya lives almost entirely from tourism, since there are no large industries here.

Main status resort area Thailand Pattaya received thanks to American soldiers during the Vietnam War. Their headquarters was located several kilometers south of this area, and they went to the coast to rest. Even after the end of the war, Americans returned to Thai soil again and again, followed by Europeans.

The resort has entertainment for every taste and budget: bars, clubs and travesty shows for adults, parks, a water park, a dolphinarium, an aquarium for children, parasailing, diving and fishing in the open sea for active tourists, as well as various interesting museums, for example, the Ripley Museum with wax figures and mirror labyrinths.

Travelers especially enjoy Nong Nooch Garden, a crocodiles farm, an elephant village and Mini Siam Park, where you can see all the Thai Buddhist temples in miniature and small copies of European buildings.

Mini Siam Park in Pattaya

But it’s worth talking about Buddhist buildings separately. One of the most unusual structures is the Temple of Truth. The peculiarity of this elegant wooden temple is that it was built without a single nail, as its creators say.

But this judgment is not entirely correct - the fact is that the temple has been under construction for more than thirty years, and the construction is still not completed. When constructing a shrine, nails are used, but they are driven in only halfway. The builders expect that at the end of construction they will be able to remove all the nails, and the structure will remain standing firmly. Read more about this unique temple.

Temple of Truth

Another wonderful place for Buddhist pilgrimage is the Big Buddha Temple, which looks out over the entire city and the Gulf of Thailand from a hill near Mount Pratamnak. To go up, you need to overcome 120 steps, and then you will see a large statue of Buddha, and nearby there are statues of more modest sizes.

Big Buddha Temple in Pattaya

If you go lower, you can get to the Confucian temple, where there is a monument to the Chinese philosophers Confucius and, as well as other figures of Chinese culture.

Ostrovny

It's not so much about south island Phuket, a lot about the city of the same name, which is called Phuket Town in English. Previously, the town of Thalang was located here, but in the middle of the 19th century it was decided to build a new port, and with it a new city.

Many immigrants from China arrived in the city - this is evidenced by the unusual architecture: neat multi-colored buildings on two floors with tiled roofs, and at the entrance there are traditional Chinese red lanterns.

Phuket Town

There is also the picturesque Chinese shrine of Put Cho. It was erected in honor of the goddess Guanyin - the patroness of the entire Celestial Empire, the deity of compassion. Very unusual architectural complex can be called a century-old Portuguese building, where the local administration is now located: the facade is decorated with columns, stucco moldings and bas-reliefs.

The city lives its own life and loves the crowd. Every day people here gather in the markets, the main one is located on Rasada Street and is open in the mornings from 5 to 11. The Songkran festival traditionally takes place here every year in honor of the Thai New Year, and in September-October the crazy Vegetarian Festival takes place.

Vegetarian festival in Thailand

All the splendor of the city streets and lush flowers is observed by the statue of the Big Buddha, located on a hill nearby. The temple complex continues to be built to this day, and anyone can donate any amount for the construction.

The height of the statue itself reaches 45 meters. There are also many Buddha statues inside the temple. Near the main ones there are tables for offerings, where believers leave fruits, incense sticks, and garlands of flowers.

Another spiritual attraction is Wat Chalong, a short drive from the center of Phuket Town. Its bright facade is made in red and decorated with golden elements: carvings, spiers, bas-reliefs. Vatu dates back almost two centuries, since then it has been reconstructed more than once, but even today it makes an indelible impression.

Wat Chalong Temple

Northern

And we left the most spiritually developed city for last - the city of Chiang Mai. People don't come here looking for immaculate beaches, noisy entertainment for adults and other entertainment - they come to see the amazing local temples.

Seven hundred kilometers separates Bangkok from Chiang Mai, which at the end of the 13th century was built as the capital of the once existing state of Lanna. Chiang Mai has retained its original nature: it is located on the banks of the Ping River and at the foot of Mount Pui, which rises almost 1.7 kilometers.

Chiang Mai – real city masters From ancient times to today Wooden, ceramic, silk, and silver products are produced here. Particularly amazing are skillfully painted umbrellas that protect from the sun, jade, carved items, as well as those made using the batik technique.

The jade is imported from neighboring Myanmar.

Chang Lo Road is famous for the fact that craftsmen here make unusual bells, which have a special thin plate instead of reeds. Bronze kitchen utensils are also made here. And northern border Artisan potters work in the city.

But the most important asset of Chiang Mai is its temples; there are more than 200 of them. Of course, it is difficult to tell everything about them, so we will focus on the most interesting and unusual of them:

• Prachau Mengrai - built at the end of the 13th century, hides behind its walls a sculpture more than four meters high of the ruler Mengrai, the founder of the northern city.
• Chetavan - located at the entrance to the city from the east; Of unprecedented interest to visitors are 3 chedis - Thai ones, shimmering in golden and red hues in sunny weather. On two you can see the outlines mythical creatures India.
• Mahavan is located next door and also boasts a stupa with a high spire, which is gilded. On each side of the world the temple is guarded by lion sculptures. The complex also includes a small chapel and a viharn with carved facades and relief doors.
• Seng Fang - temple complex in classic Burmese style with a stupa and viharna covered with gilding, located in a cozy garden.
• Pha Pong - the temple reveals the style of the Chinese and Burmese: a neat carved entrance, a spacious picturesque hall where several stupas are installed, and the stairs leading to the chapel continue with arched windows. Inside the temple you can see skillfully painted walls and sculptures of deities.

Seng Fang Temple

Conclusion

There are several dozen cities in Thailand, large and very small, and each of them has its own, unique spirit. Modern, overpopulated and always in a hurry Bangkok, touristic Pattaya that never stops talking even at night, the Chinese-colonial port Phuket Town, the temple-like and therefore somewhat magical Chiang Mai - everyone can choose a city to their liking in the Land of Smiles.

Thank you for your attention, dear readers! Share in the comments which city you liked best. Write to us which cities you would be interested in learning about - we will write about them on our blog.

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Thailand is located in South-East Asia. Thailand's neighbors are Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Malaysia. The climate is tropical, so you can relax in Thailand at any time of the year. The capital is Bangkok, this is one of the most dense populated cities country and naturally ranks 1st in terms of population. The number of inhabitants reaches 8 million people(not including agglomeration). The main holiday of the country is considered New Year, it starts on April 13 and lasts almost 5 days. The largest festival, Songkran, is held at this time. Now let’s continue our TOP 10 most populated cities in Thailand

The most populated cities in Thailand - Nonthaburi

2. Nonthaburi(Nonthaburi) is located near the capital, 20 km and is an agglomeration of Bangkok. The city is also located along the Chaya Praya River. According to the number of city residents, there are approximately 266 930 people, takes second place, after Bangkok. The city has many canals along which tourists and locals sail in boats. The city is famous for the temples Wat Khemaphirataram, Wat Prasat, Wat Chotikaram, Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat - each of them captivates with its uniqueness. Eat interesting museum Horns, it houses a collection of animal horns. From April to June, the Nonthaburi Fruits Fair is held.

3rd place, also an agglomeration of the capital, the city is a district of “New Bangkok” Pakkret(Pak Kret) total area is 90 sq. km, located in the province of Nonthaburi. Lives around 166 522 residents. The city is divided into two parts by the Chao Phraya River. Pak Kret is home to the Mueang Thong Thani Stadium, built back in the 13th century. Accommodates 12,000 fans.

4. Hatyai(Hat Yai) is an entertainment center, a business center, and shopping is also popular here - all entertainment here is carried out mainly by local residents, of whom 95% are Muslims. Hatyai is located in Songkla province, 950 km from the capital of Thailand, almost on the border with Malaysia. Lives in the city 156 414 Human. Children will be interested in the 15-meter water slide Bhasawang Big Splash. Adults can look at the reclining Buddha statue at Wat Hat Yai Nai, Tone Nga Chang waterfall.

5. The fifth largest population in the cities of Thailand is - Chiang Mai(Chiang Mai). It is the northern capital of Thailand. Located 700 km from Bangkok. Number of inhabitants is 149 261 . Chiang Mai, unlike Bangkok, is not very popular among our tourists, since it does not have beaches, but there are many others interesting places, where it is worth visiting. These are the Buddhist temple Doi Suthep and the Wat Chiang Man temple (it houses a mini figure of the crystal Buddha). Take a walk along the main street of the city - Ratchadamnoen (on Sundays, at 16:00, the Sunday market opens here, you can buy wonderful souvenirs for friends), take a ride in a Chiang Mai Tuk-Tuk taxi. Mostly Europeans, Japanese, Koreans, Chinese, and Australians come to Chiang Mai.

6. Surat Thani(Surat Thani) is located in the southern part of the country. Number of inhabitants 125943 . Tourists will be interested in visiting the park with waterfalls, lakes, jungles - Khao Sok and Mu Ko Ang Thong Park, in the Wat Mathurotsatiyaram temple. Learn how to cook at My Wok And Me cooking school.

The 7th most populated city is Khon Kaen. Khon Kaen - very beautiful city, located 380 km from the capital. Lives there 120857 Human. Available international Airport and good transport links. City attractions: Wat Ahong and Wat Nong Wang Temple (has 9 floors), go to the Khong Kut Wai Fish Sanctuary lake, in the Hong Mun Mang Khon Kaen City Museum you can get acquainted with the Khon Kaen culture, get a dose of adrenaline in the Tham bat cave Khang Khao.

8. Pattaya(Pattaya). The most popular resort town in the kingdom. It is located near the capital, 140 km. Resides 104318 Human. In Pattaya you should take a walk along Walking Street, Sukhumvit Road. Visit the Bottle Museum, the Mike Shopping Mall, the Sanctuary of Truth, and the Sutin Fine Art gallery. To see with your own eyes the Tiffany’s Show is a transvestite show.

9. Lampang(Lampang) is located 600 km from Bangkok. The city was built in the 7th century, although from ancient city only one octagonal tower remained. Today lives there about 60591 residents. The most popular places among tourists there are: temples Wat Chai Mongkhon, Wat Phra That Chom Ping, Wat Don Kaeo (distinguished by the presence of multi-layer roofs that resemble cones in shape), National parks Tham Pha Tha and Wiang Ko Sai, and try all the secrets of Thai healing at the Lampang Herbal Conservation Wellness Center.

10. Rayong(Rayong) is one of the ancient cities of Thailand. Quantity inhabitants 55170. Temples: Somdet Kromluang Chumphon, Wat Pa Pradu. You can relax on the beautiful sandy beach Laem Mae Phim, take your kids to Rayong Aquarium.

And Bonus old capital of Thailand: Ayutthaya(Nakhon Si Ayutthaya) is also considered a densely populated city and belongs to historical center Thailand. Number of inhabitants 55025. The city resembles an oval. In 1991, Ayutthaya was included in the UNESCO list. What to see? These are the temples of Wat Na Phra Men, Wat Phra Ram, the Wat Na Phra Men fortress, visit the Chankasem or Front Palace, and Suan Somdet Park.

Thailand has long established itself as good direction for relaxation, be it relaxing holiday on the beach, enjoying nature and sights or wild parties. At the same time, travelers often have a question about which place is right for them. Here is all the necessary information about the most popular resorts in the Kingdom of Thailand: both the most popular and those that our compatriots may not have yet paid attention to.

Pattaya is perhaps the most popular holiday destination in Thailand among tourists from all over the world. This resort town is located on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand, on the east coast of the country. Pattaya is approximately 160 kilometers away from the capital of Thailand, Bangkok.

Interestingly, the number of local residents here is four times less than the number of tourists who constantly fill the resort. After all, in fact, Pattaya is ready to open its arms to lovers of spicy night entertainment, to those who want to bask in the sun, and to families with children who love attractions or active recreation.

The resort is a beach resort, but there is one recommendation: if you want clean sand and sea, it is better to go for this not to the beaches of Pattaya itself, but to its surroundings - for example, to the island of Koh Larn. The best time to fly to Pattaya is from November to May or July to August.

Pros of Pattaya resort:

1. Convenient location: a couple of hours drive from Bangkok.
2. Developed tourism infrastructure: hotels for every taste, entertainment centers, restaurants, bars, nightclubs - all this in Pattaya is developing every year.
3. Low cost of vacation compared to other resorts. This does not mean that everything is cheap here, it all depends on the choice of hotel and additional expenses, but Pattaya is also accessible for tourists with a small budget.
4. Possibility of purchasing excursion trips: due to the number of tourists, there are a lot of different offers here.
5. The resort is convenient for those who feel more comfortable among their compatriots: Pattaya is constantly home to a large number of Russian-speaking people, and is also always full of tourists from the CIS countries.

Cons of Pattaya resort:

1. The beaches located directly in the city cannot be called clean.
2. Pattaya itself does not have a large number of attractions, special places from the point of view of those who will go to the country for its traditions and culture.
3. Thanks to a large number The resort cannot be called ideal for families with children. In addition, it cannot be said that Pattaya has clean sea and air.
4. Pattaya is not suitable for those who go to Thailand for solitude.

O. Phuket

Phuket is an island resort, no less famous than Pattaya. The island is located in the southeastern part of the country. The easiest way to get to the island is by plane from Bangkok, the flight takes one hour. Flights from Moscow are also possible.

This fairy island is famous, first of all, for its cleanest beaches and the sea, coastline indented by bays and rocks. The features of the resort are such that it is suitable for those who want a secluded holiday and complete relaxation, and for those who value accommodation with complete comfort and accessible infrastructure. Best time in order to relax in Phuket - from November to May.


Pros of the resort Phuket:

1. The presence of both lively beaches, surrounded by comfortable hotels and discos, and places for solitude and merging with nature: waterfalls, tropical forests, coral reefs.
2. Opportunity for tourists with different budgets and requirements: in Phuket there are both five-star hotels and private owners offering holidays in bungalows.
3. A large selection of entertainment for lovers of active recreation and summer sports: surfing, diving, snorkeling, yachting and other opportunities.
4. The pristine beauty of nature on the island.
5. Phuket is very good for family vacation with children: both good ecology and developed infrastructure, including the availability shopping centers, pharmacies, and clinics make your stay in this place calm and safe.

Disadvantages of the resort Phuket:

1. Phuket is an island, so those who want to travel throughout the country will have difficulties - they will have to travel to the mainland.
2. Despite the fact that there is budget options accommodation, in general, holidays in Phuket are expensive.
3. Phuket is not very suitable for shopping lovers.

O. Samui

The popular resort is located on an island in the Gulf of Thailand - 40 kilometers from east coast countries. You can get to the island either by plane from the capital of Thailand or by ferry - if you are traveling throughout the country, the second option will also be more economical.

Samui, like Phuket, is distinguished by its exceptional natural beauty. White sand and the coconut trees look much better in reality than in the travel agency brochure.


Pros of the resort Samui:

1. Ideal for beach holiday, especially if the tourist wants peace and tranquility.
2. There are also options for lovers of active recreation: on certain beaches you can rent equipment or practice diving, windsurfing with an instructor, play beach tennis or volleyball.
3. On separate beaches For those who are tired of silence, there are discos, bars and night clubs.

Disadvantages of the resort Samui:

1. The resort is quite expensive - thanks to the wonderful nature, tourists are willing to pay a lot of money to stay on the island.
2. For those who want to travel around the country, a clear and logical problem will arise - since the resort is an island, it will be quite difficult and expensive to move back and forth.
3. The “high season” on the island does not last long: from January to May.

Krabi

A resort, or rather, an entire resort area in the south of Thailand, with access to the Andaman Sea. Refers to famous resorts, but not yet as well known as Pattaya or Phuket. You can get to Krabi through the local airport, and from Phuket (by land), and from Bangkok (by air and land).


Krabi is close to other resorts in the country: Phuket and Phi Phi, so staying here will be convenient for those who want to explore southern part countries. The best time to go here is from November to May.

Pros of Krabi resort:

1. Due to the fact that the resort is not yet as popular as Phuket, the cost of a holiday in Krabi will be quite acceptable.
2. The province also has attractions: both natural and cultural, so you don’t have to limit yourself to a beach holiday.
3. Suitable for those who love nature and solitude.

Cons of Krabi resort:

1. The tourist infrastructure is not very developed. There is not much entertainment for revelers here, because the resort has not yet become the most popular in Thailand, and people come here mainly for other things.
2. Although this resort has access to the sea, there are not too many comfortable beaches here.
3. It cannot be said that the resort is very accessible in terms of transport - after all, from the capital, where many tourists fly, getting to Krabi is quite long and expensive.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the second largest city in the country, located in the north of the country, in the Inthanon Mountains. You can get to the city from the capital - by air in an hour, by land in ten hours. This place is usually visited from November to March.

Chiang Mai, despite the fact that it is not suitable for a beach holiday - there is no access to the sea, attracts many tourists. This resort can be described as the “cultural capital” of Thailand.


Pros of Chiang Mai resort:

1. The city is famous for its abundance of interesting places: highest mountain Thailand, many Buddhist temples(about 300) – those who seek to travel to other countries for their culture and traditions will not be bored here.
2. Due to the fact that Chiang Mai is a large city, it will appeal to connoisseurs of comfort: this developed modern city has all the necessary infrastructure. Shops, clinics, pharmacies - all this is available in Chiang Mai.
3. Chiang Mai will appeal to those who want to breathe tradition to the fullest. The city constantly hosts festivals, and there are also many Thai cuisine schools and exhibitions dedicated to the life of ancient peoples.

Disadvantages of the Chiang Mai resort:

1. Despite the fact that Chiang Mai is a large city, specifically for nightlife It's not worth coming here. After all, this area is more suitable for lovers of a quiet, cultural daytime recreation.
2. There is no access to the sea, which means it’s impossible to combine visiting cultural monuments and relaxing on the beach.
3. This resort is also not suitable for lovers of active recreation. After all, active recreation in tropical countries is usually associated with beach or aquatic species sports

It is one of the oldest resorts in Thailand. Hua Hin is a city on west bank Gulf of Thailand, which is a large administrative center. You can get there from the capital by land - the trip will take about three hours. The resort is usually visited from November to June.


Hua Hin is no less famous than Pattaya, but much more better than Pattaya suitable for a beach holiday. There is a place for all tourists on the three-kilometer beach. Interestingly, the resort is also loved by local residents; they often choose it as their vacation spot.

Pros of Hua Hin resort:

1. Ideal for families with children. Many hotels are separated from each other by a sufficient distance, so the holiday will be relaxing, besides, the contingent of vacationers mainly consists of families with children or middle-aged people.
2. good transport accessibility and proximity to the capital.
3. Even though the beaches here are not as beautiful as those on the island resorts, they are much cleaner and better than in Pattaya.

Cons of Hua Hin resort:

1. The resort is quite expensive: mostly wealthy people come here, and the standard of hotels is high - but the cost of living is also high.
2. Hua Hin is not the best place for young groups of tourists, because this resort is a respectable place, and not the best choice for lovers of parties and various shows.

O. Koh Phangan

Phangan, or Koh Phangan, is an island resort in the Gulf of Thailand, not far from the aforementioned Samui. The island is almost entirely covered tropical forests, but most of it falls on the beach area. People come to Koh Phangan most often from January to May.

Koh Phangan is currently not popular among tourists from the CIS countries. As a rule, Russian-speaking travelers pay attention to other, more popular resorts. But, in fact, this island can appeal to many, especially young people.


Pros of Phangan resort:

1. First of all, Koh Phangan is suitable for youth companies. For all lovers of nightlife, beach parties are held here, including the famous Full Moon Party Moon Party, which lasts three nights during each month. Music, cocktails and atmosphere - all against the backdrop of exotic Thai nature.
2. The island is good for a beach holiday for any request. There are developed beaches full of tourists, and wild ones - for those who thirst independent rest at rest.
3. The island is also one of the most beautiful: despite the parties, places of pristine natural purity have been preserved here.
4. The resort will appeal to those who want to take a break from the crowds of their compatriots on their trip: tourists from Russia rarely choose Koh Phangan.

Cons of Phangan resort:

1. Transport accessibility is low. If you get tired of vacationing on the island, you can only get out of it using several types of transport, especially since it is far from the capital.
2. Not very suitable for lovers of cultural recreation: there are not as many attractions here as in some of the above resorts.
3. Not being largest resort, may not be suitable for families with children: the infrastructure here is not so developed, the resort is more suitable for young people or companies.
4. Average affordability.

So, here they are - the most popular places to travel to Thailand. It must be said that this is not a complete list of all resorts in the country, but even among the most famous places As you can see, there are options for every taste. After all, Thailand is truly one of the ideal countries for a holiday.

Geographical location and population

The Kingdom of Thailand is a state in the central part of Southeast Asia, which is spread over two peninsulas: Indochina and Malacca. This country is washed by the Andaman Sea from the west and South China Sea from the east (Gulf of Thailand).

The area of ​​Thailand is 514,000 km2. The country borders Laos and Cambodia in the east, Malaysia in the south and Myanmar in the west. The Kingdom is divided into regions: Northern, Northeastern, Central, Eastern and Southeastern. The map of the country resembles the outline of an elephant, whose trunk is the south of the kingdom.

The population of the “Land of Smiles” is 65 million people. Most of them are ethnic Thai (80%), in addition, the main population includes Chinese, Lao, Khmer, Hindus and Malays. Official language in the kingdom - Thai, in addition to it, English, Japanese and Chinese languages. The calendar is Buddhist, ahead of the Gregorian by 543 years (2012 = 2555).

Cities of Thailand

Thailand is a country with a centuries-old history and developed culture. Cities of Thailand offer guests of the country a unique opportunity to get acquainted with beautiful examples of historical architecture, see stunning natural wonders, and also plunge into the colorful world of traditions of one of the most amazing countries South-East Asia.

Capital of Thailand - Bangkok city, located in the central part of the country, is one of the largest metropolitan areas in Asia. is a kind of gateway to the “Land of Smiles”, although it is landlocked, it is through it that most tourists enter Thailand. Here is also the largest collection of palaces, temples, parks, museums and other important attractions of Thailand.

Popular resort town Pattaya- the closest beach in Thailand to Bangkok. Although the coastal areas are built up with comfortable family hotels, the center of activity of the city, attracting the bulk of tourists, is the famous Walking Street, full of bars, discos and available women.

The capital of Northern Thailand is the city Chiang Mai surrounded by a chain of picturesque mountains and the glory of one of the most important spiritual and cultural centers of the country. The ancient Buddhist temples located here are revered as the greatest shrines far beyond the borders of the “Land of the Free”. The city has a developed infrastructure, which will allow you to combine sightseeing of natural and cultural attractions with a variety of entertainment and vibrant nightlife.

City Ayutthaya, located 100 km from, was the predecessor current capital Thailand. Destroyed during the invasion of Burmese troops more than 250 years ago, it remains today the most important monument of the history and culture of Thailand.

Other large cities: Samut Prakan (390 thousand inhabitants), Surat Thani (130 thousand inhabitants) and Khon Kaen (121 thousand inhabitants). The cities where the country's main resorts are located are easily accessible and can amaze visitors with an unusually high level of service.

Resorts of Thailand

The main thing that makes holidays in Thailand attractive for most people is the sea, sand and tropical nature. Numerous resorts in Thailand, located on the islands and on the mainland, provide excellent conditions for a beach holiday and a varied range of related entertainment.

Phuket Island

Thailand's main and most prestigious beach resort is located in the Andaman Sea, near southwest coast countries. Holidays in Phuket will allow you to combine the enjoyment of untouched tropical nature with an extremely rich program of excursions and evening leisure activities.

The center of tourist activity on the island is the main beach -. The largest number of hotels and entertainment venues are concentrated on Patong Beach, and the infamous street is also located here.

Koh Samui

The second most popular (after Phuket) island resort in Thailand. Picturesque lovers come to Koh Samui to relax tropical nature, privacy and comfort.

Koh Phangan Island

A small island located next to Koh Samui has long been loved by fans of modern music and reckless nightlife. It is at this resort in Thailand that the famous beach raves are regularly held, in which people from all over the world come to participate.

Koh Chang Island

(“Elephant Island”), located at the southeastern tip of the Gulf of Thailand, has long been a favorite vacation spot for representatives of the reigning dynasty and the Thai aristocracy. Today this protected tropical resort, lost in the azure waters of the sea, is one of best places for a secluded holiday and exploring the nature of Thailand.

Krabi Province

Krabi province is located on the mainland, 170 km east of Phuket. In Krabi there are such popular resorts Thailand, like , became the location for the filming of the Hollywood blockbuster “The Beach”. Also famous for its unique karst caves and numerous nature reserves.

Hua Hin

A small city located 200 km from Bangkok, considered one of the most prestigious beach resorts Thailand. There are practically no noisy night entertainments here, so the beach Hua Hin It is considered an ideal place for families with children and for older tourists.

Which resort in Thailand should you choose?

Beach and excursion holiday: Pattaya, Phuket, Samui, Krabi province.

Excursions only: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya.

Vacation with children: Bangkok, Phuket, Samui, Hua Hin, Koh Chang.

Night life: Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Phangan.

• Holidays in Thailand during the rainy season (May-October) will allow you to save a little on the cost of staying at a hotel, but there is a high probability of spending the lion's share of the time hiding under the roof from the raging elements.
• Many popular Thailand attractions(temples, islands, parks) are cheaper and more interesting to explore yourself, having previously learned the route to them.
• Noisy Pattaya has fun day and night. If you are not inclined to active recreation and night fun, you should pay attention to a calmer Thailand resort.