Why visit
Thailand spans Bangkok's temples and street food, Chiang Mai's markets and mountain trekking, and a constellation of islands. Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, Koh Lanta. Suited to both resort and backpacker travel.
Country · Asia
Thailand
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At a glance
Location
15.0°, 100.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
513,120 km²
198,117 mi²
Country population
71.7 million
140/km²
Subregion
South-Eastern Asia
Currency
Thai baht (฿)
THB
Dial
+66
Language
Thai
Demonym
Thai
Internet
.th
UN
Member state
ISO code
TH / THA
Where in the world
15.0° · 100.0°
Thailand
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Did you know
- Thailand was never colonized by a European power: one of only a handful of Asian countries with this distinction.
- The official capital name is the longest city name in the world: Krungthepmahanakhon... (listed in the Guinness Book).
- Red Bull was invented in Thailand (originally called Krating Daeng).
Bordering Thailand
Traveler notes
- Visa-exempt for most for 30–60 days
- Bangkok → Chiang Mai → Krabi is the two-week classic
- Low season (May–Oct) has fewer crowds and lower prices
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Bangkok, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Verify swim safety, ocean conditions, and water-quality reports by month.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
Signature travel cities in Thailand
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is northern Thailand's cultural capital. 300+ temples, Sunday Walking Street, ethical elephant sanctuaries, and the hill tribes of Mae Hong Son.
Phuket
Phuket is Thailand's largest island. Phi Phi and James Bond island day-trips, Patong's nightlife, quieter Kata and Kamala beaches, and Old Phuket Town's Sino-Portuguese architecture.
Krabi
Krabi is Andaman limestone cliffs. Railay beach accessible only by boat, Ao Nang's base, Hong Islands, and the jungle interior at Khao Phanom Bencha.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Thailand
What is the capital of Thailand?
Bangkok is the capital of Thailand.
What currency does Thailand use?
Thailand uses the Thai baht (฿), ISO code THB.
What languages are spoken in Thailand?
The primary language is Thai.
Is Thailand landlocked?
No, Thailand has a coastline.
What countries border Thailand?
Thailand borders Myanmar (Burma), Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia.
What is the international calling code for Thailand?
The calling code is +66.
When is the best time to visit Thailand?
Nov–Mar. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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