Thailand General Information
Thailand is a country in the heart of Southeast Asia that shares borders
with Burma, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia. Thailand’s built history,
vibrant culture, delicious food and beautiful beaches make it one of the
most popular tourist destinations in the world. Thailand tour packages
include visits to incredible monuments, gorgeous beaches, lively cities
and elephant training facilities.
With a total area of approximately 513,000 km2 (198,000 sq mi), Thailand is the world's 50th-largest country. It is the 20th-most-populous country in the world, with around 69 million people. The Thai economy is the world's 20th largest by GDP at PPP and the 27th largest by nominal GDP. It became a newly industrialised country and a major exporter in the 1990s. Manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism are leading sectors of the economy. It is considered a middle power in the region and around the world.
Unlike nearby countries, Thailand has maintained a constitutional monarchy with Thai king, Rama IX, ruling since 1946. Compared to the rest of the region, Thailand’s politics have remained relatively stable throughout the 20th century, making it a great tourist destination since the 1960s.
The "Kingdom of Thailand" is the official English name of the country.
Date | Name | Thai Name | Notes |
1238–1438 | Kingdom of Sukhothai | อาณาจักรสุโขทัย | |
1351–1767 | Kingdom of Ayutthaya | อาณาจักรอยุธยา | |
1768–1782 | Kingdom of Thonburi | อาณาจักรธนบุรี | |
1782–1939 | Kingdom of Rattanakosin | อาณาจักรรัตนโกสินทร์ | known as "Siam" |
1939–1946 | Kingdom of Thailand | ราชอาณาจักรไทย | |
1946–1948 | Royal Kingdom of Siam | พระราชอาณาจักรสยาม | |
1948–present | Kingdom of Thailand | ราชอาณาจักรไทย |