Ancient History
of Thailand:
Thailand, formerly known as Siam, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The region has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of early human settlements and ancient civilizations found throughout the country. Thailand's history is characterized by the influence of various indigenous kingdoms, including the Dvaravati, Srivijaya, and Khmer empires, which left behind magnificent temples, palaces, and monuments.
The most iconic symbol of Thailand's ancient history is the ancient city of Ayutthaya, founded in the 14th century and once one of the wealthiest cities in the world. Ayutthaya was a center of trade and commerce, attracting merchants from China, India, Persia, and Europe. The city was known for its grand palaces, towering pagodas, and intricate Buddha statues. However, in the 18th century, Ayutthaya was invaded and destroyed by the Burmese army, leading to the eventual rise of Bangkok as the capital of Thailand.
Thailand Tourist Places:
Famous Places
• Bangkok: The bustling capital city known for its vibrant street life, ornate temples like Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun, bustling markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market, and iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace.
• Chiang Mai: The cultural hub of northern Thailand known for its historic old city, ancient temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, and opportunities for trekking, elephant sanctuaries, and hill tribe visits.
• Phuket: Thailand's largest island known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife in Patong, water activities like snorkeling and diving at Phi Phi Islands, and cultural attractions like the Big Buddha and Old Phuket Town.
• Ayutthaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient ruins, including the Ayutthaya Historical Park, Wat Mahathat with its iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram.
• Sukhothai: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ruins of the ancient Sukhothai Kingdom, including Sukhothai Historical Park with its temples, Buddha statues, and ancient city walls.
Off-Beat Places
• Kanchanaburi: Known for its picturesque landscapes, historic sites like the Death Railway and the Bridge over the River Kwai, and opportunities for river rafting, elephant encounters, and exploring national parks.
• Pai: A charming town nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand known for its relaxed vibe, hot springs, waterfalls, and opportunities for trekking, motorbike rides, and exploring local markets.
• Khao Sok National Park: A hidden gem in southern Thailand known for its lush rainforests, limestone cliffs, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife, offering opportunities for jungle trekking, canoeing, and wildlife spotting.
• Koh Lanta: A serene island in the Andaman Sea known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring nearby islands like Koh Phi Phi.
Where to Go
• Bangkok: Explore the historic temples and palaces, take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, shop for souvenirs at floating markets, and indulge in street food and night markets.
• Chiang Mai: Visit the ancient temples in the old city, explore the vibrant night markets, learn traditional Thai cooking, and participate in meditation and yoga retreats.
• Phuket: Relax on the beaches of Patong, Kata, and Karon, go island hopping to Phi Phi Islands and James Bond Island, experience Thai boxing matches, and enjoy seafood at beachfront restaurants.
• Ayutthaya: Explore the ancient ruins by bicycle or tuk-tuk, visit the Ayutthaya Historical Park and museums, and take a boat cruise along the Chao Phraya River to see the temples from the water.
What to Eat
• Pad Thai: A famous Thai street food dish made with stir-fried rice noodles, eggs, tofu, shrimp or chicken, bean sprouts, peanuts, and chili flakes, seasoned with tamarind sauce and lime juice.
• Tom Yum Goong: A spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, mushrooms, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers, flavored with fish sauce and lime juice.
• Green Curry: A popular Thai curry made with green curry paste, coconut milk, chicken or tofu, eggplant, bamboo shoots, and Thai basil, served with steamed rice or noodles.
How to Reach
:
• By Air: Thailand has several international airports, including Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Phuket International Airport, and Chiang Mai International Airport, with direct flights from major cities around the world.
• By Train: Thailand's railway network connects major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Surat Thani, with scenic train journeys offering an alternative way to travel between destinations.
• By Bus: Thailand has an extensive network of buses and minibusses, with services connecting cities and towns across the country, offering a budget-friendly option for traveling.
What to Pack
• Light Clothing: Pack lightweight and breathable clothes suitable for the tropical climate of Thailand, including shorts, T-shirts, dresses, and swimwear.
• Sun Protection: Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun's harsh rays, especially when spending time outdoors.
• Insect Repellent: Thailand is known for mosquitoes, especially in rural areas and during the rainy season, so pack insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
Best Time to Visit
• Cool Season (November to February): The best time to visit Thailand, with pleasant weather, clear skies, and cooler temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Hot Season (March to May): Thailand experiences hot and humid weather during these months, with temperatures soaring above 30°C, making it ideal for beach vacations and water activities.
• Rainy Season (June to October): The rainy season brings heavy rainfall and occasional storms, but it's a great time to visit if you don't mind the rain and want to experience Thailand's lush green landscapes and fewer crowds.
Dos and Don'ts
• Dos: Respect the local culture and customs, dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites, and remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a place of worship.
• Don'ts: Don't disrespect the royal family or Buddha images, avoid public displays of affection, especially in rural areas, and refrain from touching people's heads, as it's considered disrespectful in Thai culture.
