Bangkok

Bangkok is the capital city and administrative region of Thailand, a metropolitan area of over 10 million people stretching along the Chao Phraya River, connecting historic temple complexes and palaces with modern skyscrapers. A network of canals threads through older neighborhoods, while street markets thrive between high-rises.

King Rama I established the new capital on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya in 1782 after Ayutthaya fell to Burmese armies. The settlement grew rapidly under the Chakri dynasty and opened to Western influence through modernization reforms in the late 1800s.

The city unites political, economic and religious institutions of Thailand, serving as home to the royal family and more than 400 Buddhist temples that shape daily life for residents while drawing pilgrims from across Southeast Asia.

Two international airports serve the metropolitan area, with Suvarnabhumi being the larger hub. The Skytrain and subway network connects central districts, while express boats on the river provide an alternative to road traffic. The dry season from November through February brings cooler temperatures and less rainfall for sightseeing.

The full ceremonial name of the capital contains 169 characters and holds the record as the longest place name in the world, though locals shorten it to Krung Thep or City of Angels. The international name derives from the earlier village name Bang Makok, meaning plum village.

Location: Thailand

Inception: April 21, 1782

Founders: Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke

Elevation above the sea: 2 m

Shares border with: Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Pathum Thani, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, Chachoengsao

Address: Bangkok, Thailand

Website: http://bangkok.go.th

GPS coordinates: 13.75000,100.51667

Latest update: December 2, 2025 19:54