Thailand, the Land of Smiles, is a destination that’s constantly on the radar of travelers worldwide. From its stunning beaches to its rich cultural heritage, Thailand never fails to captivate the imagination of anyone who’s been there – or dreams of going.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most interesting and lesser-known facts about Thailand that make it a truly unique place to visit. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find something new and intriguing here.
20 Fascinating Facts About Thailand
1. 60 Million Tourists Annually
Thailand is a top travel destination, attracting a whopping 60 million visitors every year! That’s right, 60 million people flock to the Land of Smiles annually.
Around 30% of these tourists come from China, with the rest mostly coming from Russia, the UK, Australia, and the United States. Impressively, 60% of these visitors return for a second, third, or even fourth visit. In fact, we’ve visited Thailand over five times and just can’t get enough!
From cultural tourism to food tours and Muay Thai boxing, the diverse range of attractions keeps people coming back. Projections show that by 2032, Thailand will welcome over 100 million visitors annually.
2. The World’s Smallest Mammal
Thailand is home to the Bumblebee Bat, the world’s smallest mammal. These tiny creatures are no bigger than a large bumblebee and have a pig-like nose, big ears, and tiny eyes. Endangered, they live in limestone caves in western Thailand and Myanmar and are known for feeding on insects like spiders. Sadly, their biggest predators include humans, cats, birds, and even snakes.
And while you’re exploring Thailand’s rich wildlife, make sure to check out the stunning islands in Satun province, such as Ko Lipe. You can find great stays at ko adang hotels, which offer you a fantastic base to explore these pristine locations.
3. Mudskippers: Nature’s Amphibians
Thailand is also home to the fascinating Mudskipper, a fish that’s fully amphibious! You can spot these creatures around the mudflats of Krabi, where they come ashore to bask.
Mudskippers breathe through their skin, and their incredible ability to live both in water and on land makes them essential to the survival of mangrove ecosystems. They’re just one of the many unique species that thrive in Thailand’s diverse habitats.
4. A Diverse Population
Thailand’s population, according to Worldometers, is currently around 69 million. The majority, 74%, are Thai, followed by 14% Chinese, and 11% from other ethnic groups.
This mix of cultures contributes to Thailand’s rich traditions, festivals, and cuisine, making it a melting pot of influences from around the world.
5. Orchid Exports: A Floral Powerhouse
Thailand is one of the leading exporters of orchids, with over 1,500 species being exported worldwide. The country’s tropical and semi-tropical rainforests provide the perfect environment for orchids to thrive.
These beautiful flowers are so abundant in Thailand that you’ll see them in virtually every garden, cafe, and hotel you visit. The top export destinations are China, Japan, and the USA.
6. A Country Of Islands
Thailand is home to 1,430 islands, each offering its own unique charm. Whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, serene beaches, or world-class diving, there’s an island for everyone.
For example, Koh Lanta is perfect for peaceful sunsets, Koh Phi Phi is famous for its stunning beaches, and Koh Tao is a diver’s paradise. If you’re looking for an unforgettable island getaway, check out some of the best places like Ko Adang.
7. Thailand’s Elephant Legacy
Once home to 100,000 wild elephants, Thailand now has about 4,000 elephants left. Due to the ban on logging in the 1960s, elephants were no longer used for work and transitioned into becoming key players in the tourism industry.
However, the treatment of elephants in many tourist attractions has sparked concern. Many mahouts (elephant trainers) use harsh methods to train these majestic animals.
For a more humane experience, consider visiting places like the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, where elephants roam freely and are treated with care.
8. The Land Of Smiles
Thailand is known worldwide for its hospitality, earning it the affectionate title of “The Land of Smiles.” Thai people are known for their warmth and kindness, with a genuine smile always ready to greet you.
It’s said that the Thai philosophy is simple: it’s just easier to smile! So, smile back, and let the cheerful atmosphere of Thailand wash over you.
9. From Siam To Thailand
Did you know that Thailand wasn’t always called Thailand? Before 1939, it was known as Siam, a name that came from the ancient Sanskrit word for the country.
After a period of political change, the government decided to officially change the name to The Kingdom of Thailand. The name briefly reverted back to Siam during the 1940s before Thailand became the title that stuck.
10. The Flag’s Secret Design
The Thai flag is designed in such a way that it can never be flown upside-down. This was a measure taken after the King noticed the flag being flown incorrectly during a flood.
The red in the flag symbolizes the blood of life, the white represents purity in the Buddhist faith, and the blue represents the monarchy.
11. Thailand Was Never Colonized
Unlike its Southeast Asian neighbors, Thailand managed to avoid colonization by European powers.
While countries like Vietnam and Malaysia were overtaken by the French and British, Thailand skillfully navigated negotiations, ceding some territories to Britain and using clever alliances to maintain its sovereignty.
12. Clever Alliances During WWII
During World War II, Thailand remained independent by aligning itself with Japan. After the war, the country turned to the United States for support during the Vietnam War, ensuring it avoided direct conflict during those turbulent times.
13. UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Thailand is home to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include the ancient cities of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, both of which offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history.
Other notable sites include the Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary and Ban Chiang, one of Southeast Asia’s most significant archaeological sites.
14. Thai Cuisine Worldwide
To spread the delicious tastes of Thailand, the Thai government funds Thai nationals to open restaurants abroad.
This initiative has led to the proliferation of Thai eateries around the globe, so you can find authentic Pad Thai and Tom Yum in cities all over the world!
15. The National Anthem Is Sacred
In Thailand, the National Anthem is played daily at 8 AM and 6 PM, and it’s considered disrespectful to remain seated when it’s being played.
It’s not just a patriotic gesture – it’s also broadcast at public events like sporting matches and even before movies in theaters.
16. A Rite Of Passage For Thai Men
It’s a tradition for all Thai men to become Buddhist monks for at least three months at some point in their lives. While this practice is no longer mandatory, it’s still seen as an important spiritual journey for many young men.
The monks in cities tend to focus on studying Buddhist scriptures, while those in rural areas often engage more in meditation.
17. Bangkok’s Real Name
You probably know Thailand’s capital as Bangkok, but did you know that its real name is the longest place name in the world?
Officially called Krung Thep Mahanakhon, it translates roughly to “The city of angels, the great city, the residence of the Emerald Buddha…”
18. Bangkok: The World’s Most Visited City
With 21.98 million international visitors each year, Bangkok holds the title of the most visited city in the world! It’s no surprise, given the city’s vibrant street food culture, iconic temples, and lively markets.
19. Bangkok: The Hottest City
Bangkok also holds the title of the world’s hottest city, with temperatures that remain high throughout the year. While other cities might experience extreme highs and lows, Bangkok is consistently hot, day and night.
20. Songkran: The World’s Largest Water Fight
Every year in mid-April, Thailand celebrates Songkran, the Thai New Year, with the world’s biggest water fight.
Armed with super soakers, buckets, and barrels, locals and tourists alike flood the streets in a massive, playful water battle to ring in the new year. Be sure to pack waterproof gear – and maybe some goggles!
Thanks for stopping by!
Magda
xoxo