The Central Region of Thailand map is considered the heart of Thailand economy, education and administration. Beside the capital city ‘Bangkok’, which is a special administrative region, there are other central provinces that play important roles for cultural, industrial, religious, tourism and agricultural aspects, including Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Samut Prakarn, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Sukhothai, etc. The West is well known for its mountainous geography, mythical rivers and history in Kanchanaburi and rich nature in Ratchaburi and Tak provinces, while Petchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan are famous for their beach towns and wide ocean. The East has been well recognized for its seaside attractions in Chonburi, Rayong, Chantaburi and Trat provinces, while the country’s key industrial estates are situated in Chachoengsao and Prachinburi. Sakaeo Province in the East is also a destination widely known for its historical site, natural attractions and as a connecting point to Cambodia.
Northern Region is a combination of high terrain and valley. As the origin of Thailand’s major rivers, plus the lush greenery and natural resources, the North is considered the country’s distinct agricultural areas with temperate fruits and vegetable produced during chilly months, as well as natural attractions that attract people from around the world. Unique culture call Lanna, cultural scene, local cuisine, folk art and history are also key factors contributing to the charm of northern Thailand. Main provinces include Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, Lampang, Lampoon, Nan, Phrae, etc.
The Northeastern comprises 20 provinces, accounting for one-third of the country’s land area. Even with extremely large area, soil fertility in the northeastern provinces is not suitable for agriculture, in which can be worsened with persistent droughts. In order to tackle poor agriculture, residents make a living with other occupations, i.e. manufacturing silk, growing herbs, etc. Nowadays, main cities are rapidly growing and transforming into the hub of technology and education. These include Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani and Udon Ratchathani, Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), particularly investment projects from IT corporations and education institutions could be seen pouring in. Apart from these fast growing provinces, other provinces are known for natural attractions, thanks to vast mountain ranges and high terrain. Lao PDR and Cambodia are neighbors of the Northeastern whereby entry can be made at ease by land.
Totally a unique region, the South is different from other regions in terms of geography, climate and natural resources. Southern Thailand is the combination of mountains, islands and flatlands, all tucking amidst a tropical rain forest climate. People are the mixture of Thai, Chinese and Muslim, having Buddhist and Islam as main religions. The South is hence a melting pot of local culture, cuisine, art and entertainment that are uniquely blended. Main southern provinces include Surat Thani, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, Phang Nga, Songkhla, etc. Apart from being home to the world’s most stunning islands, such as Samui, Pha-Ngan, Phi Phi, Similan, etc., the South also serves as the only land entry in Asia to Malaysia and Singapore.
