Bangkok

Bangkok
source
Name	Bangkok
Native name	กรุงเทพมหานคร
Settlement type	Special administrative area
Coordinates	13, 45, N, 100...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Thailand
Established title	Founded as capital
Established date	21 April 1782
Founder	Rama I
Government type	Special administrative area
Governing body	Bangkok Metropolitan Administration
Leader title	Governor
Leader name	Chadchart Sittipunt
Area total km2	1568.737
Population total	10,539,415
Population as of	2023
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	ICT
Utc offset	+7
Postal code type	Postal code
Postal code	10###
Area code	02
Website	https://www.bangkok.go.th/

Bangkok is the capital and most populous city of Thailand, officially known in Thai as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon. Situated on the Chao Phraya River delta in the central plains, it serves as the nation's political, economic, cultural, and transportation hub. The city is renowned for its vibrant street life, ornate temples, and dynamic contrast between traditional sites and modern skyscrapers, drawing millions of international visitors annually.

History

The area was originally a small trading post during the Ayutthaya Kingdom. After the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767 to the Konbaung dynasty of Burma, General Taksin established a new capital at Thonburi on the river's west bank. In 1782, King Rama I, founder of the Chakri dynasty, moved the capital across the river to the village of Bang Kok, constructing the Grand Palace and the Wat Phra Kaew to house the Emerald Buddha. The city was fortified with canals and walls, forming the Rattanakosin Kingdom. It modernized significantly under kings Mongkut (Rama IV) and Chulalongkorn (Rama V), who introduced railways and avoided colonization by European powers. Bangkok grew rapidly in the 20th century, becoming central to Thailand's role in World War II and experiencing political upheavals like the 1973 Thai popular uprising and the 2010 Thai political protests.

Geography and climate

Bangkok spans 1,568 square kilometers on the flat alluvial plain of the Chao Phraya River, approximately 25 kilometers north of the Gulf of Thailand. An extensive network of canals historically earned it the nickname "Venice of the East." The city's topography makes it prone to monsoon flooding, notably during the 2011 Thailand floods. It features a tropical savanna climate under the Köppen climate classification, with three distinct seasons: a hot season from March to June, a rainy season influenced by the southwest monsoon from July to October, and a cool, dry season from November to February. Urbanization has contributed to the urban heat island effect.

Government and politics

Bangkok is a special administrative area, with the same status as a province, governed by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). The BMA is led by an elected Governor of Bangkok, currently Chadchart Sittipunt, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Council. The city is also the seat of Thailand's national government, housing key institutions like the Government House, the National Assembly at the Sappaya-Sapasathan, and the Constitutional Court. It is a focal point for national political movements, with major protests often centered at locations such as the Ratchaprasong intersection and Sanam Luang.

Economy

Bangkok is the economic center of Thailand and a major financial hub in Southeast Asia. The city's Stock Exchange of Thailand is headquartered in the Bang Rak district. Key economic sectors include tourism, manufacturing of electronics and automobiles, textiles, and services. Major commercial districts include Silom, Sukhumvit, and Siam Square. The city is a regional headquarters for multinational corporations like Toyota, Sony, and Unilever, and hosts the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).

Demographics and culture

With over 10 million registered residents, Bangkok is a densely populated, cosmopolitan metropolis. The majority are ethnic Thai, with significant communities of Chinese, along with expatriates from Japan, India, and Western nations. The city is the epicenter of Thai culture, known for its classical dance, Muay Thai boxing, and cuisine ranging from street food to high-end restaurants. Major cultural events include Loy Krathong and Songkran. Institutions like the National Museum, National Theatre, and Bangkok Art and Culture Centre are key cultural venues.

Transport

Bangkok's transport network is extensive but often congested. The city is served by two international airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport. Its BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems are major rapid transit networks. An extensive network of buses, songthaews, and river ferries on the Chao Phraya River provide public transport. The city is also a central node for the State Railway of Thailand's national rail network, with Hua Lamphong Railway Station being a historic terminal.

Landmarks and tourism

Bangkok is a premier global tourist destination, famed for its historic and religious sites. The Grand Palace and adjacent Wat Phra Kaew are paramount, alongside other significant temples like Wat Arun and Wat Pho, which houses a massive Reclining Buddha. Major shopping areas include Chatuchak Weekend Market and luxury malls like Siam Paragon and IconSiam. Other notable landmarks are the Jim Thompson House, the Golden Mount, the modern MahaNakhon skyscraper, and entertainment districts such as Khaosan Road and Patpong.

Category:Capitals in Asia Category:Populated places established in 1782 Category:Special administrative areas of Thailand