Amazing Thailand

Natural History, April, 2001 by Stephanie Fekety

The beauty of nature and the treasures of an ancient culture

THROUGHOUT 700 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE, THE THAI kingdom has displayed an amazing continuity, underpinned by the people's adherence to Buddhism and the monarchy. Thailand contains a wealth architecture, culture, cuisine, and traditions that are at once diverse and yet distinctly Thai. Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand has something for everyone. Geographically, Thailand is divided into four regions, and the landscape varies in each. The Central Plains, which include Bangkok, are flat and fertile. Forested mountains mark the north, while the high plateau of the northeast is relatively dry. The southern peninsula, flanked by the Gulf of Thailand to the east and the Andaman Sea to the west, has beaches and wetlands on either side of its lush central mountain range.

Daily direct flights from the United States fly into Bangkok, known as the City of Angels. The nation's capital since 1782, Bangkok is both a gateway and a principal destination for most travelers. When you fly into this huge city of approximately 10 million people, you'll be struck by the towering high-rise buildings. But once on the ground, the hidden treasures of this wondrous city are revealed. Among the small alleyways that run off the major thoroughfares and the maze of canals that criss-cross the city, Bangkok presents you with a way of life like you've never experienced. Don't miss the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok's most impressive monument. And wake up at dawn one morning to get a glimpse of saffron-robed monks as they make their early morning alms rounds through the city.

Located on the lower edge of the northern region, some 427 kilometers from Bangkok, is the site of Sukhothai. Founded in the early fifteenth century, Sukhothai was Thailand's first capital. Numerous ruined temples of what was once a large and glorious city are today conserved in Sukhothai Historical Park, an UNESCO designated World Heritage Site. Not far from Sukhothai are the remains of its satellite towns, Si Satchanalai and Kamphaeng Phet. Both have monuments dating from the Sukhothai era, which help complete your understanding of this vital age in Thai history. A good base for exploring Sukhothai is the town of Phitsanulok, 55 kilometers to the east. It is served by regular flights from both Chiang Mai and Bangkok.

Farther north is a region of teak forests and jungle-covered peaks. Chiang Mai is a top destination with its lush forested-mountain landscape, fascinating high-altitude flora and fauna, and various ethnic hill tribes. Chiang Mai is a perfect base from which to explore the hill country of the north. Venture into the remote villages of the hill people by elephant to witness this dramatically beautiful region. Chiang Mai is also known for its handicrafts. Silverware, woodcarving, celadon pottery, lacquerware and paper umbrellas make this city a shopping experience not to be missed.