South East Asian Trips

Central Thailand is the heart of the kingdom both geographically and administratively. The central region is made up of fertile flatlands providing Thailand with most of its agricultural produce. It is a place of natural beauty - of mountains, forests, waterfalls and rivers, yet it is also home to Bangkok - the seat of Thai government and some of the most important cultural and historical sites in the kingdom. The influence of key civilizations can be clearly seen in the central region - the Khmers established themselves here and the mighty Ayutthaya Empire certainly left its mark. As a result the region offers a diverse range of ancient art and architecture of national and international significance.

Central Region consists of 22 provinces(Changwats): Ang Thong, Bangkok, Chachoengsao, Chai Nat, Kanchanaburi, LopBuri, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Pathom, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Phetchaburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Prachinburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ratchaburi, Sakaeo, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram, Saraburi, Sing Buri and Suphan Buri, which are located in a fertile basin having most rice farming and regarded as a rice bowl of the country.

Central Region is a land of civilization originating from the pre-historic era and had been developing continuously till Ayutthaya and Ratanakosin periods. Besides being the country's most fertile land on rice growing, the central region is also famous for its tourist attraction places, which are lied prominently on natural resources and the historic ancient remains. Historical records indicate this area was an important Mon settlement during the Dvaravati Kingdom (6th -11th centuries) until they fell to the more powerful Khmer Empire (11th-13th centuries) from Cambodia. The Khmers established Lop Buri as their center and expanded their empire to be inclusive of Suphan Buri, Phetchaburi, and Singburi. In the mid-14th century, Ayutthaya rose to become a powerful empire and the second capital of Siam. Foreigners were welcomed and international trade and religion prospered. By the middle of the 16th century, Ayutthaya's control spread throughout the entire Central Plains.

Many interesting attractions lie in this region. In Bangkok you'll find it all, from famed palace grounds and temples to entertaining theme parks and cultural centers. The nearby provinces provide nice, one-day excursions, whether you choose to go to Ayutthaya to polish up on your Thai history or throw yourself at Pattaya for some fun and sun.

For the visitor, the central region experience is complete - Cha-am and Hua Hin are both beach locations within easy reach of Bangkok, while north of the capital Ayutthaya has every manner of cultural and historical site a visitor could wish to see. The region's National Parks meet every possible need of the adventurer or eco-tourist. A visit to this region is almost inevitable - make the most of it while you are here!