Thailand cities list with latitude and longitude in CSV,SQL,XML,JSON formats
Last update : 15 January 2025.
This is the best list of 84894 cities in the Thailand available in 4 formats ( CSV, Json, SQL, XML ). We have cleaned up the Geoname database to leave only the towns, capitals and villages. All are all associated with regions and sub-regions (where available).
Each file contains the following data: Geoname_ID, City, Alternate_Name, Country_Code, Region, Sub_region, Latitude, Longitude, Elevation, Population, Timezone, Fcode_Name. See the FAQ below for a detailed explanation.
Here is an example of the data from the Thailand file that you are going to retrieve. The data is displayed here in the form of a table:
Geoname_ID | City | Alternate_Name | Country_Code | Region | Sub_region | Latitude | Longitude | Elevation | Population | Timezone | Fcode_Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
7918550 | Ban Lao | Ban Lao,ban hela,บ้านเหล่า | TH | Sakon Nakhon | 17.08244 | 104.05594 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7013491 | Ban Tue La Kho Ba Ta | Ban Tue La Kho Ba Ta,ban tux lakh xbata,บ้านตือลาฆอบาต๊ะ | TH | Yala | 6.45222 | 101.27553 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1154817 | Ban Saen To | Ban Saen Ta,Ban Saen To,Ban San To,Ban Sean Ta,Bān Sean Ta,ban sæn tx,บ้านแสนตอ | TH | Sukhothai | 17.41042 | 99.74889 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7886939 | Ban Tin Wat | Ban Tin Wat,ban tin wad,บ้านตีนวัด | TH | Songkhla | 7.341 | 100.43414 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8242391 | Ban Ko Sut | Ban Ko Sut,ban keaa sud,บ้านเกาะสุด | TH | Nakhon Si Thammarat | 7.99973 | 100.24116 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
9004221 | Ban Nong Waeng Nang Bao | Ban Nong Waeng Nang Bao,ban hnxng wæng nang bea,บ้านหนองแวงนางเบ้า | TH | Khon Kaen | 15.89597 | 102.60353 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1155800 | Ban Nong Khon | Ban Nong Khon,Ban Nong Khon (2),ban hnxng khxn,บ้านหนองขอน | TH | Trang | 7.38064 | 99.75842 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8387006 | Ban Map Phai | Ban Map Phai,ban mab phi,บ้านมาบไผ่ | TH | Kamphaeng Phet | 16.21386 | 99.89164 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7452752 | Ban Nai Thong | Ban Nai Thong,ban nay thxng,บ้านนายทอง | TH | Tak | 17.57977 | 97.95908 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1602682 | Ban Khlong Huai Na | Ban Khlong Huai Na,ban khlxng hwy na,บ้านคลองห้วยนา | TH | Phetchabun | 16.14153 | 100.87222 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8453918 | Muban Phrueksa Kan | Muban Phrueksa Kan,hmuban phvksʹa kay cn,หมู่บ้านพฤกษากาญจน์ | TH | Kanchanaburi | 14.05261 | 99.49458 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1603865 | Ban Dong Dan | Ban Dong Dan,Ban Dong Tan,ban dng dal,บ้านดงดาล | TH | Nong Khai | 18.22531 | 103.24628 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7622238 | Ban Noen Sawan | Ban Noen Sawan,ban nein swrrkh,บ้านเนินสวรรค์ | TH | Kanchanaburi | 14.7585 | 98.46839 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8219086 | Ban Huai Bon | Ban Huai Bon,ban hwy bxn,บ้านห้วยบอน | TH | Lamphun | 18.30111 | 98.92714 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1158303 | Ban Bang Krak Nai | Ban Bang Klak Nai,Ban Bang Krak Nai,Ban Klat Nai,บ้านบางกรักใน | TH | Phang Nga | 8.86425 | 98.39067 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8371979 | Ban Rahat | Ban Rahat,ban rahad,บ้านระหัด | TH | Chaiyaphum | 16.29486 | 101.96239 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1617787 | Ban Don Yai Hom | Ban Don Yai Hom,Ban Khok Yai Hom (1),Kok Ya Hom,ban dxn yay hxm,บ้านดอนยายหอม | TH | Nakhon Pathom | 13.72879 | 100.0775 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8208579 | Ban Khlong Chai Thong | Ban Khlong Chai Thong,ban khlxng chaythng,บ้านคลองชายธง | TH | Prachuap Khiri Khan | 11.98175 | 99.83122 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1614764 | Ban Ok Nak | Ban Ok Nak,ban xk hnak,บ้านอกหนัก | TH | Chanthaburi | 12.66506 | 102.22253 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1620477 | Ban Bua | Ban Bua,banbaw,บ้านบัว | TH | Buriram | 14.95033 | 103.05064 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7618537 | Ban Fao Rai | Ban Fao Rai,ban fea ri,บ้านเฝ้าไร่ | TH | Tak | 16.0305 | 98.88881 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1154260 | Ban Su-ngai Mu So | Ban Su-ngai Mu So,Ban Thung Mu Cho,Ban Thung Muso,Ban Thung Musoh,ban su hi ngmu soa,บ้านสุไหงมูโซ๊ะ | TH | Satun | 6.95761 | 99.71628 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8705367 | Ban Khwao Noi | Ban Khwao Noi,ban khwaw nxy,บ้านขวาวน้อย | TH | Surin | 15.05472 | 103.53756 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7677373 | Ban Nong Na Saeng | Ban Nong Na Saeng,บ้านหนองนาแซง | TH | Sakon Nakhon | 17.57183 | 103.71178 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1597882 | Ban Tha Champa | TH | 17.53333 | 104.51667 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||||
1620959 | Ban Ang | Ban Ang,ban xang,บ้านอ่าง | TH | Rayong | 12.65389 | 101.62083 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8535456 | Ban Tha Wang Khaen | Ban Tha Wang Khaen,ban tha wang khæn,บ้านท่าวังแคน | TH | Loei | 17.60099 | 101.75661 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8229272 | Ban Rai Yai | Ban Rai Yai,บ้านไร่ใหญ่ | TH | Trang | 7.92369 | 99.59653 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
9104039 | Ban Dong Kheng | Ban Dong Kheng,ban dng kheng,บ้านดงเค็ง | TH | Nakhon Ratchasima | 14.95722 | 101.49261 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8136175 | Ban Charoen Sing | Ban Charoen Sing,ban ceriy singh,บ้านเจริญสิงห์ | TH | Uttaradit | 17.793 | 100.34914 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8702563 | Ban Tawan Khum Tai | Ban Tawan Khum Tai,ban tawan khum tı,บ้านตะวันคุ้มใต้ | TH | Surin | 14.87225 | 103.55272 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7466961 | Ban Khlong Kruat | Ban Khlong Kruat,ban khlxng krwd,บ้านคลองกรวด | TH | Satun | 6.8555 | 100.04353 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1616031 | Ban Ngong | Ban Ngong,ban ngong,บ้านโง้ง | TH | Si Sa Ket | 15.28861 | 104.21297 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7581088 | Ban Thi Ka Poe | Ban Thi Ka Poe,ban thi ka pex,บ้านทีกะเป่อ | TH | Tak | 16.52747 | 98.68831 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8233464 | Ban Hin Phao | Ban Hin Phao,ban hin phea,บ้านหินเภา | TH | Chumphon | 10.72525 | 98.97439 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1599435 | Ban Non Simma | TH | 16.98333 | 102.91667 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||||
1603883 | Ban Dong Rabom | TH | Chachoengsao | 13.73333 | 101.5 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | |||
1616792 | Ban Sadao En | Ban Mai Sadao,Ban Mai Sadao En,Ban Sadao En,ban sadea xen,บ้านสะเดาเอน | TH | Nakhon Ratchasima | 15.07272 | 102.26064 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8323586 | Ban Soi Sip | Ban Soi Sip,ban sxy sib,บ้านซอยสิบ | TH | Surat Thani | 8.97761 | 99.38483 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1598702 | Ban Pun | Ban Pun,ban pun,บ้านปูน | TH | Si Sa Ket | 14.73392 | 104.42522 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8203987 | Ban Nok Thung | Ban Nok Thung,ban nxk thung,บ้านนอกทุ่ง | TH | Phatthalung | 7.60228 | 100.15583 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8565691 | Ban Yang Sam Ton | Ban Yang Sam Ton,ban yang sam tn,บ้านยางสามต้น | TH | Phetchabun | 15.51706 | 100.98206 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8451047 | Ban Nong Nu | Ban Nong Nu,ban hnxng hnu,บ้านหนองหนู | TH | Phichit | 16.39928 | 100.37472 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8370211 | Ban Hin Lat | Ban Hin Lat,ban hin lad,บ้านหินลาด | TH | Chaiyaphum | 16.33867 | 102.37836 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1618899 | Ban Huai Su | Ban Huai,Ban Huai Su,ban hwy su,บ้านห้วยสุ | TH | Ubon Ratchathani | 15.85825 | 105.29064 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7420556 | Ban San Mana | Ban San Mana,ban san ma na,บ้านสันมะนะ | TH | Chiang Rai | 19.85922 | 99.77783 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8345444 | Ban Yang Nuea | Ban Yang Nuea,ban yang henux,บ้านยางเหนือ | TH | Nakhon Sawan | 15.8915 | 100.02006 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7463135 | Ban Kue Leng Tok | Ban Kue Leng Tok,ba nkux leng tk,บ้านกือเล็งตก | TH | Narathiwat | 6.40525 | 101.54656 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1117258 | Ban Tun | TH | Nakhon Si Thammarat | 8.05 | 99.96667 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | |||
8267892 | Ban Don Mun | Ban Don Mun,ban dxn mul,บ้านดอนมูล | TH | Lampang | 18.056 | 99.24853 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1155835 | Ban Nong Khai Kai | Ban Hnong Khie Kie,Ban Nong Khai Kai | TH | Kanchanaburi | 14.55 | 99.46667 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8567295 | Ban Nong Samrong | Ban Nong Samrong,ban hnxng sarong,บ้านหนองสำโรง | TH | Phetchabun | 15.56364 | 100.82028 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1615698 | Ban Nong Hua Taek | TH | Buriram | 14.88333 | 103.1 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | |||
8324566 | Ban Don Fueang | Ban Don Fueang,ban dxn feuxng,บ้านดอนเฟือง | TH | Surat Thani | 9.59283 | 99.16586 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8666080 | Ban Pho Suwan | Ban Pho Suwan,banphothi su wrrn,บ้านโพธิ์สุวรรณ์ | TH | Suphanburi | 14.702 | 99.99294 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7749277 | Ban Bo Kham | Ban Bo Kham,ban bx kha,บ้านบ่อคำ | TH | Udon Thani | 17.41383 | 103.02561 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8534515 | Ban Khlong Pak Bo Yai | Ban Khlong Pak Bo Yai,ban khlxng pakbx hıy,บ้านคลองปากบ่อใหญ่ | TH | Samut Sakhon | 13.56108 | 100.19503 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1602765 | Ban Khanun | Ban Khanun,ban khnun,บ้านขนุน | TH | Surin | 14.65347 | 103.97478 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8564852 | Ban Khok Mon | Ban Khok Mon,ban khok mn,บ้านโคกมน | TH | Phetchabun | 16.67008 | 101.3225 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1157003 | Ban Khok Khae | TH | Krabi | 8.25 | 99.26667 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | |||
7463476 | Ban Pa Ti | Ban Pa Ti,ban pati,บ้านปาตี | TH | Narathiwat | 6.381 | 101.51569 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7099797 | Ban Khlong Chorakhe | Ban Khlong Chorakhe,ban khlxng crakhe,บ้านคลองจระเข้ | TH | Samut Prakan | 13.68125 | 100.803 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7788960 | Ban San Phatthana | Ban San Phatthana,บ้านสันพัฒนา | TH | Chiang Mai | 18.52078 | 98.43344 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1611641 | Ban Sam Waeng | Ban Sam Waeng,Ban Samraeng,Bau Sam Waeng,ban sam wæng,บ้านสามแวง | TH | Buriram | 15.01285 | 103.20006 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1616280 | Ban Nam Mi Noi | Ban Nam Mi,Ban Nam Mi Noi,Nam Mi,ban na hmi nxy,บ้านน้ำหมีน้อย | TH | Uttaradit | 17.55372 | 100.45006 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7876523 | Ban Na Sila | Ban Na Sila,banna sila,บ้านนาศิลา | TH | Si Sa Ket | 14.54183 | 104.20639 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1612068 | Ban Krok Yai Cha | Ban Krok Yai Cha,Ban Trok Yai Cha,ban krxk yay cha,บ้านกรอกยายชา | TH | Rayong | 12.67778 | 101.19972 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7784394 | Ban Sahakon | Ban Sahakon,ban shkrn,บ้านสหกรณ์ | TH | Chiang Mai | 19.44075 | 98.94914 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7096088 | Ban Khlong Rang | Ban Khlong Rang,ban khlxng h rang,บ้านคลองหรัง | TH | Songkhla | 6.94881 | 100.58195 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1599497 | Ban Non Pho | Ban Non Pho,ban non phothi,บ้านโนนโพธิ์ | TH | Surin | 15.22767 | 103.44886 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8397429 | Ban I Toeng | Ban I Toeng,ban xi teing,บ้านอีเติ่ง | TH | Uthai Thani | 15.42669 | 100.05689 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
6866412 | Muban Bua Thong | Muban Bua Thong,hmuban baw thxng,หมู่บ้านบัวทอง | TH | Nonthaburi | 13.89728 | 100.3855 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8242270 | Ban Na Phru | Ban Na Phru,banna phru,บ้านนาพรุ | TH | Nakhon Si Thammarat | 8.28883 | 100.11144 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1602920 | Ban Kham | Ban Kham,ban kham,บ้านขาม | TH | Sakon Nakhon | 17.37758 | 103.32833 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8326385 | Ban Si Chai Khram | Ban Si Chai Khram,ban sri chiy khram,บ้านศรีไชยคราม | TH | Surat Thani | 9.19253 | 99.639 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7508130 | Ban Hua Takhe | Ban Hua Takhe,ban haw takhe,บ้านหัวตะเข้ | TH | Samut Sakhon | 13.55672 | 100.15711 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8733526 | Ban Tha Sa-at | Ban Tha Sa-at,ban tha saxad,บ้านท่าสะอาด | TH | Maha Sarakham | 15.99564 | 103.41597 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1941290 | Ban Ai Cha Bae | Ban Ai Cha Bae,Ban Al Cha Bae,บ้านไอร์จาแบ | TH | Narathiwat | 6.29147 | 101.43839 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8703982 | Ban Sakia | Ban Sakia,ban sa keiy,บ้านสะเกีย | TH | Surin | 14.57356 | 103.60208 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1602396 | Ban Nong Waeng | Ban Khok Nong Waeng,Ban Nong Waeng,บ้านหนองแวง | TH | Nong Khai | 17.93343 | 102.58467 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8760430 | Ban Wang Charoen | Ban Wang Charoen,ban wang ceriy,บ้านวังเจริญ | TH | Sa Kaeo | 13.53878 | 102.16192 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7879126 | Ban Samrong | Ban Samrong,ban sarong,บ้านสำโรง | TH | Si Sa Ket | 14.59906 | 104.71961 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7882362 | Ban Plaeng Ngu | Ban Plaeng Ngu,บ้านแปลงงู | TH | Pattani | 6.69333 | 101.20589 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1154846 | Ban San Pa Bong | TH | Chiang Mai | 19.85 | 99.21667 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | |||
8704447 | Ban Don Ma Nai | Ban Don Ma Nai,ban dxn hmanı,บ้านดอนหมาใน | TH | Surin | 14.99367 | 103.75928 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1601952 | Ban Krok Wa | TH | 14.63333 | 102.11667 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||||
7013302 | Ban Li Ching | Ban Li Ching,ban li cing,บ้านลิจิง | TH | Yala | 6.25336 | 101.34303 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7735570 | Ban Wang Sila | Ban Wang Sila,ban wang sila,บ้านวังศิลา | TH | Rayong | 12.75611 | 101.61556 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8536333 | Ban Kampong Kue Yae | Ban Kampong Kue Yae,ban ka pngkuxyæ,บ้านกำปงกือแย | TH | Yala | 6.51103 | 101.35278 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
9285643 | Ban Si Phum | Ban Si Phum,ban sri phumi,บ้านศรีภูมิ | TH | Buriram | 14.80517 | 102.65308 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8317761 | Ban Amnuai Phon | Ban Amnuai Phon,ban xanwyphl,บ้านอำนวยผล | TH | Ubon Ratchathani | 15.82098 | 105.24941 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1598249 | Ban Sawang | Ban Sawang,ban swang,บ้านสว่าง | TH | Ubon Ratchathani | 15.30261 | 105.10711 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8536899 | Ban Khuan Hin Lek Fai | Ban Khuan Hin Lek Fai,ban khwn hinhelkfi,บ้านควนหินเหล็กไฟ | TH | Songkhla | 7.16014 | 100.2772 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1615782 | Ban Nong Chik Nuea | Ban Hnong Chik,Ban Nong Chik (1),Ban Nong Chik Nuea,ban hnxngcik henux,บ้านหนองจิกเหนือ | TH | Saraburi | 14.43642 | 100.85528 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7382952 | Ban Lai Thung | Ban Lai Thung,ban hlay thung,บ้านหลายทุ่ง | TH | Nan | 19.52553 | 100.91556 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
9001396 | Ban Nong Nam Thaeng | Ban Nong Nam Thaeng,ban hnxng hnam thæng,บ้านหนองหนามแท่ง | TH | Khon Kaen | 16.68981 | 102.03067 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
7747496 | Ban Khruea Wai Din | Ban Khruea Wai Din,ban kherux hway din,บ้านเครือหวายดิน | TH | Udon Thani | 17.26975 | 102.82431 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
6790766 | Ban Ma Ngon | Ban Ma Ngon,ban ma ngxn,บ้านม้างอน | TH | Songkhla | 7.01814 | 100.711 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
8218775 | Ban Ton Phueng Lai Li | Ban Ton Phueng Lai Li,ban tn phung hlay li,บ้านต้นผึ้งหลายลี้ | TH | Lamphun | 18.40486 | 98.72258 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place | ||
1158360 | Ban Ba Kan Yai | Ban Ba Kan Yai,Ban Bagan Yai,Ban Pakan Yai,บ้านบากันใหญ่ | TH | Satun | 6.71392 | 99.84356 | 0 | Asia/Bangkok | populated place |
Thailand: A Geographical Exploration of Southeast Asia’s Land of Diversity
Thailand, located in the heart of Southeast Asia, is a country known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and strategic location between the Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean. It is a nation where mountains, forests, beaches, and islands converge, offering a variety of ecosystems that are as diverse as the country’s people. From the bustling city of Bangkok to the serene mountains of the north, Thailand’s geography is central to its identity. Understanding the spatial distribution of cities, regions, and natural features through geographic data is key to comprehending Thailand’s development, its economy, and the unique challenges it faces.
Thailand’s Varied Landscape: From Mountains to Coastlines
Thailand’s geography is defined by its contrast between mountainous regions and flat, fertile plains. The northern part of the country is dominated by the rugged mountains of the Thai Highlands, which form part of the larger mountain range stretching across Southeast Asia. The highest peak in Thailand, Doi Inthanon, reaches 2,565 meters and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, while also being home to unique flora and fauna.
Moving south, Thailand’s central plains are home to some of the most fertile agricultural land in the region. The Chao Phraya River, which flows through this central region, is a lifeline for both agriculture and transport. The fertile delta, often called the "Rice Bowl of Asia," supports vast rice fields, which are vital for Thailand’s agricultural economy. The lower part of the country, along the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, is known for its stunning beaches, tropical islands, and bustling port cities.
Thailand’s geography is further enhanced by its diverse ecosystems. Its tropical climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, supports a variety of vegetation, from lush rainforests in the south to the drier deciduous forests in the north. The country is rich in natural resources, including forests, minerals, and marine biodiversity, making it a hub for both environmental preservation and sustainable development.
Administrative Divisions: Regions, Cities, and Provinces
Thailand is divided into 76 provinces (changwat), each with its own local government, and Bangkok, which serves as the capital city and is governed as a special administrative area. These provinces are further subdivided into districts (amphoe) and sub-districts (tambon). The country’s administrative system is highly decentralized, with provinces having substantial autonomy in local matters.
Bangkok, the capital city, is not only Thailand’s largest city but also one of the most important cultural, political, and economic centers in Southeast Asia. Situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is a bustling metropolis that draws millions of visitors each year. It is a global hub for trade, tourism, and international relations, with a skyline dominated by modern skyscrapers alongside traditional Buddhist temples. The city's population has grown rapidly over the years, contributing to urban sprawl and associated challenges such as traffic congestion and air pollution.
In addition to Bangkok, other major cities in Thailand include Chiang Mai in the north, known for its historical temples and proximity to natural attractions, and Phuket in the south, famous for its beaches and tourism-driven economy. Other key urban centers include Chiang Rai, Khon Kaen, and Nakhon Ratchasima, each of which plays a critical role in regional development and economic activity.
The diversity in geography, culture, and economy across Thailand’s regions offers a unique challenge and opportunity for regional planning, resource management, and sustainable development.
Geographic Data: A Key Tool for Understanding Thailand’s Development
To fully understand the spatial organization of Thailand, access to accurate geographic data is crucial. Geographic data such as the latitude and longitude of cities, their locations relative to natural features like rivers, mountains, and coastlines, as well as the boundaries of provinces and districts, provides a clearer picture of the country’s urbanization patterns, resource distribution, and infrastructure needs.
For example, by examining geographic data on cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya, we can better understand the relationship between urban growth and environmental sustainability. Bangkok, with its rapid urbanization, faces challenges related to housing, transportation, and waste management. In contrast, regions like Chiang Mai, with its cooler climate and mountainous terrain, are home to a different set of economic activities, including agriculture, handicrafts, and eco-tourism.
Understanding the distribution of cities and towns through geographic data allows planners to design more efficient transportation systems, allocate resources more effectively, and monitor regional development trends. For example, the exact location of cities relative to critical infrastructure such as ports, railways, and airports provides insights into the connectivity of these regions to the rest of the country and the world. Furthermore, geographic data on agricultural regions allows for better management of water resources, ensuring sustainable food production.
Sustainable Regional Development and Challenges
One of Thailand's primary challenges in terms of geography and development lies in addressing the disparities between urban and rural regions. While major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai have become rapidly industrialized and economically dynamic, rural areas, particularly in the northeast (Isan), continue to face poverty and underdevelopment. Geographic data on population density, resource availability, and infrastructure can help identify areas in need of investment and targeted policy interventions.
In agricultural regions, such as in the central plains or the northern valleys, understanding the spatial distribution of agricultural land, water resources, and farming practices is essential for ensuring food security and economic stability. Regions that depend on rice farming or other crops face challenges related to climate change, water availability, and land use. Geographic data can help optimize land use, track water availability, and improve crop yields.
Moreover, Thailand's rapid industrialization has led to environmental concerns, particularly in urban areas. The country faces challenges related to air pollution, waste management, and the depletion of natural resources. Geographic data plays a crucial role in identifying pollution hotspots, managing waste, and creating strategies for more sustainable urban planning. For example, data on air quality, water sources, and green spaces can inform decisions about zoning, building regulations, and environmental protection measures.
Environmental Conservation and Geographic Data
Thailand is rich in biodiversity, with numerous national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and marine protected areas. The country is home to a wide range of ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to coral reefs, each of which supports unique species. Geographic data is vital for monitoring these ecosystems and implementing effective conservation policies.
For example, mapping the boundaries of protected areas, such as Khao Yai National Park or the Similan Islands, helps track wildlife populations, monitor the health of ecosystems, and prevent illegal logging or poaching. Geographic data on the location of endangered species, their migration routes, and the impact of human activities provides the information necessary to protect Thailand’s natural heritage.
Furthermore, geographic data plays an essential role in managing Thailand's coastal and marine environments. The country’s beaches, islands, and coral reefs are critical to the economy, especially for the tourism sector. However, these areas are increasingly threatened by coastal development, pollution, and climate change. By collecting and analyzing geographic data, Thailand can develop more sustainable tourism practices, protect coastal ecosystems, and promote marine conservation.
Conclusion: Geographic Data as a Tool for Thailand’s Future
In conclusion, Thailand’s diverse geography—ranging from its bustling urban centers to its tranquil rural landscapes and natural wonders—provides both opportunities and challenges for the nation. Understanding the country’s spatial organization through geographic data is crucial for planning, resource management, and sustainable development. Geographic information, such as the latitude and longitude of cities, along with data on infrastructure, natural resources, and population density, helps policymakers, urban planners, and environmentalists make informed decisions.
By obtaining and utilizing geographic data, Thailand can continue to foster regional development, promote environmental sustainability, and improve the quality of life for its citizens. Geographic data is not only essential for addressing the country’s current challenges but also for guiding its growth in the coming decades, ensuring that all regions, urban and rural alike, benefit from Thailand’s continued prosperity.
FaQ about Thailand
- Geoname_ID: This is a unique identifier for each place or geographical name in the Geoname database.
- City: The name of the place, which can be a town, village or any other form of human settlement.
- Alternate_Name: Other names or appellations that the place may have. These alternative names may be in different languages, dialects or even local names.
- Country_Code: This is the ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 code for the country in which the place is located. For example, "US" for the United States, "FR" for France.
- Region: This represents the first-order administrative division in which the location is situated. For example, this could be a state, province or territory.
- Sub_region: This is a second-order administrative division, such as a county or district, within the region.
- Latitude: The geographical latitude of the location, usually in decimal degrees.
- Longitude: The geographical longitude of the location, also usually in decimal degrees.
- Elevation: The elevation or altitude of the location in relation to sea level, usually measured in metres.
- Population: The estimated number of inhabitants or population of the location.
- Timezone: The time zone in which the location is located, in accordance with global time zone standards.
- Fcode_Name: This is a code that categorises the type of location. For example, "PPL" could mean a populated place, while "PPLC" could be the capital of a political entity.