Thailand

Bangkok is Thailand’s capital and largest city, the seat of the government, monarchy, and parliament on the Chao Phraya River. It became the capital in 1782 when King Rama I moved it across the river from Thonburi. Its official Thai name is Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, and its ceremonial full name is the world’s longest place name. By contrast, Chiang Mai is a northern cultural hub and former Lanna capital, Phuket is an island province, and Pattaya is a beach resort city—none are national capitals. Memory tip: think “Bangkok = Big, bustling capital on the river,” or “Thailand’s City of Angels (Krung Thep).”