Bangkok was founded in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty.  It is now the country's spiritual, cultural, diplomatic, commercial and educational hub.  It covers an area of more than 1,500 square kilometres, and it is home to approximatlely twelve million people, equal to more than 10% of the country's population.

Bangkok is now one of Asia's most cosmopolitan cities, known to the locals as "Krungthep" meaning the City of Angels. Major tourist attractions include glittering Buddhist temples, palaces, timeless 'Venice of the East' canal and river scenes, classical dance extravaganzas, legendary nightlife, an eclectic weekend market (Chatuchak Market) and numerous air-conditioned shopping centers.

Over the last few decades, Thailand's capital city, Bangkok, has changed into a modern, industrialized, and sophisticated city.  It offers to visitors not only the cosmopolitan amenities they would expect from other big cities, but also a unique treasure chest of cultural attractions.  Bangkok offers visitors the opportunity to experience a fascinating glimpse of Thailand's gentle culture and history amidst the bustle of a great and dynamic metropolis.  This great city has had astounding success in combining the ancient and modern world and the visual cultural and contrasts of East and West can be seen everywhere.

The city is dotted with 400 Buddhist temples and still has a traditional ways of life for many of its residents, especially along the canals and the Chao Phraya River ("River of Kings") that winds its way through the city.  It is worth taking a trip along its waters by river ferry to gather a glimpse of old Bangkok from its waters.

Useful tourist information on Bangkok can be obtained from the official website of the Bangkok Tourism Division: www.bangkoktourist.com