Tha
iland is a land of diverse culture, unique customs, mouth-watering cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. However, there are several interesting and lesser-known facts that you might not have heard about this beautiful country. In this article, we will be exploring some of the cold knowledge of Thailand that will leave you surprised.
1. Thailand's Full Name Thailand's full official name is the Kingdom of Thailand, which translates to "Land of the Free." The name was changed from Siam in 1939, and the decision was made to reflect the country's determination to remain independent from colonial powers.
2. The World’s Longest Reigning Monarch King Bhumibol Adulyadej, also known as Rama IX, ruled Thailand for 70 years and 126 days, making him the longest-reigning monarch in the world. He was loved and revered by millions of Thais and played a significant role in shaping the country's modern history.
3. The National Animal of Thailand is an Elephant Thailand is known for its love and respect for elephants. In 1998, the government of Thailand declared the elephant as the national animal, making it the only country in the world to have a pachyderm as its national symbol.
4. Thai Language Has 44 Consonants and 15 Vowels Thai language might seem a bit complicated to the uninitiated, but it has a unique script and a rich cultural heritage. It has 44 consonants and 15 vowels, making it the fifth most linguistically diverse country in the world.
5. No Use of Fingers While Eating In Thailand, it is considered impolite to use fingers while eating, even for dishes that are usually eaten with hands, such as sticky rice or grilled chicken. Instead, they use a spoon and fork or chopsticks.
6. Thai New Year Celebration: Songkran Songkran is one of the most important festivals in Thailand and celebrated as the traditional New Year's Day. The festival usually falls in the second week of April and is marked by water splashing, parades, and traditional rituals.
7. Bangkok Was Once Called the “Venice of the East.” The Chao Phraya River flows through Bangkok and passes by several canals, earning it the nickname, the "Venice of the East." Though many of the canals have now been filled in for the construction of roads and buildings, some still exist today and are used as waterways.
8. Thai People Consider Feet to be Dirty In Thailand, feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. It is impolite to point the soles of your feet at someone or to touch them with your feet. Shoes are removed before entering houses, temples, or any sacred space.
9. Thailand Has a 'Sea Gypsy' Tribe The Moken or "Sea Gypsies" are a nomadic tribe that has lived in the Andaman Sea for more than 4,000 years. They are excellent divers and fishermen and have a unique way of life that has fascinated many travelers.
10 Golden Triangle: Where Three Nations Meet The Golden Triangle is the point where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. In the past, it was known for the opium trade, but today, it is an important tourist attraction, offering a glimpse of the cultures and traditions of these three countries. In conclusion, Thailand is a country full of fascinating tidbits of information and unique customs. From the longest-reigning monarch to the nomadic sea gypsies or “Sea Nomads,” there are plenty of cold knowledge facts that will leave you captivated. Overall, Thailand is a country that never fails to charm visitors with its beauty, culture, and rich history.