Thailand, the second largest country on the Southeast Asian mainland after Myanmar, is a nation distinguished by its rich history and vibrant geography. Known for its historic charm, cultural heritage, and friendly demeanor, Thailand radiates a golden glow from its stunning beaches and shimmering temples, all highlighted by the ever-present Thai smile. Hulm Visa Dream Advisor Travels and Tours, in partnership with Thailand Visa, offers a range of tour packages from Pakistan, enabling you to explore this enchanting country with friends and family.

Thailand’s Unique Identity

Thailand’s identity is shaped by its core pillars: Monarchy and Buddhism. While Buddhism has deeply influenced modern Thai culture, the country has also been impacted by various external influences since the early 20th century, including Islam. The rich tapestry of Thai culture is woven from its art, language, cuisine, dance, Westernization, Chinese migration, and music.

A Brief History of Thailand

Thailand’s name translates to “Land of the Free.” Throughout its 800-year history, Thailand has never been colonized. Often referred to as the “Land of Smiles,” Thailand was previously known as Siam. Covering an area of 514,000 square kilometers, Thailand shares its borders with Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.

Historically, Thais migrated south from South China during the early Christian era, settling in fertile central plains and establishing the Sukhothai Empire, which expanded its influence over the Indochina Peninsula. The Sukhothai Kingdom, founded in 1238 by Khun Pha Muang and Khun Bang Klang Thao, marked Thailand’s early fight for independence from the Khmers.

The golden era of Thailand was during the Sukhothai period, a time of great cultural flourishing. By the mid-14th century, the Sukhothai Kingdom transitioned to the Ayutthaya Kingdom, which adopted Theravada Buddhism as the state religion. Both Ayutthaya and Sukhothai played crucial roles in the development of Thai culture.

Culture and Religion

Buddhism is the official religion, with 93% of the population practicing it. Muslims make up 5% and are the largest minority group, while Christians account for 1.2%, and the remaining 0.8% identify as non-religious.

Thailand observes 16 public holidays throughout the year, including:

• Magha Puja: A Buddhist holiday focused on good deeds and avoiding sins.
• New Year: Celebrated with family and temple visits.
• Songkran: Held from April 13 to 15, featuring water-related festivities for purification.
• Chakri Day: Celebrated on April 6.
• Chulalongkorn Day: Commemorated on October 23, marking the death of King Chulalongkorn.
• Constitution Day: Observed on December 10.
• Visakha Puja: Celebrated on June 4, focusing on Buddhist ceremonies in temples.

Languages

Thai is the official language, derived from Khmer script. Schools teach Thai, and various minority languages are spoken, including Kelantan-Pattani Malay, Lao, Khmer, Mon, Akha, Hmong, Karen, and Viet. English is also a compulsory language in schools.

Thai Etiquette

Thais greet each other with a respectful gesture known as the “Wai,” where younger individuals bow their heads and press their hands together when meeting elders. Males greet with “sawatdi khrap,” and females with “sawatdi kha.” Elders are highly respected, and older siblings are viewed as role models.

Thai Cuisine

Influenced by neighboring countries like Cambodia, Laos, Burma, Vietnam, and China, Thai cuisine is celebrated globally. Some popular dishes include:

• Thai Green Curry: Made with fish balls or chicken, lemongrass, green chilies, and coconut cream.
• Pad Thai: A national dish featuring noodles, fish sauce, shrimp, egg, tamarind, ginger, garlic, shallots, peanuts, bean sprouts, soy sauce, and chili.
• Tom Yum Soup: A flavorful soup with shrimp, kaffir lime, chilies, fish sauce, lime juice, and lemongrass.