Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand ภาคใต้
Flag Coat of arms
Capital	Hat Yai
Largest city	Songkhla
Official languages	Thai
Government	Constitutional Monarchy
• King	Vajiralongkorn
• Prime Minister	Prayuth Chan-o-cha
Area
• Total	70,713 km2 (27,302 sq mi)
Population
• 2020 estimate	8,840,000
Currency	Thai baht
Time zone	UTC+7 (ICT)
Driving side	left
Calling code	+66
ISO 3166 code	TH-8

Southern Thailand is a region located at the southernmost part of Thailand. It is bordered by the Gulf of Thailand to the east, the Andaman Sea to the west, and shares land borders with Malaysia to the south. The region is known for its stunning beaches, diverse culture, and rich history.

Geography

Southern Thailand covers an area of approximately 70,713 square kilometers. The region is characterized by its mountainous terrain, lush rainforests, and picturesque coastline. It is divided into 14 provinces, including Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani, and Songkhla.

The region's coastline is dotted with numerous islands, such as Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Koh Samui, which are popular tourist destinations known for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. The interior of Southern Thailand is home to several national parks, including Khao Sok National Park and Hat Chao Mai National Park, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and eco-tourism.

History

Southern Thailand has a long and complex history. The region was once part of the Srivijaya Empire, an ancient maritime kingdom that flourished from the 7th to the 13th century. It later came under the influence of various Malay sultanates and the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

During the 19th century, Southern Thailand experienced conflicts between the British Empire and the Kingdom of Siam (now Thailand) over control of the region. The Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909 defined the current border between Thailand and Malaysia, which runs through Southern Thailand.

In recent decades, the region has faced some political and security challenges, including occasional separatist movements in certain provinces. However, efforts have been made to promote peace, stability, and economic development in the region.

Culture

Southern Thailand is known for its unique blend of cultures, influenced by the Malay, Chinese, and indigenous peoples. The region's cuisine, music, and traditional dances reflect this diversity. Popular dishes include Tom Yam, Green Curry, and Pad Thai.

The predominant religion in Southern Thailand is Islam, with a significant Muslim population in the region. However, there are also Buddhist temples and communities throughout the area, showcasing the religious harmony and cultural diversity of the region.

Economy

The economy of Southern Thailand is primarily driven by tourism, agriculture, and fishing. The region's stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and cultural attractions attract millions of tourists each year. Tourism-related industries, such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, play a significant role in the local economy.

Agriculture is another important sector, with rubber, palm oil, and coconuts being major crops. Fishing is also a significant industry, with Southern Thailand's coastal waters teeming with a variety of fish and seafood.

Transportation

Southern Thailand is well-connected by air, land, and sea. The region is served by several airports, including Phuket International Airport, Krabi International Airport, and Hat Yai International Airport. There are also train and bus services connecting the major cities and towns within the region.

See also

• Phuket
• Krabi
• Surat Thani
• Songkhla