How many regions are in Thailand?

Thailand is a large country, with distinct provinces that vary distinctly not only in terms of landscape but also cuisine, culture, and even language! In this blog, we are going to be providing a brief overview of the Thai Regions along with some highlights and things to note before you visit. 

How many regions are there in Thailand?

There are six regions in Thailand all of which are worth visiting for a number of reasons. Please see below for some brief descriptions of Thailand’s regions and some reasons why you should visit them. (Please scroll to the bottom of the page for translations of province names.)

  • Northern Region – The northern region of Thailand is like visiting a different country within a country. With majestic rolling hills, an intriguing mix of cultures, some unique cuisines, and friendly locals, the northern region, particularly the city of Chiang Mai, is on the bucket list of almost every visitor to Thailand. Other places definitely worth visiting include Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, and the infamous yet stunning Golden Triangle border region.
  • Southern Region – From the sun-drenched beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui to the Malay-influenced areas of the far south, the southern region of Thailand is, by anyone’s definition, a tropical paradise. The southern region has many outlying islands that make a perfect holiday destination for a weekend, a week, or even longer. The food in the southern region is also a revelation, with many dishes available not found in any other part of Thailand.
  • Central Region – Thailand’s central region is well known for its rolling commercial rice fields and some world-noted historical cities including Ayutthaya and the monkey temple city of Lopburi. What makes this area attractive to tourists is its accessibility to Bangkok, making a trip to this province in Thailand an easy day trip from the capital by bus or train.
  • Western Region – Nestled next to the Myanmar border, the western region of Thailand is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Jungle treks, rafting, and experiencing the local peoples’ natural way of life are truly eye-opening for those visiting from overseas. The area is also steeped in military history, with many World War 2 cemeteries and historical battlegrounds. Places to include on any western region itinerary include Kanchanaburi, Sangklaburi, and the bustling border town of Mae Sot.
  • Eastern Region – The eastern region contains many areas of interest for visitors, with beaches, hotels, and a real holiday vibe. Koh Samet, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces all offer an insight into life outside the main tourist areas. 
  • North Eastern Region (Isan) – The biggest and most undiscovered province in Thailand, Isan, is a melting pot of languages, cultures, and spicy cuisine. Places of interest include Khao Yai, National Park, Phimai National Park, and the charming villages where subsistence farming and family are central to life.

If you are planning a trip to Thailand any time soon and would like to get the very most out of your stay in Thailand, it’s a good idea to learn some of the language before you arrive. ALA Language School offers a very convenient online self-learning course named Thai Genesis which gives students the essentials of the language. For those planning a longer stay, ALA also provides a range of Thai Language courses at various levels. Please contact us for more information.