Thailand: Buddhist Kingdom at the Heart of Southeast Asia

At the heart of Southeast Asia, the kingdom of Thailand is full of diversity, created by its long history and successive kingdoms. Renowned for food, beaches, friendly people and a relaxed lifestyle, Thailand shows just how much there is to explore. With 40,000 temples throughout the country and 97 per cent of the population being Theravada Buddhists, the religion pervades everyday life.
From the sophistication of modern Bangkok to the ruins of the ancient Hindu temples at Prasat Hin Phimai and Muang Tham, from the beaches of Koh Samui and Cha-am to the mountains of Chiang Mai to verdant national parks such as Kaeng Krachan, Thailand tours the country’s most interesting destinations, region by region. Each region of Thailand is very different, from the mountainous north and northeast, to the historic sites of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya in the centre, and glorious beaches in the east, west and south. Thailand is a biodiversity hotspot and the national parks are a lesser-known delight.
Featuring street markets and floating markets, riding an elephant to travelling by tuk-tuk, idyllic beaches to ancient cities and historic temples, Thailand is packed with more than 200 spectacular photographs.

Narisa Chakrabongse is part Thai and has lived much of her life in Thailand, where she owns and runs River Books, publishing on the art, culture, and history of Southeast Asia and, in particular, Thailand. She also lectures on Thai art and history, translates from Thai into English, and has co-curated four exhibitions in London, Leicester, and Thailand entitled ＂Siam Through the Lens of John Thomson, 1864-65.＂