Did you know there are a dozen different smiles in Thailand, or that Pad Thai became popular due to a rice shortage? Possessing a unique cultural identity in the world, Thailand often reserves surprises for travelers. We invite you to discover 20 unusual facts about Thailand. You may well be amazed by some of them...

1. Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country never to have been colonized

Thailand is among five countries in the world never to have been colonized by a Western power, alongside Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Liberia, and Ethiopia. Yet European powers invaded all neighboring countries during the 19th and 20th centuries: the British Empire extended into Burma and Malaya, while France imposed itself throughout Indochina, from Laos to Cambodia to Vietnam.

This is a source of great pride for Thai people. It's no coincidence that the country is called "Thailand." While the country was formerly called the "Kingdom of Siam," it changed its name in 1939 to Thailand (in Thai: Muang Thai), which means "the Land of Free People."

2. The Thai capital holds the title of the world's longest city name

While it's common to say Bangkok to name Thailand's capital, its true name is quite different. It even holds the world record for the longest city name. It is "Krung thep mahanakhon amon rattanakosin mahintara ayuthaya mahadilok phop noppharat ratchathani burirom udomratchaniwet mahasathan amon piman awatan sathit sakkathattiya witsanukam prast."

As for its English translation, the real name of Bangkok means: "City of gods (or angels), great city, residence of the Emerald Buddha, impregnable city of the god Indra, great capital of the world carved with nine precious stones, happy and generous city in the enormous Royal Palace resembling the celestial abode, reign of the reincarnated god, city dedicated to Indra and built by Vishnukarn."

It's worth noting that Thai people use a diminutive to name Bangkok: Krung thep mahanakhon, which means "City of the Gods" or "City of Angels."

Learn more about Bangkok's real name.

3. The Thai calendar begins 543 years before our era

Although Thailand adopted the Gregorian calendar (the same as ours) in 1941, the Buddhist calendar remains in use and is widely widespread. Thus, don't be surprised to see the year 2568 (which corresponds to 2025 for us) displayed on receipts, on posters of traditional events, etc.

For reference, the Buddhist calendar is 543 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar, because the year of the Parinirvana (complete extinction and entry into Nirvana) of Buddha took place 543 years before our era.

4. There are a dozen different smiles in Thai culture

Although Thai people are known for being smiling and welcoming, hence the nickname "the land of smiles," the smile is above all a non-verbal communication method deeply rooted in local culture. In fact, 13 different types of smiles are distinguished among Thai people, each with its own meaning:

• Yim thang nam taa: a smile of extreme joy;

• Yim thak thaai: a polite smile;

• Yim cheun chom: a smile of admiration;

• Fuen Yim: a smile of commiseration;

• Yim mee lessanai: a concealing smile;

• Yim yao: a triumphant smile;

• Yim yao yae: a smile of resignation;

• Yim sao: a sad smile;

• Yim haeng: an embarrassed, ashamed smile;

• Yim thor thaan: a disapproving smile;

• Yim cheuat cheuan: a victor's smile to the vanquished;

• Yim sou sou: a brave smile;

• Yim mai ohk: a forced smile.

5. It's the most religious country in the world

Religion holds an important place in Thailand. According to a study reported on The Telegraph, Thailand is the world's most religious country with 94% of Thai people declaring themselves believers (note that the study dates from 2015 and figures may have evolved since). Practiced by over 90% of the population, Buddhism is the leading religion. There are 40,000 Buddhist temples throughout the country and nearly 300,000 monks.

To learn more, discover the different beliefs and religions of Thailand as well as the basics of Thai Buddhism.

6. The world's largest golden statue is located in Bangkok

Thailand can boast of hosting the world's largest golden statue. This is a large Buddha statue that weighs 5.5 tons! It is located at Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha), near Bangkok's Chinatown.

For the record, the statue came from an old temple that was destroyed in the 1930s. Initially, locals thought it was merely a gilded stucco statue. It took some time before it was discovered that its layer of stucco and glass actually concealed solid gold.

Learn more about the astounding story of the discovery of the Great Golden Buddha statue at Wat Traimit.

7. All Thai people have spirit houses in their homes

During a trip to Thailand, you'll see small houses, similar to miniature temples, in front of most buildings, whether in a house garden, in front of a bank or shopping mall... These small houses are called San Phra Phum, which can be translated as "dwellings of the guardian angel of the place." They are intended to appease spirits and obtain their protection. Thai people visit them regularly to leave offerings and say a few prayers.

Learn more about spirit houses in Thai gardens

8. It is forbidden to criticize the royal family in Thailand

If there's one thing to remember before traveling to Thailand, it's that you must never criticize the royal family. And for good reason, the country has one of the strictest lèse-majesté laws in the world. This law condemns any defamation, insult, or threat against the king, queen, and their family. What are the penalties? Three to fifteen years in prison! This applies to both verbal and written criticism. So, a simple post on social media can have serious repercussions...

Also discover all things to do and not do when traveling in Thailand.

9. Certain professions are forbidden to be practiced by foreigners

To protect the country's interests and encourage employment for locals, Thailand has a list of professions forbidden to foreigners. In total, 39 professions are reserved for locals, among which we can mention: architect, hairdresser, tour guide, tailor, sculptor, mason, carpenter, farmer, taxi driver, boat captain...

10. The country has more than 1,400 islands and 350 diving sites

Thailand is known for its paradisiacal beaches and numerous islands. In total, there are no fewer than 1,400 islands throughout the territory! Among the most famous are Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. There are also off-the-beaten-path Thai islands for travelers seeking tranquility. And if you're unsure which to choose, check out our article: which island to choose when traveling to Thailand?

On the underwater side, the country boasts approximately 350 diving sites (no less!). It's no wonder it's a premier destination for divers. Thailand can even boast having numerous diving spots to see whale sharks. Among the best diving spots in Thailand, we can mention Koh Tao and Sail Rock in the Gulf of Thailand, as well as the Similan Islands and Surin Islands on the Andaman Sea side.

11. Thailand is home to the world's smallest mammal

Thailand is home to the world's smallest mammal. This is Craseonycteris thonglongyai, more commonly called the bumblebee bat or Kitti's hog-nosed bat. It measures approximately 3 cm and weighs only 2 grams. It gets its name from the person who discovered it: Thai zoologist Kitti Thonglongya. It is primarily found in the caves of Sai Yok National Park in Kanchanaburi Province.

Also discover the main animals you can see in Thailand.

12. The world's largest flower can be observed in Thailand

Thailand has some 27,000 flowering plant species, including 1,000 different orchid varieties. Suffice it to say that Thai flora is as rich as it is impressive. But most importantly, the country is home to the world's largest flower: the Rafflesia arnoldii.

Recognizable by its bright red color and small white pustules, the flower can reach over one meter in diameter and weigh up to 12 kg! With its extravagant look, it seems straight out of a science fiction film. It's so impressive that it even inspired a Pokémon name. Another peculiarity: its nauseating odor reminiscent of carrion that allows it to attract insects to ensure its pollination.

It is primarily found in southern Thailand, in Khao Sok National Park as well as in Trang Province and neighboring regions of Nakhon Si Thammarat and Krabi. Be careful, its blooming is very short as it only lasts 5 to 6 days per year!

13. The Thai New Year is celebrated with a giant water battle

In Thailand, New Year is celebrated like nowhere else with the Songkran festival. It takes place every year, according to the lunar calendar, during mid-April. For the occasion, all Thai people go out onto the streets to engage in a funny ritual: a giant water battle.

Inspired by a Buddhist belief that water purifies body and soul, this tradition is the most anticipated event in the country. In a lighthearted atmosphere, everyone douses each other with water guns, buckets of water, and garden hoses. You're even allowed to spray police officers, which shows how much everyone mixes on this special day. Only monks must not be sprayed!

To learn more, discover where and how to celebrate Songkran in Thailand and all the must-see Thai festivals.

14. Muay Thai, or Thai Boxing, is Thailand's national sport

In Thailand, the national sport is Muay Thai (or Thai Boxing). A true institution, this martial art has been practiced for centuries throughout the country: it is said to have been adopted after the victory of the Ayutthaya kingdom over the Khmer of Angkor. To say the least, Thai boxing has been part of military training since the 15th century.

The practice is often nicknamed the "art of 8 limbs" because it allows 8 points of contact, namely: fists, elbows, knees, and shins. Deemed too violent, Thai boxing was completely banned in 1921 before returning in 1930 with new rules inspired by English boxing.

One thing is certain, attending a Thai boxing match is an experience to have at least once during a trip to Thailand. To do so, discover the best stadiums to watch a Muay Thai fight.

15. Khon is the traditional dance of Thailand

Like boxing, dance is a Thai practice that has largely contributed to shaping the country's cultural identity. Among the various traditional Thai dances, Khon stands out. Born over 500 years ago during the Kingdom of Siam, this dance was originally intended for the royal court and performed only by men (in contrast to the traditional Lakhon dance which was more reserved for women).

It features masked characters representing strong cultural symbols (such as demons, monkeys, nymphs, or deities) whose gestures are ultra-coded and precise.

Although it is less spectacular than it once was, the dance still remains an integral part of Thai heritage and it is possible to attend traditional Khon dance performances, notably at the Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre in Bangkok.

16. Sak Yant tattoos are sacred tattoos performed by Buddhist monks

In Thailand, there is an ancestral practice that consists of creating sacred tattoos. Known as Sak Yant (which can be translated as "tattoo" and "sacred prayer"), the tattoos are performed with bamboo by Buddhist monks or sacred masters according to coded rituals. They possess profound spiritual significance and allow one to receive the protections of religious prayers.

Originally, this tradition first spread among Buddhist monks and soldiers. According to legend, it's even said that Thailand was never occupied by the enemy because its soldiers are warriors made invisible and indestructible thanks to their sacred tattoos...

To learn more, discover our article on the history and meanings of Sak Yant tattoos.

17. Thailand is the world's sixth largest rice producer

Thailand is among the world's leading rice producers and exporters. According to Atlasocio, the country ranks 6th in the global rankings, after China, India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Nearly 20% of the country's surface area is dedicated to rice cultivation. In 2020, the country is said to have produced over 30,000,000 tons of rice! No wonder rice is one of the staple foods in Thai cuisine.

Among the rice paddies to discover during a trip to Thailand, we can mention the sublime Ban Pa Pong Pieng terraced rice paddies, considered the most beautiful in the country.

18. Pad Thai became popular due to a rice shortage

Pad Thai is among the emblematic dishes of Thailand. It's even considered the national dish! But did you know it became popular due to a rice shortage during World War II? As Thailand's tourism office explains: "To reduce national rice consumption, Prime Minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram encouraged the consumption of noodles or rice pasta. His government promoted rice noodles and helped establish Thailand's identity."

Find the recipe for traditional Pad Thai.

19. Thailand has one of the world's most diverse street food scenes

It's no secret, Thailand has one of the best cuisines in the world thanks to its rich and varied flavors. And to indulge, there's no need to visit the country's finest restaurants. And for good reason, Thai street food delights all palates, and at unbeatable prices. There's even a Thai street food stall that received a Michelin star in Bangkok, a world first!

To give you an idea of culinary riches, discover the street food specialties absolutely worth trying in Thailand.

20. It's the first Southeast Asian country to have legalized same-sex marriage

We end on good news: Thailand became the first Southeast Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage. Enacted in late September 2024 by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Thai law authorizing marriage between people of the same sex officially came into effect on Thursday, January 23, 2025. On that day, approximately 2,000 couples already said "I do" throughout the country.

The law also stipulates that there are no longer gendered references and grants same-sex couples the same rights as heterosexual couples regarding inheritance, property, and adoption. It's a historic event for the LGBTQ+ community, as many neighboring countries impose prison sentences for homosexuals.

And you, what are the unusual things you've encountered during a trip to Thailand?