Basic infomation of Bangkok

Bangkok is the capital city of The Kingdom of Thailand and the largest city with an estimated population of over 11 million. Bangkok is one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan cities.

Bangkok is the Orient's most cosmopolitan city and has attractions to stimulate even the most jaded travellers. Created as the Thai capital in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty, Bangkok is a national treasure house and Thailand's spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic centre.

In Thais it is Krung Thep, that mean "City of Angels", It full name is listed as the world's longest location name by the Guinness Book of Records, Translate in to English as :

"The city of angels, the great city, the residence of the Emerald Buddha, the impregnable city of Ayutthaya of God Indra, the grand capital of the world endowed with nine precious gems, the happy city, abounding in an enormous Royal Palace that resembles the heavenly abode where reigns the reincarnated god, a city given by Indra and built by Vishnukarn".

Just under 14 degrees north of the Equator, Bangkok is a tropical metropolis that is also one of the most traveller-friendly cities in Asia. A furious assault on the senses, visitors are immediately confronted by the heat, the pollution and the irrepressible smile that accompanies all Thais. Despite the sensationalized international news reports and first impressions, the city is surprisingly safe (except from some petty crimes) and more organized than it initially appears, and full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The high relative humidity and warm temperature favor the growth of tropical plants — you'll find exotic orchids and delicious fruit everywhere. Bougainvillea and frangipani bloom practically everywhere. Thai cuisine is justifiably famous, varied, and affordable. Bangkok for many, represents the quintessential Asian capital. Saffron-robed monks, garish neon signs, graceful Thai architecture, spicy dishes, colourful markets, traffic jams, and the tropical climate come together in a happy coincidence. It is difficult to leave with lukewarm impressions of the city.

Transportations

"Most major roads, trains and planes in Thailand lead to Bangkok."

Air plane

Suvarnabhumi Airport is now Bangkok's main international airport as well as the busiest airport in Southeast Asia, used by all domestic and international flights.

Don Muang Airport was Bangkok's main airport until 2006. The airport currently handles domestic flights, but the former international terminal is now limited to charters and general aviation.

bus

Eastern Bus Terminal - also known as Ekamai, this relatively compact terminal is located right next to Ekamai BTS station on Sukhumvit

North & North Eastern Bus Terminal - also known as Moh Chit, this is the largest, busiest, and most modern terminal. The upper floor serves the North-East; the ground floor serves the North, as well as sharing some destinations with Ekamai (including Pattaya).

Southern Bus Terminal - also known as Sai Tai Taling Chan, this terminal serves all points west and south located at Phutthamonthon

Train.

Hualamphong station.

The main station and the terminus of the Bangkok Metro line. Located right in the middle of downtown Bangkok, it is a huge and surprisingly nice station, built during the reign of King Rama VI and spared bombing in World War II at the request of the Free Thai underground.

Bang Sue Train Station
If coming from the north or north-east, connecting to the Metro here can shave the last half-hour off your train trip.

Thonburi Train Station
Also known as Bangkok Noi, this station is located on another side of Chaophraya river and is the starting point for services to Kanchanaburi home toThe bridg of the River Kwae.

ship

Cruise ships visiting Bangkok arrive can dock at either of two ports. Large ships must use Laem Chabang, about 90 minutes south-east of Bangkok and about 30 minutes north of Pattaya.

Modest sized ships may dock farther up-river at Khlong Thoey, much closer to the city center. A modest terminal provides processing for passengers

Getting around.
Bangkok is infamous for its congestion, but these days there are ways around it: hop on the Skytrain (BTS) and metro in the city center, or use boats to navigate rivers and canals.

Taxis are a quick and comfortable way to get around town, at least if the traffic is flowing your way. All taxis are now metered and air-conditioned: the hailing fee is 35 baht There are no surcharges (except from the airport), even at night A red lit sign on the front window means that the taxi is available.

City area 1,568.737 km² (605.7 sq mi)