Thailand nature features. Wildlife, jungle, animals of thailand. Vegetation and its use in the economy

Visiting Thailand is like going to another planet. It's always warm here, people are always smiling, that's how it is with them, and the beauty of the local nature and beautiful beaches make you believe that there is a paradise on Earth.

General information

The Kingdom of Thailand is considered one of the most developed countries in the South Asian region. The state occupies the southwestern part of the Indochina peninsula and the northern part of the Mallakka peninsula, borders on Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Malaysia. The coast of Thailand is washed by the waters of the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, the length of the coastline exceeds 3 thousand kilometers.

The landscape of Thailand is small mountain ranges in the north and western part of the country, a vast plateau in the northeast and the central and eastern plains. Natural resources are tin and rubber, natural gas reserves, lead, tungsten, coal, timber, fish, and fairly extensive arable land. The natural wealth of the country can also be considered magnificent beaches. Until 1939, the kingdom was called Siam, the new name of the country is Thailand, usually translated as "the country of the Thais."

Thailand is a constitutional monarchy in its state structure, with the reigning King Rama IX on the throne since 1946 - and this is the longest stay on the throne in the world. Parliamentary democracy in the country is violated from time to time by military coups - since 1932, when the Bloodless Revolution led the country to a constitutional monarchy, there have already been 20 coups. However, these unrest do not concern the royal person - the population treats the king with great respect and reverence.

Historians are sure that half a million years ago, where Thailand is now located, people already lived. Kingdoms and empires succeeded one another until a state was formed in 1238, which became the progenitor of modern Thailand. In the XIX century, a number of countries in Southeast Asia underwent European colonization, but Thailand escaped this fate.

Approximately 95% of the country's population professes Buddhism and this religion largely determines the culture and traditions, behavior and values ​​of the people of Thailand.

Climate of Thailand

The length of the country from the southernmost point to the northernmost point is about two thousand kilometers. Therefore, the climate of northern and southern Thailand is different: in the north of the country - humid tropical, and in the south - subequatorial, monsoon.

The highest temperatures are observed in the south of Thailand, and the average annual and average daily temperature difference is minimal. The average annual temperature is + 28 °C, during the hot season during the day the air temperature can rise to + 35-38 °C.

It is cooler in the north, and the difference in average daily temperatures is greater, especially in mountainous regions, where it is + 8-10 ° C at night and in the morning, and about + 25 ° C during the day.

The rainy season does not have very clear time limits, and the rains are, although torrential, but short-lived. Most precipitation occurs in September and October. Most often it rains in the evening or at night.

The Pattaya region is considered the "driest" place in Thailand, here the average annual rainfall is the smallest in the country. On the island of Koh Samui, located in a special climate zone, the rainiest months are December and January. In Phuket, the wet season starts at the very end of April and lasts until the end of October.

Cities and islands of Thailand

The capital of the country, a cosmopolitan city, a huge metropolis in perpetual motion. Bangkok impresses with its contrasts and Asian flavor.

The most popular Asian resort in the world. Pattaya has a huge selection of hotels and entertainment for every taste.

The second most popular resort in Thailand. The island has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, magnificent beaches. This resort is worth choosing for those wishing to learn scuba diving on vacation - there are 10 diving schools in Phuket.

These are snow-white beaches, groves of coconut palms and a relaxing holiday in the bosom of tropical nature.

Attractive for a relaxing beach holiday, diving and eco-tourism. It is located on the territory of the National Marine Park.

A suitable choice for lovers of small, "chamber" resorts. Gorgeous scenery and beaches, great diving opportunities.

Koh Kood is an excellent resort for lovers of eco-tourism, because virgin tropical forests grow on the island, there are very beautiful waterfalls. The beaches of the island are with white sand.

Rayong is a quiet, small resort 180 km from the capital, surrounded by fruit plantations. Picturesque bays, snow-white beaches, clear sea and geothermal mineral springs - Rayong will give travelers all this.

Hua Hin and Cha Am are two extra-class resorts located two hundred kilometers from Bangkok. Gorgeous clean beaches with white sand and the best five-star hotels in Thailand. Chiang Rai - This ancient city is a magnificent gem in Thailand's treasure trove. Founded in the 13th century, Chiang Rai amazes with its beauty and harmonious combination of ancient temples and mountain landscapes.

Transport in Thailand

Air communication - domestic flights of local airlines make it possible to very quickly get to anywhere in the country, including the islands. In Thailand, two airlines operate only within the country and three serve both domestic and international flights.

Railway communication - the country has four major railway lines and several minor ones. This type of transport is not very popular among visitors to the country.

Trucking - the country has a large network of good quality highways, intercity and tourist buses are quite comfortable. Buses are the most popular and inexpensive way to get around Thailand.

Water transport - to travel to the islands, you can use regular ferries or hire a private boat (water taxi).

Urban transport - in cities, with the exception of the capital, there are no scheduled buses. You can move around on songteo (Songtay) - pickup trucks with benches along the body. They can run like a fixed-route taxi, or just like a taxi, if you stop an empty car and agree with the driver. Russian tourists often call songteo tuk-tuks. You can use the services of a motorcycle taxi, take a tuk-tuk (three-wheeled motorcycle taxi) or go on a trip in an air-conditioned TAXI - METER car.

Thailand nature

The nature of Thailand is unusually rich. Magnificent tropical forests, beautiful waterfalls, rivers and canals, coral reefs and a rich underwater world. There are about fifty national parks and reserves in Thailand, these are areas of unique beauty, of special ecological importance or with special natural resources.

The special wealth of the country is the beaches. Snow-white sand, fine and soft, like powder, turquoise waters of the sea, coconut palms off the coast, and azure blue of the sky - travelers from all over the world strive to get to this paradise on earth. The best and cleanest in Thailand are the beaches of Ao Nang Bay, the beaches of Koh Phangan and Koh Chang.

Landmarks of Thailand

There are many interesting places and beautiful temples in Thailand. Here are just a few of the most famous sights that have become the hallmark of the country:

And the temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok - on the territory of the Royal Palace there are extraordinarily beautiful buildings that together create a stunning ensemble: these are palaces, temples and stupas. The central place in the complex is occupied by the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The Temple houses one of the main relics of the country - the statue of the Emerald Buddha, acquired in 1431.

Wat Pho Temple - the temple is located near the Grand Royal Palace in Bangkok. Built in the 12th century, it is famous for its 46-meter Buddha image. On the territory of the temple there are 95 stupas, there is a gallery with 400 Buddha statues.

It is rightfully considered the most beautiful temple in Bangkok. Its pagoda, about 80 meters high, is richly inlaid with carvings and was the tallest building in the capital before the advent of skyscrapers.

Royal Boat Museum in Bangkok - the collection features 50 boats, each of which is unique in its design and decor.

Koh Tapu is a limestone island off the coast of Phuket. The height of the island is about 20 m, it has the shape of an inverted trapezoid. This unusual island gained world fame after the release of the film "The Man with the Golden Gun".

The Viking Cave is one of the attractions of the Phi Phi archipelago. Drawings were found in the cave, among which there are images similar to Viking ships. Here, at the risk to life and health, local residents get swallow nests, from which soup is prepared in Asian cuisine.

The river flows in the northwest of Thailand, is famous for its very fast flow and amazing scenery. On the banks of the river there is an elephant farm, an orchard and small hotels right on rafts on the water. The hotels do not have electricity, televisions and telephones so that travelers can be alone with themselves and the surrounding nature.

The Death Railway is a railway between Thailand and Burma built by the Japanese during World War II. Hard labor was used at the construction site and about 100 thousand people died here during the entire construction period.

Vimanmek Palace is a former royal palace, the largest teak building in the world. Now the palace houses the museum of King Rama V.

Wat Phra That Doi Thong is a Buddhist temple located at an altitude of 1073 m in the province of Chiang Mai. The temple was built in the XIV century and is a sacred place for believers.

Culture of Thailand

The worldview of the Thais and the peculiarities of the national culture are largely determined by Buddhism. So, every Thai tries to improve his karma with good deeds. Every man at least once in his life should spend several months in monasticism. It is not customary for Thais to clearly show emotions in public, especially anger and aggression. Restraint and benevolence, emphasized respect for elders are valued.

Music and theater have always occupied a great place in the life of the country. Thai kings highly valued music, some wrote plays themselves or translated masterpieces of world drama into Thai. Pantomime theater is the most popular in Thailand.

Belief in spirits exists alongside Buddhist beliefs. So, houses for spirits are installed near houses and institutions, which they try to decorate as best and as original as possible. The head is considered the house of spirits in a person, so you should not touch the head. In general, touching another person in Thai culture is not accepted, even greeting does not involve bodily contact: Thais greet each other with a slight bow with palms clasped together.

Thai Cuisine

Rice is the basis of Thai cuisine, in fact, the word “food” itself is translated from Thai as “eat rice”. In Thailand, there are several types of rice: black, brown, red, white, glutinous and fragrant. With rice, Thais eat meat, fish, and seafood. Noodles are also at a premium. Noodles are rice and wheat, egg and bean flour. Noodles are added to soups, eaten with a variety of sauces.

Thai cuisine uses a lot of spices, all dishes are prepared very spicy. Therefore, travelers are advised to ask any restaurant in Thailand to cook a dish without spices, not spicy. They will still bring very heavily spiced food, but it's really not spicy when compared with what the Thais themselves eat.

The most popular Thai dishes:

  • Tom Yam - soup based on spicy chili paste with shrimp, fish or chicken. This soup is a hallmark of Thai cuisine. It is believed that the constant use of this soup is an excellent prevention of cancer.
  • Som Tam is an incredibly spicy green papaya salad.
  • Tom Kha Kai is chicken soup made with coconut milk.
  • Mi Krob - noodles with sweet and sour sauce.
  • Phat Thai - rice noodles with shrimp, eggs and bean sprouts in a spicy sauce.
  • Yam Nua - grilled meat with cucumbers, onions and peppers, poured with lime juice.

There are no sweet dishes as such in Thai cuisine; sweets are replaced by delicious fruits. Juicy mangoes and pineapples are especially good.

Shopping in Thailand

Thailand has a lot of shopping opportunities: huge shopping centers and malls, day and night markets, themed souvenir shops near the most visited tourist attractions. Here's what you can bring from Thailand:

  • Handmade wood products - these can be figurines, pieces of furniture or magnificent carved paintings that craftsmen perform on individual orders.
  • Rattan wicker products - from small items for interior decoration to furniture sets.
  • Bronze products - figurines, goblets, Thai bells.
  • Silverware - cutlery, vessels, caskets, women's fine handmade jewelry with embossing or blackening.
  • Ceramics - hand-painted chinaware and fine figurines.
  • Pearls and products from it.
  • Textiles - T-shirts, polo shirts, dresses and linens. Everything is very inexpensive and quite decent quality.
  • Medications on snake venom.
  • Precious stones and jewelry.
  • Thai silk.
  • Products from snake and crocodile skin.
  • Cosmetics and coconut oil.
  • Fruits (durian is prohibited for transportation due to a disgusting smell).
  • Thai tea.

Thailand first stuns, then enchants, then envelops with bliss and bliss. You can come to Thailand again and again - and still there will be something not seen, not yet discovered and unknown: Thai cuisine, underwater depths, virgin forests and mountains or temples of stunning beauty, where Buddhist culture and centuries-old traditions are carefully preserved.

Thailand is a country of endless variety with high forested mountains; with the jungle, rich in living creatures and exotic plants; with rivers, with golden beaches. The blue sea with azure water and the islands beckon with their beauty and pristine nature. In Thailand, the ancient exotic of the East and the latest achievements of the present peacefully coexist.

Thailand lies on the Indochina Peninsula and only the southernmost part of the country is on the Malay Peninsula. The area of ​​the country is 513,115 sq. km. The southern coast of the country, with its countless bays and beaches, is washed by the waves of two seas: the Andaman Sea of ​​the Indian Ocean in the west and the South China Sea, to which the Gulf of Thailand belongs, in the east.

Thailand is located in the tropical rainforest zone. About 65% of its area is occupied by the jungle. The vegetation cover of Thailand is dominated by deciduous tropical (monsoon) forests, which grow teak and redwood, sal, bamboo and others. In the most humid regions, mainly in the mountains, on the elevated outskirts of the Korat plateau, on the isthmus of Kra and in the north-east of the coastal part, moist evergreen forests grow. The main species of these forests are dipterocarpations, hopeis, ficuses, pandanuses and various palm trees. Mangrove vegetation is developed in the coastal strip in the south. On the Korat plateau, savannahs and thickets of thorny trees and shrubs are widespread. On the dry (leeward) slopes of the mountains, in the zone of 700-1700 m, pine-oak forests grow, in the upper zone of the mountains - evergreen shrubs.

Many valuable tree species grow in the jungle. Residents of forest areas receive various resins, balms, gums, varnishes from these trees. The fruits of some forest plants (mangosteen, durian, banana) are edible. Of great economic importance are palm trees - coconut and sago. A teak tree grows on the slopes of the mountains of the Northern region. Its height reaches 40 m, and the diameter of the trunk is 2 m. Teak wood is extremely durable, it is an excellent material for the construction of ships and port facilities.

Almost all of Thailand belongs to the Indo-Malay zoogeographic region. A wide variety of animals live in forests and bamboo thickets: rhinos, elephants, tapirs, tigers, leopards, wild cats, squirrels. Especially a lot of monkeys there. There are not only macaques, but also anthropoids - gibbons. Antelopes, deer, feral buffaloes and wild bulls - gaur and banteng are found in the savannahs. Throughout the country, in the forests and fields, there are a lot of snakes, among them many poisonous ones, for example, "colored ribbons" and huge king cobras. Diverse birds: pheasants, peacocks, parrots, hornbill, herons, Siamese red-throated crane. In the rivers - crocodiles; various types of fish (mainly cyprinids).

The Kingdom of Thailand is located in Southeast Asia on the Indochina Peninsula and in a small area of ​​the Malay Peninsula. It is worth noting that Thailand is the only country that has retained sovereignty. Although at the same time neighboring countries became colonies of France and England. Thailand is a royal power unlike other world states.

Many want to visit this country, as it is considered the epitome of romance. Therefore, tourists for the most part book tours to the pristine jungle, which have not been affected by the trend of civilization. The landscape of the kingdom is so fabulously beautiful, you will get to know the animal communities that are inherent in this particular area. Such animals often pose a danger to people.

The danger of being in the jungles of Thailand is somewhat exaggerated. You need to listen to the advice of your guides if you have purchased a jungle tour. The most dangerous, famous, graceful and graceful inhabitants of the rainforests are considered king cobras. However, the king cobra can be seen in any part of the country.

Thailand beckons with its beautiful nature, which attracts even experienced tourists. What is beautiful here? Rivers, lakes, waterfalls, snow-white beaches, mountains, caves, rocks - all this is striking in its originality. Do not forget about the jungle that covers most of the state.

If you are a plant lover, you should definitely visit Thailand. Here you will see amazing plants such as ficuses, red trees, a variety of palm trees. Flowers are fabulously beautiful, beckon with their originality and attractiveness: orchids, lotuses, fruit trees.

In Thailand, you can see the animals that languish in urban zoos in the civilized world. For tourists, specially trained people prepare colorful, amazing and original shows. Wild animals participate in these performances, but every traveler strives to know the unknown and original. Thailand is leading in this position. How nice it is to swim in a pristine waterfall, which has not been affected by civilization, to walk along forest paths, observing at least minimal caution. If you want to feel the adrenaline, you can wander through the rocky gorges, which remember all the historical events taking place in the state. After such tours, the traveler, as it were, joins the nature and beauty of the region, the secret and the historical.

Thailand is famous for its forests, which are famous for their Monkey Temples. In the past, these were Buddhist temples. Now the monkeys have chosen and equipped these places. You can also find the Temple of the Tigers, although on the territory of the temple, in addition to these graceful and formidable animals, all animals live without exception.
If tourists do not want to take risks and do not travel through the jungles of Thailand, they can visit the largest zoo: Khao Kaew. Here are all the animals living in the kingdom.

Thailand's nature is amazing! Its tropical forests, mangroves, stormy waterfalls and white sands touch the most hidden strings of the human soul. Even those who usually treat the living world with indifference cannot fail to notice the beauty of Thai flora and fauna!

Most of the territory of this country is located on the Indochina peninsula, and only its southern part is located on the Malay Peninsula. Its shores are washed by 2 seas: the Andaman - in the west and the South China, namely the Gulf of Thailand - in the east. This geographical position explains the tropical climate of Thailand, which, by the way, is very peculiar. It is thanks to him in the country, not 4, but only 3 seasons can be distinguished.

The first lasts from March to May. During this period, the most real summer reigns in Thailand. The mercury columns are off the charts at their highest levels, and there is intense heat everywhere.

The second season runs from May to November. At this time, heavy rains are pouring over the entire territory of the country, brought by monsoons from the southeast.

And finally, the last period. He runs from November to March and enjoys pleasant weather conditions. At this time, the Thais are not tormented by high humidity, or incessant downpours, or crazy heat. This period is considered the most comfortable, and therefore it is during these months that Thailand has the most vacationers.

The climate of the country is directly related to its flora and fauna. It also determines that a huge part of the territory is occupied by tropical jungles, although there are also flat treeless terrain and mountain ranges. The landscape here is truly diverse. Accordingly, the flora and fauna of Thailand are also heterogeneous.

About 60% of the country is occupied by the jungle. Mainly deciduous monsoon forests. Popular types of vegetation growing in them are teak and redwoods, as well as bamboo. In the wetter parts of Thailand (most often in the mountains), the trees are more diverse. There you will see hopei, ficus and many palm trees. On the territory of the country you can also visit dense mangroves.

Generally, Thailand has over 500 tree species and over 25,000 different flowers. It is especially interesting that about 1000 of them are varieties of orchids.

Just like the flora, the fauna of the country is exotic and diverse. Most animals, of course, live in tropical forests. The conditions there are the most suitable for the life of rhinos, tapirs, squirrels, tigers, leopards, bamboo bears, as well as monkeys. Deer, buffaloes, antelopes and wild bulls are found on the flat territories.

I would like to pay special attention to birds. There are more than 1000 of their varieties in Thailand. Here you can see magnificent flamingos, long-legged herons, bright parrots, and even the most beautiful peacocks.

It would seem that it is very difficult to get acquainted with such a variety of flora and fauna. However, it is not. To make this task easier Thailand has developed many excursions that allow tourists to immerse themselves in the world of wildlife.

The easiest way to do this is in one of the national parks. They can be visited in any corner of the country, and their beauty will depend on the area in which they are located. Some reserves will introduce you to the delights of the mountain slopes. You can walk in the cool shade of the trees growing there, admire the amazing plants and watch the local fauna. However, be careful! Remember that these are not pets, but wild animals. If a predator is in your way, it is better to move aside and in no case annoy him.

If you prefer walking in more peaceful places, you can go to excursion to the waterfall. There are a lot of them in Thailand, but they are especially popular. Erawan. It is located on the territory of the national park of the same name and consists of 7 tiers. Tourists from all over the world come to see this magnificent waterfall, so if you have the opportunity to do this, do not miss it!

Also popular in Thailand excursions to hot springs, which are most often located in a forest area, so you can see wonderful trees, and a variety of animals, and even birds. However, a special advantage of such reservoirs is that they provide an opportunity not only to get acquainted with the beauties of nature, but also to treat health. This can be done, for example, in "Emerald Pool" in the Krabi area.

Excursions are also popular among tourists, allowing you to get acquainted with the splendor of the underwater world of Thailand. First of all, corals are of interest. Their beauty can only be enjoyed at depth, as in the air they lose their unusual color. That is why excursions to coral reefs have always attracted vacationers.

However, the waters of Thailand boast not only not only them, but also a huge variety of fish. Some of them belong to the commercial variety and are not of particular interest, but bright butterfly fish and clown fish have not left anyone indifferent!

This is an amazing and mysterious country, attracting numerous travelers since the time of the greatest geographical discoveries. Today, it occupies a leading position in terms of tourist attendance. Nature has generously endowed the kingdom of Southeast Asia with snow-white beaches, majestic waterfalls and bizarre caves. Man-made sights are also not inferior to them in beauty.

In the article we will talk about the wealth of nature in Thailand (the photo is presented in the article) and its features.

Diversity of nature

The exotic landscapes of Thailand attract with their amazing beauty and diversity. On the territory of this fabulous kingdom there are lakes, waterfalls, mountains, jungles and tropical forests.

The state is located on two peninsulas: Malay and partly Indochinese. The shores are washed by the Andaman and Indo-China seas.

The nature of Thailand is amazing and attractive. Nature reserves and numerous national parks are located throughout the territory. This makes it possible to admire the most different parts of the state.

Climatic conditions

Exotic kingdom gives not only nature. The climate in Thailand is tropical. There are three seasons in total:

  1. The cold period lasts from May to November (monsoons bring heavy rains).
  2. Warm period covering the period from November to March (no rain).
  3. Thailand summer starting in March and ending in May (very hot weather).

Wildlife of Thailand

The jungle in this country occupies more than half of the territory of the state (60%). These are real thickets of red and teak trees, ficuses and palm trees, bamboo and xylia, as well as wild flowers and all kinds of fruit trees.

In total, more than 500 species of trees and 25,000 flowers grow here. The richness and diversity of vegetation determines the abundance of animals.

The fabulously beautiful nature of Thailand is superbly complemented by numerous species of exotic birds (more than 1000), including flamingos and parrots of different sizes and colors.

Reserves and national parks

These zones are the pride of the country. In total, there are more than 50 protected areas and parks on the territory of the kingdom, covering an area equal to 25,000 square meters. km.

One of the most popular is the Erawan National Park, which consists of seven tiers. On its territory there is a waterfall of the same name, which impresses with its wild beauty. It is located in the province of Chiang Mai, in the mountainous area of ​​\u200b\u200bwhich the peaks rise to a height of 2,565 meters above sea level. Approximately at an altitude of 1,800 meters, beautiful forests grow with wild orchids and lichens.

Khao Yai is another park that gives you the opportunity to see the unique nature of an exotic state and the animals living in it. It is located 200 kilometers from Bangkok. There are also several wonderful waterfalls here. Tourists have the opportunity to independently explore the peaks of the mountains.

Vegetation and its use in the economy

The nature of Thailand is very diverse and rich in vegetation. Valuable species of deciduous trees grow here: mahogany, bamboo and sal. Residents of local villages are engaged in the extraction of wood resin, balsam, gum and varnish.

The leading place in the agricultural sector is occupied by the processing of sago and coconut palms. The fruits are used for food, and from the rest of the plant, the locals build their own houses and paddocks.

Teak wood is used to build ships. This is a unique building material with increased strength. It is practically indestructible.

Oak and pine groves grow on the tops of the mountains. It is noted that during the period of heavy monsoon rains, pandanus, ficus and palm trees increase in height by several tens of centimeters. Associated with this is the amazing density of thickets in these places.

Fauna of Thailand

Thanks to the wealth of nature in Thailand, many mammals have found refuge here. The official symbol of the country is the Indian elephant, which once inhabited almost the entire territory. In the process of the development of civilization, these animals began to be exterminated in huge quantities. Today, in the wild, they live only in the peninsular part of Central Thailand and on the southeast coast. In the western part of the island, you can see several species of macaques, and the Indian tiger is the owner of the local jungle. Leopards and panthers are also found here.

The mangrove swamps and forests of Western Thailand are home to the rare civet cat. Here you can also meet reed cat, tapir, deer, binturong, rhinoceros and many other animals.

Undersea world

Talking about the nature of Thailand, it is impossible not to mention the underwater world of this fabulously beautiful state. Holidays here will appeal to both beach lovers and divers.

Tarutao National Park, located in the province of Satun, is a great place for scuba diving. Its territory unites 51 islands. Another magnificent marine park is located in the province of Surat Thani.