Brief information about the Bangkok
Bangkok Thai pronunciation Bangkok is the capital and most populous city of Thailand. Known in Thai as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon or simply Krung Thep, the city occupies 1,568.7 square kilometres (605.7 sq mi) in the Chao Phraya River delta in central Thailand and has a population over 8 million, as of 2010. Over 14 million live within the surrounding Metropolitan Region, making Bangkok a primate city, dwarfing other urban centres in both size and importance to the national economy.
Bangkok traces roots to a small trading post during the Ayutthaya Kingdom in the 15th century, which then grew and became the site of two capitals: Thonburi in 1768 and Rattanakosin in 1782. Bangkok was at heart of Siam's modernization during late-19th century, as the country faced pressures from the West.
The city was at the centre of Thailand's political struggle throughout the 20th century, as the country adopted constitutional rule and underwent numerous coups and uprisings. The city grew during the 1960s to 1980s as US aid resulted in urbanization, and the Asian investment boom in the 1980s and 1990s led multinational corporations to locate their regional headquarters in Bangkok.
The city is now a regional force in finance and business and an international hub for transport and health care, as well as the arts, fashion and entertainment. The city is known for street life and cultural landmarks. The Grand Palace and Buddhist temples stand in contrast with other tourist attractions such as nightlife scenes of Khaosan and Patpong.
Bangkok has been named the most visited city in several rankings. Growth coupled with little urban planning has resulted in a haphazard cityscape and inadequate infrastructure. An inadequate road network, despite an extensive expressway network, together with substantial private car usage, had led to chronic, crippling traffic congestion that caused air pollution.
The city has since turned to public transport: five rapid transit lines in operation, with more systems under construction or planned by the national government and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.