History and Culture

The region once known as Siam is the only Southeast Asian country never to have been colonized by a foreign power. There are four major notable time periods significant to Thailand’s history.
1. The Sukothai period (1238-1438)
2. The Ayutthaya period (1351-1767)
3. The Thonburi period (1767-1782)
4. Rattanakosin period (1782 to present time)
Each period left behind temples, shrines, palaces and ancient sites with unique architectural styles and designs. The area was heavily influenced by the culture and religions of India. Thailand’s national religion is Buddhism. There is several thousands of Buddhist temples spread around Thailand. The Thai name for the temples is “Wat”. A typical Wat Thai consists of 2 parts the” Phutta-Wat” the area dedicated to Buddha and the “Sangha-Wat” containing living quarters of the monks. The temples are largely decorated in gold and multicoloured with numerous roof tiers.

(source: http://www.discoverythailand.com/history.asp)