History
- Things To Do
What you should do for Loy Krathong 2024
The history of the Loy Krathong festival Loy Krathong, or ‘floating basket,’ is a beloved Thai tradition where people gather by the water to release beautifully decorated krathongs. Traditionally made from banana trunks and adorned with flowers, candles, incense, and sometimes personal items, these floating baskets carry wishes and gratitude. The festival is believed to have started in the ancient city…
- Thai Life
Why is Thailand no longer called Siam?
If you’ve been curious about why Thailand was once called Siam and what led to the name change, you’re not alone. This is a common question among anyone who noticed Siam referenced in historic sites, movies, and even in the names of places such as Bangkok’s Siam Square. Here’s a look at the history behind the name change, the reasons…
- Thailand News
Bangkok National Gallery’s 200-year Thai art history exhibition
The National Gallery in Bangkok invites you to, 200 Years Journey Through Thai Modern Art History, a spectacular exhibition running until August 31. This exhibition, held in collaboration with the Art Auction Centre, offers a rare opportunity to explore over two centuries of Thai art history. From the traditional works of Khrua In Khong, who flourished during the reigns of…
- Education
Are libraries necessary anymore
Consider a world devoid of libraries. Challenging to envision? They represent more than just edifices housing book collections; they serve as pivotal community hubs, repositories of information, and havens for wisdom enthusiasts. Libraries hold importance in moulding societies, underlining their irreplaceable value. Hence, whether one is a fervent bibliophile, an earnest scholar, or an individual who has not frequented a…
- Guides
A deep dive into Ayutthaya history in each aspect
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Thailand’s cultural history as we delve into the intriguing era of the Ayutthaya period. A time when art and culture flourished, and the Kingdom of Siam, now Thailand, was a bustling hub of trade and prosperity. The Ayutthaya period, spanning from 1350 to 1767 CE, was marked by the rise of a distinct…
- Thailand News
Today’s results reveals pattern for Thai lottery enthusiasts
Sanook News compiled a 10-year history of lottery numbers drawn on May 16, today’s date, as the lottery results were revealed. Here are the notable numbers that have appeared in previous years. Reviewing past lottery results for draws held on Mondays and in May can also provide interesting insights for lottery enthusiasts. The winning number for the first prize in…
- Thailand News
Mushroom foragers uncover ancient carvings in Buriram forest
Villagers foraging for mushrooms in the Buriram forest stumbled upon ancient carvings believed to depict the mythological figure Sirimahamaya. The discovery sparked widespread interest and calls for an urgent investigation by the Fine Arts Department. In the dense forests of Buriram, a group of mushroom foragers made an unexpected and potentially historic discovery. Amidst the lush greenery, they found an…
- Guides
The remarkable legacy of Ayutthaya
Situated at the core of Thailand, Ayutthaya presents itself as a portal to another era. This venerable city offers extensive insights into the nation’s historical narrative. Once thriving as the capital, it is now enveloped by remarkable temples and ruins that have withstood the test of time, serving as enduring markers of Ayutthaya’s significant events and cultural heritage. However, Ayutthaya…
- Thailand News
Thailand’s cultural marvel: Khon dance meets history in Ayutthaya
In a fusion of ancient artistry and historical grandeur, the Khon masked dance will weave its enchanting tales against the backdrop of Ayutthaya next month. This cultural extravaganza promises to be a visual feast, celebrating Thailand’s vibrant legacy in a way never seen before. Part of the esteemed Ayutthaya Sundown 2024 programme by the Ministry of Culture, this Khon performance…
- Lifestyle
Tying the pieces together with the awesome history of shoelaces
Shoelaces might seem like a small part of our daily lives, but they have a surprisingly rich history that stretches back thousands of years. From the first discovery in the Areni-1 cave to the invention of aglets that revolutionized the lace, these strings have been tying together not just our shoes, but stories of innovation and necessity. It’s fascinating to…
- Lifestyle
Traditional Thai textiles: A journey through time and quality
Traditional Thai textiles are a testament to Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, weaving together centuries of history, art, and craftsmanship. These textiles are more than just fabric; they’re a vibrant expression of Thai identity, embodying the spirit and skill of the artisans who create them. From the intricate patterns of the Northern hill tribes to the royal elegance curated by Her…
- Cannabis
Exploring Thai spirituality and cannabis connection
Diving into the heart of Thai spirituality reveals a unique intertwining with cannabis, a journey stretching back over a thousand years. From its early introduction via ancient trade routes, cannabis has held a sacred spot in Thai culture, blending seamlessly with both medicinal practices and spiritual rituals. Exploring the spiritual landscape of Thailand, you’ll uncover how cannabis has been revered…
- Bangkok News
Stamp spectacle: World’s priciest stamps unveiled in unprecedented exhibition
Stamp enthusiasts, brace yourselves for an unprecedented clash of philatelic titans at the Thailand 2023 – World Stamp Championship Exhibition! The famed British Guiana One-Cent Magenta, a global record-holder at over US$8 million (280 million baht), and the Japan 1871 500mon Center Inverted, valued at a staggering 4.4 million euros (168 million baht), are sharing the limelight for the first…
- World News
Diary decoded: Anne Frank’s secrets unveiled, hidden jokes, sex and unexpected lessons revealed with digital discovery
Hidden jokes and sex education have been revealed from the previously undisclosed content of Anne Frank’s diary, thanks to digital technology. The mysterious brown-paper-covered pages of the diary offered a unique perspective of a 13 year old Jewish girl during World War II. Researchers from the Anne Frank Museum, War, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies Institute of the Netherlands, and Huygens…
- Guides
From market place to meeting place: The history of Khao San Road
In the bustling heart of Bangkok sits Khao San Road, a place that’s really changed over time. This famous street is a perfect mix of Bangkok’s exciting spirit, with bits of history and adventure everywhere. Join as dive into the story of Khao San Road, a street that pulls in travellers from all over the planet. A street steeped in…
- Guides
Krabi Krabong: The poetry in motion of Thai martial arts
Often underrepresented on the global martial arts stage, Krabi Krabong nevertheless stands as a vital and captivating tradition deeply rooted in combat styles worldwide. It carries a distinctiveness marked by elegance, dexterity, and meticulousness, exuding the flavour of centuries-old Thai ancestry. It harmoniously melds an organic blend of physical combat techniques with a copious cultural storyline. What is Krabi Krabong…
- Thailand News
Royal romance evolution: One man, many wives fades within 60 years in Thailand
From the era of Rama V with multiple wives to the era of Rama VII with a single wife, why did the perception of one man, many wives vanish within 60 years? Aside from his work in reforming the nation and abolishing slavery, another facet of King Chulalongkorn, Rama V, is most remembered from our textbooks, his position as the…
- Thailand News
Wat Nang Kui temple’s artefacts spark intrigue amidst Phromlikhit drama comparisons
Wat Nang Kui, a historical temple dating back to the Ayutthaya period, is believed to have been established by a wealthy woman named Nang Kui. The temple, located in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, south of the city island and adjacent to the Chao Phraya River, was founded in 1587 during the reign of King Maha Thammaratchathirat. It experienced significant…
- Thailand News
Lottery enthusiasts roll the numbers: October 1 draw sparks decade-long data dive
Lottery buffs are eagerly preparing for the upcoming October 1 lottery draw, delving into the historical data of the past decade to aid in their number analysis. For the lottery draw held on October 1, 2022, the first prize number was 484669. This winning combination featured three-digit prefix numbers 206 and 996, three-digit suffix numbers 278 and 194, and a…
- Thailand News
Ancient mysteries unearthed: Skeletal remains found under South Thailand sports stadium
Three sets of skeletal remains have been discovered underneath Nakhon Si Thammarat’s central sports stadium, believed to be from an ancient cemetery over a century old. The archaeological find was made during construction work for a drainage pipe behind two football fields. An evening inspection, following the report of the discovery, was led by Police Captain Thanathorn Panchu, Investigation Officer…
- Thailand News
How did the first Go-Go bar in Thailand start? | Patpong, A Brief History
How did the first Go-Go bar in Thailand start? Patpong is more than just a seedy bar area. It is in fact a puzzle with so many pieces containing unique stories, history and legends. Everyone who has been to Thailand has their own perception regarding Patpong and all it has to offer. Follow Bangkok Pat as he lets you have…
- Bangkok News
Renovation of Hua Lamphong may wait another three years: BMA
It might be another two to three years until Bangkok’s historic Hua Lamphong station is developed for commercial use. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s Office of Town Planning and Development has today put a hold to the State Railway of Thailand’s request to develop station and surrounding buildings for another two or three years. According to reports, the 120-rai site planned for…
- Hua Hin News
Last WWII Thai airman died at 102 years old
World War II ended 76 years ago before many of us were born, but this week, the last Thai airman who actively fought in World War II died at the age of 102. Thai airman Choy Lodethanong died on Wednesday morning. At the age of 102, the death was considered to be of natural causes. Choy was part of the…
- Bangkok News
When did Bangkok have its ‘good old days’?
When did Bangkok have its golden era? Of course it depends on when you were visiting, how long you were here, where you stayed, and what you were doing at the time. But the city has certainly had some ‘eras’ in the past that people nostalgically and whimsically recall as ‘special’. Here’s a few of the responses about when Bangkok…
- Phuket News
Newly discovered 3,000 year old cave paintings in Phang Nga
New cave art, reportedly at least 3,000 years old, has been discovered in the southern Phang Nga province’s Phang Nga Bay Marine National Park. The head of the park says he he found the ancient paintings while leading park officials to investigate the Petch Pakarang Cave at Koh Talu in Takua Thung district on Friday. Currently there are 4 locations in…
- World News
Japanese man earns master’s degree in ninja studies
A Japanese man has become the first person in the world to hold a master’s degree in ninja studies. Genichi Mitsuhashi, aged 45, completed the courses which involved learning basic martial arts and climbing mountains in a stealthy way. He spent the last two years at Mie University studying the history, traditions, and fighting techniques of ninjas, including mysterious agents…
- Thai Life
First female doctor in Thailand celebrated by Google
If you do any search on Google today you’ll see a graphic of a doctor holding a baby. The image is of Thailand’s first female doctor, Margaret Lin Xavier, and today marks her 122nd birthday. Xavier, whose Thai name is Lin Srivisarnvaja, was an expert in obstetrics and gynaecology. She opened a private clinic with her sister who was a…
- World News
So you want to move to Vietnam?
“Whilst Thailand is often nicknamed the ‘land of a thousand 7-elevens’, with a convenience store on just about every corner, there are very few of these in Vietnam, for now.” With the Thai Baht on a high at the moment, along with stricter enforcement of visa rules, some expats say they’ve had enough and are heading to Vietnam, or some…
- Tourism News
Phuket Town – In CNN Travel’s “Asia’s most picturesque towns”
“Though most famous for its beaches, the Thai island of Phuket offers ample opportunities for cultural immersion as well.” Phuket’s Old Town was listed as one of Asia’s 13 most picturesque towns by CNN Travel. The article mentioned, that whilst the island is renowned for its world-class beaches and leisure, offshore and adventure tourism activities, Phuket Town delivers on romance, history…
- Bangkok News
The coronation of King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun
PHOTO: A younger King Maha Vachiralongkorn with his father, the Late King Bhumibol Adulyadej May 5, 1950. King Bhumibol Adulyadej was coronated in a grand ceremony at the Grand Palace and around the streets of Bangkok. That’s nearly seven decades ago when the last coronation took place in Thailand. The 1950 coronation ceremony began the reign of King Rama IX,…
