According to Citypopulation.de, more than 66 million individuals were living in Thailand at the end of 2019. It is projected that the population would have increased to around 70 million today, and the residents are located in different cities and towns across the country. Of course, some cities are bigger than others, so what are the 9 biggest cities in Thailand
Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pak Kret, Hat Yai, Chaophraya Surasak, and Nakhon Ratchasima are the biggest cities in Thailand. Others include Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, and Udon Thani. However, these cities are classified based on their population.
It is noteworthy that the exact population of some of these cities is slightly debatable. Consequently, the arrangement of the cities in the list may be different from the lists of other platforms. For instance, the populations of these cities on Mongabay.com differ from their populations on Citypopulation.de. Nevertheless, this doesn’t change the fact that these cities are the biggest in this Southeast Asian country.
Let’s check out the 9 biggest cities in Thailand:
1. Bangkok – Almost 11 million residents
Without a doubt, Bangkok is the biggest city in Thailand. Notably, it is also the capital city of the country. According to World Population Review, about 11 million individuals live in the metropolitan region of Bangkok; hence, no other city in the country comes close to it. From ancient ruins and attractions to modern structures and busy folks, the atmosphere of Thailand’s capital city is filled with almost everything you can think about.
Apart from being the economic center of Thailand, this city is also well-known as a tourist destination. Based on the results of the Global Destination Cities Index by MasterCard, more than 22 million foreigners visited Bangkok in 2019 from different parts of the world. As a result of this, Bangkok was the most visited city in the world before the coronavirus pandemic started.
If you are in this city for tourism, the Grand Palace is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit. It used to house the Royal Family of Thailand and now serves as a tourist attraction that welcomes millions of people annually. You should also visit Wat Phra Kaew Temple, which is a popular Buddhist temple in the city. Make sure you dress modestly when visiting any of the temples in Bangkok or other places in Thailand. Other attractions to check out in Bangkok include Wat Pho, Wat Arun, the Jim Thompson House, Bangkok Art and Culture Center, and Khao San Road.
In addition, the streets of Bangkok are filled with offices, malls, bars, restaurants, and lots more. Also, street food stalls are found almost everywhere in the city; hence, you can never go hungry in Bangkok. If you would like to shop for local items in the city, then you should head to one of Bangkok’s markets such as the Chatuchak Weekend Market.
2. Nonthaburi – More than 255,000 residents
With a population of almost 256,000 people, Nonthaburi is the second biggest city in the whole of Thailand. It is located on the shoreline of the Chao Phraya River. Known as the capital city of Nonthaburi province, this city is a sharp contrast to Bangkok. This is because it is generally calmer and less crowded than Thailand’s capital city. Therefore, you can explore the city with its awesome serenity.
In the past, Nonthaburi was a fishing town with a handful of villagers, but it has now grown to become an astounding city with both modern and ancient amenities. Expectedly, the city has several Buddhist temples that you can visit when you are around. Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat and Wat Sanghathan are two of the most popular Buddhist temples to visit in Nonthaburi. Take the time to learn about Thailand and the influence of Buddhism on the Thai people.
Apart from the natural beauties of this city, Nonthaburi does not lack some human-made attractions. You can take a short trip to the Fantasia Lagoon Water Park to explore its offers. A few bars and restaurants are also available. But if you are with kids, Tooney Toy Museum and Impact Speed Park are some of the places to be.
3. Pak Kret – Almost 183,000 residents
According to Geonames.org, there are about 183,000 people in Pak Kret. Thus, it is undoubtedly one of the biggest in this Southeast Asian country. Like Nonthaburi, Pak Kret is located in the Nonthaburi Province. It is a beautiful city with loads of modern attractions that are bound to amaze you. However, Pak Kret doesn’t fall short on ancient attractions.
This Thai city is a great destination for individuals that want to explore Thailand without spending too much. It has several budget-friendly offers that most tourists will like. You can start your discovery with the Impact Speed Track, which is a racing site for both the young and old. You and your loved ones can hire affordable karts and race around the track with them.
You can check out the Mali market to shop for a wide range of products. You can also eat, drink and spend a good time with your friends and family at the market. Additionally, there are spas, massage centers, etc. for therapeutic health services. If you want to just enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature, then you should go to Srinakarin Park. With this park, you can get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
4. Hat Yai – More than 157,000 residents
The exact population of Hat Yai can be quite debatable. Worldatlas.com says the population of the city is 157,467 whereas it has been estimated to be over 191,000 by Geonames.org. Regardless of the exact population of the city, it is unarguably one of the biggest cities in Thailand.
Hat Yai is found in the southern region of Thailand and close to the border of Malaysia. Like other big cities on this list, Hat Yai has several places you may want to visit. Let’s start with the Asean Night Bazar, which is the perfect location for people looking for budget-friendly shopping. The Bazar takes place throughout the night and is witnessed by both foreigners and locals from all parts of the world. You can also shop at the Santisuk Market, Greenway Night Market, Hat Yai Khlong Hae Floating Market, and Kim Yong Market.
If you want to see some eye-catching artworks, then you should visit The Magic Eye 3D Museum. Take great photos with your loved ones. The Hat Yai Municipal Park is another lovely place where you should visit your friends and family. Other places to visit in Hat Yai include Pirates Park Hatyai and the Namtok Ton Nga Chang.
5. Chaophraya Surasak – More than 146,000 residents
Chaophraya Surasak is the biggest city in the Chonburi Province and one of the biggest in Thailand. This city is named after Chaophraya Susarakmonthri, one of the country’s greatest field marshals. While this Thai city doesn’t have as many attractions as the aforementioned names, it is good enough for everyone to visit.
If you are looking for a place to learn about farming, this city is a great place to be. The city has more than 30 chicken farms, 7 pig farms, and lots more. Also, over 30 Buddhist temples are officially recognized in Chaophraya Surasak. Notably, these temples are scattered in different parts of the country; hence, you are bound to come across them regardless of where you have chosen to stay or visit in the city.
However, Chaophraya Surasak is not all about Buddhist temples and farming. You can also hang out at The Sriracha Tiger Zoo, which houses more than 200 tigers, 10,000 crocodiles, elephants, and lots more. If you love artworks, the Bang of Thailand Museum is another wonderful place you should visit.
6. Surat Thani – Over 131,000 residents
Surat Thani is a wonderful city located in the Surat Thani Province, close to the Gulf of Thailand. This city is a blend of nature, religion, and modern attractions. According to Planetware.com, the ancient kingdom in the city spreads over a landmass of around 7,000 hectares and features 193 temples and landmark structures. The strategic location of this city around Khao Sok National Park also adds to its overall appeal.
If you are an adventure lover, you should consider trekking, canoeing, bamboo rafting, or kayaking around the park. You can also visit Ang Thong National Marine Park if you would like to check out the various animals available in the city. The marine park has numerous rock cliffs, Karst rocks, limestone islands, and so on.
A visit to the popular waterfall Namtok Vibbahadi can also help you to learn more about Surat Thani. Otherwise, go to the astounding cave situated in Khanom as you continue exploring the city.
7. Chiang Mai – More than 127,000 residents
According to Citypopulation.de, the population of Chiang Mai is over 127,000. However, Worldatlas.com puts the population of the same city at more than 174,000. Regardless, Chiang Mai is a well-known city found in the Northern part of Thailand. As noted by US News, Chiang is one of the best places for international visitors to check out whenever they are in Thailand. There are tons of English speakers in the city; hence, many tourists cannot have issues with traveling around Chiang Mai.
Like other cities in Thailand, there are several Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai. So, it is a great place for anyone that wants to make merit or learn more about Buddhism. Some of the topmost temples to visit in the city include the ancient Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. The Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls is another adventurous place to go to in the city.
If you want to see elephants, don’t hesitate to visit the Elephant Nature Park in the city. To check out and take photos with the most astonishing 3D artworks in Chiang Mai, you should visit Art in Paradise Museum. For shopping in the city, then you should go to the Chiang Mai Gate Market.
8. Nakhon Ratchasima – More than 122,000 residents
Nakhon Ratchasima is another large city in Thailand with numerous attractions. Considered the capital city of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, this city is the home of several Buddhist temples such as the Temple of the Sleeping Buddha. This statue was constructed over 1300 years ago and has continued to mesmerize various international visitors.
Khao Yai National Park is the first national park in the Land of Smiles and is located in Nakhon Ratchasima. Phimai Historical Park is another stunning attraction that you should visit in the city. You can also visit the Thongsomboon Club, which is the right place to have fun with laser tags, go-karts, horse riding, flying fox, and zorb balls.
If you are a farming enthusiast, the Jim Thomson Farm and Mister Mushroom are some of the best locations to visit. Explore the centers and also learn more about farming.
9. Udon Thani – Over 120,000 residents
The ninth biggest city in Thailand is Udon Thani, which is the capital city of the Udon Thani Province. Udon Thani city is considered a modern city with a touch of the cultural heritage of Thailand. When compared to Bangkok and other top cities, Udon Thani is relatively calmer. As a consequence of this, Udon Thani city is a perfect getaway from the noise of the cities.
To shop for various items, you should take a short trip to the Central Plaza Mall. If you love partying and enjoying booze, you need to go to Little Havana. However, to see the natural attractions in Udon Thani, go to the Phu Phrabat Historical Park. It is an age-long attraction with numerous old structures, unusual rock formations, and beautiful rock paintings. The Bang Chang Museum also boasts of having some top-of-the-range artworks.
The Sea of Red Lotuses is another wonderful location that tourists love in the city. The park has lots of flowers. Do you want to see more plants? Then, you should go to the Phu Foi Lom Eco Park.
Conclusion
Now, you have known the 9 biggest cities in Thailand. Each of these cities has some exceptional attractions; hence, they are some of the most amazing tourist centers in the country.
