Thailand
is naturally divided into four topographic regions: 1) the North, 2) the
Central Plain,or
Chao Phraya River Basin, 3) the Northeast, or the Korat Plateau, and 4)
the South, or Southern Isthmus.
The North is
a mountainous region characterized by natural forests, ridges and deep,
narrow, alluvial valleys.
Central Thailand,
the basin of the Chao Phraya River, is a lush, fertile valley. It is the
richest and most extensive rice-producing area in the country and has often
been called the “Rice Bowl of Asia.” Bangkok, the capital of Thailand,
is located in this region.
The Northeastern
region, or Korat Plateau, is an arid region characterized by a rolling
surface and undulating hills. Harsh climatic conditions often result in
this region being subjected to floods and droughts.
The Southern
region is hilly to mountainous, with thick virgin forests and rich deposits
of minerals and ores. This region is the center for the production of rubber
and the cultivation of other tropical crops.
