Topography

          Thailand is divided into four natural regions 1 the North, 2 the Central Plain, or Chao Phraya River Basin, 3 the Northeast, of the Korat Plateau, and 4 the South, or Southern Peninsula. The North is a mountainous region comprising natural forests, ridges and deep, narrow, alluvial valleys. The leading city of this region is Chiang Mai. 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.” (หารูปภาพ นาข้าว และ ผลิตภัณฑ์จากข้าว) Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is located in this region. The Northeast region, or the Korat Plateau, is an arid region characterized by 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  minerals and ores. This region is the center for the production of rubber and the cultivation of other tropical crops.