The city of Bangkok, known in Thai as Krung Thep or “City of Angels”, is the capital of Thailand, founded in 1782 by King Rama I. Bangkok is the country's principal gateway and port. Lying a mere 30 kilometres (19 miles) from the sea, the city sprawls 1500 square kilometres (58 square miles), on both sides of Thailand's main river, the Chao Phraya.

The name 'Bangkok' historically refers to one section of the city. This neighbourhood became so well-known that, for international visitors today, Bangkok is the name of the city itself.