National Symbols Thailand

There are three national symbols of Thailand. They represented by an animal, the Asian Elephant,  a flower, the Ratchapruek and a piece of architecture, the Sala Thai.

Asian Elephant and Baby Thailand

Most people will recognise an Asian Elephant since they are generally smaller in stature than their African counterparts with much smaller ears. They are a national symbol because they play a significant role in Thai society and history while Thailand itself is often daubed the Kingdom of the Elephant. The most prized of all Asian Elephants is the white elephant which is strongly connected with Thai royalty.

Ratchapruek or Golden Shower Tree

The Ratchapruek(ราชพฤกษ์), which is also known as the Golden Shower Tree (Cassia fistula) or Indian Laburnum. It is a tree that is found throughout Asia. The flowers are bright yellow a colour associated with Buddhism and Thai Royalty.

The tree also has medicinal qualities used for the treatment of certain heart conditions and arthritis. Its leaves which are deciduous are also used as mild laxative. Incidentally it is said that all the Ratchapruek in Thailand will come into flower at the same time which is taken as a sign of Thai unity.

Sala Thai

The Sala Thai(ศาลาไทย) is a shelter or pavilion and an important architectural symbol of Thailand. You will find examples of the Sala Thai throughout Thailand ranging from simple roadside shelters to more ornate structures in the grounds of Thai temples. In this photograph it is a simple resting place in a park but all Sala Thai have a similar architectural lines.

You might be surprised to know that the Thai national flag and the garuda which are often thought to be the national symbols of Thailand are not officially classified as such.

Related posts:

1. Thailand National Parks-Prachuap Khiri Khan
2. Bird Watching in Kaeng Krachan National Park Thailand
3. Kaeng Krachan National Park
4. Hat Wanakon National Park
5. Nam Tok Huai Yang National Park