Bangkok, Thailand's capital and largest city, lies in the Chao Phraya River delta at just 2 meters above sea level. This extremely flat, low-lying terrain has made Bangkok one of the most flood-vulnerable major cities in the world. The city is also sinking at a rate of 1–2 cm per year due to groundwater extraction and the weight of its massive built environment.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Elevation above sea level | 2 m |
|---|---|
| Lowest point (city area) | 0 m |
| Highest point (city area) | 5 m |
| Coordinates | 13.7563 N, 100.5018 E |
| Country / Region | Thailand |
Topography: How is the City Shaped?
Bangkok sits on an ancient delta formed by the Chao Phraya River over thousands of years. The entire city is essentially flat, ranging from 0 to 5 m above sea level, with no meaningful topographic variation. The river itself flows through the city at roughly 0–1 m, and many canals (khlongs) crisscross the urban area at near sea level.
Elevations by District
| District / Area | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Rattanakosin Island (Old City) | 0–2 m |
| Silom / Sathorn (Business) | 1–3 m |
| Sukhumvit (Eastern suburbs) | 0–2 m |
| Lat Phrao / Chatuchak | 0–2 m |
| Thonburi (West bank) | 0–3 m |
| Don Mueang (Airport district) | 2–5 m |
Climate and Altitude: How Elevation Shapes the City
At 2 m above sea level, Bangkok's tropical climate is dominated by its latitude and the monsoon system — not by elevation. The city experiences three seasons: hot (March–May), wet monsoon (June–October), and cool dry (November–February). Annual rainfall exceeds 1,500 mm, most of which falls in the monsoon season and can cause severe urban flooding when drainage systems are overwhelmed.
Interesting Facts About Bangkok's Elevation
- Bangkok is sinking at 1–2 cm per year due to groundwater pumping — parts of the city may be below sea level by 2030.
- The Chao Phraya River floods Bangkok every 1–2 years. The 2011 mega-flood inundated 65% of the city for weeks.
- Bangkok's low elevation makes it one of the cities most threatened by sea level rise due to climate change.
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok's main airport) is built on a former swamp just 2 m above sea level.
Cities Comparison – Elevation in the Region
| City | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Pattaya | 2 m |
| Ayutthaya | 8 m |
| Phuket | 5 m |
| Ho Chi Minh City (VN) | 5 m |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Elevation of Bangkok
What is the elevation of Bangkok?
Bangkok sits at approximately 2 m above sea level. The terrain is almost completely flat, ranging from 0 to 5 m across the entire city.
Is Bangkok sinking?
Yes. Bangkok is subsiding at a rate of 1–2 cm per year due to excessive groundwater extraction. Some low-lying areas are already at or below sea level.
Why does Bangkok flood so often?
Flat terrain, dense impermeable surfaces, monsoon rains, and inadequate drainage infrastructure all contribute. The 2011 floods were particularly severe, lasting over 3 months.
How does Bangkok's elevation affect its climate?
At 2 m, elevation plays no role. Bangkok's climate is driven by its tropical latitude and the Southeast Asian monsoon system.
Will Bangkok be underwater in the future?
Parts of Bangkok are at serious risk from both land subsidence and rising sea levels. Scientists estimate that without major adaptation, large areas could be submerged by 2100.