The central region of Thailand is the area which contains and surrounds the national capitol of Bangkok. The area contains many places of historical interest and natural beauty. Everything from the old capital of Ayutthaya, to the world war ll "death railway" to beach resort can be found within a two hour drive from Bangkok. Traditionally the central region has extended all the way east to the Cambodian border, but due to recent development of places such as Pattaya, the East coast is now considered a whole region on its own.