Bangkok (Thai: กรุงเทพมหานคร, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon), also commonly known as Krung Thep, is the largest city in Thailand. According to recent estimates, Bangkok has a population of over 8.3 million within the city proper and over 14 million in the metropolitan area. Situated in central Thailand, the city is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and covers an area of approximately 1,568 square kilometers (606 square miles). Bangkok serves as the economic and financial center of Thailand and plays a crucial role in the country’s cultural and scientific advancements.