Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a large region in Asia made up of eleven countries. It includes both mainland countries and thousands of islands. Southeast Asia has tropical rainforests, ancient temples, and beautiful beaches. The region is home to some of the most diverse cultures and wildlife on Earth.

Land and People

About 680 million people live in Southeast Asia. The region includes countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Indonesia alone has more than 17,000 islands. The Mekong River flows through several countries and is one of the longest rivers in Asia.

Culture and Fun Facts

Southeast Asia has amazing temples like Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Borobudur in Indonesia. Rice is the most important food in the region. The food is famous for its bold flavors, using spices, chilies, and coconut milk. Orangutans, tigers, and elephants live in the region's rainforests.

Fun Facts

• Angkor Wat in Cambodia is the largest religious monument in the world.
• Indonesia has more than 17,000 islands, making it the largest island country on Earth.
• Southeast Asia's rainforests are home to some of the rarest animals on Earth, including orangutans and Komodo dragons.

Did You Know?

Southeast Asia has the oldest tropical rainforests on Earth. The rainforests of Borneo are about 140 million years old, much older than the Amazon rainforest.