Understanding Thai Land Measurements: Rai, Ngan, and Wah

Navigating the Pattaya real estate market? Grasping local Thai land measurements like Rai, Ngan, and Square Wah is essential. The size of the land is arguably the most crucial factor when determining the true value of a property. That's why anyone searching for their perfect plot or considering houses for sale in Pattaya must be fluent in these terms.

Let Lakeside Property Pattaya guide you through these units to make informed decisions when buying a house or working out land in Pattaya. Understanding this system is the first step to ensuring you are getting the correct value for your investment.

Quick Reference Table

1 Rai is equal to 0.395 Acres or 1,600 sqm

Why Thai Land Measurements Matter in Pattaya Real Estate

When exploring property options with Lakeside Property Pattaya, you'll notice land sizes listed in traditional Thai units: Rai, Ngan, and  Wah. Understanding these measurements is crucial for:

• Accurate Property Evaluation: Know precisely how much land you're considering.
• Investment Decisions: Calculate potential returns based on land size.
• Building and Development: Plan construction projects with exact land dimensions.

Breaking Down the Units

1. Tarang Wah (ตารางวา)

• Definition: The smallest unit of land measurement in Thailand and the most common for residential real estate.
• Conversion:
  • 1 Tarang Wah = 4 Square Meters
• Usage: Ideal for measuring small plots, residential lots, or individual house spaces.

What is a Tarang Wah? 1 Wah is 2 meters, a Tarang Wah or Square Wah Is therefore equivalent to 4 square meters, commonly used in property listings throughout Thailand.

2. Ngan (งาน)

• Definition: A mid-sized land measurement unit.
• Conversion:
  • 1 Ngan = 100 Square Wah
  • 1 Ngan = 400 Square Meters
• Usage: Commonly used for medium-sized properties, such as larger homes or small commercial spaces.

3. Rai (ไร่)

• Definition: The primary unit for larger land areas.
• Conversion:
  • 1 Rai = 4 Ngan
  • 1 Rai = 400 Square Wah
  • 1 Rai = 1,600 Square Meters
• Usage: Typically used for substantial plots like farms, resorts, or large development projects.

Converting Thai Units to Square Meters

Since living areas are listed in square meters, converting land measurements helps in comparing and planning:

• Square Wah to Square Meters: Multiply by 4.
  • Example: 50 Square Wah × 4 = 200 Sq.m
• Ngan to Square Meters: Multiply by 400.
  • Example: 2 Ngan × 400 = 800 Sq.m
• Rai to Square Meters: Multiply by 1,600.
  • Example: 3 Rai × 1,600 = 4,800 Sq.m

Practical Examples for Pattaya Properties

• Residential Plot: A land listing of 80 Square Wah equates to 320 Sq.m (80 × 4).
• Large Land Plot: A property listed as 1-2-27 or 1 Rai 2 Ngan 27 Wah is:
  • 1 Rai = 1,600 Sq.m
  • 2 Ngan = 800 Sq.m (2 × 400)
  • 27 Wah = 108 Sq.m (27 x 4)
  • Total: 1,600 + 800 + 108= 2,508 Sq.m

Rai to Acres: A Quick Conversion Guide

For those more familiar with the imperial system, especially buyers from the USA, or Canada, converting Thai measurements to acres can provide a clearer picture of land size. 

• How many acres in a Rai? One Rai is approximately equal to 0.40 acres. More precisely, one rai is 0.395 acres. To convert, you can simply multiply the number of Rai by 0.395.
• How many Rai in an acre? Conversely, one acre is equivalent to approximately 2.5 Rai. 

The Origins of Thai Land Measurements

The Rai has its roots in Thailand's agricultural past, traditionally representing the size of land needed for farming. Over time, these measurements became standardized, with 1 rai being officially defined as 1,600 square meters.

The Ngan, equivalent to a quarter of a rai (400 square meters), was used for measuring medium-sized plots, often for family-owned fields or smaller agricultural purposes. It serves as an intermediate unit between the rai and smaller measurements, making it a practical unit for subdividing land.

The Wah (or square wah in its area form) was originally based on human proportions, with 1 wah representing the distance between the outstretched arms of a person, roughly 2 meters. 1 square wah (or talang wah) equals 4 square meters and is commonly used for smaller land divisions, particularly in urban and residential contexts.

Tips for Property Buyers in Pattaya

• Verify Land Titles: Always check the official land title for accurate measurements.
• Consult Experts: Engage with real estate agents familiar with Thai measurements and documents.
• Future Development Potential: Consider future infrastructure or development plans in the area, such as new highways, commercial centers, or residential developments, which could increase the land's value.

Conclusion

Understanding Thai land measurements like Rai, Ngan, and Square Wah empowers you to make confident decisions in the Thai real estate market. Whether you're buying a house in Pattaya or renting, understanding these units is crucial.

Ready to explore Pattaya real estate? Browse our listings at with detailed land sizes and get expert guidance every step of the way.

Contact us today and take the first step toward owning or renting your dream property in Thailand.