Thailand Travel Guide for Indians: Costs, Visa, Best Time & Cultural Insights
What Makes Thailand Famous?
Known as the “Land of Smiles,” Thailand draws visitors for its stunning beaches, vibrant street life, rich Buddhist heritage, and world-class cuisine. Bollywood is extremely popular, and you'll find Indian festivals like Diwali celebrated in cities with sizeable Indian communities.
Is Thailand Visa‑Free for Indians?
Yes. Recently, Thailand extended a visa-free policy for Indian passport holders indefinitely—initially launched July 15, 2024—allowing up to 60 days stay per visit, extendable once for 30 days.
Requirements:
Passport valid ≥6 months
Proof of onward/return ticket
Hotel booking or address
Proof of funds (~THB 10,000 per person)
No visa fees or physical forms needed—just show your Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) QR code submitted online within 72 hours before travel.
Is Thailand Expensive for Indians?
Budget travelers can manage ₹40,000–60,000 for a 7-day trip, mid-range at ₹70,000–1,00,000, and luxury over ₹1.5 lakh Bajaj Markets. Street food can cost ₹200–500 per meal; restaurants ₹800–2,000.
India vs Thailand: Which Is Cheaper?
Daily expenses in Thailand typically range from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 depending on budget, comparable or slightly lower than India’s metropolitan travel costs Bajaj Markets. Beaches and resorts often cost less than Goa.
Best and Worst Times to Visit Thailand
Best (dry season): Dec–Mar—ideal weather, but higher prices.
Cheapest (low season): Jun–Oct—monsoon rains lead to 30–50% off hotels and flights.
Shoulder seasons: Mar–May & Sep–Nov—fewer crowds, balanced weather, and great deals .
Months to avoid: Apr (extreme heat), Jul–Aug (peak rain) .
Cost Breakdown: 7‑Day Trip & ₹1 Lakh Budget
A 7-day moderate trip (~₹70,000–1,00,000) typically includes:
Accommodation: ₹3,500–7,000/night
Food & beverages: ₹800–2,000/meal
Transport: Mix of taxis, scooters, and Grab ₹200–1,000/day
Activities: Tours or temple visits ₹2,000–5,000/day.
With ₹1,00,000, a comfortable one-week Thai trip is absolutely feasible.
Thailand’s Climate & Rainy Season
Thailand features three main seasons Wikipedia:
Hot season: Mar–May (temp 34–36 °C)
Rainy season: Mid-May–mid-Oct (with peak rain Aug–Sep)
Cool/dry season: Nov–Feb (most pleasant)
Expect heavy, short showers in rainy season—mostly afternoons—but skies clear fast.
What to Wear in Thailand
Daytime: Light, breathable clothing like cotton shirts, shorts, dresses.
Temple visits: Cover shoulders and knees; carry a shawl or sarong.
For women: Shorts, skirts, sleeveless tops are acceptable in tourist areas. Avoid overly revealing outfits at religious sites or local neighborhoods.
Safety & Cultural Tips: Women, Clothing & Eating Out
Thailand is considered generally safe for female travelers. Still, stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid isolated spots.
Cultural etiquette:
It is acceptable for women to wear shorts in beaches and urban areas. Avoid low-cut or super-revealing clothing.
When dining and traveling, bargaining in street markets is common but avoid scams like unmetered taxis or tuk‑tuk detours. Popular Thai Foods and Things to Avoid in Bangkok
Must‑try dishes: Pad Thai, Green Curry, Som Tam (papaya salad), Mango Sticky Rice.
Avoid:
Street food from unhygienic stalls
Tap water—always drink bottled or filtered
Unlicensed taxis or tuk‑tuk drivers promising ultra-cheap tours—they often lead to overpriced shops.
Trip Duration & Enjoyment: Is Thailand Worth It?
A week in Thailand offers a mix of culture, beaches, nightlife, food, and relaxation. For Indian travelers, it’s one of the easiest and most enriching international trips—especially now with full visa-free entry, minimal jet lag, and well-connected flights.
Read Thailand for Indian Travelers: A Complete Guide on Visa, Currency, Time, Flights & Diplomatic Ties to get more information on Thailand.
