Thailand

Tour Guide

The best time to visit Thailand is during the cool/dry season from November to February, when temperatures range from 24-30°C with clear skies and minimal rainfall. This is perfect for beach activities on the Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi) and sightseeing in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. However, this is peak season with higher prices and crowds. The hot season (March-June) offers good deals but temperatures can reach 35°C. During monsoon (June-October), the Andaman side experiences rough seas, but the Gulf side (Koh Samui) is often better July-September. Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai) can get quite cool in winter mornings (15-20°C), so pack layers. Book early for November-February travel.Read also Best time to visit in Thailand

Flying is the most convenient option with direct flights from major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad to Bangkok (BKK/DMK), Phuket (HKT), and seasonal flights to Chiang Mai and Krabi. Flight times are short: Kolkata (2.5 hours), Chennai/Bengaluru (3.5-4 hours), and Delhi/Mumbai (4-5 hours). Airlines like Thai Airways, IndiGo, Air India, and budget carriers operate these routes. There's no direct rail connection, and overland travel via Myanmar requires complex permits and is only recommended with specialist operators. Once in Thailand, domestic flights, trains, and buses connect major destinations efficiently.

Visa requirements for Indian passport holders change frequently, so always check the latest policies before travel. Thailand has offered various schemes including visa exemption periods, visa on arrival, and e-visa options for Indians. Currently, you may be eligible for visa-free entry for short stays or visa on arrival, but policies can change based on diplomatic agreements. Keep multiple passport-sized photos handy and ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity with blank pages. Check with the Royal Thai Embassy or consulate in India, or visit the official Thai immigration website for the most current requirements. It's advisable to have proof of return tickets and accommodation bookings.

Thailand offers excellent transportation options. In Bangkok, use the BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, and Airport Rail Link for efficient city travel. Get a Rabbit Card for quick payments. Metered taxis, tuk-tuks, and Grab (ride-hailing) are widely available. For intercity travel, domestic flights are quick and affordable. The State Railway offers comfortable overnight sleepers to destinations like Chiang Mai and Surat Thani. VIP buses provide good connectivity between cities. For islands, ferries and speedboats are essential - book through reputable operators. In tourist areas, songthaews (shared pickup trucks) are common. Always insist taxi drivers use the meter, and compare Grab prices. Motorbike taxis are available but use caution and wear helmets.

Thailand offers accommodations for every budget. In Bangkok, stay near BTS stations in Sukhumvit (shopping/nightlife), Silom (business district), or riverside areas for convenience. Chiang Mai's old city puts you near temples and markets. For beaches, Phuket offers variety from Patong (nightlife) to quieter Kata/Karon. Krabi's Railay Beach provides stunning limestone scenery. Koh Samui has family-friendly resorts and boutique properties. Options range from budget hostels (₹500-1500/night) and mid-range hotels (₹2000-6000/night) to luxury resorts (₹10000+/night). Popular chains include Anantara, JW Marriott, and InterContinental. Book early for peak season (November-February). Consider location carefully - beach proximity, transport links, and nearby attractions matter more than just price.

Thailand's top attractions span culture, nature, and adventure. In Bangkok, visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho temple, then explore floating markets and take a Chao Phraya river cruise. Ayutthaya's UNESCO ruins make an excellent day trip. Chiang Mai offers the old city's temples, Doi Suthep mountain temple, and vibrant markets. For beaches, Phuket and Phang Nga Bay provide island-hopping to James Bond Island. Krabi's Railay Beach offers world-class rock climbing and stunning limestone karsts. Koh Samui features palm-fringed beaches and Ang Thong Marine Park. Don't miss Kanchanaburi's Bridge on River Kwai and Erawan Falls. Sukhothai's quieter ruins are perfect for cycling. Each region offers unique experiences - temples in the north, beaches in the south, and urban energy in Bangkok.Read also Top places to visit in Thailand

Thai cuisine offers incredible variety beyond the familiar Pad Thai. Must-try dishes include Tom Yum Goong (spicy-sour soup), Green/Red/Massaman curry (Massaman is milder), Som Tam (papaya salad), and Khao Soi (Chiang Mai's coconut curry noodles). Don't miss Mango Sticky Rice for dessert. For vegetarians, say 'gin jay' for vegan options without fish sauce. Top dining spots include Raan Jay Fai (Bangkok) for legendary crab omelette, Thipsamai for classic Pad Thai, and Gaggan Anand for progressive Indian-Thai fusion. In Chiang Mai, try Khao Soi Khun Yai for authentic northern flavors. Street food is generally safe at busy stalls with high turnover. Start with milder dishes and gradually increase spice levels. Always drink bottled water and eat at crowded local spots for the freshest food.