Thailand recently overtook the UAE as India’s most popular international destination, helped by visa-free entry for Indian passport holders and some of the best value in Asia. This guide covers a Bangkok + islands plan, costs in ₹, vegetarian/Jain food (look for the green "เจ" Jay sign), and the visa-free rules for Indians as of mid-2026.
A sample 6-day Thailand itinerary
A realistic, low-backtracking route. Generate your own — shaped to your dates, budget and pace — in ~45s.
Bangkok arrival
Settle in, evening at a rooftop and a street-food street.
Bangkok temples & river
Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, then a market.
Fly to Krabi
Short flight south; beach evening at Ao Nang.
Island hopping
Phi Phi / 4-islands longtail boat with snorkelling.
Railay & relax
Kayaking, Railay beach, optional rock climbing.
Return
Fly Krabi→Bangkok→home, last-minute shopping in transit.
Best time to visit Thailand
November to February is the best time to visit Thailand — cool, dry and comfortable, ideal for both Bangkok and the islands. March–May is hot; June–October is the green/monsoon season (cheaper, lush, with afternoon showers). The Gulf islands (Koh Samui) stay drier later than the Andaman side (Phuket/Krabi).
| When | Weather | Crowd | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov–Feb | Cool, dry | Peak | Best overall — book ahead, prices high |
| Mar–May | Hot, humid | Medium | Songkran (Apr) water festival is a highlight |
| Jun–Oct | Monsoon showers | Low | Cheapest; islands lush, brief daily rain |
Thailand visa for Indians
As of mid-2026, Indian citizens can enter Thailand visa-free for tourism for up to 60 days. You still complete the online Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before arrival and should carry proof of onward travel and funds. Always reconfirm the current rule before booking — exemptions can change.
- 1Confirm passport validity of 6+ months
- 2Complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before you fly
- 3Carry proof of return/onward ticket and hotel booking
- 4Keep funds proof handy (occasionally checked)
- 5Enter visa-free — note your permitted stay on the stamp
Visa rules change — always reconfirm on the official portal before booking. We re-verify these pages regularly (updated June 2026).
Thailand trip cost from India
Thailand is one of the best-value destinations from India. Per-person, per-day excluding international flights:
Hostels, street food, public transport
4★ stays, mix of dining, some private transfers
Beach resorts, fine dining, spa
Ballpark for a 6-day trip: ₹40,000–65,000 per person incl. return flights (comfort).
Veg & Jain food in Thailand
Thailand is easy for vegetarians if you watch for fish sauce and shrimp paste — say "mang-sa-wirat" (vegetarian) and look for the green "เจ" (Jay) sign, which means strictly vegan/no pungent roots, ideal for Jains. Bangkok and Chiang Mai have dedicated veg/Jay restaurants and Indian options.
Safety & scams
Thailand is very used to tourists and broadly safe. Watch for common scams around taxis, gems and jet-skis, and be cautious on scooters and at full-moon party crowds.
- ⚠"Grand Palace is closed today" tuk-tuk gem-shop scam — ignore, walk to the official gate
- ⚠Jet-ski damage claims — film the craft before renting
- ⚠Taxi "meter broken" — insist on the meter or use Grab/Bolt
Thailand FAQs
Do Indians need a visa for Thailand?
No — as of mid-2026 Indian passport holders get visa-free entry for up to 60 days. You still fill the online Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before arrival. Reconfirm the rule before booking.
How many days do you need in Thailand?
6–7 days lets you pair Bangkok with one island region (Krabi/Phuket) comfortably; add 2–3 more if you want Chiang Mai.
Is Thailand cheaper than India for travel?
On-ground costs are comparable to or cheaper than premium Indian travel; flights are the main expense. A comfortable 6-day trip is roughly ₹40,000–65,000 per person including flights.
Is there vegetarian/Jain food in Thailand?
Yes — look for the green "เจ" (Jay) sign for strictly vegan/no-pungent food, perfect for Jains, and ask for "mang-sa-wirat" elsewhere.