Cheap flights, warm seas, world-class street food and a famously easy welcome make Thailand the perfect first international trip for Indian travellers. Here's how to plan it.
Thailand is the most popular first overseas trip for Indians — and for good reason. It''s close, affordable, safe and endlessly varied, from Bangkok''s temples and markets to the beaches of Phuket and Krabi. Here''s what to sort before you fly.
Visa & entry
Entry rules for Indian passport holders change from time to time, with visa-free and visa-on-arrival windows applying in different periods, so always check the latest requirement before booking. A small tourist entry fee also applies on arrival. Carry confirmed hotel bookings, return tickets and proof of funds to be safe — we guide our travellers through the exact current process.
Best time to visit
- November to February: cool, dry and ideal — but peak season and pricier.
- March to May: hot, with the Songkran water festival in April.
- June to October: the green season — cheaper, lush and with short showers.
The Andaman islands (Phuket, Krabi) are best November to April; Koh Samui on the Gulf coast shines December to August.
Islands or cities?
The classic first-timer question. For temples, shopping, nightlife and culture, base in Bangkok, Pattaya or Chiang Mai. For beaches and boat trips, head to Phuket, Krabi or Koh Samui. The best answer for a first trip is usually both — a few city days plus an island stretch.
What will it cost?
Thailand suits every budget. Land packages (hotels, transfers, tours) typically run from around ₹18,000 for a short city break to ₹55,000-plus for a longer island holiday, excluding flights. Street food is superb and cheap; carry Thai Baht for markets, tuk-tuks and boats, though cards work at malls and hotels.
Eat where the locals queue. Thailand''s street food is world-famous for a reason — and it''s some of the best value on the planet.
A sample 6-night route
- Nights 1–2, Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Arun, a floating market and a night market.
- Nights 3–4, Pattaya or Phuket: a beach base with an island day trip (Coral Island or Phi Phi).
- Nights 5–6, Krabi: the famous four-island tour and the Railay cliffs.
Quick tips for Indian travellers
- Vegetarian and Indian food is easy to find in all tourist areas.
- Grab (the local ride app) is cheap and hassle-free in cities.
- Get a local eSIM or SIM at the airport for maps and bookings.
- Carry a universal adapter and some cash for the islands.
Let us plan it
From a quick Best of Thailand combo to a full Phuket & Krabi island holiday, browse all our Thailand tour packages — visas, stays and island trips sorted, so your first trip abroad is effortless.