Thailand is the most visited country in Southeast Asia — and it deserves the title. It has the best street food, some of the most spectacular temples, world-class diving, and a hospitality culture that makes you feel genuinely welcome. It is also remarkably affordable. A first-time traveller can do Thailand properly for $40–60 per day.
Thailand Visa for Indians
- ›Indian ordinary passport holders are covered by Thailand visa-exemption rules for short tourist stays, but the permitted duration can change with official updates.
- ›Required: passport with at least 6 months validity, return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation and proof of funds if requested.
- ›Thailand has tightened scrutiny around fake return tickets and repeated border runs. Have a real itinerary and verifiable bookings.
- ›Before booking non-refundable travel, verify the current duration on official Thai embassy, consular or immigration channels.
Thailand in 2 Weeks: Best Route
| Days | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Bangkok | Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak, Yaowarat street food, rooftop bar |
| Days 4–5 | Chiang Mai | Elephant sanctuary, Doi Suthep temple, Night Bazaar, cooking class |
| Days 6–7 | Pai or Chiang Rai | Mountains, White Temple (Chiang Rai), hot springs |
| Days 8–9 | Krabi or Phuket | Phi Phi Islands, James Bond Island, limestone cliffs |
| Days 10–12 | Koh Samui or Koh Phangan | Full Moon Party or chilling, snorkelling, beaches |
| Days 13–14 | Bangkok (return) | Shopping, massage, night market, depart |
Thailand's Best Islands: Which One Is Right for You?
| Island | Best For | Vibe | Budget/night |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phuket | First-timers, families | Commercial, well-developed | $25–150 |
| Koh Samui | Mid-range, couples | Upscale beach clubs | $30–200 |
| Koh Phangan | Full Moon Party crowd | Parties and yoga | $15–80 |
| Koh Tao | Scuba diving | Diving mecca, cheap | $15–60 |
| Koh Lanta | Quiet beach holiday | Peaceful, local | $20–100 |
| Koh Yao Noi | Off-the-beaten-path | Untouched, beautiful | $40–180 |
Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary near Chiang Mai, NOT a riding camp. Elephant Nature Park is the gold standard — founded by Lek Chailert, rescues elephants from logging and circus industries. Full day tour $80. Worth every baht.
Thailand Budget Guide
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostel/Hotel/night | $8–20 | $35–80 | $100–300 |
| Street food/day | $5–10 | ||
| Restaurant meals | $15–30/day | $50–100/day | |
| Activities/day | $15–30 | $40–80 | $100+ |
| Transport/day | $5–15 | $15–30 | $40+ |
| Total/day | $35–75 | $105–220 | $290+ |
Planning one week in Thailand? Use our day-by-day Thailand itinerary for Bangkok, beaches, food and transfers.
Read moreNeed exact costs? Read the Thailand budget guide with daily budgets in INR and USD.
Read moreTiming your trip around weather and island seasons? See the best time to visit Thailand.
Read more
