Thailand Trip from India: Visa Rules, Cost, Itinerary and Tips

Thailand is the most popular short-haul international holiday for Indians – four hours from most metros, great value, and something for everyone from families to honeymooners.

Visa and Entry Rules (2026)

From 15 September 2026, Indian passport holders can visit Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism (reduced from the earlier 60 days). You will need:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months
• A confirmed return or onward ticket
• Hotel bookings and proof of funds may be checked
• The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), completed online within 3 days before arrival

Rules change often – always check the Royal Thai Embassy, New Delhi before you fly.

Flights

Direct flights connect Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad and others to Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang), plus some direct routes to Phuket. Return fares typically range ₹18,000–₹35,000.

Best Time to Visit

• November–February: cool and dry – peak season.
• March–May: hot; good for Songkran (Thai New Year, mid-April) water fights.
• June–October: monsoon on the Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi); the Gulf side (Koh Samui) is drier until October.

How Much Does It Cost?

For a couple, 6 nights, mid-range hotels, excluding flights: ₹60,000–₹90,000 including tours and transfers. Street food and local transport are cheap; island tours, shows and alcohol add up.

Classic Itineraries

5 days – Bangkok & Pattaya: 2N Pattaya (Coral Island, Alcazar show) + 2N Bangkok (Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Safari World, shopping). See our Bangkok Pattaya itinerary.

7 days – Phuket, Krabi & Bangkok: 3N Phuket (Phi Phi Islands), 2N Krabi (four-island tour), 2N Bangkok. Compare beaches in our Phuket vs Krabi guide.

Practical Tips

• Money: carry some Thai Baht from India; forex cards and ATMs work widely (ATMs charge a fee).
• SIM: buy a tourist SIM at the airport or use an eSIM.
• Indian food is easy to find in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket; Jain and vegetarian options exist too.
• Temples: cover shoulders and knees.
• Transport: use Grab or Bolt in cities; agree tuk-tuk prices first.

Thailand Packages

All trips on our Thailand destination page include transfers and tours:

• Grand Thailand Honeymoon – Pattaya, Bangkok & Phuket, 8 Nights / 9 Days
• Thailand Honeymoon – Krabi, Phuket & Bangkok, 7 Nights / 8 Days
• Thailand Couple's Retreat – Phuket & Bangkok, 5 Nights / 6 Days
• Thailand Honeymoon – Krabi & Phuket, 5 Nights / 6 Days
• Thailand Mini Vacation – Pattaya & Bangkok, 4 Nights / 5 Days

Related reading: Phuket vs Krabi · Bali trip from India · Vietnam trip from India

Tourism information: Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Indians need a visa for Thailand?

Not for tourism stays of up to 30 days from 15 September 2026, but entry conditions and the TDAC apply. Check the embassy for updates.

What is the budget for a 5-day Thailand trip?

Around ₹45,000–₹70,000 per couple excluding flights for mid-range travel.

Which is better for a first trip – Pattaya or Phuket?

Pattaya is closer to Bangkok and suits short trips; Phuket is better for beaches and islands.

Is Thailand good for families?

Yes – Safari World, aquariums, theme parks and easy beaches make it very family-friendly.