Turquoise sea and limestone islands in southern Thailand
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Thailand Trip from India: Visa, Budget and a 5-Day Plan

The new 30-day visa-free rule, the arrival card, which islands to pick and a realistic budget for Indian travellers.

By Thrill On Hills Travel Desk · Updated 22 October 2026 · 3 min read

Thailand is the most popular first international trip for Indian travellers — short flights, great food, beaches and fair prices. Here is what you need to know before booking in 2026.

Visa rules for Indians

From 15 September 2026, Indian passport holders get visa-free entry for up to 30 days for tourism (earlier it was 60 days). You will also need to fill in the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before you land. Your passport should be valid for at least six months.

Best time to visit

November to April is the best season for Phuket, Krabi and the Andaman coast — calm seas and sunny days. May to October brings the monsoon on that side; island boat trips can be cancelled on rough days.

Which Thailand trip suits you?

TripGood forStarting price*
Bangkok + Pattaya (2N/3D)Short break, first-timers, shopping₹11,166 per person
Phuket + Krabi (4N/5D)Couples, island hopping, beaches₹27,869 per person

*Land package prices on our website in October 2026, excluding flights. See current Thailand packages.

A 5-day Phuket and Krabi plan

  1. Day 1: Arrive in Phuket, sunset at Promthep Cape
  2. Day 2: Phi Phi Islands boat trip
  3. Day 3: Transfer to Krabi, evening at Ao Nang
  4. Day 4: Four-island tour or Railay Beach
  5. Day 5: Fly home

Money and food tips

  • Carry some Thai baht from India and use ATMs or cards for the rest
  • Vegetarian and Indian food is easy to find in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket
  • Take travel insurance — medical care is excellent but expensive

Bangkok in a day

  • Grand Palace and Wat Pho in the morning — dress with shoulders and knees covered
  • Wat Arun by river ferry in the afternoon
  • Chinatown or an evening market for dinner
  • A rooftop or river view to end the day

Rules and etiquette

  • Cover shoulders and knees at temples and the Grand Palace
  • Never speak disrespectfully about the Thai royal family — it is a serious offence
  • Carry your passport or a copy; hotels and some tours ask for it
  • E-cigarettes and vapes are banned in Thailand — do not carry them

Who should choose what

First-timers on a short budget trip usually love Bangkok + Pattaya. Honeymooners and beach lovers should head to Phuket and Krabi. Families often combine Bangkok with one island stay to keep travel days short.

Frequently asked questions

Do Indians need a visa for Thailand?

From 15 September 2026, Indians get visa-free entry for up to 30 days for tourism. Check official sources before travel.

What is the TDAC?

The Thailand Digital Arrival Card, an online form all visitors fill in before arrival.

How much does a Thailand trip from India cost?

Our land packages start from ₹11,166 per person for Pattaya; add flights from your city.

Which is better, Phuket or Krabi?

Phuket has more activities and nightlife; Krabi is calmer with dramatic scenery. Many travellers combine both.

Planning this trip?

Tell us your dates, group size and starting city. A real trip planner replies on WhatsApp with a route and quote — no online payment.

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