Season, flights & transport
November to February is generally cooler and drier in much of the country, though coast seasons differ: check local conditions for Phuket/Krabi and Koh Samui before choosing dates. Direct flights connect India with Bangkok and selected leisure gateways; schedules vary by departure city and season. Bangkok has BTS Skytrain, MRT, airport rail, buses and taxis. Use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing; domestic flights, trains and coaches connect regions.
Tourist visa for Indian passport holders
The Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi states that a 30-day visa exemption for Indian ordinary passport holders for tourism and short-term business took effect on 15 September 2026 and remains effective until further announcement. This replaced the earlier 60-day arrangement. The exemption is for tourism/short-term business, not study or employment. Travellers should also complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 3 days before arrival; it replaces the former paper TM6 arrival form. Carry evidence of onward travel and sufficient funds, and check the current entry conditions with the airline and Thai authorities before departure.
Hotels & indicative budget
Indicative daily budget per person: around ฿900–1,800 for a shoestring stay in Chiang Mai or simpler regional destinations; ฿1,100–2,200 in Bangkok; and ฿1,600–2,800 in Phuket for a budget style. A comfortable mid-range day may be around ฿2,200–5,500 in Bangkok or Chiang Mai and ฿4,000–7,000 in Phuket, including accommodation, meals, local transport and ordinary activities. Island boat trips, resort stays and private transfers add substantially.
Hostel dorms and simple guesthouses may start around ฿600–1,200 per night in lower-cost areas, while budget private rooms often fall around ฿1,000–2,000; beach districts and peak dates can be much higher. Reference: 2026 Thailand daily budget by destination ↗ Treat these as working ranges and compare live room rates for your exact dates.
Attractions & entry costs
Temples, national parks, viewpoints, island tours and theme attractions may have separate foreign-visitor prices, conservation fees or boat charges. Check the official operator or park authority for current entry prices, opening hours, closures and weather restrictions before visiting.