THAILAND
TRAVEL GUIDE
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OVERVIEW
A Southeast Asian kingdom with a contrasting topography of the mountainous north, the idyllic beachy south along with ancient temples evidencing of Theraveda Buddhism, frenetic markets calling upon culture enthusiasts and every bit of Thai corner linked by its culinary celebration of flavours, loved by all. This is what makes Thailand a riveting destination to unpack.
Getting to Thailand
Flights to Thailand
Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang in Bangkok and Phuket Airports are the most popular hubs that caters to direct flights from all across India especially to Suvarnabhumi Airport. Direct flights are available from Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata.
Applying for Thailand Visa
Thailand is visa-free for Indians but this Thailand Digital Arrival Card or TDAC needs to be filled and submitted 3 days prior to their arrival date in Thailand.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Thailand is during the dry season when the climate is comparatively warmer, drier, laced with humidity while the wet season experiences incessant showers.
- Dry season: October to May
- Wet season: June to September
Shoulder season is between June to September when tourism is low, influencing lower rates.
v/s
traveller's wisdom
The entire internet might suggest you to avoid the wet season but it’s perhaps the best season to be there (I love wet seasons of Southeast Asia). Although crowds never seem to cease in Bali but exploring the other parts shouldn’t be passed on. Beaches might be closed because of the weather so you can always drop by to check for yourself. Be safe around the shores.
Local Food &Drinks in Thailand
- Southeast Asia especially Thailand is known for a wide range of delicaies that it offers. Be it for hard-core meat eaters, or vegetarians or vegans. Chiang Mai in Thailand is also known for its coffee.
Types of Transportation in Thailand
- A great way to travel is to book a bike or a cab on Gojek or
- Inter-city Bus – leaves from Mochit terminal, fares depend on the distance travelled.
- Local Bus services
- Local taxis like pink taxis
- Songthaew
- Rent a bike or self-driving car (advisable to obtain IDP from home country)
Applications to Download
- Gojek – for cabs, bikes and food
- Grab – for cabs, bikes and food
- In-drive – ride-hailing app
- HappyCow – to check for vegetarian options around you
- GoWabi – For discounted deals on massages, spas, beauty clinics, hair removal, hair salons, gel nail salons, dental clinics, and more
- TADA – local ride-hailing app
- Bangkok MRT & BTS Metro Guide – to check the lines
Things to Remember
- Local currency is the Thai Baht (THB)
- Credit cards are widely accepted.
- Learn a few basic Thai phrases like ‘Hello’, ‘Thank you’, ‘Welcome’, etc.
- Dress modestly while visiting Buddhist temples. It’s advisable to carry a sarong to cover the bottom in case you are wearing shorts or dresses (that fall above the knee). Probably the best thing is to use Google Translate
- English is not widely spoken.
- For calling either purchase a local sim or activate an e-sim.
- Carry portable fans.
- Dress modestly while visiting Buddhist temples. It’s advisable to carry a sarong to cover the bottom in case you are wearing shorts or dresses (that fall above the knee).
EXPERIENCES & ITINERARIES
POSTS
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Thailand visa-free for Indians?
Yes, Thailand is visa-free for Indians.
There is no need for any visa. Pre-arrival a document needs to be filled online.
What is the capital of Thailand?
The capital of Thailand is Bangkok
How many time-zones are there in Thailand?
Thailand has only one time zone.
What is the time difference between India and Thailand?
Thailand is behind India by 1.5 hours
What religion does Thailand follow?
Thailand was a part of the Khmer Dynasty that was predominantly Hindu and later adopted Theraveda Buddhism.
What is the ideal duration of Thailand Trip?
5-7 days are good for a trip to cover Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya. However if you want to really explore offbeat Thailand it will take a good month. For a trip to Chiang Mai and its adjoining provinces usually takes around 9 days that includes hikes through some renowned dense national parks. but it is advisable not to club with other islands in Thailand. This is the largest country of Southeast Asia so covering it in its entirety isn’t feasible
How many UNESCO Heritage sites does Thailand have?
There are 8 UNESCO heritage sites in Thailand, namely
- Historic City of Ayutthaya
- Historic Town of Sukhothai and Associated Historic Towns
- Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries
- Ban Chiang Archaeological Site
- Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex
- Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex
- The Ancient Town of Si Thep and its Associated Dvaravati Monuments
- Phu Phrabat, a testimony to the Sīma stone tradition of the Dvaravati period
What is famous in Thailand to buy?
There are a lot of local products that one can buy from Thailand
- Local handicraft
- Coffee