An Overview of the 'Thrilling Thailand' Package
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is offering a six-day, five-night international tour named 'Thrilling Thailand'. This package is designed for travellers seeking a structured and all-inclusive holiday, removing the complexities
of booking flights, hotels, and local tours separately. Originating from cities like Kolkata, the tour is specifically curated to appeal to first-time international visitors and families who want a guided experience of Thailand's most popular destinations: the bustling capital of Bangkok and the coastal city of Pattaya. The package starting at ₹49,500 provides a comprehensive itinerary that balances guided sightseeing with some leisure time.
Breaking Down the ₹49,500 Cost
The headline price of ₹49,500 per person is based on a triple-sharing accommodation basis. For those preferring different arrangements, the cost adjusts; for instance, double-sharing is typically priced higher. This fare is largely all-inclusive, covering return economy class airfare, accommodation in 3-star hotels, and most meals as specified in the itinerary (usually five breakfasts, four lunches, and four dinners). The package also includes all transfers and sightseeing in air-conditioned coaches, the cost of a visa on arrival, travel insurance for passengers, and the services of an English-speaking guide throughout the tour. This bundled pricing structure is intended to offer value and peace of mind, ensuring travellers don't face unexpected major expenses.
A Glimpse into the 6-Day Itinerary
The tour is packed with some of Thailand's most famous attractions. Upon arrival in Bangkok, travellers are typically transferred to Pattaya. The Pattaya leg includes a speedboat trip to Coral Island for beach activities, a visit to the popular Gems Gallery, and entry to see the spectacular Alcazar Show. After exploring Pattaya, the tour moves to Bangkok. The itinerary in the capital features a mix of cultural and modern attractions. Highlights include a serene dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River, a visit to the magnificent Golden Buddha and Marble Buddha temples, and an extensive tour of Safari World and Marine Park. A half-day city tour is also included to give travellers a broader feel for Bangkok's unique atmosphere.
What’s Included and What’s Not
To ensure full transparency, it's important to know exactly what your money covers. Inclusions are comprehensive: return air tickets, 3-star hotel stays, specified meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner on most days), all transfers by coach, and entry fees for attractions mentioned in the itinerary like the Alcazar Show and Safari World. An English-speaking guide and travel insurance are also part of the package. However, some costs are not included. Travellers will need to budget separately for personal expenses such as shopping, laundry, and telephone calls. Any meals or drinks consumed outside of the planned itinerary are also at your own expense. Furthermore, the cost of any optional tours or activities not explicitly listed in the IRCTC plan will have to be paid for on the spot.
Booking and Travel Details
Booking for these packages can be done directly through the official IRCTC Tourism website, which lists available dates and departure cities. It's also possible to book through IRCTC's regional and zonal offices. These tours are often launched with specific travel dates, such as the recently announced package from Kolkata scheduled for November. Given the popularity and limited seats for these budget-friendly international tours, it is advisable to book well in advance. Upon booking, travellers will need to submit a TCS (Tax Collected at Source) declaration form and their PAN card, as is standard for overseas tour packages. The process is designed to be straightforward, catering to a wide range of customers across India.
