Planning Your Affordable Thai Adventure
A trip to Thailand from India is surprisingly affordable with smart planning. As of August 2026, Indian passport holders can enter Thailand visa-free for tourism, though it's crucial to check the latest rules with the Royal Thai Embassy before booking
as policies can change. Fly during the shoulder seasons—April to June or September to October—for the best deals on flights and hotels. Round-trip flights from major Indian cities can be found for ₹18,000-₹25,000 if booked in advance. For this itinerary, consider flying into Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) and out of Krabi International Airport (KBV), or vice versa, to save time and travel costs within the country.
Days 1-3: Chiang Mai – The Cultural North
Welcome to Chiang Mai, a city where ancient temples sit next to trendy cafes. Stay in the Old City or the nearby Nimman area, where budget guesthouses and hostels offer rooms for ₹800-₹1,500 per night. Spend your first day exploring the historic Old City on foot. Visit the majestic Wat Chedi Luang and the gleaming Wat Phra Singh; temple entry is often free or costs a nominal fee of around 40-60 Baht. In the evening, dive into the vibrant Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for souvenirs and incredible street food. A delicious and filling bowl of the region's signature dish, Khao Soi, will only set you back about 50-70 Baht. On your second day, dedicate your morning to an ethical elephant sanctuary. A half-day trip, including transport and feeding the elephants, costs between ₹2,500-₹4,000 and is a truly unforgettable experience. Avoid any place that offers elephant riding. For your final day, consider a Thai cooking class (around ₹1,000-₹1,500) to learn the secrets of local cuisine or take a songthaew (shared red truck taxi) up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for panoramic views of the city.
Getting from Chiang Mai to Krabi
The most efficient way to travel between Chiang Mai and Krabi is by a direct domestic flight. Budget airlines like Thai AirAsia and Thai Vietjet Air operate on this route. A one-way flight takes about two hours and can cost as little as ₹4,500-₹6,500 if you book a few weeks or months in advance. This saves you a full day of travel compared to overland options, giving you more time to enjoy the beaches.
Days 4-7: Krabi – Beaches and Islands on a Budget
From the cool mountains, fly down to the stunning Andaman coast. Base yourself in Ao Nang, which is the main hub for island hopping and offers a wide range of affordable accommodation, with guesthouse rooms available from ₹900-₹1,500. On your first day, settle in and take a long-tail boat to the breathtaking Railay Beach, famous for its towering limestone cliffs. The boat ride itself is an experience and costs a few hundred baht. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the Phra Nang Cave Beach. For dinner, Ao Nang's street food stalls offer fresh seafood and classic Thai dishes for ₹60-₹150 per plate. Dedicate a full day to an island-hopping tour. The popular '4 Islands Tour' is a fantastic value, typically costing around ₹1,000-₹1,500 per person. This tour usually includes hotel pickup, a long-tail boat trip to Tup Island, Chicken Island, and Poda Island, plus a stop at Phra Nang Beach, with lunch and snorkeling gear provided. On your final days, you can either relax on Ao Nang beach, rent a scooter to explore more remote beaches, or take another boat trip to the Hong Islands, which are known for their beautiful lagoon and are often less crowded.
Your Daily Budget Guide (Approximate)
Thailand remains incredibly budget-friendly for Indian travellers. A comfortable daily budget in both Chiang Mai and Krabi can be managed effectively. Here is a sample breakdown per person: Accommodation: ₹800-₹1,500 (in a budget guesthouse or hostel). Food: ₹600-₹1,000 (sticking mainly to street food and local restaurants). Local Transport: ₹200-₹400 (using shared taxis, renting a scooter, or walking). Activities: ₹500-₹1,500 (averaged out, with some days being free and others for paid tours). A daily budget of approximately ₹2,500-₹4,000 per person allows you to enjoy these incredible destinations without feeling constrained.
