The New Visa Rules Explained
First, let's clear up the confusion. After a period of uncertainty, the Thai government confirmed on July 14, 2026, that it would continue to offer visa-free entry to Indian passport holders. The main change is the duration: the stay has been reduced
from a temporary 60-day period back to 30 days. This decision came after an earlier proposal to scrap the scheme altogether caused a drop in tourists from India, a key market for Thailand. For the vast majority of tourists, this change has little practical impact, as the average stay for Indian visitors is just over seven days. A 30-day window is more than enough time to explore the country's famous beaches, bustling cities, and cultural landmarks without feeling rushed.
Your Rupee Still Goes a Long Way
The core of Thailand's appeal has always been its incredible affordability, and this has not changed. Even with global inflation, the country remains one of the best budget destinations in the world. Daily expenses for a budget-conscious traveller can be as low as ₹2,100 to ₹4,200 ($25-$50). A mid-range trip, with comfortable private rooms and a mix of street food and restaurant meals, is easily achievable for ₹5,000 to ₹8,400 ($60-$100) per day. Compare this to other popular international destinations, and Thailand’s superior value becomes clear.
The Unbeatable Cost of Food
Thai food is a global phenomenon, and nowhere is it better or cheaper than on its home turf. For just ₹85 to ₹210 (฿40-฿80), you can enjoy a delicious and filling meal like Pad Thai or a spicy Som Tam salad from a street-side vendor. A full day of eating, focusing on local food stalls and markets, can cost as little as ₹500 to ₹600. Even when mixing in café visits and meals at casual restaurants, a daily food budget of ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 is realistic for most travellers from India. This allows you to feast on world-class cuisine without constantly worrying about your wallet.
Affordable Stays for Every Traveller
Whether you're a backpacker or seeking a bit more comfort, Thailand’s accommodation options offer fantastic value. Clean and social hostel dorms can be found for ₹900 to ₹1,700 per night. For those wanting more privacy, budget-friendly guesthouses and 3-star hotels are widely available, with prices for a comfortable 7-day stay estimated at around ₹21,000. Even luxury has a lower price tag here; five-star hotels and boutique resorts can often be booked for what a mid-range hotel would cost in Europe or North America.
Getting Around is Cheap and Easy
Transportation within Thailand is efficient and budget-friendly, allowing you to see more of the country for less. In Bangkok, the BTS Skytrain and MRT systems can get you across the city for as little as ₹35-₹120 per trip. For longer distances, overnight trains and buses are a classic backpacker choice, saving you money on both the fare and a night's accommodation. Domestic flights with budget airlines like Air Asia are also surprisingly affordable, often costing less than ₹4,200 ($50) if booked in advance, making island hopping from Bangkok to Phuket or Krabi a viable option even on a tight budget.
