The Latest on Visas for Indian Travellers
After a period of uncertainty earlier in 2026 regarding visa rules, the situation has clarified. In mid-July, the Thai government confirmed it would continue to offer visa-free entry for Indian passport holders. An earlier proposal to end the visa-free scheme
was reversed after it caused confusion and a dip in tourist arrivals from India. Under the current policy, Indian tourists are granted a 30-day visa-exempt stay upon arrival. This is a reduction from the previous 60-day period but maintains the core benefit: no need to apply for a visa or pay a fee beforehand for short holidays. The 30-day stay aligns with the typical holiday duration for most Indian visitors.
Booking Flights Without Breaking the Bank
Your flight ticket will be one of the biggest expenses, but it is also where strategic planning pays off the most. For the best prices, aim to travel during Thailand's off-peak or shoulder seasons, such as May and June, when fares can be 30-40% lower than in the high season. Booking six to eight weeks in advance is generally recommended for securing good deals. Direct flights are available from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chennai. Budget carriers frequently offer round-trip fares in the range of ₹18,000 to ₹35,000. During the peak tourist season from November to February, expect these prices to climb, sometimes exceeding ₹50,000 for last-minute bookings around Christmas and New Year.
Smart Accommodation Choices
Thailand offers a vast range of accommodation to suit every budget. For those looking to save, hostels and guesthouses are excellent choices, with nightly rates in popular areas like Bangkok's Khao San Road starting from as low as ₹800 to ₹1,200. For a bit more comfort, budget hotels and private bungalows can be found for ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per night. In cities like Chiang Mai, staying within the Old City provides walkability to many attractions. In coastal areas like Krabi and Phuket, look for stays in areas like Ao Nang or Kata Beach, which offer a balance of accessibility and value compared to more tourist-heavy spots like Patong.
Eating and Getting Around on a Budget
One of the greatest joys of Thailand is its food, and enjoying it doesn't have to be expensive. Street food is not only authentic but incredibly affordable, with a full, delicious meal often costing less than ₹350. For transport within Bangkok, the BTS Skytrain and MRT are efficient and cost-effective ways to navigate the city, with trips costing between ₹30 and ₹90. In other areas, shared taxis known as 'songthaews' are a cheap local option. While traditional tuk-tuks are an iconic experience, always agree on a price beforehand. For greater predictability, ride-hailing apps like Grab are widely used and can be cheaper than negotiating with taxis directly.
A Realistic Budget for Your Trip
So, what does this all add up to? With careful planning, a trip to Thailand remains highly accessible. For a 5 to 7-day holiday, a budget traveller can expect to spend between ₹45,000 and ₹65,000 per person, including flights. This would involve staying in hostels or budget guesthouses, eating primarily street food, and focusing on low-cost activities. A mid-range trip, offering more comfortable hotels and a mix of restaurant dining and tours, would typically cost between ₹70,000 and ₹95,000. These figures demonstrate that Thailand continues to offer incredible value for money, especially when compared to many other international destinations.
