Understanding the Visa Policy
First, the great news. Thailand's government continues to offer a visa exemption for Indian passport holders. As of September 2026, this policy allows for a stay of up to 30 days for tourism purposes without needing to apply for a visa in advance. This
policy was revised from a previous 60-day stay, with the new rules officially taking effect from September 15, 2026. This removes the hassle of visa applications and fees, making a spontaneous trip much easier. You simply need to ensure your passport is valid and you have proof of onward travel and accommodation.
Is a ₹30,000 Budget Realistic?
The ₹30,000 figure is an attractive, yet challenging, budget. To be clear, this amount almost certainly excludes your round-trip airfare from India, which can range from ₹15,000 to over ₹25,000 depending on when you book and which airline you choose. Think of the ₹30,000 as your on-ground budget for a trip of about 5 to 6 days. It's tight, but with smart planning, it is achievable. This would cover your accommodation, food, local transport between and within the islands, and a few activities. This means prioritising street food over restaurant meals, choosing hostels over hotels, and using local transport.
Your Budget-Friendly Itinerary: 5 Days
A smart way to tackle both destinations is to fly into one and out of the other, or to use Phuket as your main base. Day 1-2: Arrival in Phuket. Settle into a hostel in the Patong or Phuket Town area. Spend your time exploring the free attractions: relax on Patong Beach, wander through the colourful streets of Phuket Old Town, and hike up to the Big Buddha for panoramic views (entry is free). Day 3: Travel to Krabi. The most budget-friendly way to get from Phuket to Krabi is by ferry or bus. A ferry ride takes about 2-3 hours and offers scenic views, with prices ranging from 800 to 1000 THB (approx. ₹1,900-₹2,300). A bus is cheaper, around 300-400 THB (approx. ₹700-₹950), but takes longer. Day 4-5: Krabi's Natural Wonders. Base yourself near Ao Nang. Your main activity here is enjoying the stunning coastline. A long-tail boat trip to Railay Beach is a must. You can also explore nearby islands like Poda and Chicken Island on affordable group tours. On your final day, enjoy the local scene before heading to Krabi's airport.
Stretching Your Rupees: Accommodation and Food
Accommodation will be one of your biggest expenses. To stick to the budget, look for hostels and guesthouses. In both Phuket and Krabi, you can find clean and safe dormitory beds for ₹800-₹1,200 per night. Booking in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended. For food, embrace the local culture. A meal at a tourist-focused restaurant can cost upwards of 300 THB (₹700), but street food stalls and local markets offer delicious and authentic meals like Pad Thai or green curry for 40-80 THB (₹95-₹190). Eating this way not only saves a significant amount of money but also offers a more authentic culinary experience. Limit alcohol consumption, as it can quickly inflate your daily spending.
Low-Cost Transport and Activities
Getting around the islands can be cheap if you're savvy. Renting a scooter is a popular and economical option, costing around 250 THB (₹600) per day, but be sure you have an International Driving Permit and are a confident rider. For shorter distances, songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) are a very cheap local bus alternative. When it comes to activities, island hopping is the main attraction. While private tours are expensive, joining a group tour can cost as little as ₹3,500 for a full-day trip. Beyond that, many of the best experiences are free—enjoying the countless beaches, exploring local temples, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of night markets.
