The Visa News: What to Know
Good news continues for Indian travellers. As of early September 2026, Indian passport holders are eligible for visa-free entry into Thailand for tourism, allowing a stay of up to 30 days. This policy, confirmed in a Royal Gazette notification on August
31, 2026, removes the need for a pre-approved visa or a visa-on-arrival, saving both time and money. While a previous 60-day exemption has been revised to 30 days, this is more than enough time for a whirlwind island tour. Do note that all international arrivals must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before their trip.
Cracking the ₹30,000 Budget
A trip under ₹30,000 is ambitious but achievable with careful planning. This budget primarily covers your on-ground expenses once you land in Thailand. Return flights from India are not included and can vary widely, typically from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 if booked in advance. Here’s a plausible breakdown for six days: Accommodation (5 nights): ₹8,000 (Hostels or basic guesthouses at ₹1,000-₹1,500/night). Food: ₹6,000 (Sticking to street food and local restaurants at ₹800-₹1,000/day). Local Transport: ₹5,000 (Using ferries, shared songthaews, and maybe a scooter rental). Activities & Tours: ₹9,000 (One major island tour, national park fees, and smaller excursions). * Miscellaneous: ₹2,000 (SIM card, water, and small souvenirs). This tight budget requires you to prioritise local experiences over luxury comforts. Eating street food, staying in hostels, and using public transport are key.
Day 1-2: Arrival in Phuket and Island Hopping
Arrive at Phuket International Airport, grab a local SIM card, and take a shared minivan to your hostel in the Patong or Phuket Town area. After settling in, your first evening is for exploring Patong Beach and the energetic Bangla Road. For dinner, dive straight into Thai culture with street food like Pad Thai or grilled skewers for under ₹200 a meal. On day two, embark on a full-day island hopping tour to the famous Phi Phi Islands. Pre-booking a group tour online is the most budget-friendly option, often including a simple lunch, snorkelling, and visits to Maya Bay and Monkey Beach for around ₹2,500-₹4,000.
Day 3: Culture and Views in Phuket
Dedicate the third day to exploring Phuket's cultural side. Rent a scooter (around ₹400-₹500/day) for the ultimate freedom. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Big Buddha, which offers panoramic views and is free to enter. From there, ride down to explore the colourful Sino-Portuguese architecture of Old Phuket Town. The area is filled with charming cafes, street art, and small shops. For lunch, explore the local markets for authentic and cheap southern Thai cuisine. Spend the evening relaxing at a quieter beach like Kata or Karon before preparing for your journey to Krabi.
Day 4-5: Krabi's Majestic Limestone Cliffs
Take a morning ferry from Phuket to Krabi, a scenic two-hour journey that costs around ₹700-₹1,000. Check into your accommodation in Ao Nang, the main tourist hub. Spend the afternoon relaxing on Ao Nang Beach. On day five, take a long-tail boat (around ₹200 round trip) to the stunning Railay Beach, which is only accessible by water. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and for the adventurous, hiking up to the breathtaking viewpoint. This hike is challenging but rewards you with one of the best vistas in Thailand, all for free. For dinner, the Ao Nang night market offers a fantastic array of affordable and delicious food.
Day 6: Last Bites and Departure
Your final day is for last-minute souvenir shopping and enjoying one final Thai meal. Ao Nang has plenty of shops for grabbing small trinkets and gifts. Depending on your flight schedule from Krabi International Airport, you might have time for a final dip in the ocean or a relaxing Thai massage. Indulge in a plate of mango sticky rice before heading to the airport. Shared vans to the airport are a cost-effective transfer option, ensuring you stay within your budget right until the very end.
