Thailand Trip Planning Made Easy: The Only Itinerary You Need
The tropical paradise of Southeast Asia, Thailand, resonates with all travellers for a good reason. It is a country that offers it allâidyllic island beaches, majestic shrines, thriving city life, and even rejuvenation retreats. Adding to the experience on any Thailand trip is undoubtedly the food, from the well-known pad thai noodles and mango sticky rice to underrated street-side delights. So, how do you make the most of a country that has so much to offer, in very little time? This is your perfect guide to an all-inclusive Thailand Tour package.
Table of contents
- Best time to visit Thailand
- Best places to visit in Thailand
- 7-day Thailand Trip itinerary
- Cost of a Thailand Trip
- Thai food you must try on your Thailand trip
- Cultural etiquette and safety tips in Thailand
- Hidden Gems in Thailand
- Packing List for a Thailand Vacation
- FAQs about travelling to Thailand
Best time to visit Thailand
- The best time to visit Thailand is from November to March. Although it might be winter in other parts of the world, during these months, Thailand has perfect weather. The skies are clear, the weather is pleasant, and temperatures range from 18 to 30°C. Travellers heading inland or up north can expect cooler air, especially at night.
- From April to July, the weather starts to heat up, which is why this season sees fewer tourists. However, this is the best time to visit Thailand for budget travellers. With fewer crowds and better deals, you can enjoy more for less. And if Thailandâs Full Moon Party is on your bucket list, this is the season to catch it with the Thailand Zo Trip by Zostel.
- From July to October, Thailand experiences heavy rainfall, making it less than ideal for travelâunless you enjoy being drenched all the time! During this period, many tourist places also close due to heavy downpours.
Best places to visit in Thailand
Bangkok
The capital of the country, Bangkok, is a must-visit in your Thailand trip package. This dynamic, energetic, and vibrant city blends both chaos and calm. Bangkok carries rich cultural significance and is home to many stunning temples. It is also a shopping paradise for travellers looking for unique and trendy clothes.
Bangkok provides a wide variety of street-side treats for foodies, such as savoury dumplings, chicken sukiyaki noodles, and Thai pancakes. There are countless tempting experiences just waiting to be discovered.
Best places for your Bangkok Tour
- Chinatown
- Wat Arun
- Wat Pho
- The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
- Floating Markets
Phuket
A Phuket Trip is all about islands, since it is easily one of the most popular beach destinations in the world travels to. You could spend the entire day lying on soft sand or in a hammock, soaking up the sun, diving in crystal-clear waters, and simply relaxing in nature.
A Phuket city tour is incomplete without a visit to Old Phuket Town, a place surrounded by colourful Sino-Portuguese buildings and cool cafes. The iconic Buddha you see on Instagram from Phuket is the Big Buddha â another landmark for your Phuket itinerary.
In Phuket, also look forward to island hopping, with the best islands being:
- Phi Phi Island
- Coral Island
- James Bond Island
Pattaya
Pattaya is known for the best nightlife in Thailand, making it a favourite for party lovers, adventurers, and backpackers alike. On your Pattaya trip, look forward to beach hopping, sunset views from Pattaya Viewpoint, exploring the Sanctuary of Truth, shopping at the floating market, and indulging in massages.
Krabi
Located in Southern Thailand, Krabi is known for its picturesque views and mesmerising beaches. Home to some of the most magnificent coral reefs, your Krabi Tour must include coral diving.
7-day Thailand Trip Itinerary
Zo Trips by Zostel offers a Thailand itinerary packed with island-hopping, buzzing night markets, tropical beaches, and authentic local experiences, minus the stress of planning. Think hassle-free travel, great company, and everything sorted for you.
Day 1- Phuket City Tour
- Begin the day with a visit to Wat Chalong (Chaithararam Temple), a culturally significant temple notable for its intricate architectural design, golden statues, and calming lotus ponds.
- The next stop, Karon Viewpoint, offers a mesmerising view of three stunning beaches lined up in a row: Kata Noi, Kata, and Karon Beach. This is the perfect spot for travellers chasing tropical views, especially at sunset.
- Come evening, head out to explore the nightlife on your Phuket Tour. Interact with locals, savour tasty street food, visit the Bangla Night market, enjoy live streetside performances, and get to know the culture of Thailand a little bit better.
Day 2- Phi Phi Tour
- Travel from Phuket to Phi Phi Island next, by taking a 2-hour ferry ride, or hopping on a speedboat that takes about 50 mins. Either way, the ride will be beautiful!
- Your Phi Phi tour should begin with a visit to Maya Bay, home to towering limestone cliffs and clear water. Fun fact, it has also been featured in the movie The Beach.
- After this, make your way to Bamboo Island, where you can swim in the ocean, go snorkelling, and try various water sports.
- Then, check out the Viking Cave, famous for its cave paintings.
Day 3- Trip to Pattaya
- Reach Pattaya and spend the evening exploring the cityâs nightlife.
- Explore the vibrant Walking Street, where you can shop for handmade goods and savour local treats â a fun highlight of your vacation to Thailand.
- You could also attend the Alcazar Cabaret Show, an artistic fusion of performances from various Asian countries.
Day 4- Coral Island Tour
- A 20-minute boat ride from Pattaya, this island offers some of the best water activities to enjoy on your Thailand Trip.
- Once you reach here, you can do Jet skiing, Banana Boat Riding, Sea Walking, Parasailing, Sup boarding, Scuba Diving, Flyboarding, and Kite Surfing.
Day 5- Bangkok Nightlife
- Arrive in Bangkok from Pattaya in the evening. Bangkok is renowned for its nightlife. All Bangkok Holiday Packages include strolling through the lively streets of Bangkok, tasting local cuisine, shopping, and enjoying drinks and music.
- You can also drop by Chinatown for the immaculate vibes and delicious street-side food.
Day 6- Bangkok City Tour
- Today, visit Safari World, which provides an unparalleled experience where you can spend a single day of adventure with exotic animals, exciting live performances, and a sense of the wild jungle!
- In the evening, visit the Hug Thai Zone at Central World, which offers a blend of Thai culture and culinary traditions.
Day 7- Cultural experiences in Bangkok
- On the last day of your Bangkok Tour, you can visit the iconic temples before heading to the airport.
- Visit Wat Trai Mit Witthayaram Worawihan temple, a place that represents peace and prosperity, featuring a majestic Golden Buddha statue.
- You can also explore other stunning shrines, such as Wat Arun and Wat Pho.
This itinerary is your complete Thailand Trip Package, featuring destinations and experiences that cater to the diverse interests of all travellers. Too lazy to make plans on your own? Don't worry; we did that for you! Here's your next international escape to Thailand.
Cost of a Thailand Trip
The cost of a Thailand holiday package depends on individual preferences and budget. But, overall, Thailand is a reasonably priced destination. Depending on how you spend, the cost of the trip could range between INR 35,000-1,00,000.
This is the breakdown of the likely costs for a week's trip-
Airfare- A one-way flight from India to Thailand could cost around INR 12,000-15,000.
Accommodation- Thailand offers all sorts of places to stay, depending on your personal choice.
- Cost-effective stays are usually around INR 1,500-2,000
- Moderately priced stays cost around INR 2,500-5,000
- Luxury stays would start from INR 7,000 and above.
Food- If you enjoy eating street-side food, it would cost around INR 100-300 per meal. For other fine dining restaurants, the cost per meal could range between INR 1,000-1,500.
Transportation- The cost of public transportation, including taxis and tuk-tuks, depends on the distance that you will be travelling, but it lies around INR 200-1,200.
Activities- There is a varied range of activities that you could do
- Adventure sports usually cost around INR 3,000-7,000
- Sightseeing and popular tourist spots could range from INR 1,000-4,000
Personal Expense- This is something that is very individual-specific and would account for your shopping and any emergencies.
Thai Food You Must Try On Your Thailand Trip
Your vacation to Thailand promises flavourful and drool-worthy food. Here are some of the most popular Thai Dishes that you must try:
Pad Thai Noodles- Thailand's national dish, these are stir-fried rice noodles served with your preference of meat or vegetables.
Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)- a fragrant and fiery delicacy, best for people with high spice tolerance.
Massaman Curry- a blend of Thai and Indian cuisine, it's a flavorful dish that features spices, coconut milk, and tender meat.
Khao Pad (Thai Fried Rice)- a comfort dish for many, made to suit your spice tolerance, this is a must-try in Thailand.
Street Side food- Thailand offers a wide range of delicious and pocket-friendly street food. You can try:
- Thai pancakes
- Sai Krok Isan (Fermented Sausage)
- Khanom Jeeb (Steamed pork and shrimp dumplings)
- Guay Jab (Rolled rice noodles and crispy pork soup)
- Chicken Sukiyaki Noodles (Suki)
Mango Sticky Rice- You've probably heard of it and seen it everywhere on social media. This dish is a must-have on your Thailand tours. Served with ripe mangoes and sticky rice drizzled with coconut milk, this is sure to satisfy your soul.
Drinks- There are various drinks in this coastal region that one can have to cool off:
- Thai Iced Tea
- Coconut Water
- Fresh Fruit Smoothies
Cultural etiquette and safety tips in Thailand
Thailand is a laid-back place, with warm, welcoming locals who happily share their culture and traditions.
But at the same time, here are some things to keep in mind on your Thailand trip:
- Greet people with a slight bow and pressed palms together- The Wai Greeting
- Buddha is sacred in Thailand, so make sure you never disrespect anything associated with him.
- Dress modestly at temples, and respect their traditions.
- There is a deep respect towards the royal family. Never criticise or say anything negative about them.
Safety tips during your vacation to Thailand:
- Keep your belongings in check, never leave them unattended, and always carry a crossbody bag to avoid any chances of theft or snatching.
- Be cautious while renting scooters; check the company and the vehicle before taking it anywhere.
- At the beach, always be aware of the water current.
- During any adventure sports, make sure that you are wearing proper safety gear.
- At nightclubs and parties, donât trust any stranger with your drinks. Even drug laws are very strict in the country, so make sure to never engage in them.
Hidden Gems in Thailand
Pai
This charming town in Northern Thailand has a dreamy, hippie vibe. This makes Pai a favourite among backpackers on a Thailand solo trip. It's the kind of place where you can unwind at cosy cafés, try out some fun activities, and soak in stunning views. And when the sun sets? The whole town glows with a magical beauty.
Chiang Dao
Away from the chaos of Chiang Mai lies this mountain town. It is one of the best places to go in Thailand for travellers who want to see waterfalls, hot springs, and have a peaceful time during their vacation. It is also a great spot for meditation and trekking.
Koh Mak
Located in Eastern Thailand, this eco-friendly island is peaceful and free of big resorts. You can swim in clear waters, go kayaking, or snorkel. Its serene vibe makes it a must-add to your Thailand trip package.
Ban Rak Thai
This is a very beautiful and serene village located in Northern Thailand. This village is famous for its tea plantations and picturesque landscapes. Unlike the other parts of Thailand, the temperature here is generally cooler. Here, you will see a fusion of Chinese and Thai culture & traditions. This place should be a must-visit in your Thailand trip package.
Prasat Hin Phimai
This is Thailandâs largest and best-preserved Khmer temple complex. It holds a lot of cultural and religious significance and features a unique and intricate architectural design.
Packing List for a Thailand Vacation
1- Essential items for your Thailand Trip
- Passport
- Travel insurance (always advisable to have one rather than pay exorbitant fees later)
- Photocopies of IDs
- Flight tickets & hotel confirmations
2- Clothes and Footwear
- There arenât any rigid instructions on what to wear. However, when visiting temples on Thailand tours, both men and women must cover their legs and shoulders. So, pack a couple of modest outfits for temple visits.
- Pack light, breezy clothes for daily sightseeing that make you feel comfortable.
- Important: Carry your swimwear!
- Footwear- Pair of sneakers, flip flops, and party wear shoes/sandals.
3- Beach Essentials
- Sunscreen
- Waterproof pouch for electronic gear (phones, cameras, power banks)
- Dry bag for other items
- Hats and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottles
FAQs for Thailand Trip
How many days is enough for a Thailand Trip?
In 15 days, you can explore everything Thailand has to offer. A 7-day trip is perfect for hitting all the must-see spots and enjoying the local vibe!
Is 1 lakh enough for a Thailand trip?
INR 1 lakh is sufficient for a Thailand Trip; with this budget, you would be easily able to book flight tickets, explore all the popular places, travel from one place to another, stay at a good hotel, enjoy a variety of food, and could even accommodate your shopping expenses.
Is a Thailand visa free for Indians?
Yes, a Thailand Visa is free for Indians for up to 60 days.
What is Pattaya famous for?
Pattaya is famous for its vibrant and dynamic nightlife, making it the best place on your vacation to Thailand for those who love to party.
What is Phuket best known for?
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and is best known for island hopping and night markets. Want to explore? Live it now with a Thailand Tour Package by Zo Trips by Zostel.
Why is Bangkok so famous?
Bangkok is your launchpad to adventure â from here, the rest of Thailand is just a ride away! Your Bangkok tour has it all: rich culture, incredible food, vibrant night markets, and a thriving spa scene.
Which is better, Krabi or Phuket?
Both of the places are great and offer different vibes, it depends on what youâre looking for.
Krabi Tour offers a relaxed and laid-back vibe, with less-crowded places, more nature, and little commercialisation. People can also enjoy a lot of adventure sports here. Also, Krabi is usually less expensive than Phuket.
The Phuket Tour is for people who want a more vibrant and energetic city vibe, with big islands and a more urbanised environment. It is also ideal for those seeking luxury shopping and spa experiences.
Where is Phi Phi Island?
Phi Phi Island is situated between Krabi and Phuket, and from both places, it usually takes around 35-45 minutes by speedboat to reach.
How is Phuket's nightlife?
Phuketâs nightlife is unreal. There is something for every kind of traveller.
The best places for nightlife in your Phuket tour package are
- Bangla Road: for those who want to indulge in loud, flashy, neon-lit bars. You could also go bar hopping.
- Beachfront Bars: For those who want to spend the night at the beach and enjoy parties.
- Cabaret shows
- Night markets
Which currency is used in Phuket?
The currency used in Phuket and all of Thailand is the Thai Baht.