Thinking about traveling to Thailand in 2025? This complete guide covers everything Indian tourists need to know—from cheap flight tips and visa updates to must-know cultural insights and money-saving hacks.
Thailand, located in Southeast Asia, is one of the most popular destinations for Indian travelers and international tourists alike. Known for its affordability, stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, temples, mountains, and wildlife sanctuaries, it offers something for everyone.
I’ve visited Thailand five times over the past decade, exploring it from north to south. Based on my experience, here’s a detailed and practical travel guide to help you make the most of your Thailand trip in 2025.
✈️ Flights to Thailand: What’s the Best Option from India?
Thailand’s capital city, Bangkok, is well connected to major Indian cities. You can catch direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata, among others. If you’re looking for cheaper fares, Kolkata to Bangkok flights are often the most budget-friendly.
Pro Tip:
Compare fares on multiple travel portals, and book tickets at least 6-8 weeks in advance for the best deals.
💸 Currency & Payments in Thailand
- Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
- Exchange Rate: 1 THB ≈ ₹2.57 INR (as of 2025)
Travel Tip: Carry a Niyo Global Card or a forex card. It’s widely accepted, and I rarely needed to withdraw cash.
🛂 Visa-Free Entry for Indians For 60 days
In a major update, the Thai Government has waived visa requirements for Indian tourists for stay upto 60 days. Just book your flights and hotel—no visa fee, no paperwork, no hassles. However, starting May 1, 2025, all visitors, including Indians, must complete a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online three days before their arrival. This requirement applies regardless of whether you are visiting under the visa-free scheme or with a pre-approved visa.
🕐 Time Difference Between India and Thailand
- Thailand is 1.5 hours ahead of India.
- Example: When it’s 12:00 PM in India, it’s 1:30 PM in Thailand.
🧳 Domestic Travel: Exploring Thailand Like a Pro
For travel between cities like Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, or Krabi, Thai AirAsia is one of the most economical airlines. They allow 7 kg cabin baggage for free.
- If you’re carrying check-in luggage, pre-book it online for cheaper rates.
- Backpackers or light travelers can save more on domestic flights.
📱 Buying a SIM Card in Thailand
You’ll need a Thai SIM card to use local taxi apps or access maps. SIM cards are easily available at the airport, 7-11 stores, and mobile shops. They’re cheap and come with ample data.
🚖 Transportation Apps: GRAB vs. BOLT
- GRAB is the most used ride-hailing app.
- BOLT is cheaper—almost 50% less than GRAB fares.
- A local SIM card is essential to use these apps.
🏙️ Bangkok Vibes: More than Just a Capital
Bangkok is a bustling modern city, often compared to Dubai in terms of urban vibe. However, there are ongoing discussions about relocating the capital due to rising sea levels.
From Bangkok, you can easily travel to Pattaya:
- Distance: ~150 km
- Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours
- Cost: ~150 THB by bus or shared taxi
🛬 Airports in Bangkok
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – Main international airport
- Don Mueang Airport (DMK) – Budget airlines hub
Both are well-connected via AC buses and airport rail links. You can book tickets online.
🔍 Useful Thai Phrases for Travelers
Thai borrows many words from Sanskrit and Pali, so you might notice similarities with Hindi.
English | Thai (Romanized) |
Hello / Bye | Sawatdee kha (Swadi ka) |
Yes | Chai |
Water | Naam |
Temple | Wat |
Airport | Sanaam bin |
Rose | Gù-lahb |
Moon | Chan |
King | Racha |
Teacher | Kru |
📱 Buying an iPhone in Thailand?
Believe it or not, buying an iPhone in Thailand can be significantly cheaper than in India. The price difference can easily cover 2–3 days of your trip expenses.
🐅 Tiger Photos in Phuket
Want to click pictures with tigers? Tiger Park in Phuket offers photo ops with tigers of all sizes. Prices vary based on the package. It’s a unique experience you shouldn’t miss.
🛒 Essentials Shopping: Visit 7-Eleven Stores
7-Eleven convenience stores are everywhere. They sell:
- SIM cards
- Bottled water & snacks
- Toiletries
Chocolates & cold drinks
Prices are usually 40–50% cheaper than regular stores.
✈️ Quick Trip to Malaysia?
Phuket is well-connected with cheap flights to Malaysia, which is also visa-free for Indian citizens in 2025. If you’ve got extra time, plan a short visit like we did.
🍢 What’s on the Menu?
Thai street food is diverse and adventurous. Along with famous dishes like Pad Thai and Green Curry, you’ll also see:
- Fried crocodile meat
- Snakes and scorpions on sticks
- Insects and octopus
Try them if you’re up for a wild culinary adventure!
🤯 Fun Fact: Bangkok’s Real Name
Did you know Bangkok holds the Guinness World Record for the longest city name?
Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit
That’s 168 characters!
⚠️ Legal Note
- Cannabis is legal in Thailand as of 2022.
- While prostitution is technically illegal, it is openly practiced, especially in areas like Pattaya.
Tip: Even if you’re not into nightlife, Pattaya offers great beaches, shows, and shopping. You’ll easily need 4–5 days there.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Thailand offers a perfect mix of affordability, adventure, culture, and fun—especially for Indian travelers. With visa-free access in 2025, now is the best time to plan your trip!
Stay tuned for more blogs covering Thailand’s nightlife, adventure activities, shopping spots, and hidden gems.