The Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide: Explore the Land of Smiles

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About Thailand

The unraveled beauty of Southeast Asia lies in this enthralling land of smiles. Thailand, A coastal city with mesmerizing beaches, distinctive uncolonized culture, exotic wildlife, diverse terrains, and welcoming natives is a must-visit destination for all adventure and nature enthusiasts. Not only for the partygoers, but Thailand's majestic mountains, sparkling seas, and green plains behold an unsurmountable beauty that lies unexplored by many. The riveting architecture and royal remains, make it a utopia for shutterbugs. 

Located on the Southeast Asian Coast, Thailand believed to be derived from the word Thai meaning Human Being, is a splendid landscape spread over 5,13,115 kilometers. With claims of human existence before 20,000 years, Thailand carries a rich cultural heritage with many rulers from different parts of the world, conquering and ruling over this country. Tenanting a tropical climate all through the year, Thailand experiences a warm summer and a drastically varying winter, with the maximum rain falling between October to November. Thailand is the hamlet for wildlife, which spreads around 30% of the total area with a vast number of national parks, sanctuaries, and dense forests, with elephant being their symbol of pride.

Historically referred to as Siam, Thailand's native community is believed to have migrated from southwestern China in the 6th Century. Majorly ruled by a plethora of rulers, Thailand after 2019 has been a parliamentary constitutional monarchy with constant improvement in industrialization, agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing arenas. A trip to Thailand will not only be memorable but also will be a one-of-a-kind experience to witness the unparalleled beauty and friendliest people of the country.

Check out the Best Thailand Tour Packages

Visa Requirements for Thailand

Thailand offers both Visa on Arrival and also Visa Exemption for different countries and different passport types.

Visa on Arrival is available for the nationals of the following countries for a period of 15 days: China, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, Romania

Tourist Visa Exemption is available for the nationals of the following countries for a period of 30 days

  • Australia

  • France

  • USA

  • Germany

  • Greece

  • Indonesia

  • Japan

A special exemption for Visa for the purpose of tourism is provided for a period of 60 days for countries like: India, USA, UK, UAE, Russia, Saudi Arabia, China, and Japan.

Also read, Travel to Thailand on Budget

How to reach Thailand?

With a plethora of options to travel, Thailand is one of the easily accessible and well-connected Southeast Asian Countries.

Reach Thailand By Air

Bangkok is well-connected to most of the important cities around the globe. The Suvarnabhumi Airport is the realm of Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways, which covers the majority of the flights operating from it. Large airline players in Asia, also operate regular flights to Thailand, making it a hassle-free travel experience. Don Mueang International Airport in addition to Suvarnabhumi, operates international flights to many major cities, with Thai Air Asia and Thai Lion Air being the major plyers. 

Reach Thailand By Sea

Being on the coastline envisages an option to embark on a SEAnic journey to Thailand from different parts of the world. With cruise ships operating from major cities, an enthralling sea journey is something that can be opted to reach Thailand.

Reach Thailand By Road

A road trip to Thailand is a dreamy nature-filled trial, combining an intrepid experience of traveling through varied terrains and a very pleasant climate. Road trips to Thailand shall be planned only based on the weather to make it a road trip to remember forever.

Getting Around Thailand

Being a hot tourist haven, Thailand offers multiple transport options to get around. From Public Transport options, driving bikes & cars, affordable tuk-tuk rides, and bike and car taxis, hanging around Thailand is as easy as it gets depending upon your requirements. 

Best Time to Visit Thailand

With unprecedented rains and alarming temperatures of the tropical climate, the best time to visit Thailand usually starts in November and lasts till March. However, monsoon lovers and offbeat travelers can opt to visit Thailand from May to July. 

Get to know about the worst time to visit Thailand!

Top Places to Visit in Thailand

With overabundant attractions spread all over the country, here are some no-brainer choices to jar down in your list of Thailand’s best places to visit.

  • Bangkok

The bustling capital city is a blend of modern life and traditional Thai culture. Must-see attractions include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho (home to the Reclining Buddha), and Wat Arun. The street food scene is vibrant, especially around Khao San Road and Chinatown.

  • Phuket

This popular island is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and water sports. Patong Beach is famous for its party scene, while Kata and Karon beaches offer a more relaxed vibe. Don’t miss out on a boat trip to the nearby Phi Phi Islands. 

  • Pattaya

A vibrant coastal city is renowned for its stunning beaches and lively nightlife, making it a favorite among tourists. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from water sports and island excursions to exploring cultural landmarks like the Sanctuary of Truth. 

  • Ayutthaya

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an ancient city that was once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam. Explore the impressive ruins and temples, such as Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, by bicycle or on a boat tour along the river.

  • Koh Samui

This island combines beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and a lively nightlife scene. Don’t miss the Big Buddha, Ang Thong National Marine Park, and the peaceful beaches of Maenam and Lipa Noi.

  • Sukhothai 

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sukhothai is home to the ruins of the first capital of Thailand. The Historical Park contains stunning temples and sculptures set amidst tranquil gardens.

  • Koh Phi Phi

Known for its stunning scenery and vibrant party atmosphere, Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit for beach lovers. Maya Bay, made famous by the movie "The Beach," offers breathtaking views.

  • Chiang Mai

Located in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a more laid-back atmosphere. It's famous for its ancient temples, such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and the annual Yi Peng Lantern Festival. The surrounding mountains provide great opportunities for trekking and visiting hill tribe villages. There are so many things to do in Chiang Mai!

  • Krabi

Home to stunning limestone cliffs, clear waters, and beautiful beaches, Krabi is perfect for nature lovers. Railay Beach is famous for rock climbing, while the islands of Hong and Phi Phi are great for snorkeling and diving.

  • Kon Phangan

Koh Phangan is famous for its monthly Full Moon Party, attracting partygoers from around the globe to its breathtaking beaches. Adventurers can explore the island's hiking trails and hidden waterfalls, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. 

  • Koh Tao

Koh Tao, known as the "Turtle Island," is a diver's paradise with crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The island is also home to stunning beaches, such as Sai Nuan and Ao Leuk, which offer a tranquil escape.

Top Things To Do In Thailand

  • Endure the calmness of spirituality by visiting the grand temples carved out in distinctive architecture.

  • Take a dip in the sparkling beaches to replenish yourselves

  • Get awestruck by the exotic animals in any of the splendid National Parks

  • Dive into the serene depths of the oceans in Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

  • Indulge your taste buds in the scrumptious and authentic delicacies of Thailand. A heaven for seafood lovers

  • Hitchhike on a tribal village tour to spectate the rich and vivid culture of the rural

Explore more about the best things to do in Thailand!

Festivals and Events in Thailand

Thailand is renowned for its vibrant festivals and events, each reflecting the country's rich culture and traditions. Here are some of the most celebrated festivals:

  • Songkran Festival

  • Loy Krathong Festival

  • Phuket Vegetarian Festival

  • Lopburi Monkey Festival

  • Chiang Mai Festival

  • Phi ta Kon Ghost Festival

  • Ubon Ratchathani Festival

  • Chinese New Year

  • Boon Bang Fai

  • Surin Elephant Round-up

Food and Nightlife of Thailand

The bustling streets of Thailand serve unique and authentic delicacies that are known to be spectacular attractions for tourists and travelers. Sparkling nightlife awaits to enthrall you in Thailand including beach parties, flashy street clubs, the renowned walking street in Pattaya, and also some options for a laid back slow paced nightlife in Chiang Mai.

For the vegetarians out there, shift your focus onto the one-of-a-kind Phuket Veg Food Festival, a 9-day celebration known for spiritual cleansing and good health. 

Best Places to Stay in Thailand

Thailand offers varied options from the most luxurious to the best budget places to enjoy your stay in the land of smiles. Here are some of the best places to stay across various cities: 

Bangkok

  • The Siam Hotel   

  • Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit

  • Khao San Road Hostels

Phuket

  • Banyan Tree Phuket

  • Amari Phuket

  • Hostel Patong

Chiang Mai

  • Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

  • U Chiang Mai

  • Hostels in Nimmanhaemin

Krabi

  • Rayavadee

  • Krabi Resort

  • Ton Sai Beach Bungalows

Koh Samui

  • Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort

  • OZO Chaweng Samui

  • The Library

Pattaya

  • The Royal Cliff Hotels Group

  • Alcazar Hotel

  • Hostel in Walking Street 

Learn about the Thailand Trip Cost

Tips For Your Thailand Vacation

Here are some expert tips to get the best out of your Thailand trip 

  • Choose the right time of visit based on your choice, either the bustling season or the peaceful monsoon offseason

  • Pack your bags light, as you can get yourself some exciting additions to your wardrobe from the Thailand-inspired fashion. 

  • Don't miss out on the luscious street food delicacies

  • Clock some extra time on the beaches by trying unique water activities

  • Engulf in the local experiences by opting to travel the Thailand local way to get a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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