Dreaming of white sandy beaches, vibrant street markets, ancient temples, and buzzing nightlife? Thailand, often called the Land of Smiles, is one of the most accessible and affordable international destinations for travellers from Kolkata. If you’re planning your first trip to Thailand, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from visas and flights to choosing the right time, packages, and budgeting tips.
Why Thailand?
Thailand offers something for every kind of traveler—beach lovers, adventure seekers, foodies, history buffs, and even luxury vacationers. Whether it’s the stunning islands of Phuket and Krabi, the cultural richness of Chiang Mai, or the urban excitement of Bangkok, Thailand is a traveler’s paradise.
Choosing the Right Time to Visit Thailand
Thailand has a tropical climate, so choosing the right season can greatly affect your experience.
• Best Time (Cool Season): November to February
Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and beaches.
• Hot Season: March to May
Great for water activities, but it can get humid.
• Rainy Season (Monsoon): June to October
Lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Great deals available!
Kolkata Tip: December to February is ideal to escape the city’s humidity and enjoy Thailand’s cooler months.
Visa for Thailand (for Indian Citizens)
Next comes the visa process. Indian passport holders can either apply for a Visa on Arrival (VoA), valid for 15 days, or opt for the e-visa in advance. The Visa on Arrival costs around 2,000 Thai Baht and requires you to show return tickets, confirmed accommodation, a passport valid for six months, and proof of sufficient funds (about 10,000 THB per person). Alternatively, you can apply for an e-visa online through the official Thai e-visa website, which is often quicker and allows you to skip long queues at the airport.
Flights from Kolkata to Thailand
Traveling from Kolkata to Thailand is both convenient and budget-friendly, thanks to multiple airlines operating direct and connecting flights daily. The most common route is Kolkata to Bangkok, which takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Two main airports in Bangkok serve international travelers — Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK).
Several low-cost and full-service carriers operate on this route, including Thai AirAsia, IndiGo, Thai Smile, and SpiceJet. Round-trip fares typically range between ₹8,000 to ₹15,000, depending on the season and how early you book. If you’re planning to visit Phuket, Krabi, or Chiang Mai, you can take a connecting flight from Bangkok or explore combo fares that include multiple cities.
Booking flights in advance, ideally 1–2 months before your travel date, can help you grab great deals, especially during peak seasons like December and January. Flight comparison tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or MakeMyTrip are useful for tracking prices and alerts.
Choosing a Thailand Tour Package
Planning your Thailand itinerary is all about finding the right mix of culture, nature, and leisure. Start with Bangkok, known for its glittering temples like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, floating markets, and vibrant nightlife. Next, head to Phuket for stunning beaches, the famous Phi Phi Islands, and buzzing Patong nightlife.
If you want a more relaxed beach vibe, Krabi offers scenic spots like Railay Beach and the 4-Island Tour. For a short detour, Pattaya offers water sports, Coral Island, and lively entertainment. Those interested in nature and tradition should explore Chiang Mai, known for its mountains, elephant sanctuaries, and Buddhist temples.
Must-Visit Places for Your Itinerary
Bangkok
• Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market, Khao San Road, Asiatique Riverfront
Phuket
• Patong Beach, Big Buddha, Phi Phi Islands, Bangla Road
Krabi
• Ao Nang, Railay Beach, 4-Island Tour, Emerald Pool
Pattaya
• Walking Street, Coral Island, Sanctuary of Truth
Chiang Mai
• Doi Suthep, Elephant Nature Park, Night Bazaar
Itinerary Tip: Combine city and beach destinations for the best of both worlds.
Accommodations in Thailand
Thailand offers a wide range of stays:
• Budget Hostels: ₹500 – ₹1,000/night
• 3-Star Hotels: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000/night
• Luxury Resorts: ₹5,000 – ₹15,000+/night
Where to Book:
• Agoda (great for Asia-specific deals)
• Booking.com
• Airbnb (ideal for long stays or family groups)
Money Matters: Currency and Budgeting
• Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
₹1 ≈ 0.45 THB (rates vary)
• Daily Budget (Per Person):
• Budget: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000
• Mid-range: ₹3,000 – ₹6,000
• Luxury: ₹6,000 and above
Tips:
• Exchange some currency before departure.
• ATMs are widely available (withdrawal charges may apply).
• Credit cards are accepted in most tourist areas.
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
• Stay safe: Thailand is generally safe, but be cautious in nightlife areas.
• Sim cards: Get a local SIM at the airport (AIS, DTAC, TrueMove).
• Transport: Use Grab App (like Uber). Negotiate tuk-tuk fares in advance.
• Dress code: Modest clothing when visiting temples.
• Water: Drink bottled water only.
• Learn a few Thai phrases—it goes a long way!
A trip to Thailand from Kolkata is the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and affordability. Whether you plan it DIY or choose a package, the experience is bound to be unforgettable. With careful planning, a realistic budget, and the right itinerary, your Thai holiday will be smooth and memorable.
