Foreign trip – Thailand – pattaya & Bangkok 4N – 5D

Overview

Best time to visit Thailand

You have to consider a lot of factors when scheduling your Thailand trip, such as the places you want to visit, the type of activities you want to experience, etc. Generally, the period between November and April is considered the best time to visit Thailand for tourism purposes. It is the period when the country experiences a massive influx of tourists from all corners of the globe. If you are looking to learn about the type of experience each Thailand tourism season has to offer, refer to the following pointers;

Winter in Thailand

The winter season, which stretches from November to February, is widely considered the best time to visit Thailand from India. The temperature during this period stays very pleasant, with an average range of 15°C to 28°C. The cool and dry weather conditions are perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities across the country, thus attracting thousands of visitors. Individuals love to go for trekking and scuba diving adventures when visiting Thailand during this season. Even though most regions in the country experience clear weather, some parts, like Koh Tao, Koh Samui, etc., receive their fair share of rain showers. So, if you are planning on visiting this beautiful country in winter, make sure to carry your rain gear. Also, try to make bookings for hotels and transfers in advance to avoid any issues with peak season unavailability.

Summer in Thailand

Summer in Thailand begins somewhere around March and extends till June. Contrary to winter, the weather conditions during this season stay hot and dry. The average temperature range during summer in Thailand stays around 32°C to 40°C. People usually like to avoid scheduling their trip to this country in these months. It is because the weather conditions make tourist activities like sightseeing and exploration a bit difficult. On the upside, you can secure great discounts on transfers and accommodations as summer is the low season for Thailand tourism. April is the best month to visit Thailand during summer for water adventures.

Monsoon in Thailand

Besides winter, the monsoon is considered the best season to visit Thailand for tourism. It extends from July to October, with an average temperature range of 24°C to 28°C for the most part. During this period, the country experiences heavy rain, which leads to flooding in certain places. Hence, some people like to avoid scheduling their trips during these months. However, there are many parts where the rain doesn’t cause any hindrance to tourist activities. Moreover, the rain enhances the beauty of the places surrounded by lush greenery, cascading waterfalls and swift-flowing rivers. If you wish to visit Thailand during these months, make sure to pack proper rain gear and check weather forecasts before going out.

How to reach Thailand

Thailand is one of the most accessible international holiday destinations, especially for individuals from India. If you want to learn about the best ways to reach Thailand, go through the following points;

• By air
• By road

By air

The most convenient option to reach Thailand is via a flight. The popular airports in Thailand are Suvarnabhumi Airport and the Don Mueang International Airport. The other airports in the country are Phuket and Chiang Mai International Airports, but you cannot reach them directly. You can get flights to Thailand from various cities in India, and almost all through the year. In almost all the Thailand tour packages, you will find flights included or optional.

By road

Thailand can also be reached via road, India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway. The highway passes through Myanmar. The distance is 3200km. To start your journey via road to Thailand, you have to start from Manipur’s Moreh, and then pass through Myanmar and connect with Mae Sot in Thailand. If you choose to travel to the country via road, you must plan Thailand trips during the dry months. If you plan to self-drive, you must have an International Driving Permit and a Driver’s License. You also need to ensure that all papers related to your vehicle are in place.

Best Places to Visit in Thailand

From beaches to historic destinations, this country is dotted with several attractions. If you still want to make a list of the best places to visit in Thailand, here are some options for you which can be included in the Thailand tour packages.

• Bangkok
• Phuket
• Pattaya
• Krabi
• Ayutthaya
• Koh Tao
• Erawan National Park
• Pai
• Kanchanaburi
• Railay

Bangkok

Phuket

Pattaya

Krabi

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is the ideal place for history aficionados. The entire city is like an open-air museum. You will find things from the past almost in every nook of Ayutthaya. The numerous monuments present in Ayutthaya offer a vivid glimpse into the country’s rich history. It is said that the city gets its name from Lord Ram’s birthplace, Ayodhya of Ramayana. You can find several ancient sites like monasteries, temples, palaces, etc., at this location under various conditions. Some of the main attractions of this UNESCO World Heritage Site are Wat Mahathat, Ayutthaya Historical Park, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, etc.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao, or the “Turtle Island”, is an island in the southeastern region of this country. It is one of the best Thailand tourist places for underwater adventure activities, such as scuba diving and snorkelling, thanks to its affordable diving spots. The island gets its name from the numerous sea turtles that reside on the shores of Koh Tao. The vibrant nightlife, romantic restaurants and local culture of this island are some of its main highlights. Examples of must-visit places in and around Koh Tao are Koh Nang Yuan, Ao Tanot Bay, John Suwan Viewpoint, Sairee Beach, Shark Island, etc.

Erawan National Park

Erawan National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Thailand. Located 191 km from Bangkok, thousands of tourists flock to this location to experience its natural flair and peaceful ambience. Clicking pictures by the waterfalls and going for a swim in the serene pools at this location are some must-try things you can add to your bucket list. The main highlights of Erawan National Park are the Erawan Waterfall,  trekking trails, water monitor lizards, mysterious caves, etc.

Pai

The quaint town of Pai in Mae Hong Son Province is among the top tourist attractions in Thailand. Visitors interested in spending some peaceful time in the countryside will find this town to be the perfect match. Other than its tranquil atmosphere, the main tourist attractions in and around Pai are White Buddha Temple, WWII Memorial Bridge, Pai Canyon, Yun Lai Viewpoint, etc.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is one of the most diverse tourist locations in Thailand in terms of renowned attractions. It offers an array of experiences that you can be a part of, everything ranging from luxurious resorts, historical sites, and pagodas to trekking trails, golfing spots and river rafting spots. Some of its primary tourist attractions are Death Railway Bridge, Tiger Cave Temple, Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, Huay Mae Khamin Waterfalls, etc.

Railay

Located between Ao Nang and Krabi, Railay is a small peninsula accessible only by boat. It is one of the most sought-after places in Thailand that you can add to your Thailand tour package from India. Railay also ranks among the top adventure tourism spots in the country, offering scopes for rock climbing, active diving, kayaking, etc. Its main attractions are Tham Phra Nang Cave, Railay Viewpoint and Lagoon, longtail boat ride, etc.

Temples to Visit in Thailand

Here are some of the most famous temples in Thailand that you can visit for spiritual tours;

Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew

The Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew, or the Temple of a Million Bottles, is one of the most visited temples in Thailand. Located in Sisaket province, the temple is affiliated with Buddhism and is made from more than 1.5 million empty bottles of Chang beer and Heineken. Make sure to add a visit to this temple to your Thailand tour itinerary.

Wat Pho

Located in Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok, Wat Pho is one of the most famous religious places to visit in Thailand. Also called the Temple of Reclining Buddha, this holy shrine is affiliated with the Theravada sect of Buddhism. Alongside having the most extensive collection of Buddha images in the country, the main highlight of this temple is the 15 metres high and 45 metres long statue of the Reclining Buddha.

Wat Pa Phu Kon

Wat Pa Phu Kon in Udon Thani is one of the most visually impressive temples you can visit in Thailand. This Buddhist temple is a prominent pilgrimage site for devotees practising Buddhism. Its incredible building architecture, marble statue of Reclining Buddha and blue-coloured roof are some of its main highlights.

Beaches to visit in Thailand

If you are looking for the best beach experience in Thailand, here are some spots you can consider adding to your Thailand travel itinerary;

Freedom Beach

Freedom Beach in Phuket is one of the most gorgeous beaches you can find in Thailand. Surrounded by lush greenery on one side, it is known for its pristine condition, soft white sand and turquoise water. Tourists love to visit Freedom Beach in Phuket for sunbathing, beach football and snorkelling adventures.

Phra Nang Beach

Phra Nang Cave Beach in southern Thailand’s Krabi Province is one of the most beautiful beaches you can check out. Some of the best things to do at this beach include watching the sunset, taking photographs of the picturesque sceneries, going for kayaking and snorkelling adventures, barbecuing by the beachside, etc.

Nai Harn Beach

The Nai Harn Beach in Phuket is a quaint beachside that you can add to your Thailand tour plan. If you don’t like excessive crowds during your beach visits, you will love Nai Harn Beach. The availability of massage centres, luxury hotels and souvenir shops by the beachside makes it a great honeymoon spot.

Famous nightlife places in Thailand

When visiting Thailand for your vacation, make sure to experience its vibrant nightlife that remains unmatched to this day. Here are some best nightlife places in the country;

Khao San Road

Located in Central Bangkok, the Khao San Road is one of the most lively nightlife places in Thailand. Thousands of locals and tourists flock to this location every night to experience the party culture of Bangkok in all its colour. You can find hundreds of top-class pubs, street food stalls and rooftop bars in this area.

Cicada Night Market

If you are interested in spending your nights during your Thailand holidays in a different way, consider visiting the Cicada Night Market in Hua Hin. The market features loads of stalls, all offering a variety of products, including delicious Thai food dishes and drinks, and Thai souvenirs. You will also be able to enjoy live music and dance performances by local artists at the amphitheatre within the Cicada Night Market.

Chaweng Island

The Chaweng Island in Koh Samui is where you will find the most upbeat party people. The Black Moon Party on this island attracts all the youngsters and party lovers visiting Thailand for their holidays. In addition, you can come across numerous cabarets, bars and nightclubs on this island, hosting parties and serving great food and drinks along with cheerful dance music.

Things to do in Thailand

Thailand is one of the most visited countries in Asia, and for all good reasons. There are so many things to do in Thailand, that you will not get a moment to be bored on your trip to this beautiful country. From staying in the best resorts in Thailand to indulging in various activities, everything here is an experience. You can in fact find many of these things to do as part of the Thailand tour packages.

• Visit the floating market in Bangkok
• Visit Dolphin World in Pattaya
• Day tour in Ayutthaya
• Visit the Tiger Kingdom in Phuket
• A ferry ride to James Bond Island
• Visit the sanctuary of truth
• Visit the Grand Palace
• Get a Thai massage
• Attend the Full Moon party

Floating market in Bangkok

Floating markets in Bangkok are one of its main tourist attractions. Some of these markets are said to be over 100 years old and are known for offering a unique Thailand shopping experience to visitors. Some of the best-floating markets in Bangkok are Khlong Lat Mayom, Tha Kha Floating Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

Dolphin World

If playing with Dolphins has been one of your dreams, then you can make it come true by visiting Dolphin World in Pattaya. It is a great place to visit with family, especially if you are on vacation with your children. You can also attend the Dolphin Show in which these intelligent creatures exhibit their talent. Make sure this is added to the Thailand packages from India that you are considering.

Tour in Ayutthaya

The place that once used to be one of the largest cities in the world is currently a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site in Thailand. If you keep an interest in the rich history of this country, make sure to take a tour of Ayutthaya. The place is home to hundreds of temples, a 19-metre-tall Buddha image, the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, etc.

Tiger Kingdom

Witnessing tigers in their natural habitat is certainly fascinating and you get an opportunity to do that at the Tiger Kingdom. Apart from witnessing the big cats, you can also opt for night camping here. This one-of-a-kind experience will make Thailand holidays memorable.

A ferry ride to James Bond Island

James Bond Island gained popularity after it was featured in The Man with the Golden Gun, a Hollywood cult classic. To reach this island, you have to take a ferry ride. Once you are here, you can also hire a long-tail boat and explore the location where the movie was shot. You might even find this place added to the Thailand tourism packages. And if this is missing in the Thailand vacation packages, you can have this added by contacting the tour operators.

Visit the sanctuary of truth

It is one of the major attractions in Thailand travel packages and is world-famous.  This architectural wonder is completely made out of Teak wood and not even a single metal nail was used to make it. The astounding architecture of this building is something you shouldn’t miss out on. It is a religious site and the motifs, statues, and designs symbolize the culture and religion of the land. You can find this in many Thailand tour packages.

Visit the Grand Palace

The Grand Palace covers an area of 218,400 sq. meters and it was home to the king, his court, and the Thailand Government for 150 years. There are 1782 huge walls around this palace. The only thing you need to be careful about is the kind of dress you wear. Tourists need to be in their proper and appropriate dress or else they might not get to enter the palace. You may find the instructions in the Thailand travel packages.

Get a Thai massage

One of the most popular things to do in Thailand is to get a traditional Thai massage. There are numerous massage parlours and treatment venues across the country that offer this rejuvenating experience. It helps to relinquish physical and mental stress and makes your overall Thailand tourism experience better.

Attend Full Moon Party

Let the party animal in you enjoy every bit of the Full Moon Party at Koh Phangan Beach which is mostly a part of the Thailand packages. Non-stop music, awesome drink, and a riot of colors make this party one of a kind. And guess what, you can even swim in the Gulf of Thailand when you are tired of dancing and want to take a break.

Adventure activities to do in Thailand

Thailand is one of the most famous adventure tourism destinations on the continent. Here are some must-try adventure activities you can consider during your visit;

Scuba diving

Thailand is home to some of the most popular diving spots in the world. The pristine coastline and clear blue water give tourists access to the incredible corals and marine life. The best Thailand tour places to visit for scuba diving adventures are Phuket, Hin Mouang, Richelieu Rock, Shark Island, etc.

River rafting

River rafting is a thrilling, group adventure activity that you can consider trying during your Thailand trip. There are tons of locations in the country where you can find rapids from grade I to grade V for rafting adventures. Some of the best Thailand tour places to visit for this adventure are the Khek River (Phitsanulok), Pai River (Mae Hong Son) and Mae Taeng River (Chiang Mai).

Rock climbing

If you are interested in traditional, adrenaline-rushing, rock-climbing adventures, make sure to look for scopes during your Thailand visit. Railay Bay in Krabi, Crazy Horse Cliff in Chiang Mai and Kio Lom Dam in Lampang are the best places in Thailand for rock climbing.

Elephant trekking

One of the most popular adventure things to do in Thailand is to go on traditional elephant trekking tours. In this activity, you will go on a ride on these beautiful land mammals and be able to engage with them, feed them and bathe them. Thai Elephant Conservation Centre (Lampang) and Patara Elephant Camp (Chiang Mai) are some of the best Thailand tourist places where you can have this experience.

Foods to Eat in Thailand

The mouthwatering Thai cuisines are popular across the world. Whether you want to try delicious street food or traditional cuisines, you are going to love all of them. Here are some of the Thai cuisines that we are going to talk about and you can even find many of these included in the meals that come with the Thailand tour packages.

• Khao Phat
• Gaeng Keow Wan Gai
• Chim Chum
• Pad Thai
• Guay Teow
• Tom Yum Goong
• Tom Kha Gai
• Som Tam
• Yam Pla Dook Foo
• Pad Phuk Tong

Khao Phat

It is a type of Thai fried rice made of Jasmine rice, pork, shrimp, crab, chicken, garlic, eggs, tomatoes, green onions, and lemon. It also consists of several types of sauces and pastes. Khao Phat comes in many varieties. It is one of the dishes that is usually included in the meals of the Thailand tourism packages.

Gaeng Keow Wan Gai

Gaeng Keow Wan Gai is one of the most popular Thai cuisines that you must try when you are in this country. It is named so because of the color of the curry. While it is a lot on the spicier side, you will surely love the coconut flavor in this curry. You can either eat this curry with rice or Khanom chin, which is basically noodles. If this is included in the Thailand tour packages, you must try this.

Chim Chum

Chim Chum is a famous Thailand street food. Its delicious taste and incredible looks make it quite popular among tourists. This may not be included in the Thailand tourism packages but you can find and try it yourself for a food-wise divine experience.

Pad Thai

The ingredients that are used in this cuisine are tamarind pulp, garlic, fish sauce, turnips, red chili pepper, palm sugar, shallots, lime, and roasted peanuts. Stir-fried noodles are also used in this dish. You can find Pad Thai anywhere and everywhere in Thailand and most probably in the Thailand packages as well.

Guay Teow

It is one of the most popular and well-liked Thai dishes and you can find it almost in every corner of the country and in the majority of Thailand tour packages. It is basically a noodle soup made with either chicken, pork or beef. If you are a vegetarian, you need to check the availability of Guay Teow with vegetables. In many restaurants, you can also find meatballs or wontons added to it. The condiments usually used in this dish are sugar, lime juice, dried chili peppers, and fish sauce.

Tom Yum Goong

Tom Yum Goong, a type of shrimp soup, is a Thailand famous food. You may even find it featured in the popular Thailand tourism packages. Some of the most used Thai ingredients such as lemongrass, chili, shallots, kaffier lime leaves, galangal, fresh lime juice, and several fish sauces are added to this soup. It also comes with a creamier version in which coconut cream is added.

Tom Kha Gai

Tom Kha Gai is a type of chicken soup and is a must-try food in Thailand. It is perfect for individuals with a lower tolerance level for spicy food. The main ingredients used to prepare this dish are boneless chicken, chicken broth, lemongrass, coconut milk, galangal, makrut lime leaves, palm sugar, etc. Whether you find it in the Thailand packages from India or not, you must try this.

Som Tam

Som Tam is a spicy green papaya salad that is massively popular in Thailand and comes in various styles.  If you want to try the classic Som Tam, you can expect ingredients in it like shredded green papaya, dried shrimp, carrots, peanuts, tomatoes, runner beans, tamarind pulp, palm sugar, lime juice, fish sauce, garlic and plenty of chilies. This may be included in the Thailand tourism packages that you are choosing from, or you can find it in the best resorts in Thailand that you are going to stay in.

Yam Pla Dook Foo

It is a traditional dish in Thailand, made with crispy catfish and a salad containing green mangoes, shallots, fresh cilantro, onions, peanuts, fish sauce, lime juice, white sugar, Thai chillies, etc. It is one of the must-try foods you can consider while on your Thailand tour. This is certainly not the main course dish, and you can have it as an appetizer with a drink, especially if you find this in the Thailand packages.

Pad Phuk Tong

It is a vegetarian dish in which pumpkin is basically stir-fried. You can have it with rice to get the best and actual taste of it. You may not get this in all the restaurants. Therefore, make sure you find out some of the restaurants and cafes that serve this dish. Or, you can have this added to your Thailand tour package.

Best Restaurants in Thailand

If you want to sit properly and enjoy every bite of Thai cuisine, you need to visit the most famous restaurants in Thailand. Before you search for the nearest Thai restaurant to me, here are some options you can consider;

• Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant
• Blue Elephant
• Feuang Nara
• Nuch’s Green Ta’lay Restaurant

Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant

If you are a vegetarian and want to steer clear of the non-veg options, this restaurant is perfect for you. The menu changes every week and the ingredients used are organic and seasonal. Located in Chiang Mai, the restaurant remains open five days a week and is closed each Sunday and Monday. You can also get a vegan option in this restaurant.

Blue Elephant

While there are many branches of Blue Elephant in several places in the world, you can find one in Phuket as well. The restaurant is in a Chinese-colonial-style mansion and the Thai cuisines you will find here are traditional and authentic in taste.

Feuang Nara

Based in Bangkok Feuang Nara is housed in an old family home where authentic Thai cuisine is served. Apart from the sumptuous Thai cuisine, the ambiance of Feuang Nara is something that you will certainly appreciate. It is airy and bright.

Nuch’s Green Ta’lay Restaurant

When you are on Koh Samui Island, which you might find included in your Thailand tour package, you must visit Nuch’s Green Ta’lay Restaurant. You will get all the popular local Thai food here. The Thai Green Curry is the signature dish here.

Apart from these, there are many other restaurants in Thailand that you can opt for. Some of them are Bo.lan, Eat Me, Gaggan, Green Garden Restaurant, Le Vendôme, etc. Some of the restaurants where you can find Indian dishes in Thailand are Mrs. Balbir’s, Steve Cafe and Cuisine, Tazzina, Tandoori Flames, OSOT, The Tavern, Karma Indian Restaurant, Pirate Bay Cafe, Dave’s Cantina, Taj Palace Authentic Indian Restaurant, Kebab Indian Food, My Place Lounge, and many more.

Ideal Places for a Honeymoon in Thailand

Also called the ‘Vegas of the East’, Thailand is a much popular honeymoon destination for newly-hitched couples. The beaches and the party atmosphere in Thailand give the couples much scope to add romance as well as fun to their honeymoon trip to this country. Let us check out the honeymoon destinations in Thailand that must be visited and included in the Thailand tourism packages, based on which you can book from our Thailand holiday packages. You can also take a look at the  Thailand honeymoon packages and choose the one that suits you the best.

• Koh Samui
• Hua Hin
• Similan Islands
• Koh Phi Phi
• Udon Thani
• Sukhothai Old City
• Koh Lanta
• Chiang Mai
• Koh Tao
• Nakhon Ratchasima

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is one of the most romantic and fun places to visit in Thailand, making it a prominent honeymoon destination. You can not only experience the picturesque beauty, massive beachside parties and exuberant nightlife of the place during your visit but can also check out the various nearby tourist attractions with your significant other. Make sure to look for a honeymoon special Thailand tour package from India that include Koh Samui.

Hua Hin

Hua Hin is another fascinating honeymoon destination you can visit with your loved one. The luxury stay options, premium restaurants, serene ambience, massive night markets, incredible national parks, etc., are some of the key highlights of the place. Consider scheduling your trip to Hua Hin with your partner between November and February for the best experience.

Similan Islands

Comprised of nine small islands, the Similan Islands is one of the best honeymoon places in Thailand. From spending romantic time by the beachside and going for diving adventures to witnessing the scenic beauty and checking out the wildlife of the region, you will never run out of fun things to do with your partner at this location.

Koh Phi Phi

It is also called Monkey Beach by the locals here and favorite of the tourists, because of this you can find this added to most of the Thailand tourism packages. The sand here is powdery and the island is popular for offering snorkeling. Also, you can see the world inside the water with your spouse and make memories at this remarkable destination. The beach can be reached by kayaks and boats.

Udon Thani

Located in the northeast of Thailand, Udon Thani is known for its historical importance. It is a must-visit place for honeymooners sharing an interest in the region’s history. The main attraction of this place is Udon Thani Park and the Non-Prachak Lake in it. There is a very small island in the lake and it has a garden filled with plants. When you are on this island, you will be surrounded by the sweet fragrance of flowers.

Sukhothai Old City

You can experience the old-world charm of this city. The old city is located at a distance of 12 km from Sukhothai City and is home to 197 historical ruins. Today, it is a UNESCO site. When you are here, you can visit the Si Satchanalai Historical Park. You can even go on a cruise on the Yom River with your loved one. Sukhothai Old City is mostly featured in Thailand holiday packages.

Koh Lanta

If you want to explore the off-beat places in Thailand during your honeymoon, then Koh Lanta is a great place you can consider. It is a very big island and has nine small islands on it. You can find beaches here along with corals and thick mangroves. This is a perfect place to spend some quality time with the special person in your life.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is known for its natural and scenic beauty. The place is not very crowded and you have a beautiful time with your spouse here. One of the attractions in Chiang Mai is Wiang Kum Kam, which you must get included in the Thailand tourism packages.

Koh Tao

This is one of the most sought-after islands in Thailand and is extremely popular among honeymooners. You can get the best of both worlds here. You can indulge in various adventurous activities, as well as you can also go for a romantic dinner here. The memories you can make here will always be unique and the best. So, make sure this is added to the Thailand holiday packages so that you can spend a memorable time here.

Nakhon Ratchasima

This is one of the main cities in Thailand. Nakhon Ratchasima is popular for its scenic landscape and history.  You can choose to go rafting here and even visit the national parks. It is one of the most serene honeymoon destinations that you can check out with your significant other and make memories that will last a lifetime. Check out SOTC for great deals on Thailand packages for couple.

The other places in Thailand that you can visit on your honeymoon and that may be included in the Thailand tourism packages as well are Phi Phi Islands, Koh Phi Phi, Khao Lak, Nong Khai, Surat Thani, Koh Lipe, etc.

Best Places for Shopping in Thailand

You will be able to buy various types of items during your Thailand trip. Most of the items are affordable; therefore, you can buy them in bulk. From Thai silk to spices, from handmade Thai jewelry to antiques, you can buy varieties of things from Thailand. Wondering about the places that are best for shopping in Thailand? Here their names are. You can cover these places as you choose from the Thailand holiday packages.

• Phuket Weekend Market
• Rot Fai Market
• Krabi Town Walking Street
• Pattaya Night Bazaar

Phuket Weekend Market

When you are in Phuket, make no excuses and visit the Weekend Market. The market is divided into two parts. One is covered and the other is open. In the covered section, you will find second-hand goods. In the open section, you will find new items which include watches, bags, footwear, and many other fashion accessories.

Rot Fai Market

It is an open bazaar in Bangkok and it is huge. You can get almost everything that you need. The key attraction of this market is street food. While you are here, make sure you take sips of Thai iced tea and dig into the fried noodles. You are likely to find this market included in your Thailand tour package.

Krabi Town Walking Street

This market is open at night and you can find some of the most popular and interesting Thai products here. You must take a look at the Oyster pearl jewelry. Apart from this, you can also get handbags and gardening tools in this market.

Pattaya Night Bazaar

Pattaya Night Bazaar is an air-conditioned market that will give you the feel of a street market because of the items available here. It is hard to visit this market and not buy a heap of items. Some of the must-buy items at this market are wall hangings, miniature figurines, handmade accessories, Thailand fruits, etc.

Some of the other shopping places in Thailand that you can visit are Phuket Walking Street, Jungceylon Shopping Mall, Central Festival Phuket, Central World, Chatuchak Weekend Market, Chinatown, Asiatique the Riverfront, Central Festival Pattaya, Royal Garden Plaza, Bang Niang Market, etc.

Art and Culture in Thailand

Thailand has one of the most unique and interesting art and cultural sides that you can explore to get a full picture of this beautiful country. Here are some of the best places to visit in Thailand for this purpose;

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

If you have an interest in checking out the incredible range of Thai art, film, music, theatre, design, etc., consider visiting the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. Established in 2008, it covers a total area of around 4,000 square kilometres and features an art library, several exhibits, cafes, shops, exhibition areas, etc.

Museum of Contemporary Art

The Museum of Contemporary Art, or MOCA, is another renowned art gallery that you can visit in Bangkok. You can find several exhibits at this place, most of which are art pieces collected by Boonchai Bencharongkul over three decades. In addition to its collection of more than 800 pieces, the building architecture itself is a work of art. It is a must-visit site for every art lover.

Museum Siam

Museum Siam in Bangkok is an interactive museum that you can visit to learn about the country’s distinct history and culture. In addition to the several exhibits from the bygone era, the museum uses art to keep visitors engaged and interested in exploring the beautiful culture, history, traditions and customs of Thailand.

Body Treatments and Massages in Thailand

One of the most iconic parts of tourism in Thailand is its traditional Thai massage and body treatment experience. Here are some of the best places you can consider checking out for this;

Oasis Spa

Located across several places in Thailand, Oasis Spa is a great choice to consider if you are looking for a relaxing spa experience after a tedious day of sightseeing. The trained professionals at this institution will offer you the best spa, massage and Ayurveda treatment that you can hope for during your trip. You can find Oasis Spa in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket among other locations.

Let’s Relax Spa

With more than 20 years of experience, Let’s Relax Spa is an award-winning spa in Thailand that you can consider visiting. They offer a variety of services that you can go for, including the likes of body scrubs, massages, aromatherapy, etc. You can find their branches at several locations around Bangkok.

Fah Lanna Spa

Fah Lanna Spa in Chiang Mai is another award-winning spa that is popular among locals and tourists. It is a must-visit place if you are looking for a luxurious spa treatment experience during your Thailand holidays. Make sure to go for their aromatic herbal steam and Tok Sen massage during your visit.

Interesting Facts about Thailand

Here are some of the most fascinating facts about Thailand that you should know before your trip;

• Thailand is the only nation in the entire northeast Asia that was never colonised by any European countries. Also, after World War II, it became allies with other nations like Japan and America.
• As of now, around one-tenth of Thailand’s entire population resides within its capital city, Bangkok.
• There’s no official religion in Thailand, and every citizen has the freedom to follow any religion or God of their liking. Having said that, around 95% of the country’s total population follows the Buddhist religion.
• Statistics suggest that there are over 300,000 monks living in Thailand in the present day.
• Back in the 19th century, Bangkok earned the title of the “Venice of the East” due to the numerous well-maintained and carved canals running through the city.
• Thailand is home to around 35,000 temples, each made from materials such as stone, bronze, wood, ivory and terracotta.
• Thailand ranks fifth on the list of most significant consumers of alcohol per capita in the world. Also, the Amari Atrium Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand, serves one of the world’s most expensive Valentine’s Cocktails.

Thailand visa for Indians

Indians visiting Thailand for tourism purposes are required to have a valid tourist visa in order to enter the country. You can either apply for a Thailand Visa before your travel or opt for the Visa on Arrival facility, which offers a stay of a maximum of 15 days. The essential documents needed for Thailand Visa are;

• Duly filled and signed Thailand visa application form
• Passport-sized photographs
• Valid passport
• Proof of stay
• Bank statement
• Proof of roundtrip tickets
• Proof of adequate funds
• Visa fee
• Additional documentation (if needed)

You can apply for a Thailand tourist visa online through the official website of VFS Global. Just fill in all the required details carefully and select a Thailand Visa Application Centre to carry out the application process. For offline application, you can contact a VFS Global Thailand Visa Application Centre nearest to your location and submit the visa application and necessary documents in person. To get Thailand Visa on Arrival, the steps are;

Visit the “Visa on Arrival” Section at the airport or any other designated entry point.

Submit the duly filled and signed application to the immigration officer, along with the necessary documents.

Upon verification, you will be issued VOA for your Thailand visit.

Foreign currency for Thailand visit

It is best to acquire the local currency of the international destination you are planning on visiting. It makes the process of spending and paying for services in a foreign land simple. The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (Code: THB). You can acquire Thailand currency prior to your visit from the online forex services offered by SOTC, in either a forex prepaid card or currency notes. As of 5th July 2023, the Thailand currency to INR exchange rate is 1 Thai Baht to 2.36 Indian Rupees. For example, 10,000 Thailand currency in Indian rupees equals INR 23,566.60 (approx.). However, the THB to INR exchange rate is subject to change, so make sure to enquire properly when acquiring forex. You can refer to the internet for the latest Thai Baht to INR exchange value.