Planning a Thailand trip from India and wondering how much it will actually cost? This guide breaks down every rupee — flights, hotels, food, local transport, activities, and visa fees — so you can plan with confidence. Whether you’re a budget backpacker, a mid-range couple, or looking for a luxury escape, we’ve got real numbers for you.
Thailand is one of India’s favourite international destinations — and for good reason. It’s affordable, stunning, incredibly diverse, and just 3–5 hours away by flight. Let’s break it down honestly.
1. Flights from India to Thailand — How Much to Budget
Flights are usually the biggest cost. Here’s what to realistically expect in 2025:
- Mumbai / Delhi / Chennai / Kolkata → Bangkok (BKK): ₹12,000–₹22,000 return (economy, including taxes)
- Mumbai / Delhi → Phuket: ₹16,000–₹28,000 return
- Best airlines: Air India, IndiGo, AirAsia, Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways
- Cheapest months: May–September (monsoon off-peak). Avoid December–January (peak prices).
- Pro tip: Book 60–90 days in advance. Tuesday/Wednesday departures are often 15–20% cheaper.
Budget estimate: ₹14,000–₹25,000 per person (return) for most Indian cities.
2. Thailand Visa Cost for Indians — 2025 Update
Good news: India currently has visa-free access to Thailand for stays up to 30 days (confirmed as of 2025). No visa fee required for most tourists — just passport + return ticket + hotel booking.
- Visa-Free: ₹0 (valid for up to 30 days, extendable once at immigration)
- Visa on Arrival (backup option): ₹2,500 approximately (2,000 THB)
- Tourist Visa (60 days): Applied at Thai consulate — fees approx. ₹3,500
Budget: ₹0–₹3,500 per person depending on visa type.
3. Hotel Costs in Thailand — Budget to Luxury
Thailand has accommodation for every wallet:
| Category | Per Night (INR) | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Budget / Hostel | ₹800–₹2,500 | Guesthouses, hostels, 2-star hotels |
| Mid-Range | ₹2,500–₹7,000 | 3-star hotels, boutique resorts |
| Luxury / 5-Star | ₹7,000–₹35,000+ | Anantara, Four Seasons, Centara Grand |
| Private Pool Villa | ₹18,000–₹80,000+ | Koh Samui, Phuket private villas |
4. Food Costs in Thailand
Thailand’s food is cheap and incredible. Here’s a real breakdown:
- Street food meal: ₹50–₹150 (Pad Thai, Som Tam, Mango Sticky Rice)
- Local restaurant meal: ₹200–₹500 per person
- Mid-range restaurant: ₹500–₹1,200 per person
- Fine dining / rooftop: ₹2,000–₹6,000 per person
- Beer (Singha/Chang): ₹80–₹200 at local bars
Realistic daily food budget: ₹600–₹1,500 per person for a balanced experience.
5. Local Transport Costs in Thailand
- Bangkok BTS Skytrain / MRT: ₹18–₹150 per trip
- Tuk-tuk: ₹80–₹300 per trip (always negotiate first)
- Grab (Uber equivalent): ₹100–₹400 for most city trips
- Songthaew (shared taxi): ₹40–₹100 per person
- Ferry between islands: ₹200–₹800 per journey
- Speedboat (Phuket–Phi Phi): ₹800–₹1,500 per person
6. Activities & Entrance Fees
- Wat Pho (Bangkok): ₹130
- Grand Palace: ₹750
- Phi Phi Islands day trip from Phuket: ₹3,500–₹5,000/person
- Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary: ₹3,000–₹5,500/person
- Muay Thai show: ₹800–₹1,500
- Thai cooking class: ₹1,500–₹3,000
- James Bond Island tour (Krabi/Phuket): ₹2,500–₹4,000
7. Complete Per-Person Budget Summary — 6 Nights / 7 Days
| Expense | Budget Trip | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flights (return) | ₹14,000 | ₹18,000 | ₹25,000 |
| Hotel (6 nights) | ₹9,000 | ₹24,000 | ₹70,000 |
| Food | ₹5,000 | ₹10,000 | ₹20,000 |
| Transport | ₹3,000 | ₹6,000 | ₹12,000 |
| Activities | ₹4,000 | ₹10,000 | ₹20,000 |
| TOTAL / PERSON | ~₹35,000 | ~₹68,000 | ~₹1,47,000 |
8. Cheapest vs Most Expensive Destinations in Thailand
- Most Affordable: Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai
- Mid-Range: Phuket (mainland areas), Krabi (Ao Nang), Koh Lanta
- Premium: Koh Samui, Phi Phi Islands, private villa destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum budget for Thailand from India?
A budget traveller can do 6 nights in Thailand for around ₹35,000–₹45,000 per person all-inclusive (flights + accommodation + food + activities) if they travel in the off-peak season and stay in budget hotels.
Is Thailand cheaper than Goa for a holiday?
Surprisingly, yes — Thailand can be comparable to or cheaper than Goa for accommodation and food, especially if you include domestic flights to Goa. The international flight cost is the biggest additional expense for Thailand.
How much cash should I carry to Thailand?
Carry 5,000–8,000 THB (approximately ₹12,000–₹18,000) in cash for street food, markets, tuk-tuks and smaller vendors. Most hotels, restaurants and malls accept cards. Exchange currency in Thailand — rates are better than in India.
Is UPI or Indian card accepted in Thailand?
Indian Rupee UPI is not accepted in Thailand. Carry a Forex card loaded with Thai Baht or use international debit/credit cards. Niyo, HDFC Regalia, and Axis Bank Burgundy cards work well with low forex fees.
Planning your Thailand trip? At Sapphire Siam Holidays, we create fully-customized Thailand packages for Indian travellers — all-inclusive, transparent pricing, and dedicated support. Get a free quote today →