Thailand Trip Cost from India: A Comprehensive Guide to Save Money and Avoid Scam

Intercity Transportation Options and Expenses

Traveling between major cities and tourist destinations in Thailand is convenient and offers a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here’s a detailed look at the transportation options and their costs for traveling between Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, and Krabi:

Bangkok to Pattaya ( The most Popular Tourist Route in Thailand)

1. Bus
   • Duration: 2-3 hours
   • Cost: ₹300 – ₹500 per person
   • Details: Buses run frequently from Bangkok’s Ekkamai or Mo Chit bus terminals to Pattaya. They are comfortable and budget-friendly.
2. Private Taxi
   • Duration: 2 hours
   • Cost: ₹3,000 – ₹4,000 per car
   • Details: Ideal for groups or those seeking comfort and convenience. Taxis can be booked through hotel concierge services or online platforms.
3. Train
   • Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours
   • Cost: ₹100 – ₹300 per person
   • Details: Trains from Hua Lamphong Station in Bangkok to Pattaya are scenic and budget-friendly, though less frequent than buses.
4. Private Van/Shared Minivan
   • Duration: 2-3 hours
   • Cost: ₹500 – ₹1,000 per person
   • Details: Shared minivans are a popular option for tourists, offering a balance between cost and convenience.

Bangkok to Phuket

1. Flight
   • Duration: 1.5 hours
   • Cost: ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 per person (one-way)
   • Details: The fastest way to travel between Bangkok and Phuket, with multiple flights daily from both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports.
2. Bus
   • Duration: 12-14 hours
   • Cost: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 per person
   • Details: Overnight VIP buses provide a budget-friendly option with comfortable seating and onboard amenities.
3. Train + Bus
   • Duration: 14-16 hours
   • Cost: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 per person
   • Details: Take a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then a bus to Phuket. This option offers scenic views but is time-consuming.

Bangkok to Krabi 

1. Flight
   • Duration: 1.5 hours
   • Cost: ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 per person (one-way)
   • Details: Multiple daily flights make this the fastest and most convenient option for traveling between Bangkok and Krabi.
2. Bus
   • Duration: 10-12 hours
   • Cost: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 per person
   • Details: Overnight VIP buses from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) are comfortable and cost-effective.
3. Train + Bus
   • Duration: 14-16 hours
   • Cost: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 per person
   • Details: Travel by train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, then continue by bus to Krabi. A scenic but longer travel option.

Pattaya to Phuket

1. Flight (via Bangkok)
   • Duration: 4-6 hours (including layover)
   • Cost: ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 per person (one-way)
   • Details: No direct flights; travel via Bangkok with a layover. The fastest option involving a change in Bangkok.
2. Bus
   • Duration: 16-18 hours
   • Cost: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 per person
   • Details: Long-distance buses provide a budget-friendly alternative but require a significant time commitment.

Pattaya to Krabi

1. Flight (via Bangkok)
   • Duration: 4-6 hours (including layover)
   • Cost: ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 per person (one-way)
   • Details: No direct flights; travel via Bangkok with a layover. The quickest way involving a change in Bangkok.
2. Bus
   • Duration: 16-18 hours
   • Cost: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 per person
   • Details: Long-distance buses provide a budget-friendly alternative but require a significant time commitment.

Phuket to Krabi

1. Bus/Minivan
   • Duration: 2.5-3 hours
   • Cost: ₹500 – ₹1,000 per person
   • Details: Regular minivans and buses run between Phuket and Krabi, offering a convenient and economical option.
2. Private Taxi
   • Duration: 2.5 hours
   • Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹5,000 per car
   • Details: Ideal for groups or those seeking comfort, taxis can be booked through hotels or online platforms.
3. Ferry/Speedboat
   • Duration: 1.5-2.5 hours
   • Cost: ₹1,200 – ₹2,500 per person
   • Details: Companies like Phi Phi Cruiser, Andaman Wave Master, and others offer daily transfers between Phuket and Krabi, with options ranging from standard ferries to more premium speedboats.

By understanding the transportation options and their costs, you can choose the best mode of travel between these popular destinations based on your budget, time, and convenience.

Accommodation Types and Costs in Thailand for Indians

Thailand offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. Here’s a detailed look at the types of accommodations available and their costs, along with food expenses in hotels and outside restaurants.

Accommodation Types

1. Budget Hotels and Hostels
   • Cost: ₹800 – ₹2,000 per night
   • Details: Ideal for backpackers and budget travelers, these accommodations offer basic amenities such as shared or private rooms, free Wi-Fi, and sometimes breakfast. Popular areas include Khao San Road in Bangkok, Patong in Phuket, and Ao Nang in Krabi.
2. Mid-Range Hotels
   • Cost: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 per night
   • Details: These hotels offer more comfort with amenities like private bathrooms, air conditioning, free breakfast, and often a pool. They are perfect for families and couples looking for a balance between cost and comfort.
3. Luxury Hotels and Resorts
   • Cost: ₹5,000 – ₹15,000+ per night
   • Details: Offering top-notch amenities such as spas, fine dining, private pools, and stunning views, these accommodations cater to travelers seeking luxury and high-end services. Areas like Sukhumvit in Bangkok, Kata Beach in Phuket, and Railay Beach in Krabi are popular for luxury stays.
4. Boutique Hotels
   • Cost: ₹3,000 – ₹8,000 per night
   • Details: These unique, smaller hotels offer personalized services and a distinctive style, often reflecting the local culture. They are ideal for travelers looking for a more intimate and unique experience.
5. Serviced Apartments
   • Cost: ₹3,000 – ₹7,000 per night
   • Details: Perfect for longer stays, serviced apartments provide the comforts of home with amenities like kitchenettes, living areas, and laundry facilities. They are popular among families and business travelers.
6. Homestays and Guesthouses
   • Cost: ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 per night
   • Details: Offering a more local experience, homestays and guesthouses provide basic amenities with a focus on local culture and hospitality. They are commonly found in smaller towns and rural areas.

Food Costs

1. Hotel Dining
   • Budget Hotels: Breakfast is often included. Lunch and dinner cost around ₹300 – ₹700 per meal.
   • Mid-Range Hotels: Breakfast included. Lunch and dinner cost around ₹500 – ₹1,500 per meal, with options for both Thai and international cuisines.
   • Luxury Hotels: Breakfast is usually included in the room rate. Lunch and dinner range from ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 per meal, with fine dining options and multiple cuisines.
2. Outside Restaurants
   • Street Food: ₹100 – ₹300 per meal. Popular dishes include Pad Thai, Som Tum (papaya salad), and various noodle soups. Street food is widely available and offers an authentic taste of Thai cuisine.
   • Local Restaurants: ₹300 – ₹800 per meal. These restaurants serve a variety of Thai dishes and are often frequented by locals.
   • Mid-Range Restaurants: ₹800 – ₹1,500 per meal. Offering a mix of Thai and international dishes, these restaurants are popular among tourists.
   • Fine Dining: ₹1,500 – ₹5,000+ per meal. High-end restaurants provide gourmet dining experiences with a focus on presentation, service, and ambiance.

Example Daily Budget for a Mid-Range Traveler

• Accommodation: ₹3,500
• Breakfast: Included in hotel
• Lunch at Local Restaurant: ₹600
• Dinner at Mid-Range Restaurant: ₹1,200
• Snacks/Street Food: ₹200
• Total: ₹5,500 per day

By understanding the accommodation options and associated costs, along with food expenses, Indian travelers can effectively plan their budget and enjoy a comfortable and memorable stay in Thailand.

Local Transportation Options in Thailand

1. Bangkok

• BTS Skytrain (Bangkok Mass Transit System):
  • Cost: Fares range from ₹20 to ₹60 depending on the distance traveled.
  • Details: The BTS is efficient for traveling between major shopping, entertainment, and business districts in Bangkok.
• MRT (Mass Rapid Transit):
  • Cost: Fares range similarly from ₹20 to ₹60.
  • Details: The MRT complements the BTS, covering additional areas including the Chinatown and Hua Lamphong Railway Station.
• Public Buses:
  • Cost: Around ₹10 to ₹30 per journey.
  • Details: Public buses are economical but can be less convenient due to potential language barriers and crowded conditions.
• Taxis and Tuk-Tuks:
  • Cost: Starting fare of ₹50-70 with additional charges based on distance and traffic conditions.
  • Details: Taxis are widely available and metered, while tuk-tuks are suitable for short distances and often require negotiation.

2. Phuket

• Songthaews (Shared Minibuses):
  • Cost: Around ₹30 to ₹100 depending on the route.
  • Details: Songthaews are open-air minibuses serving as a cheaper option for short distances within Phuket.
• Taxis:
  • Cost: Starting fare of ₹50-100 with fares varying based on distance.
  • Details: Taxis are readily available, and fares should be negotiated in advance as meters may not always be used.
• Motorbike Taxis:
  • Cost: Around ₹30-50 for short trips.
  • Details: Motorbike taxis offer quick transfers, particularly useful for navigating through traffic-congested areas.

3. Chiang Mai

• Rot Daeng (Red Trucks):
  • Cost: Typically around ₹20-60 for short trips.
  • Details: Red trucks operate as shared taxis and are common for travel within the city and to nearby attractions.
• Tuk-Tuks:
  • Cost: Negotiated fares, generally starting at ₹50-100.
  • Details: Tuk-tuks are convenient for short distances and sightseeing trips around Chiang Mai.
• Bicycles and Motorbike Rentals:
  • Cost: ₹150-300 per day for bicycles, ₹300-500 for motorbikes.
  • Details: Rentals are popular for exploring Chiang Mai and its surroundings at leisure.

4. Pattaya

• Baht Buses (Songthaews):
  • Cost: Around ₹20-50 per trip.
  • Details: Baht buses are the main mode of transport within Pattaya, offering fixed routes with flexible drop-off points.
• Motorbike Taxis:
  • Cost: Approximately ₹30-100 depending on the distance.
  • Details: Motorbike taxis are convenient for short trips and navigating through traffic in Pattaya.
• Taxis:
  • Cost: Starting fare of ₹50-100 with fares based on distance.
  • Details: Taxis are available but negotiate fares upfront as meters are not always used.

5. Krabi

• Songthaews (Shared Minibuses):
  • Cost: Around ₹30-100 depending on the distance.
  • Details: Songthaews are common for travel within Krabi town and to nearby attractions like Ao Nang.
• Taxis:
  • Cost: Starting fare of ₹50-100 with fares varying by distance and destination.
  • Details: Taxis are available and can be found at hotels, airports, and major tourist areas in Krabi.
• Motorbike Taxis:
  • Cost: Approximately ₹30-100 for short trips.
  • Details: Motorbike taxis provide quick transfers and are suitable for navigating through traffic in Krabi.

Tips for Using Local Transportation

• Navigation: Maps and transportation apps like Grab can help navigate local routes and estimate fares.
• Safety: Use reputable transport services and agree on fares before starting your journey, especially with taxis and tuk-tuks.
• Language: Basic Thai phrases can be helpful, but English is generally understood in tourist areas for basic communication.

By understanding these local transportation options and costs in Pattaya and Krabi, Indian travelers can plan their trips effectively and explore these beautiful destinations at ease.

Thailand Shopping Expenses

Thailand is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of products from traditional handicrafts to modern fashion. Here’s a breakdown of typical shopping expenses you can expect during your trip:

Bangkok:

1. Chatuchak Weekend Market:
   • Souvenirs and Handicrafts: ₹100 – ₹500 per item
   • Clothing: ₹200 – ₹800 per piece
   • Accessories: ₹100 – ₹500 per item
2. MBK Center:
   • Electronics and Gadgets: ₹1,000 – ₹10,000
   • Fashion and Clothing: ₹300 – ₹1,500 per piece
   • Shoes: ₹500 – ₹2,000 per pair
3. Siam Paragon:
   • High-End Fashion Brands: ₹5,000 – ₹50,000 per item
   • Cosmetics and Perfumes: ₹2,000 – ₹10,000
   • Luxury Watches and Jewelry: ₹20,000 – ₹1,00,000+

Pattaya:

1. Central Festival Pattaya:
   • Mid-Range Fashion Brands: ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 per item
   • Beachwear: ₹500 – ₹2,000 per piece
   • Local Handicrafts: ₹200 – ₹1,000 per item
2. Floating Market:
   • Local Snacks and Foods: ₹50 – ₹200 per item
   • Traditional Thai Handicrafts: ₹100 – ₹500 per item
   • Souvenirs: ₹100 – ₹500 per item

Phuket:

1. Jungceylon Shopping Mall:
   • Fashion and Accessories: ₹500 – ₹3,000 per piece
   • Electronics: ₹2,000 – ₹15,000
   • Souvenirs: ₹200 – ₹1,000 per item
2. Night Markets:
   • Local Street Food: ₹50 – ₹200 per item
   • Handicrafts and Souvenirs: ₹100 – ₹500 per item
   • Clothing and Accessories: ₹200 – ₹1,000 per piece

Krabi:

1. Krabi Walking Street:
   • Local Art and Crafts: ₹100 – ₹500 per item
   • Clothing: ₹200 – ₹800 per piece
   • Food and Snacks: ₹50 – ₹200 per item
2. Ao Nang Night Market:
   • Souvenirs: ₹100 – ₹500 per item
   • Accessories: ₹100 – ₹500 per item
   • Local Cuisine: ₹50 – ₹200 per item

Shopping Tips:

• Bargain Wisely: In local markets, bargaining is common and expected. Start with a lower price and negotiate to find a mutually agreeable amount.
• Quality Check: Always check the quality of the items you are purchasing, especially for electronics and clothing.
• Cash is King: Many small vendors prefer cash, so it’s advisable to carry enough Thai Baht.
• Shop Around: Prices can vary significantly from one shop to another, so take your time to explore different options.

Understanding these costs and tips will help you make informed decisions and enjoy a delightful shopping experience in Thailand, bringing home memorable souvenirs and gifts without overspending.

Estimated Budget for a 5-Day Thailand Trip from India

When combining all these costs, the total estimated budget for a 5-day trip to Thailand is as follows: For a budget trip, expect to spend between ₹34,000 and ₹58,000 per person, covering basic accommodations, economical dining, and modest sightseeing and shopping. A mid-range trip typically costs between ₹55,000 and ₹92,500 per person, offering more comfort and a balance of dining, activities, and shopping. For a luxury experience, the budget ranges from ₹85,000 to ₹1,60,000 per person, including high-end accommodations, fine dining, extensive sightseeing, and significant shopping. This overview helps you plan and manage your expenses for a memorable Thailand adventure.