Thailand Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know for Your First Trip

I’ve been to Thailand four times now, and I still get excited every time I land in Bangkok. There’s something about Thailand that just works – the perfect mix of affordability, beauty, culture, food, beaches, and adventure. It’s no wonder Thailand is Southeast Asia’s most popular destination.

My first trip was seven years ago. I was nervous, didn’t know Thai, had no idea what to expect beyond what I’d seen in movies. I made mistakes – overpaid for things, stayed in wrong areas, missed some incredible spots. But I also fell in love with the country.

This guide is everything I wish I’d known before that first trip. Real advice, honest opinions, practical tips that’ll save you money and help you actually enjoy Thailand instead of just surviving it.

Why Thailand? (In Case You Need Convincing)

The beaches are stunning. Crystal clear water, limestone cliffs, white sand. Phi Phi Islands, Railay Beach, Koh Lanta – they’re as beautiful as the photos suggest.

The food is incredible. Pad Thai, green curry, mango sticky rice, tom yum soup. Every meal is an adventure. Street food costs $1-2 and tastes better than fancy restaurants back home.

It’s ridiculously affordable. You can travel comfortably on $40-50/day. Even budget travelers live well here.

The culture is fascinating. Ornate temples, Buddhist ceremonies, traditional dances, floating markets. It’s exotic but accessible.

Thai people are genuinely friendly. “Land of Smiles” isn’t just marketing. People are warm, helpful, and patient with confused tourists.

Infrastructure is tourist-friendly. Easy buses, trains, flights. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Everything just… works.

Variety for every traveler. Party islands, quiet beaches, mountains, cities, jungles. Backpackers and luxury travelers both love Thailand.

Understanding Thailand’s Regions

Thailand is bigger than people realize – about 513,000 square kilometers. You can’t see everything in one trip. Understanding the regions helps you plan better.

Central Thailand – Bangkok & Around

Main attraction: Bangkok (capital city)
Vibe: Urban, temples, markets, nightlife, food
Time needed: 3-5 days

Bangkok is chaos and culture. Tuk-tuks weaving through traffic, street food stalls on every corner, golden temples glittering in the sun, rooftop bars with skyline views. It’s overwhelming but incredible.

Most people start here since it’s the main international airport. Don’t skip Bangkok – give it at least 2-3 days. The Grand Palace, floating markets, street food, and nightlife are all worth experiencing.

Day trips from Bangkok: Ayutthaya (ancient capital, stunning ruins), Kanchanaburi (Bridge over River Kwai, war history), Damnoen Saduak (floating market).

Southern Thailand – Islands & Beaches

Main spots: Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Lanta
Vibe: Beaches, diving, parties, relaxation
Time needed: 5-10 days minimum

This is why most people come to Thailand. The Andaman Sea (west coast) has dramatic limestone cliffs and clearer water. The Gulf of Thailand (east coast) has white sand beaches and is cheaper.

Andaman Sea islands (west):

• Phuket: Largest island, developed, party scene, good infrastructure
• Krabi/Railay: Stunning scenery, rock climbing, quieter than Phuket
• Koh Phi Phi: Beautiful but touristy, party island
• Koh Lanta: More laid-back, good for families

Gulf islands (east):

• Koh Samui: Developed, resorts, families, couples
• Koh Phangan: Full Moon Party famous
• Koh Tao: Diving paradise, backpacker favorite

Northern Thailand – Mountains & Culture

Main spots: Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai, Mae Hong Son
Vibe: Mountains, temples, trekking, hill tribes, cooler weather
Time needed: 4-7 days

Northern Thailand is completely different from the south. Mountains, waterfalls, hill tribe villages, elephant sanctuaries, cooler temperatures (actually cold in winter!).

Chiang Mai is the hub – laid-back city with incredible temples, night markets, cooking classes, and nature nearby. It’s many travelers’ favorite place in Thailand.

Chiang Rai has the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) – stunning modern temple that looks straight out of a fantasy movie.

Pai is a tiny hippie town in the mountains. Waterfalls, hot springs, chill vibes, motorbike loops through countryside.

Northeast Thailand (Isaan) – Off the Beaten Path

Main spots: Nong Khai, Udon Thani, Nakhon Ratchasima
Vibe: Rural, authentic, temples, Mekong River
Time needed: 3-5 days (if you go)

This is the “real” Thailand – not many tourists, more authentic, cheaper, different food. Only go here if you’ve been to Thailand before or want something truly off the beaten path.

My Recommended Routes for First-Timers

Classic 2-Week Itinerary (Most Popular)

Days 1-3: Bangkok

• Grand Palace, temples, markets
• Street food tours
• Rooftop bars
• Day trip to Ayutthaya

Days 4-6: Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai)

• Temples (Doi Suthep mandatory)
• Cooking class
• Elephant sanctuary (ethical one!)
• Night markets

Days 7-14: Southern Islands

• Pick 2-3 islands
• Beach time, diving/snorkeling
• Island hopping
• Relaxation

Suggested island combo:

• Phuket (2-3 days) + Koh Phi Phi (2 days) + Krabi/Railay (2-3 days)
• OR Koh Samui (3 days) + Koh Tao (3-4 days)

Beach-Focused 10-Day Route

Days 1-2: Bangkok (brief stop)

Days 3-10: Islands only

• Phuket (3 days)
• Koh Phi Phi (2 days)
• Railay Beach (2-3 days)
• OR full week on Koh Samui + Koh Tao

Culture & Nature 10-Day Route

Days 1-4: Bangkok + Ayutthaya

Days 5-10: Northern Thailand

• Chiang Mai (4 days)
• Pai (2-3 days)
• Chiang Rai day trip

No beaches – but incredible culture, food, nature, and way cheaper than the south.

Party Route (For the Young & Reckless)

Days 1-2: Bangkok (Khao San Road)

Days 3-5: Phuket (Patong Beach, Bangla Road)

Days 6-8: Koh Phi Phi (parties, boat trips)

Days 9-12: Koh Phangan (time it for Full Moon Party)

I did this route at 24. It was exhausting and amazing. Not recommended if you’re over 30 or value sleep.

How Much Does Thailand Actually Cost?

Thailand’s affordability is one of its biggest draws. Here’s realistic budget breakdown:

Backpacker Budget: $25-40/day

Accommodation: $8-15 (hostel dorm, basic guesthouse)
Food: $8-12 (street food, local restaurants, occasional beer)
Transport: $3-8 (local buses, trains, occasional taxi)
Activities: $5-10 (temples, beaches, markets)

Reality: You’ll live simply but comfortably. Dorm beds, street food, local transport. Still have great time.

Mid-Range Budget: $50-80/day

Accommodation: $20-35 (private room, decent hotel, AC)
Food: $15-25 (mix of street food and restaurants, drinks)
Transport: $10-15 (mix of local and tourist transport, occasional Grab)
Activities: $15-25 (tours, island trips, massages)

Reality: This is the sweet spot. Comfortable hotels, eat anywhere you want, do most activities, occasional splurges. Most travelers aim for this.

Comfortable Budget: $100-150/day

Accommodation: $40-70 (nice hotel, boutique place, villa)
Food: $30-50 (good restaurants, beach clubs, bars)
Transport: $20-30 (Grab everywhere, some private transfers)
Activities: $30-50 (multiple tours, diving, premium experiences)

Reality: You’re living well. Nice places, good food, doing everything, not worrying about costs.

Specific Costs You Should Know

Accommodation:

• Hostel dorm: $6-12/night
• Budget hotel: $15-25/night
• Mid-range hotel: $30-50/night
• Nice resort: $80-150/night

Food:

• Street food meal: $1-3
• Local restaurant: $3-6
• Tourist restaurant: $8-15
• Nice restaurant: $15-30
• Beer: $1-2 (local), $3-5 (bars)
• Coffee: $1-3

Transport:

• Bangkok BTS/MRT: $0.50-1.50
• Tuk-tuk: $2-5 (negotiate!)
• Grab: $2-10 depending on distance
• Bangkok to Chiang Mai flight: $30-80
• Bangkok to Phuket flight: $40-100
• Bus (long distance): $10-30
• Overnight train: $20-40

Activities:

• Temple entrance: $1-7 (Grand Palace $17)
• Massage: $6-10/hour
• Thai cooking class: $25-40
• Phi Phi Islands tour: $40-70
• Diving: $70-100 for 2 dives
• Elephant sanctuary: $50-80 (ethical ones)
• Muay Thai class: $15-30

My Experience: I spent about $60/day on my last trip (mid-range). Nice hotels, ate well, did tours, had drinks. Could’ve easily gone cheaper by staying in hostels and eating more street food.

Bangkok – Love It or Hate It (But Don’t Skip It)

Most people have strong feelings about Bangkok. It’s hot, humid, chaotic, polluted, and overwhelming. It’s also fascinating, delicious, cultural, and fun.

What to Do in Bangkok (2-3 Days)

Day 1: Temples & Culture

• Grand Palace (arrive at opening, 8:30 AM to beat crowds)
• Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha, attached to Grand Palace)
• Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn, take boat across river)
• Late afternoon: Chinatown for food

Day 2: Markets & Food

• Morning: Chatuchak Weekend Market (if weekend) or Damnoen Saduak Floating Market (day trip)
• Afternoon: Jim Thompson House or Lumpini Park
• Evening: Khao San Road (backpacker street) or Sukhumvit (nicer area)

Day 3: Modern Bangkok

• Siam area shopping (if you’re into that)
• Afternoon: Massage or spa
• Evening: Rooftop bar (Sky Bar, Octave, Vertigo) for sunset

Day trip options:

• Ayutthaya (ancient ruins, UNESCO site – my top pick)
• Floating market (touristy but fun once)
• Kanchanaburi (bridge, waterfalls, history)

Bangkok Neighborhoods Explained

Khao San Road:
Backpacker central. Cheap hostels, street food, bars, travel agencies. Love it or hate it – I think everyone should experience it once. Loud, dirty, fun.

Sukhumvit:
Modern Bangkok. Shopping malls, restaurants, expat area. Good BTS access. Where I usually stay – more expensive but comfortable.

Silom:
Business district by day, Patpong night market and nightlife by night. Central location, easy access to everything.

Old City (Rattanakosin):
Where Grand Palace and major temples are. Stay here if culture is priority. Gets touristy but convenient.

Riverside:
Along Chao Phraya River. Nice hotels, good restaurants, but transport takes longer.

Bangkok Survival Tips

Heat is real: 35-40°C most of the year. Stay hydrated. Plan indoor activities for hottest afternoon hours.

Traffic is terrible: Use BTS/MRT (skytrain/subway) whenever possible. Grab for short distances. Never take taxi without meter or refusing meter – walk away.

Dress code for temples: Covered shoulders and knees. They’ll rent you sarongs but better to bring appropriate clothes.

Scam central: Tuk-tuk drivers offering “tours,” gem store scams, closed temple scams. If it sounds too good to be true, it is.

Street food is safe: Look for busy stalls with high turnover. Fresh food = safe food.

Watch your stuff: Bag snatching happens. Don’t leave phones on tables in outdoor cafes.

The Islands – Which Ones to Visit?

This is the big question. Thailand has hundreds of islands. You can’t visit all of them. Here’s how to choose:

Phuket – The Gateway Island

Pros: Easy to reach (international airport), developed infrastructure, variety (party, family, quiet areas), good food, day trip access to other islands
Cons: Overdeveloped in places, touristy, beaches aren’t the best
Best for: First-timers, families, people wanting variety

My take: Phuket gets hate for being touristy but it’s actually useful as a base. Patong Beach is horrible (loud, drunk tourists, touts everywhere), but other areas like Kata, Karon, or Rawai are nice.

Stay 2-3 days, use it for day trips to Phi Phi, James Bond Island, Phang Nga Bay. Don’t spend your whole south Thailand time here.

Koh Phi Phi – The Instagram Island

Pros: Stunning scenery, Maya Bay (The Beach), nightlife, social atmosphere
Cons: Extremely touristy, expensive, crowded, environmental damage
Best for: Young travelers, party people, day trippers

My take: It’s beautiful but overwhelming. Maya Bay was closed for years for environmental recovery (reopened with restrictions). The island feels like Disneyland – too many tourists, everything expensive, locals trying to squeeze money from you.

Go for 1-2 days maximum or just do a day trip from Phuket/Krabi. Don’t make it your main island destination.

Krabi & Railay Beach – The Climber’s Paradise

Pros: Stunning limestone cliffs, Railay Beach is magical, rock climbing, less developed than Phuket
Cons: Railay is beach-access only (15-min boat), Krabi town is boring
Best for: Nature lovers, climbers, people wanting beauty without crazy development

My take: Railay Beach is one of the most beautiful places in Thailand. Limestone cliffs rising from clear water, caves, stunning sunsets. It feels remote even though it’s close to everything.

Stay 2-3 days in Railay. Do island hopping tours. Skip Krabi town itself – just use it as transport hub.

Koh Lanta – The Quiet Alternative

Pros: Laid-back, less touristy, good beaches, diving, family-friendly
Cons: Less nightlife, further from other islands
Best for: Families, older travelers, people wanting relaxation

My take: Koh Lanta is what Thai islands used to be – quiet, beautiful, authentic. It’s developing but still chill. Great for diving, long beach walks, sunsets.

Spend 3-5 days here if you want peaceful island life.

Koh Samui – The Family Island

Pros: Good infrastructure, resorts, families, direct flights
Cons: Expensive, less “Thai” feeling, some beaches are meh
Best for: Families, honeymooners, luxury travelers

My take: Samui is Thailand’s second-most developed island. It’s nice but feels more resort-y than adventurous. Chaweng Beach is party central, other areas are quieter.

Good if you want comfortable, predictable Thai island experience.

Koh Tao – The Diver’s Island

Pros: Best diving in Thailand, cheap certifications, backpacker social scene
Cons: Small island, gets boring after few days if not diving
Best for: Divers, budget travelers, social travelers

My take: Koh Tao is THE place to get diving certified. Cheapest in Thailand ($300-400 for Open Water). The underwater world is beautiful. Above water, it’s a small island that you explore in half a day.

Go for 3-5 days if diving. Otherwise just 1-2 days max.

Koh Phangan – The Full Moon Party Island

Pros: Full Moon Party, Half Moon Party, beautiful beaches, cheaper than Samui
Cons: Known mainly for parties, some beaches are rocky
Best for: Party people, budget travelers

My take: Everyone talks about Full Moon Party – 20,000+ people on Had Rin Beach, music, fire shows, buckets of booze. It’s chaotic and fun if you’re into that.

But Phangan has quiet beaches too. If timing works, go for the party. Otherwise, skip it for better islands.

My Island Recommendations

First time, 7 days for islands:

• Phuket (2 days) + Phi Phi day trip → Railay (3 days) → Koh Lanta (2 days)

Diving focused:

• Koh Tao (4-5 days) + Koh Samui (2-3 days)

Party focused:

• Phuket (3 days) + Phi Phi (2 days) + Phangan (2-3 days)

Quiet and beautiful:

• Krabi/Railay (4 days) + Koh Lanta (3-4 days)

Don’t try to visit 5+ islands. You’ll spend all time on boats and packing/unpacking. Pick 2-3 max.

Chiang Mai – Thailand’s Most Lovable City

I’ll be honest – Chiang Mai is my favorite place in Thailand. It’s got everything: culture, nature, food, cool weather (relatively), friendly people, and way less chaotic than Bangkok.

What Makes Chiang Mai Special

Temperature: Actually comfortable! Hot season (March-May) is brutal, but Nov-Feb is perfect – 20-25°C. You might even need a light jacket at night!

Old City: Surrounded by moat, filled with temples, night markets, cafes, massage shops. You can walk everywhere or rent a scooter for ₹150/day.

Nature nearby: Mountains, waterfalls, hot springs, hill tribe villages – all within 30-60 mins.

Food scene: Northern Thai food is different and delicious. Khao Soi (curry noodles) is life-changing. Plus every cuisine imaginable.

Digital nomad hub: CoWorking spaces, reliable WiFi, good cafes, international community.

Value: Way cheaper than Bangkok or islands. Better quality for same price.

What to Do in Chiang Mai (3-5 Days)

Day 1: Old City Temples

• Wat Phra Singh
• Wat Chedi Luang
• Wat Phan Tao
• Walk around old city
• Evening: Saturday or Sunday Walking Street Market (if timing works)

Day 2: Doi Suthep + Nature

• Morning: Doi Suthep Temple (must-visit, amazing views)
• Afternoon: Monk Chat or cooking class
• Evening: Night Bazaar or Nimman area

Day 3: Elephant Sanctuary

• Full day at ethical elephant sanctuary (book in advance!)
• Feed, bathe, walk with elephants
• This is expensive ($60-80) but worth every baht

Day 4: Day Trip Options:

• Doi Inthanon (highest point in Thailand, waterfalls)
• Chiang Rai + White Temple (full day, early start)
• Pai (if you have time, better to stay overnight)

Day 5: Markets & Massage

• Morning: Local markets
• Afternoon: Thai massage + spa
• Evening: Rooftop bar, Khao Soi dinner

Chiang Mai Neighborhoods

Old City: Temples, tourists, cafes, massage shops. Stay here for convenience and atmosphere.

Nimman: Trendy area, younger crowd, hip cafes, boutique hotels, nightlife. More expensive but cool vibe.

Riverside: Quieter, some nice hotels, away from tourist center.

Where I stay: Old City usually. Central, walkable, atmospheric. Nimman if I want more modern vibe.

Important: Elephant Tourism

Thailand has elephant tourism everywhere. Most are unethical – elephants chained, hit with hooks, performing tricks, giving rides.

Look for ethical sanctuaries:

• No riding
• No tricks/performances
• Elephants can roam
• Focus on feeding, bathing, observing
• Small groups

Recommended: Elephant Nature Park (original and best), Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary, Elephant Jungle Sanctuary (verify it’s the ethical one).

Yes, ethical sanctuaries cost more ($60-80 vs $30-40 for riding). Worth it. Don’t support elephant abuse.

Thai Food – A Whole Section Because It Deserves It

Thai food is one of the world’s great cuisines. Sweet, sour, salty, spicy – all balanced perfectly. If you don’t love Thai food, you’re ordering wrong things.

Must-Try Dishes

Pad Thai: Fried noodles with egg, peanuts, lime. Everywhere. Order from street vendor for $1-2.

Tom Yum Goong: Sour and spicy soup with prawns. Flavors explode in your mouth.

Green Curry: Coconut curry with chicken/beef, bamboo shoots, eggplant. Get it spicy.

Massaman Curry: Milder, sweeter curry with potatoes and peanuts. Good for spice-sensitive people.

Som Tam: Green papaya salad. Spicy, tangy, refreshing. Watch the chili level!

Khao Soi: Northern Thai curry noodles (Chiang Mai specialty). Creamy, crispy noodles on top. My addiction.

Pad Krapow: Stir-fried meat with holy basil and chili. Order with fried egg on top. Street food classic.

Mango Sticky Rice: Dessert. Sweet sticky rice with fresh mango and coconut cream. Simple perfection.

Satay: Grilled meat skewers with peanut sauce. Street food favorite.

Thai Iced Tea: Super sweet, bright orange, delicious. Perfect for hot days.

Where to Eat

Street food: Best food, cheapest prices. Look for busy stalls – high turnover means fresh food. Don’t be scared.

Food courts in malls: Clean, AC, cheap, variety. Good introduction if nervous about street food.

Local restaurants: Slightly more expensive than street, still cheap, more comfortable seating.

Tourist restaurants: Overpriced, often watered-down flavors. Avoid unless you need Western comfort food.

Spice Levels – Important!

Thai people eat SPICY. What they consider “medium” will burn most Western mouths.

Say this: “Mai phet” (not spicy) or “Phet nit noi” (a little spicy)

Even “not spicy” will have some kick. If you love spice, say “phet phet” (very spicy) and Thai people will respect you.

Food Safety

Drink bottled water only. Brush teeth with it too.

Ice is usually fine in cities – they use purified water. In rural areas, maybe skip it.

Street food is safe at busy stalls. Watch them cook your food fresh.

Fruits are safe if you peel them yourself.

Be careful with raw vegetables at sketchy places.

Bring stomach medicine just in case. Most people are fine, but “Bangkok belly” happens.

Practical Information & Tips

Visa for Indians

Visa on Arrival: 15 days, $35-40 USD (paid at airport)
OR
E-Visa: 60 days, apply online before trip, $50 USD

My recommendation: Get e-visa if staying longer than 2 weeks. Much less hassle at airport.

Requirements: Passport (6 months validity), return ticket, accommodation proof

Money & Costs

Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
Conversion: 1 USD ≈ 33-35 THB, 1 INR ≈ 0.40-0.42 THB (rates change, check current)

ATMs: Everywhere. 220 THB ($6-7) fee per withdrawal. Use bank ATMs, not random ones.

Credit cards: Accepted at hotels, malls, tourist restaurants. Small shops and street food – cash only.

Money exchange: Better rates at exchange booths than airport. Shop around – rates vary.

Bargaining: Expected at markets. Not at 7-Eleven or restaurants with menus.

Getting Around Thailand

Flights: Cheap domestic flights. AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air. Book early for best prices ($30-80 typical).

Trains: Romantic but slow. Overnight trains Bangkok-Chiang Mai are an experience (sleeper berths $20-40).

Buses: Cheaper than flights, slower, less comfortable. Overnight buses save a night’s accommodation.

Within cities:

• Bangkok: BTS (skytrain), MRT (subway), boats. Avoid taxis in traffic.
• Chiang Mai: Songthaews (red trucks, $1-2), rent scooter ($5-7/day)
• Islands: Walk, rent scooter, longtail boats

Grab: Thai Uber. Cheaper and more reliable than taxis. Must-have app.

Renting scooters: Cheap ($5-7/day) and freeing. But accidents are common. Wear helmet. Get insurance. Drive carefully.

Phone & Internet

Buy SIM at airport: AIS or True Move. 400-800 THB ($12-25) for tourist packages with 10-30GB. Lasts 1-4 weeks.

WiFi: Everywhere in tourist areas. Hostels, hotels, cafes, restaurants.

Apps to download:

• Grab (transport)
• Google Maps (offline maps)
• Google Translate (Thai)
• XE Currency (converter)

Safety & Scams

Thailand is generally safe but scams targeting tourists are common:

Grand Palace “closed” scam: Tuk-tuk driver says palace is closed, offers to take you elsewhere (gem store, tailor). Palace is open. Walk away.

Jet ski scam: Rent jet ski, they claim you damaged it, demand huge payment. Avoid jet skis or take photos/video before.

Gem scam: “Special deal” on gems to resell. They’re worthless. Never buy gems.

Taxi meter: Always insist on meter. “No meter” means they’ll overcharge 3-5x.

Bar scams: Patpong and some areas – pretty girls invite you for drinks, bill is $500+. Avoid.

Ping pong shows: Overpriced, drinks cost fortune, sometimes violent/forced. Skip it.

Tuk-tuk “tours”: Negotiate price clearly before. They’ll take you to shops where they get commission.

ATM skimming: Use ATMs at banks, cover your PIN, check for devices attached.

Real dangers:

• Scooter accidents: Biggest danger. Wear helmet.
• Drugs: Serious penalties, including death. Don’t.
• Fake police: Real police have ID. Fake ones demand bribes. Ask to go to station if unsure.
• Drink spiking: Watch your drink at bars.

What to Pack

Clothes: Light, breathable. Tank tops, shorts, sundresses. One pair long pants and covered top for temples.

Footwear: Flip-flops (you’ll live in these), walking shoes, sandals

Essentials:

• Sunscreen (expensive in Thailand)
• Mosquito repellent
• Basic medicines (stomach, pain, antibiotic)
• Adapter (same as Europe – type C/F)
• Sarong (temples, beaches, everything)
• Small daypack
• Reusable water bottle

Don’t overpack: You can buy anything you need there. Laundry is cheap ($1-2/kg).

Cultural Tips

Temples: Covered shoulders and knees. Remove shoes. No pointing feet at Buddha. Respect.

Monarchy: Thai people LOVE their king. Never disrespect monarchy – it’s illegal and deeply offensive.

Head and feet: Head is sacred, feet are lowest. Don’t touch heads. Don’t point feet at people or Buddha.

Wai: Thai greeting – hands together, slight bow. You don’t have to wai service staff, but wai monks and elders.

Smile: Thai people smile through everything. Getting angry publicly is shameful. Stay calm and smile.

Shoes: Remove before entering homes, some shops, temples.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thailand