Thailand extends visa for Indians. Here's what all you can see beyond Bangkok

In 2024, Indians are travelling more than ever before. In fact, several surveys project our total travel expenditures to reach $410 billion by 2030.

Talking about travelling, if there’s one country that has been receiving a lot of attention lately and is on the bucket list of many Indians, it is this Southeast Asian destination, Thailand, and it’s back in the news.

So popular, but why? 

Thailand’s popularity amongst Indians can be attributed to various factors, including its affordable food, accommodation, vibrant nightlife, and serene landscapes, all just a four-and-a-half-hour flight from the national capital, Delhi (that too at low prices).

Another reason is the hype that has been created on social media by Indians and Indian travel influencers that has showcased Thailand as the ultimate “party heaven”.

This has also drawn a lot of people to Thailand who want to rejuvenate themselves from their daily life.Â

Have a look at some of the videos:Â

Visa-free for Indians

• Out of all the reasons that we have told you, Thailand’s popularity further surged when, last year, it declared a visa-free entry policy for Indian citizens.
• This policy, which was introduced on November 10, 2023, and was initially set to expire on May 10, 2024, further bolstered Thailand’s appeal.

Thailand has extended the visa-free entry period. Photo: Unspalsh

• For those who have yet to plan their trip or wish to visit Thailand again, we’ve got some good news for you: the Thai government has extended the visa-free entry period until November 11, 2024.
• The news was announced by the Thai Embassy on their X (formerly Twitter) handle.
• “The Royal Thai Cabinet has approved the extension of the temporary tourist visa exemption for Indian and Taiwan ordinary passport holders to enter Thailand and stay for not exceeding 30 days, effective from 11 May – 11 Nov 2024”, the post read.
• Check out the post here: 

Thailand embassy on X. Photo:Â @ThailandinIndia

• This extension comes in response to a significant increase in the number of tourists from India since the implementation of the visa-free policy.

 Let’s look at some numbers: 

• Between November 2022 and April 2023, the number of visitors to Thailand from India was 7,55,066. 
• This figure rose to 9,68,000 between November 2023 and April 2024, indicating a substantial increase in tourist arrivals from India.

A recent study by MakeMyTrip showed that Thailand is the top country with the highest number of booked holiday packages by Indians.Â

Thailand is the country with the highest number of booked holiday packages by Indians. Photo: MMT

Hence, the extension of visa.

• However, Thailand is one of many countries to do so. Recently, Sri Lanka also eased travel for Indians by extending its already existing visa-free policy for Indians.
• Started in October last year as a pilot project, Sri Lanka has become quite a destination for those who want to stay closer to nature. 
• However, this facility has been postponed till May 31, 2024. 

Your travel itinerary 

Here’s a 7-day itinerary for your next trip to Thailand:Â

Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok

• Arrive in Bangkok, the vibrant capital city of Thailand.
• Check into your pre-booked hotel and freshen up.
• Thailand has various kinds of properties that you can chill in, from luxurious ones like The Beverly Hotel Pattaya (‘loved by Indians’, according to MakeMyTrip) to homestays like Tavee Guesthouse. 

Bangkok’s street food scene is immaculate. Photo: Unsplash

• Spend the day exploring Bangkok’s iconic attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), and Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn).
• In the evening, experience the bustling atmosphere of Bangkok’s street food scene at places like Chinatown (which is open 24 hours) or Khao San Road.

Day 2: Bangkok City Tour

Keep day two of your Bangkok to explore more of the city.Â

• For instance, you can visit places like Jim Thompson House (a museum showcasing traditional Thai architecture and art).
• Or explore the floating markets like Damnoen Saduak or Amphawa (Damnoen Saduak is larger, more crowded, and has a traditional atmosphere, while Amphawa is more intimate and has an evening charm) where you can shop for local goods and indulge yourselves in Thai snacks like Mango sticky rice or Khanom Krok (Thai pancakes are made from rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar). 

Mango Sticky Rice. Photo: Unsplash

• If art and culture are not your thing, you can also take a ride along the Chao Phraya River to admire the cityscape from the water.
• Spend the evening shopping at famous markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market or Siam Paragon.

Day 3: Day Trip to Ayutthaya

• Take a day trip to Ayutthaya (80 km from Bangkong), the ancient capital of Thailand and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Explore the historical ruins and temples such as Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram.
• Return to Bangkok in the evening and relax or indulge in some nightlife activities.

Day 4: Travel to Pattaya

• Travel from Bangkok to Pattaya, a coastal city known for its beaches and nightlife.
• Check into your pre-booked hotel and spend the day relaxing by the beach or exploring the city.

Pattaya is coastal city known for its beaches and nightlife. Photo: Unsplash

• In the evening, experience Pattaya’s vibrant nightlife by visiting Walking Street or one of the many bars and clubs in the area.

Day 5: Island Hopping Tour

• If you want to make the most of your trip, you can leave for Phuket, another coastal city in Thailand, or else you can chill another day in Pattaya. 
• But if you’re in Phuket, you can embark on an island-hopping tour to explore the surrounding islands of Phuket.
• Popular destinations like Phi Phi Islands, James Bond Island, or Similan Islands for snorkelling, swimming, or just relaxing. 
• Return to Phuket in the evening and savour a delicious seafood dinner by the beach.

Day 6: Explore Phuket

• Spend the day exploring more of Phuket’s attractions.
• Visit cultural landmarks like Big Buddha Phuket and Wat Chalong, where you can admire intricate Buddhist architecture and enjoy panoramic views of the island.
• Discover the vibrant street art scene in Phuket Old Town and wander through its charming streets lined with colourful buildings and quaint cafés.

You can enjoy Phuket’s famous nightlife at beach clubs, bars, or night markets. Photo: Unsplash

• Indulge in some water sports activities such as kayaking, parasailing, or jet skiing at one of Phuket’s beaches.
• In the evening, experience Phuket’s famous nightlife at beach clubs, bars, or night markets.

Day 7: Departure from Phuket

• Enjoy a leisurely morning in Phuket, perhaps with a relaxing beach walk or last-minute shopping for souvenirs.
• Check out from your hotel and transfer to Phuket International Airport for your return flight to your home. 

Takeaway 

Thailand’s popularity is increasing daily, with flight tickets starting from as low as Rs 10,000. This Southeast Asian country is a delight for people looking to experience rich culture, stunning beaches, vibrant cities, delicious cuisine, and amazing nightlife!Â

BRB planning my trip to Thailand…