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Highlights of Bangkok

Apr 8, 2020 • 7 min read

A pulsating Asian metropolis that has long topped the destination lists of global travellers, Bangkok knows many ways to pull eager crowds into its magical folds. And while each traveller has their own reason for visiting this splendid city, there’s a sacred list of top sights and activities that constitute a rite of passage for virtually everyone passing through.

Street Food

Arguably home to the world’s most vibrant street food culture, Bangkok offers travellers a mindboggling variety of light bites and cheap meals at literally every street corner. Be it Thai-style fried noodles, dumplings in myriad flavours, fiery curry and jasmine rice platters, meaty skewers on barbecue, fresh-cut tropical fruits or a vast array of deep-fried desserts, the choice is endless for the hundreds of thousands of people who dine daily at countless stalls and carts lining Bangkok’s roads, the robust flavours of their offerings rending the city’s air with their distinctive aromas.

In recent years, some of Bangkok’s boroughs have seen clean-up drives resulting in the closure of many stalls, but the collective street food movement still thrives. Mondays, though, are a bad day to go on a food adventure, when many stalls remain shut.

Read more:   Top 10 best free things to do in Bangkok

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Widely reputed as Asia’s biggest open-air marketplace, the vast Chatuchak Weekend Market — otherwise known as JJ Market — is the ultimate shopping experience for those in a mood to burn their baht. Rows of pavilions, each housing hundreds of shops, are organised in neat sections across an expansive ground, with each section dedicated to selling specific categories of merchandise. Garments, shoes, kitchen essentials, glassware, handicrafts, antiques, healthcare products, home décor, food stuff, gardening supplies or even pet products — there’s pretty much everything that can be found here. Needless to say, one would want to schedule the better part of a day to immerse in this hugely popular and democratic experience.

As its name suggests, Chatuchak opens for business only on Saturdays and Sundays. On other days, it remains fairly deserted, except for the nearby JJ Mall that operates through the week. The BTS Skytrain serves nearby Mo Chit station, from where it’s a 500m walk.

Read more:   Bangkok shopping: making the most of Chatuchak Weekend Market

The 16th-century shrine of Wat Pho is home to a magnificent 46m-long sculpture of the Reclining Buddha — gracefully adorned with gold leaf overlays and mother-of-pearl relief — that commands its pride of place as one of Bangkok’s most iconic sights. Unsurprisingly, Wat Pho is visited by hundreds of people every day, either to marvel at the jaw-dropping image, or pay their respects at the many shrines that dot the peaceful grounds of the complex, or simply spend a few meditative moments in the silent corridors and prayer halls before returning to the ceaseless din of the city.

Given Wat Pho’s religious significance, one must take care to dress modestly in order to gain entry into the temple complex. A 200B entry fee is applicable for adults, and includes a complementary bottle of water (a welcome freebie on a hot day).

Read more:  How to live like a Local in Bangkok

A photographer’s muse, a foodie’s dream, a shopper’s paradise and an anthropologist’s ultimate fantasy. Packed into one of Bangkok’s oldest boroughs, Chinatown is a riotous supernova of smoke-spewing food carts, gold-laden jewellery stores, atmospheric temples, vibrant fresh markets and quaint family homes. Walking down the quarter’s main thoroughfare is a sensory overload, when the nose tingles with aromas of burning incense, jasmine tea and burnt garlic oil, even as the eyes feast on a colourful jamboree of flashy neon signage and rows of ornamental lanterns and streamers dangling above streets bustling with open-air kitchens and a multitude of residents and visitors. During the Chinese New Year celebrations around late-January, a carnival spirit sweeps through the entire district, with lively dragon dances and sumptuous food galas adding their festive touch to the proceedings.

While Chinatown is a fabulous budget dining destination, it’s worth noting that most street vendors here only operate in the evening (and remain shut on Mondays).

Read more:   How to spend a perfect long weekend in Bangkok

Wat Phra Kaew & Grand Palace

Spectacular and majestic, the royal complex of Wat Phra Kaew & Grand Palace was established by erstwhile Thai kings to mark the nerve centre of the country’s capital city that eventually expanded to become today’s Bangkok. Consecrated in 1782, the sprawling premises — which formerly served as the residence of former Thai monarchs — is home to a number of imposing palaces, halls, temples and courtyards, and is easily the city’s biggest tourist attraction. The most important reason to come here, however, is to visit the hallowed Wat Phra Kaew temple, home to the Emerald Buddha — Thailand’s most sacred religious artefact dating back to the 12th or 13th century.

The inside walls of the corridors lining the Wat Phra Kaew’s courtyard feature the famed Ramakian Murals, which were originally painted in the 18th century to depict scenes from the Ramakian (the Thai version of the Indian epic Ramayana). Recently restored, these murals symbolise some of the finest panels of public art from Thailand’s past.

Read more:   The best bars and clubs in Bangkok

Dinner Cruise

Ranging in mood from subtly romantic to humorously tacky, a dinner cruise on the limpid green waters of the Mae Nam Chao Phraya River can be an enduring memory of one’s visit to Bangkok. Depending on one’s choice of cruise (options stretch from sophisticated teakwood boats with curated fine-dining facilities to hulking catamarans outfitted with flashy lights and loud on-board entertainment), one is treated to either an atmospheric candlelit dinner served up by a private chef or a raucous floating party with thumping music and a buffet to feed a few hundred guests. Either way, it’s worth an evening’s adventure, not least for the cool evening river breeze that blows away the discomfort of a hot and sultry day.

Being wildly popular with tourists, most dinner cruisers — especially the top-end ones — tend to get booked out weeks in advance. It helps to reserve a table with enough time to spare. Most dinner cruises operate from the piers at the River City Mall, picking up passengers from around 7pm.

Read more:  Exploring Bangkok’s hidden waterways and islands by boat

Thai Massage

A signature blend of ancient healing techniques and natural products aimed at holistically reviving the mind and body, Thai massage is among Thailand’s top offerings in the service industry. And given Bangkok’s unshakeable reputation as the massage capital of the world, a spot of massage is a must-do activity for everyone visiting the city, especially after a long day of sightseeing. Ranging from a cheap foot massage at a street-side shophouse to a pampering wellness package at a posh spa, Thai massage comes in many therapeutic avatars, some incorporating aromatherapy oils or herb compression while others simply focusing on a mix of pressure and stretching moves to relax muscles and increase blood flow.

Several well-known spa chains across Bangkok — Health Land , Divana Massage & Spa and Asia Herb Foundation to name a few — offer high quality massages at reasonable prices (typically 1000-1500B for a 90-minute therapy session). But they can often be crowded (especially on weekends), and advance reservations are a wise move.

Read more:   Top 12 must-try Bangkok dishes

Night Markets

Bangkok’s celebrated night markets are a delightful combination of guilt-free holiday shopping, socialising with friends over buckets of boozy drinks and tucking into heaps of waistline-indulging dinners at outdoor food stalls. The legendary Talat Rot Fai Night Market located in Northern Bangkok promises one of the city’s foremost nightlife experiences, while the fashionable Artbox on centrally located Thanon Sukhumvit draws young hipster crowds with its arty creations, smooth jazzy music performances and an irreverently laid-back atmosphere. In relative contrast, the infamous Patpong Night Market is a curious mix of souvenir stalls, massage spas, pubs with live music, food carts and go-go bars peddling various forms of adult entertainment for sleaze-seekers.

The underground MRT is a convenient way to get to Talat Rot Fai, while the BTS Skytrain has jump-off points for both Artbox and Patpong Night Market.

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22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok, Rooftop Bars and Ancient Temples Included

Here's how experts recommend exploring Thailand's capital.

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One of the most exciting and energetic capital cities in the world, Bangkok is the perfect gateway for travelers ready to take a deep dive into the beauty, history, culture, and traditions of Southeast Asia. The frenetic metropolis may cause a bit of sensory overload, but getting into its rhythm is part of the adventure. Built along the Chao Phraya River, modern-day Bangkok is an amalgamation of culture, ethnicities, architecture, and even time periods. It's entirely possible to pass a 400-year-old temple on one corner and a tech-forward, 21st-century shopping mall on the next. It's a city where street food mingles with Michelin-starred restaurants, and top-rated, modern hotels stand next to antique wooden houses. The energy of Bangkok is a heady mixture of ancient traditions, swirls of incense, the sizzle of chilis on cast-iron woks, an explosion of colorful flowers, flashes of neon, and endless honking from sputtering tuk tuks. It's a city that will ensnare the senses and hook you from the very beginning. "You cannot go to Thailand and not see the capital," says Grant Ekelund, senior travel consultant with InsideTravel Group Ltd, and a Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor. "Even if you want to spend all of your time at the beaches or up in the mountains, you cannot understand those parts until you understand Bangkok — until you've gone down the klongs, wandered the roads, seen the temples, grabbed the street food, and interacted with people. It's just a dynamic and interesting city, and you're selling yourself short if you don't spend time there." But where to begin? With so many wonderful things to do in Thailand's capital, we've spoken to experts to narrow down the list. Read on to discover the best things to do in Bangkok.

Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

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In a city with no fewer than 400 temples, it can be a daunting task to try to determine which ones to visit. That said, if it's your first time in Bangkok, experts agree that there are a few temples to put at the very top of your list, the first being the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Regarded as the holiest Buddhist temple in Thailand, you'll find it within the elaborate Grand Palace complex. Inside the shrine is a small, jade-colored Buddha draped in golden robes to enjoy from a good distance — no one is allowed near the Buddha except for the king of Thailand. While you’re there, spend some extra time exploring the other temples, shrines, and historic halls in the Grand Palace grounds.

Have a drink at a rooftop bar.

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The Bangkok skyline is known for its towering skyscrapers, and a good number of them have rooftop bars that range in style and budget. There are options for unfussy backpackers, then some that draw the poshest of travelers. We're partial to Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar, Thailand's highest restaurant and the bar at King Power Mahanakhon. Located on the 76th and 77th floors of the building, both venues promise beautiful panoramic views of bustling Bangkok.

Climb Wat Arun.

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Another can't-miss temple is Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn. The uniquely shaped temple rises above the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bangkok. In fact, the land on which Wat Arun sits has been home to a temple since at least the 1500s. It is known for its 82-meter-high tower, which has stairs that lead all the way to the top, where you'll find gorgeous views of the river and Bangkok. From a distance, Wat Arun appears to be gleaming white, but as you get closer you'll find that the structure is actually made of beautifully painted floral mosaics that have been constructed from Chinese porcelain.

Visit Warehouse 30.

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While Bangkok is steeped in centuries of history and art, it is also a thriving capital of contemporary and forward-thinking art and design. At Warehouse 30, an abandoned block of World War II-era warehouses that's been transformed into creative spaces for artists and designers, you'll discover cafes, boutiques, and galleries to explore.

View the Reclining Buddha.

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Yet another temple to add to your itinerary is Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. This massive Buddha is covered from head to toe (all 46 meters) in gold leaf and is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. Wat Pho also boasts one of the largest collections of Buddha images; there are more than 1,000 of them throughout the sprawling temple complex.

Shop for flowers before dawn.

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Bangkok is one of the most colorful cities in the world, and nowhere is that more evident than at Pak Khlong Talat. In this vibrant flower market is a brilliant kaleidoscope of colors and the sweet and enveloping scent of thousands upon thousands of fresh blooms. Browse stalls full of marigolds, orchids, roses, and more. What's great about the flower market, particularly if you are battling jet lag and need a late-night activity, is that it is open 24 hours a day.

Sample some of the best street food in the world.

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Bangkok streets seem to sizzle at all times of day with some of the most coveted street food on the planet. No matter where you are in the city, you're never more than a few steps from savory, flavorful, and aromatic foods, most of which can be purchased for less than $2 per person. Start the day with a Thai iced coffee (strong coffee made extra sweet with condensed milk) and try snack after snack throughout the day, from pad Thai to braised duck and chicken rice.

"Bangkok's reputation as a top street food city means you must explore local food culture in hubs like Chinatown and Baan Tad Thong," says Patty Lerdwittayaskul, director of communications for Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok . "Local dishes offer an authentic taste of everyday Thai life."

Lerdwittayaskul recommends Lim Lao Sa Noodle Stall in Chinatown, a hidden, family run stall offering noodles in a clear fish broth. She also points to Phee Mao Rad Na, a food cart by the canal next to Wat Ratchabophit. "The stir-fried noodles are cooked a la minute, and the two-minute walk to Wat Ratchabophit after a meal adds to the experience," she says.

Eat at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Beyond its bustling street food scene, Bangkok is home to roughly 30 Michelin-starred restaurants. One to note in particular is Le Normandie by Alain Roux, a fine-dining restaurant at the iconic Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. This haute, white-glove experience is set within the gorgeous dining room overlooking the Chao Phraya River. Be sure to book a table at the window so can watch the sunset and the colorful boats on the river while you dine on exquisite and artfully prepared French cuisine.

Take a cooking class.

Of course, it's fun to cook your own food, too. A Thai cooking class is one of the best things to do in the country overall, so why not give it a try in Bangkok? The city has dozens of cooking schools to choose from across a variety of budgets. Sompong Thai Cooking School is a top choice; each class begins with a trip to the local market to procure key ingredients before moving back to the kitchen to prepare flavorful Thai dishes.

Get a Thai massage.

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It's no secret that the spa and wellness services in Bangkok are second to none — you just have to choose your preferred vibe. Whether it's a luxury spa palace or a no-frills storefront down a narrow alley, Bangkok has the wellness market cornered. A Thai massage is a distinct and unique style of massage; it uses no oils or aromatherapy, and instead focuses on passive stretching, acupressure, and increasing the range of motion of your muscles. If you've never had a Thai massage, Bangkok is the perfect place to try one.

Cruise the Chao Phraya River.

Bangkok's main lifeline is the serpentine Chao Phraya River, and along its banks are some of the city's top luxury hotels, oldest neighborhoods, and biggest tourist attractions. A cruise down the Chao Phraya is the perfect way to introduce yourself to the iconic Bangkok skyline, and to catch a glimpse of daily local life. There are a many ways to get on the river, from evening dinner cruises to daytime sightseeing excursions. If you really want to travel like a local, though, ride the Chao Phraya Express Boat . The public water taxi stops at busy docks along the river and travels all the way up to the neighboring province of Nonthaburi.

Wander Chinatown.

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Bangkok's Chinatown is among the largest Chinatowns in the world, and walking through this sprawling neighborhood will have you feeling like you've stepped out of Thailand and onto the streets of Beijing. If you like street food, Bangkok's Chinatown is the place to be. Or come to marvel at the district's neon lights, dangling lanterns, and dozens of gold stores on the iconic Yaowarat Road.

"Visit the Chinese Shrine in Chinatown during the late afternoon to catch the evening chanting rituals by monks," says Lerdwittayaskul. "In the evening, the red lanterns in the shrine and candles are lit up. The experience is grounding and serene. After visiting the shrine, I love strolling through the backstreets, trying delicious Chinese dishes like noodles, stir-fried oyster pancakes, dumplings, and refreshing lotus root herbal juice."

Browse the Chatuchak Weekend Market.

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If you hear locals talking about the JJ Market, what they're referring to is the Chatuchak Weekend Market. And if you like bazaars and outdoor markets, this will be the one that will blow you away. It is one of the largest outdoor markets in the world, boasting around 15,000 stalls selling knock-off electronics, clothing, souvenirs, local art, birds, and everything in between.

Cycle in the city.

For such a congested city, you'd be amazed at how many opportunities there are for getting outside. If you're looking for a bit of fresh air, give cycling a try. "One of the best places for a cycle is in Bangkrachao, an island in the Chao Phraya River — also known as the 'Green Lung' of Bangkok, thanks to its abundant green space," says Wanwisa Maneewatthana, chief culturist at Capella Bangkok . "Despite being a big city, Bangkok can offer great outdoor experiences to immerse [you] into both nature and culture. Visitors can enjoy cycling in an old neighborhood like Charoenkrung to discover remarkable and non-tourist cultural sights like local wet markets and neighborhood temples."

Visit the Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre.

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After you've hit the main tourist sites, you may want to slip a little below the radar for a different look at Bangkok, and the Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre offers just that. This public space promotes both local and international art and culture exhibits. If you're interested in seeing the work of young Thai artists, this is the top gallery in the city to visit.

Visit Jim Thompson House.

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If there's one Western name consistently tied to Bangkok, it's Jim Thompson. Thompson was the American businessman who brought Thai silks to the rest of the world in the mid-20th century. His canal-side home has been transformed into a museum showcasing his vast collection of art and antiques. The home is an architectural marvel, made of an amalgamation of six traditional teak houses from Ayutthaya. The lush gardens surrounding it are equally beautiful.

Celebrate a new year at the Songkran festival.

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If there is one festival to attend in Bangkok, it would be Songkran, or Thai New Year, which is held every year in April. This three-day event is when the city stops its usual business and transforms into one giant (and water-soaked) party. "The festival offers guests the chance to experience a fun-filled celebration that includes water fights on the street," says Maneewatthana. "Also, visitors can visit temples to participate in religious celebrations to bring them good luck in the coming year."

Shop at Siam Paragon.

If you're cruising down the Chao Phraya River, you can't miss one of the largest luxury malls in Asia, Siam Paragon. This is the ultimate stop in Bangkok for high-end labels, as well as a host of entertainment options, from restaurants and Southeast Asia's largest aquarium to a 16-screen movie theater and more than 250 shops. It's also the home base for the largest foreign-language bookshop in Bangkok, Kinokuniya. It's easy to get to Siam Paragon, as two BTS Skytrain lines intersect at the stop right in front of the mall.

Cruise the klongs in a longtail boat.

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Bangkok is known as the "Venice of the East," and for good reason — the city is quite literally webbed with miles of canals, or klongs. The oldest part of the city, known as Thonburi, sits west of the Chao Phraya River, and a visit to this corner of the city takes you back in time. There are wooden houses on stilts, plus lush greenery, small, colorful temples, and far more locals than tourists. "I try to have [all of my clients] spend some time on the klongs," says Grant Ekelund . "I like to do it because it's an interesting and unique way to experience the city from the water. Experience the neighborhoods, get a little bit out there, and get a sense for how people live in Bangkok."

Stroll in Lumpini Park.

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Another slice of green space in Bangkok is the 142-acre Lumpini Park, also known as the "Central Park of Bangkok." Set right in the heart of the city, the park includes a man-made lake strewn with swan paddle boats, and it's a popular spot for trail walking, picnics, Tai Chi, live music, and more. 

Explore Charoenkrung Road.

Bangkok is a city of many personalities, but if it's old-school charm you're looking for, head to another of the city's oldest neighborhoods, Charoenkrung Road. Home to the very first paved road in Bangkok, Charoenkrung is slowly disappearing as luxury hotels continue to open. But visitors can still experience myriad cultural activities here, from street food and hidden temples to an emerging art district.

Take a day trip to Ayutthaya.

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About an hour from Bangkok by train, Ayutthaya is the perfect day trip from Bangkok. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya gives visitors a glimpse of the ancient days of Thailand. The preserved kingdom capital is home to gorgeous palaces and temples that date back as far as the 14th century. Visitors can wander around the temple ruins for a unique look at how this part of the world used to be. "A day trip here offers a deep dive into Thai history and culture," says Lerdwittayaskul. "You can explore numerous historical sites and temples, where the civilization, traditions, and beliefs of ancient people come alive." "Ayutthaya gets more into the history of Thailand," added Ekelund. "It's so cool, especially if you are not going to Cambodia to see Angkor Wat and want to see that style of architecture."

Related Articles

TAT and WebBeds unveil creative Bangkok destination videos

These videos were aired for the first time at the arabian travel market 2024 in dubai and can also be viewed on webbeds’ “bangkok unboxed” youtube playlist..

Bangkok, 10 May 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has partnered with WebBeds, a global marketplace for the travel trade, to create a series of attractive and inspiring destination marketing videos that highlight what’s new in Bangkok and stimulate inbound travel to Thailand.

Mr. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and the South Pacific, said “This collaboration with WebBeds is in alignment with the TAT’s meaningful partnership project with strategic partners in the short-haul market. The project is aimed to encourage more travel and stimulate more bookings among key source markets in Asia and the South Pacific.”

The result of this strategic collaboration between TAT and WebBeds is a new series of 10 dazzling destination videos that showcase a diverse selection of activities and experiences in Bangkok, including what’s new and exciting in the Thai capital.

The aim is to encourage visitors to rediscover Thailand and fall in love with this captivating country all over again. These uplifting videos follow eight distinct themes: Eat, Nourish, Play, See, Shop, Explore, Relive and Indulge.

Eat features the best places to savour Thailand’s world-famous cuisine, from street food to fine dining, while Nourish focuses on organic wellness, spa treatments, singing bowl therapies and yoga classes. Play highlights traditional cultural activities such as Muay Thai boxing and local handicrafts, as well as Bangkok’s intriguing bars and clubs, and See showcases the city’s most eye-catching sights that are sure to illuminate Instragram!

Shop is dedicated to Bangkok’s amazing array of retail options, from iconic brands to mesmerising malls and markets, Explore uncovers the city’s rich cultural heritage, including its immersive museums, Relive reminds international travellers of their favourite attractions and activities, such as Chatuchak Market, and finally, Indulge focuses on newly opened five-stay hotels and a fine dining cruise along the Chao Phraya River.

These videos were aired for the first time at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, which was held from 6-9 May 2024, and can also be viewed on WebBeds’ “Bangkok Unboxed” YouTube playlist ( https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiIjfHZBFFz88x_ztA-C2Fc8arcfgNko8&si=CnYigS7QBnjFOi6B ).

Mr. Chattan said “We are appreciative of WebBeds’ continued support and steadfast commitment to stimulating the travel industry, not only in Thailand but all around the world. In recent years, the planet has faced a series of challenges that have impacted the ability of destinations to attract tourists. Throughout these times, WebBeds – one of our key wholesale partners – has been ever-present, supporting the TAT with market analysis and creative efforts to drive demand. This video marketing campaign is the latest example of this highly beneficial partnership.”

Mr. Daryl Lee, CEO, Webbeds, said “We are delighted to be working with the TAT once again to provide a boost to Thailand’s tourism sector. With our ability to monitor global booking data, WebBeds is in a unique position to identify trends even before they occur. Due to our long-standing relationship, we were able to advise Thailand’s tourism authorities of potential opportunities and take proactive steps to capitalise on them. These marketing videos are the result of this collaboration, and we are very happy to work side-by-side with the TAT to ensure the continued strength of tourism in Thailand. We are always stronger when we work together.

WebBeds and the TAT have enjoyed a long-standing relationship. Last year, the two partners came together to stage the IMPACT Summit, a high-level event in Bangkok which was attended by more than 900 travel and hospitality professionals, either in person or via a live stream.

WebBeds’ destination videos will now support the TAT in its effort to achieve its full-year target of 35 million visitors in 2024, while positioning the kingdom’s tourism industry for a prosperous future.

TAT Newsroom

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Tourism Authority of Thailand and dnata Travel Group sign strategic partnership agreement

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

I n 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. 

Have a look at some of the videos: 

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.
• 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: 
• 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. 

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: 

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. 
• 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. 

• 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). 
• 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.
• 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.
• 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! 

BRB planning my trip to Thailand...