Pocket Friendly Guide to Thailand - Explore the Exotic Asian Paradise

Thailand is the most prevalent visitor goal in Southeast Asia, and which is as it should be. You can discover practically anything here: precious stone blue shorelines, thick wilderness, awesome sustenance, modest shoreline front lodges and a portion of the best lavish inns on the planet. There is something for each intrigue and each financial plan.

Have a look at the best places to visit in Thailand. 

1. Erawan Falls

Erawan Falls is located in the east side of the Erawan National Park covering an area of 550 km square in Western Thailand in the Tenasserim Hills of Kanchanaburi Province, Amphoe Si Sawat in tambon Tha Kradan. It was founded in 1975. It is Thailand’s 12th and the most famous National Park.

The most alluring part of the park is the Erawan falls enriched with emerald green ponds, named after a white elephant with three-heads of Hindu mythology. The top layer of the falls is known to have a resemblance with an elephant’s head.

81% of the forest houses deciduous forests and rest have sheds of deciduous dipterocarp and dry evergreen forest. The park comprises of limestone hills with an altitude between 165-996m above the sea level, plains, and plenty of streams. The beautiful hills act as a boon for the park from the eastern monsoon resulting in less rainfall on average.

Only a short outing from Kanchanaburi, the Erawan Falls are the real fascination of the Erawan National Park in Western Thailand. The waterfall was named after the Erawan, the three-headed white elephant of Hindu folklore.

The seven-layered falls are said to look like the Erawan. Macaques are regular around the falls while once in a while water screen reptiles can likewise be seen. The recreation center is open for guests all year and for the most part, exceptionally caught up with amid the ends of the week.

Address: Tha Kradan, Erawan National Park 71250, Thailand Nearby Attractions: Erawan National Park, Pha Tad Waterfall. Timings: 

• Official timing- 07:00 – 16:30*
• Erawan National Park Timing - For visitors, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m every day all year round.

Best time to visit:

• In Rainy season, May to October
• In Winter, November to January
• In Summers, February to April

Charges: 

• Entry For foreigners - 300 THB; For children - 200 THB
• Entry For locals -100 THB and for children - 50 THB
• Entry for a motorbike - 20 THB
• Entry is 30 THB for other vehicles.
• Tents can be rent from 150 Baht a day for 2 people
• 250 a day for 3 people
• Sleeping bag for 25 Baht, pillow for 10 Baht and sleeping mat for 20 Baht.

How To Reach: The park can be easily reached by public buses from Kanchanaburi. It is possible to hire bicycles at the visitor center area for 20 THB/day. Nearby Stopover: Manita Boutique Hotel, Pung-Waan Resort, Baanpufa Resort. Average Charge: Rs 3000/- per person.

2. Ao Nang

Formally Ao Phra Nang also known as  ("Princess Bay"), Ao Nang is the most well-known shoreline town in Krabi. Ao Nang is a small resort town, sub-district, and central point of the coastal province of Krabi, in Thailand.

It was initially a hiker hotspot yet now moving gradually upmarket as the airplane terminal gets higher flyers. While not exactly as picturesque as Rai Leh, there is a decent scope of modest convenience, numerous great eateries, simple transport and a lot of travel offices, making it a decent base for investigating Krabi.

The town primarily consists of the main street which outshines with restaurants, pubs, shops and other commerce attracting the tourist. The visitors here enjoy the pleasure of having the sunbathe and nearby islands. You can also be entertained by scuba diving centers in Ao Nang where the trainers or instructors will offer you the diving course.

• Stay Options- 

-Marina expresses Aonang which is 1 km from the Phra Nang beach in Krabi. -Krabi Resort which is also very near to your destination.

Scuba Diving

At Ao Nang Bay, the "local" island to some extent is easy to reach and spacious compared to many diving sites around Phi Phi Island. Scuba diving can also be enjoyed at points like, Shark Point Marine Sanctuary and King Cruiser debris, which is suitable for average diver, and Mini Safari to Hin Daeng, Hin Muang and Ko Yai Islands for experienced or highly professional divers.

Also Read: The World’s Best Scuba Diving Destinations Of All Time

• Rock Climbing

Ao Nang was originally placed on the travel map by the mountaineers, many of whom came for excellent climbing the Krabi karst rock formations, and rock climbing in a wide range is accessible through the centers of Ao Nang, even though most of the ranges surround the area around Railay, Tonsai, and Phra Nang Beaches.

Timings:  8:00 AM - 8:00 PM* Charges: From Rs 4,000 to Rs 7,000.

• Boat tours/transfers

The escape point for boats to a number of places is at Ao Nang's main beach which includes nearby resort Railay (or Rai Leh), which cannot be approachable by road, Ponda island and Chicken Island. Ticket booths with exact pricing structures are mentioned and located at both ends of the beach.

Address: Ao Nang, Krabi Town 81000, Thailand Best time to visit: October-March Charges: No charges* Timings: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Nearby Attractions: Kaohom Massage and Salon, Krabi Starlight Travel and Tour, Boss Tailor Krabi Nearby Stopover: Aonang Princeville Resort, Anyavee Ao Nang Bay Resort, Apple A Day Resort. Average Charge: Rs 2000/- per person. How To Reach:

• Air - Krabi International Airport is the nearest one which is about 40 minutes away by car.
• Road - The nearest bus station is in Krabi Town called, Krabi Bus Terminal. In Krabi, buses use the bus terminal at Talad Kao, about 5 km north of town centre.

1. Krabi-Ao Nang songthaew, Krabi Bus Station - there's a songthaew (shared pick-up truck/taxi) service to Ao Nang from the Krabi Bus Station and Krabi town, which works during daytime in low season and up to 10:00 pm during high season.
2. From Krabi to Ao Nang, the fare is 60 baht.

• Boat - Boats frequently runs from the east end of the beach and charge a flat 80 baht/person during the day, 100 baht/person during the night (after 18:00).

1. In all seasons, a longtail boat is available from Ao Nang. During Monsoon, it's available from May to October, getting to Rai Leh from Ao Nammao is advised.
2. From Ko Lanta, boats now arrive at the new jetty and from there take a taxi (350 baht), or local bus to Krabi (50 baht) and then on to Ao Nang (40 baht).
3. Also, there are public boat services to Ko Phi Phi and Ko Lanta (usually twice daily) which charge around 200 baht/person. During the monsoon season, the boat runs once day.

Nearby Stopover: Buri Tara Resort, Aonang All Seasons Beach Resort. Average Charge: Rs 1500/-

3. Hua Hin Beach

Also Read: Nudist Caribbean Beaches For Young Couples

Hua Hin Beach is stationed on the western side of the sea inlet of Thailand. Initially, implicit the 1920s as an illustrious getaway for King Rama VII, Hua Hin has been a long-lasting most loved end of the week getaway for Bangkok occupants. Today, the 8 km (5 miles) long shoreline is likewise prominent with voyagers.

Hua Hin is the site of the Klai Kangwon Palace, which is as yet utilized by Thai eminence today. What's more, it is home to the most noteworthy centralization of greens in all of Thailand.

The place is glorified with some of the exotic beaches in the world. Many visitors have considered Hua Hin, Khao Takiab, Suan Son Pradiphat, Khao Tao and Cha Am as the best beaches, which are offering resort areas along this seashore. Hua Hin is renowned as one of the oldest and most traditional holiday resorts in Thailand.

Shallow depths and mild currents (high tide and low tide) make this beach safe for children and therefore it’s a family-oriented beach; a perfect destination for families. In addition, cheap, and efficient public transport makes it easy to hang out the entire day.

Hua Hin is stuffed with a number of great restaurants that offers authentic Thai food to visitors at affordable prices. Beach lovers here can go for jet skiing, water skiing, kiteboarding and horseback rides.

Hua Hin Beaches:

• Khao Takiab Beach
• Suan Son Pradiphat Beach
• Khao Tao Beach
• Cha Am Beach
• Hua Hin Beach

4. Prasat Hin Phimai

Also Read: Explore The Ancient Ruins In Ayutthaya, Thailand, Home Of The Famous Buddha In A Banyan Tree.

Prasat Hin Phimai brags the great Khmer ruins in Thailand.

Phimai officially named, Prasat Hin Phimai was built during the 11th century and 12th century period, during which the region was part of the Khmer Empire.

Prasat Hin Phimai was built on the edge of the ancient highway, which was connected with Angkor (present-day Siem Reap), with other Khmer temples such as Muang Tum and Phanom Rung amidst.

The temple is one end of the ancient Khmer Highway from Angkor. As the enfolded area of 1020x580 meters is comparable to Angkor Wat, Phimai must have been an important city in the Khmer empire.

The buildings here are built according to the 11th and 12th century in the Baphuon, Bayon and Angkor Wat style. Texted carves on a wall are called Vimayapura (meaning Vimaya city), which evolved into Thai name Phimayi. It's one of the must-visit places in Thailand. 

Amongst the largest of all Khmer temples in Thailand is Phimai historical park, located in the town of Phimai, Nakhon Ratchasima province. The ancient temple is the finest example of Khmer architecture in Thailand.

What makes this temple unique, which is built in the form of a Buddhist temple, even if Khmers who constructed it were Hindu. In spite of the fact that worked as a Mahayana Buddhist sanctuary, the carvings likewise highlight numerous Hindu gods as clarified in the guest focus. It's one of the top places to visit in Thailand.

Address: Ananthachinda Rd, Tambon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Phimai, Chang Wat Nakhon Ratchasima 30110, Thailand

Opening Hours: every day of the week from 7 AM to 5 PM* Charges: NA Nearby Attractions: Sai Ngam, Ban Prasat Archaeological Site. Nearby Stopover: Ban Prasat Archaeological Site, Phimai inn hotel, Fah Pround Fon Hotel. Average Charge: Rs 1000/- How To Reach: You can either reach here from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal Morchit or by air-conditioned bus or from the Hualamphong station in Bangkok, which takes approximately 5-6 hours. Both have many connections with Nakhon Ratchasima every day. The second phase of the journey involves taking a local bus from Nakhon Ratchasima to Phimai, which is approximately 60 kilometers. Buses run several times per hour, the journey takes about 1 hour.

5. Khao Yai National Park

Also Read: Unknown Secrets Of Asiatic Lions In Gir Forest, Gujarat

The park was rooted in 1962 as Thailand first national park. It is known as the world's third largest and undoubtedly one of the best national parks in Thailand for frequent visitors where you can enjoy seeing a number of interesting animals. 

The park is primarily located in Nakhon Ratchasima province, Khao Yai is extensively located in Prachinburi, Saraburi and Nakhon Nayak provinces.

Checkpoint of Khao Yai is just 2.5 hours away from Bangkok. It is home to various wildlife which includes black bear,  and Asian elephants. This park offers hiking trails, observation towers, cabins, lodges,  as well as campsites.

Also Read: 10 Best National Parks In Spain That Will Thrill You Upside Down

The national park, Khao Yai shares a part of Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex, a World Heritage Site declared by UNESCO, which includes 5 protected areas from Khao Yai to the Cambodian border.

Thap Lan National Park, Ta Phraya National Park, Pang Sida National Park, and Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary are the other sheltered areas. Khao Yai is home to different and wide species of mammals including elephant, macaque, barking deer, sambar deer,  gibbon, porcupine, civet, in addition with some rare mammals such as bear, gaur, otters, dhole, jackal.

As if now there is no activity of tiger which is observed in the park, but the camera trap has unveiled an important tiger population bordering Thanh Lan and Pang Sida National Park. Siamese crocodile, single crocodile in the National Park and it can be seen in one place with one of the trails. According to the guides operating in the park, a crocodile was released in the park by park workers in the past.

The National Park is the welcoming home to migratory and around 300 resident birds and hornbill (species of bird) holds the largest population in Thailand.

Blue-winged leafbirds, barbets, scarlet minivets, broadbills, pittas, mountain scops-owls, great slaty woodpeckers, collared owlets, Asian fairy bluebirds, trogons, drongos, and magpies are some of the interesting species of bird found here. Jungle fowls, green-legged partridges, silver pheasants, and Siamese fireback birds find their home on the ground and are so common to find on roads and trails.

Best time to watch birds: Dry months, during - March, April.

Khao Yai is also at its best to watch reptile species.

Best time to watch reptiles: March-April.

Few species amongst the many that are found in the park are Reticulated python, Ahaetulla prasina, Chinese ratsnake, Chinese water dragon, water monitor and crested lizards. This park is known to be one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

Address: Hin Tung, Mueang Nakhon Nayok District, Nakhon Nayok 26000, Thailand Timings: Open every day from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm* Charges:

• The entrance fee is 400 THB for adults
• 200 THB for children.

How To Reach:  You can explore the park by private car or motorcycle/scooter, but the best experience you can have is via a tour company. Khao Yai is one of the most popular destinations for bikers in Thailand, frequently seen on the roads.

• Public services - By public transport from Bangkok, it's possible to get the entrance, but the attractions are 14 km inside the park and hence it's not possible to explore the entire park by foot. No public transport facility is provided to the visitor center area inside the park. Visitors are needed to hire a minivan or bus from Bangkok to Pak Chong and then change to Songtaew that operates to the checkpoint at north.
• Private transportation - In North of Khao Yai, the cost of a single trip from any hotel/airport in Central Bangkok is more than 2,300 Baht. The journey takes 2h 15 minutes to 2h 30mins in good traffic.

Nearby Attractions: Khun Dan Prakan Chon Dam, Haew Suwat Waterfall, Haew Narok Waterfall, Manee Sorn Sunflower Field, The Bonanza Exotic Zoo, Wang Takrai Park, Khao Luk Chang Bat Cave, Heo Narok Waterfall. Nearby Stopover: Khao Yai Paradise On Earth, Dusit Princess Korat Hotel, Average Charge: Rs 3500/-

6. James Bond Island

If you are a James Bond fan then you should surely not miss the James Bond Island where most of his movies were shot. The famous landmark in Phang Nga Bay northeast of Phuket is home to almost 100 islands. High leaning rocks which cover some caves inside is an example of nature’s beauty.

The island is a famous spot where you can sail as well as do kayaking, snorkeling or just simply lay down at the beachside to enjoy the gorgeous site.

• Stay options - 

• luxurious hotels at affordable offers are available which are near to James Bond Island.
• Katathong Golf and resort which is 16.6 km from James Bond Island.
• Siamls hotels which are 13.8 km from the Island.
• These are some affordable options but there are many more options available, as per your budget.

7. Phi – Phi Islands

Located at a distance of 46 km from Phuket in Thailand’s Andaman Sea. The phi- phi island is divided into two parts, Phi Phi Leh and Phi Phi Don. At Phi Phi Leh the accommodation is restricted whereas in Phi Phi Don you can find stay options in abundance with its famous and exuberant nightlife. There are ferries from both Krabi and Phuket to reach this destination.

• Stay Options

-Phi Phi Island village beach resort at 0.1 km from the beach. - Phi Phi cliff beach resort at 2.9 km from the beach.

8. Koh Khai Islands

Khai islands are located 10 km east of Phuket. A small island in Phang Nga Bay is only 30 minutes away from Phuket. The Koh Khai islands have three small islands – the Khai Nai Island being the biggest of them has a white beach with crystal clear emerald water. Khai Nok Island with turquoise waters and white sand beach. Khai Nui Island is the smallest of them and hosts colorful coral reefs with exciting snorkeling. A total delight to swim with the tropical fishes is a great destination to spend a vacation with your loved ones.

• Stay Options-

-Yao Yai resort which is 8.4 km from Island -KOMO Point Yamu, Phuket at 16.5 km from Island -CHAO PHRAYA PRINCESS DINNER CRUISE

A romantic and luxurious dinner between the waters is a truly stunning experience. The Thai cuisine for an appetizing dinner with a dazzling river view and entertainment would make a perfect date for a couple. The cruise can accommodate 290 people and assures to have the most memorable time. The perfect dinner buffet can be enjoyed with the professional and varied performances.

Thrilling expedition for adventure lovers you are not a person to relax on the beach and want to enjoy some exciting and adventurous spots like safaris and amusement parks to thrilling your soul, then grab this list and keep ticking these places off your list.

9. Safari World Bangkok

Thailand offers entertainment for every generation of people. People who are not very fond of the zoo, then this is a place you should definitely visit. Safari park since 1988 is divided into two spaces, where you can drive your car or in the park bus. The open zoo park is covered in 480 acres and 180 acres is for the bird park.

The marine park which also holds many surprises such as water shows and plenty of food stalls to treat your taste buds. A wide range of herbivores animals like rhinos, gazelles, zebras, camels, and variety of birds like cranes, pelicans and ostriches would accompany you in your safari world tour.

10. Dream Amusement World

Hanging on the roller coaster, splashing in the water or going inside a haunted mansion is no less than a daunting experience and will definitely give you chills. The Thai theme park in Thanyaburi district, Pathum Thani Province, Thailand is decorated with a European background. Indulging in this fantasy trip will be like living your dream.

Taking a ride in the world of snow and ice at snow town will be a freezing experience. A plethora of attractions and adventurous activities this place is for one and for all. The place is suitable for every interest for varying age groups. The landscaped gardens are a favorite spot for selfie lovers.

11. Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World

The variety of species in the sea will amaze you. An aquatic wonderland which is full of diverse species and full of fascinating animals. The sea life offers you with over 30,000 curious species from various parts of the globe. If you are expecting to experience more than a diving experience then you should give this a try.

Diving with the predators and their prey in the ‘open ocean’ will be an unfading experience. The shark feeding, penguin feeding are some of the attractions for the kids. This place is a complete package of entertainment for all age groups.

12. Phuket Dolphin Show

The highly energetic and extremely friendly dolphins are a treat to watch. These clever dolphins will amaze you with the kind of dives and how playful and engaging they are with the audience.

These species will make you fall in and awe with them. Don’t miss the opportunity to bond with these phenomenal and cordial aquatic creatures.

13. Water Activities At Banana Beach

An exciting banana boat ride or parasailing whatever your choice is this spot will hamper your entertainment needs. This beach has splendid beauty and is deserted, so if you want to spend your vacation on a private beach then this is the right choice for you.

Situated between the Bang Tao and Nai Thon beach, it is away from the crowded tourist places and is great to spend personal time with your beloved ones. The clear water is great for swimming and beach masseuses to relax your nerves.

14. Underwater World Pattaya

The clear acrylic tunnels are an aquarium of a variety of species of fishes and corals. The tunnel has three zones to divide the aqua habitat- Shark and stingray zone, coral reef zone and the Giant of Siam zone. These zones are captivating for children but also offer immense knowledge and history. The area around is decorated with shores and beaches.

The second most popular city in Thailand, Pattaya has so much to offer. The underwater-friendly family is what you should definitely go for if you have kids with you. The playful fishes will love to accompany you in Pattaya.

15. Shopaholics Get A Tour Of The Floating Market, Bangkok

If you are a shopping spree and not fond of going to the malls then these authentic floating markets are not to be missed. The ancient market when transportation was difficult has now become an epicentre for tourists. Khlong Lat Mayom, Damnoen, and Amphawa are the three floating markets in Thailand. A great place to take pictures, enjoy the relishing seafood and local delicacies at a very minimal prize. The antiques and the jewelry is also precious and of great merit. Don’t forget to shop for yourself and your loved ones from here.

16. Dive Into The History Of Thailand

If history is what makes you curious then Thailand has an ancient history, some places are well preserved to keep the heritage alive.

17. Si Satchanalai Historical Park 

Spread across a large area, the historical park contains the ruins of a small town named Si Satchanalai that flourished during the 13th and 14th century under the rule of Sukhothai kingdom. Standing on the banks of the Yom River, the park is surrounded by natural forest area. Take a look at the museum to know more about this place holding a great history.

18. Doi Suthep

The most beautiful temple holding such an intricate and artistic carving will make you lost in the elegance of this place. The Buddhist monks performing the rituals and local vendors sending the local delicacies and handicrafts won’t control you from buying them. A great place to shop for gifts and keepsakes. The traditional elephant carvings, masks, and home furnishings are worth purchasing.

19. The Grand Palace

The official residence of the Kings of Siam is located at the heart of Bangkok. Today the palace hosts royal ceremonies and welcoming king’s guests and other foreign dignitaries. The palace is divided into two portions, the temple of the Emerald Buddha and the royal residence. It is a place where the remains of the kings and high ranked members were situated before cremation.

A place which holds a royal value in history is worth paying a visit. Before you visit Thailand, go through these points to make your journey more comfortable and hustle free.

Traveling cost- Thailand is a place that suits your pockets even if you are a mid-rangtravelerer. An average cost for a one week trip ranges from 50,000-60,000INR depending on the style of hotels you choose, traveling pattern and the season in which you are planning your trip.

Flight Cost- If you are traveling from India to Thailand the cost would go around 15,000 - 20,000 INR.

Visa on arrival would cost you near about 2,000INR per person. The actual price although may vary as per the conditions of the airlines.

Accommodation- Thailand has a variety of options to choose from. If you prefer to choose a villa the range would be between 2,000-3,000INR or if you choose a hostel it would cost you around 700-1200INR it's absolutely your choice depending on the comforts and luxuries you desire in your stay. The north side of Thailand is, however, cheaper than the south side.

Local transports- The commonly used public transports are tuk-tuks, autos, cabs, and songthaews. A bike can also be rented to explore the places in the city. The transport options are affordable and convenient.

Meal Cost- An average cost of eating in a decent restaurant would cost you around 1000INR for a three-time meal a day for one person. However, some locals street food is also delicious which would cut down the cost and come pocket-friendly at 200-400INR for multiple dishes.

Activities Cost- The most popular activities are Scuba diving, temple visits and Island tours. Scuba diving costs around 6,000-7,000INR per person.

Island tour, snorkeling, kayaking would cost around 3,000- 7,000INR.

Best Time To Visit Thailand

The place being highly tropical is mostly humid throughout the year and the temperature ranges from 28-35 degree C . the most suitable time to visit would be during the dry season from November to April.

How To Reach Thailand

The major International airports are in Bangkok and Phuket and are well intercontinental flights. The price is also minimal which makes the trip pocket-friendly.

Local Food Of Thailand And Best Places To Get Food

Grilled pork and a bowl of ‘Tom Yum’ soup is the famous local delicacy of Thailand. The exotic flavors and the fragrances are just mouthwatering and you just can’t escape them while walking on the streets. Tom Khan Khai which is chicken in coconut soup, Kao Pad identified as fried rice in India, Yams Nua, the spicy beef salad are some of the commonly preferred dishes of Thailand.

Local Language Of Thailand

Thailand and its neighboring places are dominated by Southwestern Tai families. Karen is the language that is spoken around Burma and nearby places of Malaysia.

If you want a getaway and don’t want to move far then Thailand has a plethora of options to offer. It will be a good vacation for the summers to escape the scorching heat of the sun if you are in India. Thailand is a land of adventures and natural beauty is in abundance. Soothe your body and dive into the crystal clear waters to have the experience to share with everyone