Bangkok
Overview
Bangkok remains the most travelled budget international city for Indians — direct flights from a dozen-plus Indian cities, street food that rivals home-cooked value, and a well-worn backpacker-to-family infrastructure that makes it low-friction even on a first trip abroad. Entry rules for Indian passport holders have been shifting through 2026; confirm the current allowance on Thailand's official immigration site before you book.
Best time to visit
November through February is the cool, dry season and the most comfortable time to be outdoors. October still carries a monsoon tail in spots; December and the New Year fortnight are the most expensive weeks to fly and stay, so November is the sweet spot for both weather and price.
Things to do
- Grand Palace and Wat Pho at opening time, before the tour buses
- Chinatown (Yaowarat) street food crawl after dark
- Chatuchak Weekend Market for budget shopping
- Chao Phraya river ferry as a free-ish way to see the city
- Day trip to Ayutthaya's ruined temple complexes by train
Sample itinerary
- Days 1-2 — Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chao Phraya river cruise, Yaowarat food crawl
- Day 3 — Chatuchak Market (weekend visits only) or Jim Thompson House
- Day 4 — Day trip to Ayutthaya
- Day 5 — Free day or extend to Pattaya for a beach day before flying out
