A vacation in Thailand is an incredible mix of culture, natural beauty and modernism. Drawn to the lively atmosphere of Bangkok, the pizzazz of Pattaya Beach, the lush greenery of Krabi, or Koh Samui’s idyllic islands, almost every traveler is certain to find something in a Thailand package that mak
... es him instantly fall in love with the ‘Land of Smiles.’
Thailand is a country on the Indochina Peninsula, with coastlines in the Andaman Sea as well as the Gulf of Thailand. Immense diversity and majestic beauty, helped along by an intriguing ancient history, vibrant culture with strong western influences, and welcoming people, making Thailand holiday packages the number one choice for a perfect vacation in Southeast Asia. A favorite destination for the Indian nationals, there are exclusive Thailand tour packages starting from Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Tourists can avail flights from US, UK, and other countries to visit this paradisiacal land of Thailand.
Earlier known as Siam and now officially referred to as the Kingdom of Thailand, it consists of more than 75 provinces scattered across its five distinct geographical locations: Central Thailand, Eastern Thailand, Southern Thailand, Northern Thailand, and Northeastern Thailand.
Cordially merging fascinating traditions and multicultural ambience with hip modern lifestyle, Bangkok occupying Central Thailand is the country’s largest as well as capital city. Charming vistas lining its vibrant and quirky neighborhoods will lead you to mindblowing Buddhist shrines, historic structures and museums. Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Bangkok National Museum, and Dusit Hall and Vimanmek Mansion are just a few to name. Moreover, it is where you’ll across some of the country’s best shopping, entertainment and culinary choices.
Thailand tour packages to the wonderful Eastern Thailand, with only seven provinces, should not be missed. Its major draw is Pattaya, displaying an unusual blend of spectacular beauty, sex tourism and several activities and entertainment choices suitable for all types of holidaymakers– be it family vacationers, honeymooners, or beach bums. Alternatively, its island destinations like Ko Samet and Ko Chang will entice you with its serene tropical scenery and an incredible variety of flora and fauna.
Speaking of Southern Thailand, it has something for all types of travelers. Gorgeous islands and verdant rainforests interspersed with rivers, waterfalls, therapeutic hot springs, mysterious shrines and natural formations mark its interior. Apparently, most scenic island tours and beach vacations begin here. In Phuket, you can experience the unique Thai past, with its many museums, monuments and temples including Thalang National Museum and Wat Phra Thong. Adventurists and nature lovers can explore attractions like Ao Phang Nga National Park, Phi Phi Islands, Hin Ta and Hin Yai Secret Buddha Garden. Water sport lovers too will discover their bliss here, thanks to its spellbinding array of white sandy beaches along Koh Samui and Krabi, offering plenty of opportunities for canoeing, snorkeling, scuba diving etc.
Cool mountain scenery, fertile valleys and rivers, and unrivaled greenery deliver visitors an enormous spectrum of ecological spaces to experience in Northern Thailand. Sightseers and trekkers retreat to its highlights including Doi Khun Tan National Park, Mae Hong Son, and Pai, while vacationers in search of a unique experience will find its capital, Chiang Rai, extremely delightful, with attractions like Wat Phra Kaew, Hill Tribe Museum and Education Centre etc.
Now if you’re looking for a completely out-of-the-way haven during your Thailand vacation? Head over to Thailand’s Northeastern side, known as Isan. Endowed with a raw, rugged beauty, the region is filled with mountains, plateaus, forests and ancient ruins, making it perfect for great walking and hiking trips.
All in all, a whole lot of astounding surprises and splendid experiences await you in this little country.
Don’t Miss
Bangkok: With all ingredients of an uber modern metropolis plus the picturesque charm of ancient Buddhist shrines and eclectic atmosphere of cultural neighborhoods like Little India., China Town, and Arab Quarter, the capital city of Thailand will never fail to impress you.
Must-sees in Bangkok: The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaeo, Wat Pho, Siam Ocean World, Wat Arun, Floating Markets, and Cruise on Chao Phraya River.
Ayutthaya: Just 75 kilometers from Bangkok, the former capital of Thailand is a must-visit for culture and history buffs. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this island city in Northern Thailand abounds with magnificent ruins of temples and palaces, which now remain as a testimony of its glorious past.
Must-sees in Ayutthaya: Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, Sanphet Praset Palace, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Suwan Dararam.
Phuket: Phuket is the country’s largest island, especially famous for its azure waters, palm-fringed beaches, laid-back ambience and picture-perfect surroundings. Once a thriving center of tin manufacture, it is noteworthy for its historic attractions and structures that reflect Indo-Portuguese architecture.
Must-Sees in Phuket: Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, Big Buddha of Phuket, Wat Chalong Temple, Thalang National Museum, and Phuket Aquarium.
Krabi: At a distance of about 70 kilometers from Phuket is the tropical paradise of Krabi, blessed with an array of pristine beaches and islands, remarkable limestone formations, and enigmatic caves and shrines. With numerous enchanting islands surrounding the region, it’s also perfect for island hopping.
Must-Sees in Krabi: Railay Beach, Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, Klong Thom Hot Springs, Phi Phi Islands, Koh Lanta, and Wat Tham Sua.
Koh Samui: This exquisite island destination in Surat Thani province is characterized by coconut-strewn beaches, verdant greenery, beautiful shrines, and untouched villages.
Must-Sees in Koh Samui: Hin Ta and Hin Yai, Secret Buddha Garden, Koh Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo, and Snake Farm.
Nakhon Ratchasima: Visit this Northeastern Thai province to be in awe with its untouched Khao Yai National Park and also the fascinating temple ruins that trace its origin back to Khmer period.
Must-Sees in Nakhon Ratchasima: Khao Yai National Park, Anego, Thao Suranari Monument, Wat Salaloi, and Wat Phayap.
Know before visit
When to visit?
Cool, salubrious climate attract maximum number of visitors to Thailand from November to March. While December and January are the peak touristic months, the months between April and May are the hottest. With some destinations and islands experiencing major flooding and subsequently shut downs, July – October is the low season.
Language
Thai is the main language spoken here. Being a prominent tourist center, most people here can understand English.
Currency
Thai Baht (THB) is the local currency. 1US$ is equivalent to THB 30.00.
Cultural Etiquettes
Dressing modestly in temples is an absolute must. Avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops and instead opt for dresses that well cover your shoulders and knees. Moreover, remove your shoes before entering a Buddhist shrine. No PDAs and refrain from touching or pointing at Buddhist monks as well as the revered images of Lord Buddha.
Transportation Facilities
Transportation is relatively cheap in Thailand, with many options ranging from Metro, Skytrain, and public buses to motorbike taxis, tuk-tuks, and boats.
Useful Travel Information
Some of the most scrumptious Thai foods are seen on streets, which are also pleasing in terms of their quality and price. That said, it’s always good to take necessary precautions to avoid such unfortunate situations as food poisoning during your vacation. Make sure that you opt for a food stall whose dishes sell out quickly. This not only indicates that food is delicious but also fresh.
Shopping in open-air markets is one of the must-experiences in Thailand. But what you have to ensure is the genuineness of the products you shop from here, being its markets including night markets and floating markets a haven for fake items. Also, do not hesitate to haggle.
Use an effective repellent to keep yourself protected from the nasty, harmful bites of mosquitoes which can be seen almost everywhere in the country. Read more