Thailand is in Asia-Pacific. Its capital is Bangkok. It ranks #13 among the world's most-visited countries. It draws about 35.5 million visitors a year. Below: top cities, experiences, seasons, food and entry rules.
Every figure links to its source.
| Detail | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Capital | Bangkok | Wikipedia |
| Population | 71.6 million (2024) | Wikipedia |
| Currency | Thai baht (THB, ฿) | Wikipedia |
| Official language | Thai | Wikipedia |
| Area | 513,120 km² | Wikipedia |
| Region | Asia-Pacific | UN Tourism / Wikipedia |
| Annual visitors | 35.5 million (2024) | UN Tourism |
Thailand is Southeast Asia's most-visited country. It is known for temples, islands and street food. It has eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Buddhist culture meets buzzing city life.
Thailand sits in Asia-Pacific, with Bangkok as its capital. It suits first-time visitors and repeat travellers alike. You can mix famous sights with quieter corners. This guide covers cities, experiences, seasons, food and visas.
A quick framework before the details.
Start by choosing your season and trip length. Most first trips run about one to two weeks. Base yourself in Bangkok first, then branch out. Add Phuket and Chiang Mai for variety and contrast. Book flights and any visa well ahead. Leave slow days to simply wander and rest.
The best places to base a trip.
Beyond the cities — the sights worth planning around.
These sights anchor most Thailand itineraries. Pick a few and build your route around them.
Where the country's variety lies.
| Region | Known for |
|---|---|
| Bangkok | Temples, markets and nightlife. |
| Phuket & Andaman | Beaches and island resorts. |
| Chiang Mai & north | Mountain temples and hill tribes. |
| Krabi & islands | Limestone cliffs and clear bays. |
Each region has its own scenery, food and pace. Mixing two or three gives the fullest picture.
Easy routes built from the cities above.
Adjust nights to your pace and interests. Fewer stops usually means a richer trip.
Visit November to February for cool, dry weather. Avoid April's heat and the monsoon.
| Season | Typically | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring | Mild, fewer crowds | Often a sweet spot |
| ☀️ Summer | Peak & warmest | Busy and pricier |
| 🍂 Autumn | Cooler, colourful | Great value shoulder |
| ❄️ Winter | Coldest / off-peak | Quiet; some sights close |
Tourism data: UN Tourism.
Trains, transit and the open road.
Cities usually have metros, buses or trams. Trains link many regions comfortably and scenically. Domestic flights save time over long distances. Car hire opens up the countryside and small towns.
Dishes worth seeking out.
Food is a highlight of any Thailand trip. Try local markets, cafes and family-run spots.
| Dish | What it is |
|---|---|
| Pad Thai | Stir-fried noodles with peanuts. |
| Tom yum | A spicy-sour prawn soup. |
| Green curry | Coconut curry with basil. |
| Mango sticky rice | Mango over coconut rice. |
| Som tam | A spicy green-papaya salad. |
Time a trip around these.
| Festival | When | About |
|---|---|---|
| Songkran | April | The Thai new-year water festival. |
| Loy Krathong | November | Floating lanterns on water. |
| Yi Peng | November | Chiang Mai's sky lanterns. |
Festivals book out hotels early. Plan and reserve well in advance.
Small courtesies that go a long way.
A friendly greeting is always appreciated. Dress modestly at temples, churches and shrines. Learn a few words of Thai before you go. Tipping norms vary, so check locally.
Most visitors arrive by air. Confirm visa rules before booking.
🛂 For Indian passport holders: Indians now need Visa on Arrival or an e-Visa; rules changed in 2026. See the official source: TAT Newsroom.
Also check the IATA Travel Centre.
Base yourself in Bangkok, Phuket or Chiang Mai. Each has stays from hostels to five-star hotels. A mid-range hotel runs about $45–75 a night. Book early in peak season and near the main sights.
Search hotels in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai. Browse all stays on Booking.com or Airbnb.
Approximate daily costs per person, excluding flights.
| Style | Approx. per day | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| 🎒 Budget | $40–55 | Hostels, street food, public transport |
| 🧳 Mid-range | $80–130 | Comfortable hotels, cafes, some taxis |
| 🛎️ Luxury | $130–220 / night+ | Five-star hotels, fine dining, private guides |
A comfortable mid-range hotel runs about $45–75 a night. Meals add around $25–40 a day. Cities cost more than towns and villages. Travelling off-peak stretches your budget further.
Souvenirs and local specialities.
Little things that smooth a trip.
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| 💵 Money | The currency is Thai baht (THB, ฿). |
| 📱 Connectivity | Buy a local or eSIM on arrival. |
| 🔌 Power | Carry a universal travel adapter. |
| 🩺 Health | Check vaccines and travel insurance. |
| 🗣️ Language | The main language is Thai. |
Leave places better than you find them.
A little Thai goes a long way.
The main language is Thai. English is common in tourist areas and hotels. Learn hello, please and thank you first. A translation app helps with menus and signs.
Cards, cash and everyday spending.
The currency is Thai baht (THB, ฿). Cards work widely in cities and hotels. Carry some cash for markets and small vendors. ATMs are easy to find in towns. Tell your bank before you travel abroad.
A mid-range hotel costs about $45–75 a night. Five-star stays run roughly $130–220. Food adds around $25–40 a day. Budget days cost about $40–55; mid-range about $80–130.
What to bring for Thailand's climate and culture.
Pack light breathable clothes for the heat. Bring sunscreen and a hat. Bring swimwear and sandals for the beach. Carry a modest layer for temple visits. Add comfortable walking shoes and a travel adapter. Bring personal medicines. Carry copies of your passport and visa.
Odds and ends worth knowing.
Thailand is in Asia-Pacific. Its capital is Bangkok.
Visit November to February for cool, dry weather. Avoid April's heat and the monsoon.
A mid-range hotel costs about $45–75 a night. Five-star stays run roughly $130–220. Meals add around $25–40 a day. Backpackers manage on about $40–55 daily. A mid-range trip costs about $80–130 a day. That excludes international flights.
Plan about 10-14 days for Thailand. That covers the highlights without rushing. Add more days for a slower pace.
Pack light breathable clothes for the heat. Bring sunscreen and a hat. Bring swimwear and sandals for the beach. Carry a modest layer for temple visits. Add comfortable walking shoes and a travel adapter. Bring personal medicines. Carry copies of your passport and visa.
The top cities are Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai. Base yourself in Bangkok first. Then branch out to the others.
Indians now need Visa on Arrival or an e-Visa; rules changed in 2026.
Buses and domestic flights link the main regions. Trains help in some countries. Hire cars suit rural areas. City taxis cover short trips. Ride-hailing apps work in big cities.
Thailand uses the Thai baht (THB, ฿). Carry some cash; cards work in cities and hotels.
The official language is Thai. English is common in tourist areas and hotels.
About 35.5 million (2024) international visitors.
Try Pad Thai, Tom yum and Green curry. Street stalls and family-run spots are the best value.
Yes. Thailand is welcoming and easy for first-time visitors. Especially in tourist areas.
Another top spot in Asia-Pacific.
Another top spot in Asia-Pacific.
Another top spot in Asia-Pacific.
Browse the full list of destinations.
Our deepest country guide.