Thailand Tour Packages from Kolkata

Most popular Thailand tour packages from Kolkata range from 4 nights/5 days to 6 nights/7 days, often covering major destinations like Bangkok and Pattaya. Longer itineraries may include Phuket, Krabi, or Chiang Mai.

Standard packages usually cover Bangkok (for city exploration, temples like Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and shopping) and Pattaya (for beaches, water sports, and nightlife like Alcazar Show, Coral Island). Many packages also include Phuket and Krabi for island hopping and scenic beauty. Chiang Mai is popular for cultural and adventure experiences in the North.

Many tour operators offer packages that include round-trip flights from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), Kolkata, to Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi BKK or Don Mueang DMK) or Phuket (HKT). However, some packages might be land-only, allowing you to book your flights separately. Always check the inclusions carefully.

The cost can vary significantly based on the duration, hotel category (3-star to 5-star), inclusions (flights, meals, activities), and time of travel. Generally, a basic 4 nights/5 days package can start from INR 20,000 to INR 30,000 per person (excluding airfare), while comprehensive packages with flights and more inclusions can range from INR 40,000 to INR 70,000+ per person.
Visa and Travel Formalities for Indian Citizens
Do Indian citizens require a visa for Thailand when traveling from Kolkata?
Yes, Indian citizens generally require a visa for Thailand. However, there is currently a visa-free entry scheme for Indian passport holders for up to 30 days, valid until November 11, 2024. For stays longer than this or outside this period, or for non-tourism purposes, a visa is required.

As of January 2025, Thailand has implemented an e-Visa facility for Indian citizens, which can be applied for online via the official Thai e-Visa portal (https://thaievisa.go.th/). Additionally, a Visa on Arrival (VOA) facility is typically available for short tourist stays (usually up to 15 days) at major international airports.

Whether applying for e-Visa, VOA, or a regular tourist visa, common documents include:

• Original passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of travel and minimum two blank pages.
• Recent passport-sized photographs (as per specifications, usually 3.5 x 4.5 cm, white background, 80% face size).
• Confirmed return or onward flight ticket.
• Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings).
• Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements showing around 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family, or an equivalent in INR).
• A covering letter explaining the purpose of your visit (for regular visa applications).
• Travel insurance (highly recommended, sometimes mandatory).
• For e-Visa, all documents are submitted digitally. For VOA, have all documents ready in hand.

Many reputable tour operators include visa assistance as part of their services. This typically involves guiding you through the documentation process, reviewing your application, and sometimes even submitting it on your behalf (for regular visas) or assisting with the e-Visa application.

Common inclusions are:

• Round-trip airfare from Kolkata (if chosen).
• Accommodation in chosen hotel categories (3-star, 4-star, 5-star).
• Daily breakfast.
• Airport transfers and inter-city transfers (often on SIC - Seat-In-Coach basis, some may offer private).
• Sightseeing tours with entry fees to major attractions (e.g., Grand Palace, Safari World, Coral Island tour).
• Specific activities like Alcazar Show, Chao Phraya River Cruise.
• English-speaking guide for tours.
• Applicable taxes.

Typical exclusions might be:

• Visa fees (unless specified as included).
• Travel insurance (though some packages offer complimentary basic insurance).
• Optional tours and activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Lunch and dinner (unless specified as included meals).
• Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, mini-bar, tips).
• Water sports charges on islands.
• Early check-in or late check-out charges at hotels.
• Any expenses due to unforeseen circumstances (flight delays, natural calamities).
• TCS (Tax Collected at Source) on foreign remittances, applicable to Indian residents.

The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB). You can exchange INR for THB at Kolkata airport, Bangkok/Pattaya airports, authorized money changers, or banks in Thailand. ATMs are widely available.

The official language is Thai. However, English is widely spoken and understood in major tourist areas, hotels, and by tour guides.

Thailand is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's always advisable to take standard travel precautions: be aware of your surroundings, safeguard your valuables, use reputable transport, and have travel insurance.

Thai cuisine is famous for its bold flavors – a mix of spicy, sour, sweet, and salty. Popular dishes include Pad Thai, Green Curry, Tom Yum, and Som Tum. Yes, vegetarian and even Jain food options can be arranged if informed in advance to your tour operator. Many local eateries also offer vegetarian dishes.

Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for warm and humid weather. Include swimwear for beach destinations. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for sightseeing. Don't forget sunscreen, insect repellent, a universal travel adapter, and any personal medications. A light jacket or shawl might be useful for air-conditioned places.
Booking & Customization

Most tour operators offer customizable packages, allowing you to tailor the itinerary, hotel choices, duration, and activities based on your preferences, budget, and interests (e.g., honeymoon, family, adventure, cultural).

It's recommended to book your package at least 2-3 months in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season (November to February) or during major festivals, to ensure better flight availability, hotel choices, and competitive prices.