Thailand Tours & Holidays

Thailand is an idyllic paradise, where jungle-covered karsts plunge into aquamarine waters and the sand is sugar white.
But no matter how clichéd the fantasy, Thailand delivers in spades. The water around Krabi and Ko Tao really is that deep, cool shade of blue. Phi Phi’s limestone karsts really do look like some alien world. And the food? Let’s just say your local Pad Thai has nothing on Chiang Mai’s street stalls or the floating markets of Amphawa, where little old ladies do things with fish sauce and chilli you never thought possible. From the waterfalls of Erawan to a homestay with the hill tribes of the Golden Triangle, these adventures go beyond the tourist traps. Buckle up.
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Sail Phuket to Ko Phi Phi
Sail Phuket to Ko Phi Phi
Thailand Real Food Adventure
Explore Northern Thailand
Highlights of Thailand
Articles on Thailand
Thailand at a glance
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CAPITAL CITY
Bangkok (11 million)
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POPULATION
71.8 million
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CURRENCY
Thai Baht (THB)
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LANGUAGE
Thai
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TIME ZONE
(GMT+07:00) Bangkok, Hanoi, Jakarta
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CALLING CODE
+66
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ELECTRICITY
Type C (European 2-pin)
Learn more about Thailand
Best time to visit Thailand
Thailand's climate is generally hot, humid and at times (like other South East Asian countries) monsoonal. The seasons differ from coast to coast, so depending on which areas you're visiting, the weather can vary.
Thailand's mainland region is great to visit from November to February when the weather is cooler and dryer.
If you are planning on visiting the Gulf Coast (east), avoid the northeast monsoon that brings rain from October to January. For destinations like Phuket on the west side of the peninsula, the best time is November to April to avoid the other monsoon which causes Thailand's wet season from May to October.
Culture and customs
Often considered the epicentre of Buddhism, religion permeates daily life in Thailand. Sprinkled throughout the country are thousands of golden temples, where you’ll find Buddhist monks in orange robes walking the streets. Young men are expected to spend some time as a monk as it bestows honour on their families. Visitors should be respectful of monks and dress modestly when visiting a temple (cover your knees and shoulders and remove your shoes).
Like other Asian nations, the concept of ‘saving face’ is important. This means avoiding conflict or embarrassment in order to preserve social standing, dignity and honour. Thai people will go out of their way to avoid ‘losing face’. Losing your temper or raising your voice are surefire ways to lose face and can be perceived as volatile or rude.
Eating and drinking
Thai food has everything from spicy dishes packed with chillies to milder coconut-based curries. With street stalls and night markets all over the country, it's really easy to pick up a snack wherever you are in Thailand. On many Intrepid trips, you'll be given the opportunity to have dinner with a local family – this offers a great chance to see how meals are prepared and learn more about the local culture.
Go a step further on our 8-day Thailand Read Food Adventure to watch, eat, prepare and present tasty and traditional Thai cuisine.
Things to try in Thailand
1. Pad Thai (Phat Thai)
A well-known dish but for good reason. This delicious plate of stir-fried rice noodles garnished with peanuts is full of flavour and can be served with fresh prawns, chicken, tofu or vegetables.
2. Tom Yum (Tom Yam)
Usually prepared with stock, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves and chilli, this soup is widely available in Thailand and has been popularised around the world.
3. Green curry
One of many curries that Thais do so well. Green curry consists of chicken, Thai eggplant and chillies bathed in a coconut milk-based sauce.
4. Som tam (green papaya salad)
This northern dish of shredded raw papaya, cherry tomatoes and green beans is a tantalising mix of sweet, spicy and sour flavours.
5. Coconut water
For a super fresh thirst quencher, try coconut water straight from the husk.
6. Tropical fruit
Fruit shakes and fresh fruit juices are widely available from markets and restaurants – make the most of all the tropical fruits of Thailand.
Geography and environment
Sharing borders with South East Asian neighbours Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia and Myanmar (Burma), Thailand's natural environment varies greatly from region to region. From the steamy jungles and misty highlands in the north to the white sand beaches and picturesque islands of the south, Thailand's everchanging landscape has been fascinating and entertaining travellers for centuries.
The capital, Bangkok, is a heaving, urban jungle with skyscrapers, street vendors, markets, cars, tuk-tuks, bicycles and masses of people all competing for space. Despite this, there are pockets of quiet beauty to be found with parks, temples and traditional shop fronts scattered throughout the city.
Rural areas in the north are typically quieter, with locals living a more traditional way of life; the frenetic pace of the city gives way to a more slow-paced, agricultural-based lifestyle. Houses are simple, there's more space and less of the modern conveniences. Jungles, rivers, bamboo huts and teak houses are more commonly seen here, and birds and other animal life are more abundant.
History and government
Early history
Communities based on agriculture (such as rice growing) inhabited Siam (Thailand) as early as the 6th century. In the following centuries, Siam came under the influence of the Khmer, Dvaravati and Malay cultures, with some temples and monuments in modern-day Thailand showing evidence of this influence. In the 13th century, the city of Sukhothai in northern Thailand became an important capital. The ruins of the Sukhothai Historical Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site) feature remnants of the royal palace, temples and other buildings and highlight the artistic and architectural features of the era.
Ayutthaya rose to prominence as the new capital in the 14th century and was considered a powerhouse of South East Asia as one of the most important centres of trade in the world. Enduring many battles, invasions, overthrows and coups, Ayutthaya's far-reaching trade with other regions ensured a flourishing influence of art, weaponry, religion and cuisine. Much wealth was generated by this enormous empire, with grand palaces, ornate buildings and huge temples featured throughout the city. All this came to an end when the Burmese invaded in the 18th century, bringing the kingdom to ruin and resulting in the loss of many artistic and cultural treasures. Despite this, the ruins of the city are still standing, have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and are a great day trip from Bangkok.
See the sights of ancient and recent Thai history during a 3 day River Kwai and Ancient Thai Kingdoms tour.
Recent history
Thonburi was established as the capital of Siam by General Taksin in the late 18th century, yet this didn't last long, with Taksim being deposed and executed not long after. Bangkok was then named capital by General Chakri, who became Rama I - the first king of the Rama Dynasty.
Over the years, Siam (Thailand) remained the only South East Asian country to remain free from European colonisation. In 1932, the Siamese Revolution resulted in a constitutional monarchy being formed, and in 1941, Thailand invaded French Indochina, overpowered the French and claimed Laos.
In the last thirty years, Thailand has seen political power change hands many times, often due to coups, revolutions and protests. Despite this, Thailand’s economy continues to grow due to its strong tourist industry. Enduring all this, the much-loved King Rama IX has reigned as the Head of State since 1946 - claiming the title of the longest-reigning monarch in the world and providing Thai people with a stable figure to rely upon.
Top 10 iconic Thai landscapes
1. Bangkok
Whether you're travelling by tuk-tuk through the crazy streets, cycling along backroads or taking a longtail through the khlongs, the journey in Bangkok is definitely half the fun. Drop into the stunning Grand Palace, see the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho and wind your way through floating markets.
Start and finish an incredible 30 day South East Asia Loop in the exciting epicentre that is Bangkok.
2. Chiang Mai
This northern capital is overflowing with experiences. Temple-hop through some - or all - of its 300 temples, take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine and explore the Night Bazaar for delicious food, designer goods and a foot massage to die for.
Experience the magic of Chiang Mai on our 4 day Chiang Mai Adventure
3. Ko Tao
If you ever wondered what was below Thailand's turquoise waters, this is the place to look. Learn to dive or pull on snorkelling gear to discover the fish and reefs that call this coastline home. Shark Island is close by for adrenaline seekers.
Choose your Ko Tao adventure on a 10 day Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Ko Samui tour.
4. Hilltribe Country
Thailand's north is home to many of the country's minority groups. A hike along buffalo tracks will take you through colourful H'mong, Karen and Lisu villages. Spend a night as their guest for a unique insight into their life.
Spend a night as their guest for a unique insight into their life on our 5 day Thailand Hilltribe Trek.
5. Ayuthaya
Modern meets ancient in Ayuthaya. The current city intertwines itself with the remnants of what was once one of Asia's great capitals. Walk the streets in search of clues to its imperial past and hire a bike to ride through the countryside, exploring the area's ruins.
Enjoy this historical park for yourself during a 10 day Highlights of Thailand tour.
6. Sukhothai
This former capital is a history buff's heaven. Nicknamed the 'Dawn of Happiness', Sukhothai still recalls Siam's golden age with its superb statues, marvellous monuments and lotus flowers in full bloom. A trip to the night market is a real eye-opener; try everything from fried rice to fried bugs.
Stop by Sukhothai on our 8 day Explore Northern Thailand adventure.
7. Krabi
The waters surrounding Krabi are dotted with hundreds of limestone karst islands. Kayakers and rock climbers will love exploring them, while others can travel to the nearby floating villages or just relax on one of the region's perfect beaches.
We've made sure to stop by Krabi on our incredible 28 day Bangkok to Bali adventure - you'll thank us later.
8. Golden Triangle
The area where the Thai, Laotian and Burmese borders meet has long been associated with colourful cultures and illicit opium trade. The opium may have gone but the colour hasn't and the markets offer all sorts of amazing local handicrafts.
Set your sights on this incredible part of the world on a 3 days Chiang Mai and Golden Triangle.
9. Khao Sok National Park
For a real jungle experience, spend a couple of days in Khao Sok National Park. Thick rainforests, limestone cliffs, waterfalls and mountains make a wild playground.
Hike, swim, explore caves and sleep to the sounds of exotic birds and animals during our 8 days Essential Southern Thailand trip.
10. Kanchanaburi
This tranquil town is the jumping-off point for visits to the infamous Hell Fire Pass and River Kwai. Be sure to take a ride along the tracks of the Death Railway and reflect on the atrocities of war at the Jeath War Museum.
Take a reflective walk through the history of Kanchanaburi on a 15 day Beautiful Northern Thailand tour.
Top places to visit in Thailand
1. Chiang Mai
Visit a park that provides a sanctuary for elephants – many of which have been rescued from the cruel practices of the elephant riding industry.
Add our 3 day Chiang Mai & Elephant Experience to your Thailand trip to learn about these incredible animals.
2. Krabi
Spot schools of colourful tropical fish as you snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Ao Nang.
Finish off a 9 day Cycle Southern Thailand tour on the stunning limestone cliff beaches of Krabi.
3. Phuket
Dive into the warm waters of Phuket and experience a little bit of paradise.
Spend a couple of days exploring all that Phuket has to offer on a 9 day Thailand Beaches: Bangkok to Phuket adventure.
4. Erawan National Park
Cool off in the waters of Erawan National Park or simply stand back and watch the idyllic waterfalls.
Enjoy the beauty of Erawan National Park on our 12 day Premium Northern Thailand tour.
5. Bangkok
Follow the scent of chilli and lemongrass to one of Bangkok’s many delicious food markets.
This city is the perfect place to start an incredible 22 day Epic Bangkok to Singapore tour.
6. Sukhothai
Pedal around ancient temples and ruins built as early as the 13th century at the World Heritage-listed Sukhothai Historic Park.
Walk through one of Thailand's first capital cities on our 17 day Classic Thailand East Coast adventure.
7. Phang Nga Bay
Phang Nga Bay, is perhaps one of Thailand's most recognisable gems. Kayak around the green waters, admiring the sheer limestone karsts that jut dramatically out of the sea.
Coast through the must-see sights of Phang Nga Bay on our 8 day Phuket Sailing Adventure.
Shopping
Bustling street markets filled with colourful vendors selling an assortment of goods can be found in small villages and large towns throughout the country. Luxurious, multi-level shopping malls that rival those in European cities are increasingly popping up.
The Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok is perhaps the largest and most extensive market in the world. Here vendors sell everything you can think of, from ceramics to Thai silk to vintage clothing. Bartering is expected at markets and most small vendors. As a rule of thumb, if the price isn’t listed, it’s negotiable. But remember Thais appreciate friendliness and a sense of humour. The more aggressive you are in trying to get a deal, the less likely you are to get one.
Things to buy in Thailand
- Vibrant fabric cushions, tablecloths and hammocks
- Silver jewellery (Look for reputable stores)
- Handcrafted umbrellas or parasols
- Thai silk scarves, ties, wraps and clothing
- Colourful Celadon ceramics
- Tailor-made clothing
Festival and events
Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights)
During the 12th lunar month, people across the country gather around lakes, rivers and canals to symbolically let their worries float away in the most magical way – by releasing colourful lotus-shaped rafts holding candles, incense and flowers onto the water.
Yee Peng (or Yi Peng)
At the same time that Loy Krathong is taking place, Chiang Mai also celebrates Yee Peng. Religious events, cultural activities and street parades all mark this Buddhist tradition. But what makes this festival truly spectacular is the release of thousands of sky lanterns that illuminate the sky.
Songkran (Thai New Year)
What happens when New Year’s Day falls during the height of summer? It morphs into a giant water fight. Some towns celebrate just on the day (April 13), while others stretch it out for several days of concerts, ceremonies and other wet festivities.
Chiang Mai Flower Festival
Flowers are used in ways you never thought imaginable at this colourful three-day event in February. Come for the parade of impressive floral floats, and stay for the tasty Thai street food, music and performances.
Similar destinations
Thinking about travelling to Thailand but still browsing other destinations? Or, maybe you've already travelled and looking for somewhere similar? Check out tours to neighbouring locations:
Vietnam
Cambodia
Indonesia
Still keen on Thailand?
We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or see how we can help you get from A to B.
We have tours departing from a variety of locations around Thailand. The option below may be of interest:
Further reading
Title | Author |
---|---|
Touch the Dragon | Karen Connelly |
Fieldwork | Mischa Berlinski |
Bangkok 8 | John Burdett |
Sightseeing | Rattawut Lapcharoensap |
Siam Becomes Thailand: A Story of Intrigue | Judith A Stowe |
Thailand travel FAQs
Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards
From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).
However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.
Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.
Travellers with passports from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States are exempt from a tourist visa if they are travelling for 30 days or less. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry to Thailand.
If you plan on staying longer as a tourist, or if you are travelling for a reason such as study or business, you may need a visa.
The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.
Last updated: 02/11/2023
Tipping isn’t customary in Thailand, but feel free to leave restaurants, drivers or service workers a small tip if the service has been particularly good. It’s always appreciated.
The Internet can be accessed at hotels and internet cafes in large cities and tourist areas but is limited in rural and remote areas.
Mobile phone coverage is generally good in Thailand’s urban areas, but may not be available on some of the islands and in more remote areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.
Squat toilets are most common in Thailand, although western-style flushable toilets can be found in larger hotels and some tourist areas. It’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser, as they are not always provided.
- A market fruit shake = 25 THB
- Bottle of local beer = 100 THB
- Market stall meal = 40 – 100 THB
- Sit-down dinner at a nice restaurant = 350 – 1000 THB
Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Thailand. Avoid drinks with ice and make sure to peel fruit before eating it. Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Your leader or hotel can tell you where to find filtered water.
Credit cards are usually accepted by hotels, large retailers and tourist sites but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors and family-run restaurants in rural areas. Market stalls and street vendors will not accept credit cards. Always carry enough cash for smaller purchases in case credit cards are not an option.
ATMs are widely available in larger cities but are less common in small villages or rural areas. Make sure you have enough cash before leaving urban areas.
1 Jan: New Year’s Day
26 Feb Makha Bucha Day
8 Apr: Chakri Day
16 Apr: Songkran Festival (Thai New Year)
1 May: Labour Day
6 May: H.M. King's Coronation
22 May: Visakha Bucha Day
3 Jun: Queen Suthida's Birthday
29 July: King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday
22 July: Buddhist Lent Day
12 Aug: Queen’s Birthday
14 Oct: Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol
23 Oct: Chulalongkorn Day
5 Dec: King’s Birthday
10 Dec: Constitution Day
31 Dec: New Year’s Eve
Please note: Thai public holidays may vary
No vaccines are required in order to enter Thailand but some are recommended for protection against disease. Visit your doctor or travel clinic for advice and make sure to schedule vaccinations 4-6 weeks before your departure date, as some require time to become effective.
As a whole, Thailand is a hassle-free destination for LGBTQI travellers. Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket all have fairly prominent gay scenes. Be aware that Thais typically do not engage in public displays of affection, regardless of sexual orientation.
For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.
Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there!
Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.
Depending on which trip you're on while in Thailand, you may find yourself travelling by Songthaew.
Get to know the locals as you share a ride in these converted pick-up trucks. Snagging a seat on the ‘two benches’ (the literal meaning of songthaew) is a popular way of getting around across South East Asia.
See Thailand from the ground level on a Saamlaw, the three-wheeled wonder. Sometimes motorized but usually pedal-powered by a local, it’s a fun way to get from A to B or to see the sights of a new city.
Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.
When travelling with us in Thailand you may find yourself staying in a Homestay.
Experience friendly Thai hospitality while staying with a local family living a traditional way of life. Make new friends, pick up some local lingo and leave smiling.
The ultimate room with a view - spend the night on a floating bamboo raft house. Enjoy the seclusion, soak up the serenity and leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Thailand directly support our foundation partner, EcoThailand Foundation.
EcoThailand Foundation is on a mission to educate and empower local communities, on the tourist Islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Paluay, about environmental issues like climate change, waste management, nature appreciation, conservation and sustainable lifestyles. Donations from our trips help EcoThailand's environmental guardianship education program for children in local state schools.
Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:
From Australia?
Go to: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
From Canada?
Go to: https://travel.gc.ca/
From the UK?
Go to: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
From New Zealand?
Go to: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
From the US?
Go to: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html
The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.