Planning your first Thailand trip from Pune but overwhelmed by destination choices? The Bangkok-Pattaya combination remains the most popular Thailand package for Indian families—and for good reason. This dynamic duo delivers everything first-time international travelers want: iconic temples, vibrant markets, pristine beaches, world-class shows, and kid-friendly activities, all within a manageable 5-day timeframe and budget.
Within just 5 hours 30 minutes of flying from Mumbai/Pune, you’ll experience Thailand’s bustling capital city and its premier beach resort destination, both offering excellent vegetarian food, easy navigation, and memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, school-age kids, or teenagers, this itinerary combines culture, adventure, relaxation, and entertainment without the stress of excessive travel between cities.
This complete guide breaks down exactly what to expect, where to stay, what to eat, and how much to budget for a realistic Bangkok-Pattaya family vacation in 2026.
Why Bangkok + Pattaya is Perfect for First-Time Thailand Travelers
Close Proximity = Maximum Sightseeing, Minimum Travel
Bangkok and Pattaya sit just 150 kilometers apart—a comfortable 2-hour drive on excellent highways. This proximity means you spend more time experiencing Thailand and less time in transit, crucial when traveling with children or elderly parents. Unlike island-hopping itineraries requiring multiple flights and ferries, this combination offers seamless ground transportation.
Best of Both Worlds
Bangkok delivers: Grand temples showcasing Thailand’s Buddhist heritage, sprawling markets perfect for shopping and street food exploration, modern shopping malls with international brands, family attractions like Safari World and Sea Life Ocean World, and the famous Chao Phraya River cruise experience.
Pattaya provides: Beach relaxation on Thailand’s eastern seaboard, Coral Island day trips with water sports and snorkeling, world-famous cultural shows like Alcazar Cabaret, family-friendly attractions including Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, and a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Bangkok’s intensity.
Together, they create the perfect balance—urban energy and cultural depth in Bangkok, followed by beach relaxation and entertainment in Pattaya.
Budget-Friendly Without Compromising Experience
The Bangkok-Pattaya circuit offers exceptional value compared to other Southeast Asian combinations. Direct flights from Mumbai/Pune cost ₹15,000-₹28,000 per person during regular season, hotels range from budget (₹2,000/night) to mid-range (₹5,000/night), and attractions offer family packages making it affordable for families of four.
Infrastructure Built for Tourists
Both cities have decades of experience hosting international tourists, especially Indian families. You’ll find English widely spoken, Indian restaurants on every major street, currency exchange offices everywhere, organized tour operators, and standardized pricing for most attractions—removing the anxiety of navigating unfamiliar destinations.
Visa-Free Entry
Thailand offers visa-free entry for Indians for 15-30 days (rules updated in 2026), eliminating the stress and cost of visa applications. Simply carry your passport (valid 6 months), return flight tickets, hotel bookings, and sufficient cash (₹20,000 equivalent per person recommended).
Complete 5-Day Bangkok-Pattaya Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Bangkok → Transfer to Pattaya
Morning/Afternoon:
- Arrive at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Bangkok (most flights from India land morning/early afternoon)
- Complete immigration (typically 30-60 minutes)
- Meet your tour representative at arrival terminal
- Private transfer to Pattaya (2-2.5 hours via highway)
Evening:
- Check into your Pattaya hotel (around 4-5 PM)
- Freshen up and rest after travel
- Evening at leisure: explore hotel facilities (pool, kids’ play area)
- Walk to nearby Beach Road for first glimpse of Pattaya coastline
- Dinner at hotel or nearby Indian restaurant (Pattaya has 20+ pure veg Indian restaurants)
Overnight: Pattaya
Budget Tips:
- Airport to Pattaya shared transfer (SIC basis): ₹800-1,200 per person
- Private transfer (recommended with kids): ₹3,500-5,000 for family sedan/SUV
- Avoid airport taxis without booking (charge 2-3x normal rates)
Day 2: Pattaya – Coral Island Tour with Lunch
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:30 PM):
- Breakfast at hotel (most packages include daily breakfast)
- Pickup from hotel around 8:30-9:00 AM for Coral Island tour
- Transfer to Pattaya pier (10-15 minutes)
- Speedboat ride to Coral Island (Koh Larn) – 45 minutes, kids love the speed and sea spray!
- Arrive at pristine white-sand beaches with crystal-clear turquoise water
On Coral Island (9:30 AM – 2:00 PM):
Free Activities Included:
- Beach time and swimming in shallow, calm waters (perfect for kids)
- Lounging on beach chairs under umbrellas
- Basic snorkeling gear often provided (verify with tour operator)
Optional Paid Water Activities:
- Parasailing: ₹2,000-2,500 per person (10-15 minutes, ages 10+, tandem with parent possible)
- Banana Boat Ride: ₹800-1,200 per person (15 minutes, family-friendly, ages 5+)
- Jet Ski: ₹2,500-3,500 for 30 minutes (ages 16+ to drive, younger kids can ride with parent)
- Sea Walking: ₹3,500-4,500 per person (20 minutes underwater walking with helmet, ages 10+, non-swimmers okay)
- Snorkeling with guide: ₹500-800 per person (see colorful tropical fish, coral reefs)
- Glass Bottom Boat: ₹600-1,000 per person (perfect for toddlers and non-swimmers)
Lunch:
- Included buffet lunch at beachside restaurant (Indian vegetarian options usually available—confirm beforehand)
- Timing: 12:30-1:30 PM
Afternoon:
- Return speedboat to Pattaya pier around 2:30 PM
- Transfer back to hotel by 3:00-3:30 PM
- Rest time at hotel (kids nap, parents relax by pool)
Evening (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM):
- Alcazar Cabaret Show – Pattaya’s world-famous transgender cabaret featuring elaborate costumes, Broadway-style performances, and family-friendly entertainment
- Show timings: Usually 6:00 PM, 7:30 PM, and 9:00 PM slots
- Duration: 70-80 minutes
- Cost: ₹1,200-1,800 per adult, ₹800-1,200 per child (3-12 years)
- Pickup and drop from hotel typically included with tour packages
- Kids love: Glittering costumes, dance performances, Bollywood numbers included in show
Dinner: After show, around 9:00 PM at Indian restaurant near Walking Street area
Overnight: Pattaya
Day 2 Total Activity Costs (Family of 4):
- Coral Island tour with lunch: ₹6,000-8,000 (family of 4, package rate)
- Optional water activities: ₹3,000-8,000 depending on choices
- Alcazar Show: ₹4,000-6,000 (family of 4)
- Daily total: ₹13,000-22,000
Day 3: Pattaya – Nong Nooch Village & Evening at Leisure
Morning (8:30 AM – 1:00 PM):
- Breakfast at hotel
- Pickup around 9:00 AM for Nong Nooch Tropical Garden excursion
- 30-minute drive to the garden (20 km south of Pattaya city)
At Nong Nooch Village (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM):
This 600-acre botanical garden combines nature, culture, and entertainment—a perfect family attraction.
Highlights:
1. Cultural Shows (11:00 AM & 3:00 PM daily):
- Traditional Thai dance performances depicting Thai wedding ceremonies
- Muay Thai (Thai kickboxing) demonstration with live commentary
- Sword fighting and stick combat displays
- Duration: 45 minutes
2. Elephant Show (10:00 AM & 2:00 PM daily):
- Trained elephants playing football, painting pictures, dancing
- Educational conservation messages
- Photo opportunities with elephants (₹300-500)
- Duration: 30 minutes
3. Garden Exploration:
- French garden with geometric designs
- Cactus and succulent garden (500+ species)
- Orchid gardens with vibrant displays
- Topiary garden with shaped plants
- Kids’ train ride around gardens (₹200 per person, 20 minutes)
4. Optional Activities:
- Elephant riding (₹1,500 per person, 15 minutes)—note ethical concerns, many families skip
- Pedal boat in garden lake (₹300 per boat, 30 minutes)
Entry Cost:
- Adults: ₹1,800-2,200 per person (includes cultural show and elephant show)
- Children (3-12 years): ₹1,200-1,500
- Transport from hotel: ₹500-800 per person return (SIC basis)
Lunch: At Nong Nooch on-site restaurant (₹400-700 per person, vegetarian available) or return to Pattaya for lunch
Afternoon (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM):
- Return to hotel by 2:00-2:30 PM
- Free time: relax at hotel pool, nap, explore nearby shopping
- Optional: Visit nearby Cartoon Network Amazone Water Park (₹2,500 per person, world-class slides and lazy river—if kids have energy!)
Evening:
- Explore Pattaya Walking Street (family-friendly during early evening hours before 8 PM)
- Street food tasting (mango sticky rice, pad thai, fresh fruit shakes)
- Shopping for souvenirs (clothes, handicrafts, toys)
- Dinner at Indian restaurant (recommendations: Punjab Grill, Flavor of India, or any restaurant at Royal Garden Plaza)
Overnight: Pattaya
Day 3 Total Activity Costs (Family of 4):
- Nong Nooch Village: ₹6,000-8,000 including transport
- Optional activities: ₹2,000-4,000
- Daily total: ₹8,000-12,000
Day 4: Pattaya → Bangkok – City Tour & Shopping
Morning (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM):
- Breakfast and hotel checkout
- Private transfer from Pattaya to Bangkok (2 hours)
- Arrive Bangkok around 11:00 AM
- Check into Bangkok hotel
- Freshen up
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 6:00 PM):
1. Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha Temple):
- 46-meter-long golden reclining Buddha statue—absolutely stunning!
- 1,000+ Buddha images throughout temple complex
- Traditional Thai massage school on premises (optional 1-hour massage for parents: ₹800-1,200)
- Entry: ₹300 per adult, ₹150 per child
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Kids love: The enormous golden Buddha and fish-feeding ponds
2. Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of Emerald Buddha):
- Thailand’s most sacred temple housing Emerald Buddha carved from single jade block
- Ornate golden architecture, intricate murals, guardian demons
- Former royal residence with stunning throne halls
- Entry: ₹1,500 per adult, ₹1,000 per child (combo ticket)
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered (sarongs available for rent ₹200)
- Kids love: Golden everything, photo opportunities
3. Gems Gallery Visit:
- Thailand’s largest jewelry showroom
- No obligation to buy—educational tour about Thai gemstones
- Air-conditioned respite from heat
- Duration: 30-45 minutes
Late Afternoon Shopping (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM):
- MBK Center or Platinum Fashion Mall for affordable shopping (clothes, toys, electronics, souvenirs)
- OR CentralWorld for international brands and family dining options
Evening (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM):
- Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise – highlights of Bangkok
- Board around 7:00-7:30 PM at River City Pier
- Cruise along Chao Phraya River passing illuminated temples and landmarks
- International buffet dinner with vegetarian options (Indian curries usually included)
- Live music and cultural performances onboard
- Duration: 2 hours
- Cost: ₹2,500-3,500 per adult, ₹1,500-2,500 per child (3-12 years)
- Return to hotel around 10:00 PM
Overnight: Bangkok
Day 4 Total Activity Costs (Family of 4):
- Temple entry fees: ₹3,500-4,500
- City tour guide: ₹2,000-3,000 (often included in packages)
- Dinner cruise: ₹8,000-12,000 (family of 4)
- Daily total: ₹13,500-19,500
Day 5: Bangkok – SEA LIFE Ocean World & Departure
Morning (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM):
- Breakfast at hotel
- Visit SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World at Siam Paragon shopping mall (largest aquarium in Southeast Asia)
Highlights:
1. Ocean Tunnel: 270-degree underwater viewing tunnel with sharks, rays, giant fish swimming overhead
2. Penguin Ice Playground: Antarctic penguin exhibit with gentoo penguins, African penguins in climate-controlled habitat
3. Rainforest Adventure: Tropical creatures including dart frogs, otters, lizards, snakes in jungle-themed exhibits
4. Shark Walk: Glass-floored platform walking above shark tank (brave kids love it!)
5. Rocky Shore: Touch pools with starfish, sea cucumbers, horseshoe crabs—kids can safely touch marine life under supervision
Interactive Experiences:
- Glass-bottom boat ride through main tank (₹500 extra per person)
- Feeding shows (sharks, penguins, otters) at scheduled times
- 4D cinema experience (₹300-400 per person)
Entry Cost:
- Adults: ₹2,200-2,800 per person
- Children (3-12 years): ₹1,800-2,200
- Family packages: ₹7,000-9,000 (2 adults + 2 kids)
- Duration: 2-3 hours
Late Morning Shopping (11:30 AM – 1:00 PM):
- Explore Siam Paragon mall (connected to SEA LIFE)
- Last-minute souvenir shopping, Thai snacks, duty-free chocolates
- Food court lunch (₹300-500 per person, excellent variety including Indian options)
Afternoon (1:30 PM onwards):
- Return to hotel, checkout (most hotels allow 12:00 PM checkout—request late checkout if flight is evening)
- Transfer to Suvarnabhumi Airport (30-60 minutes depending on traffic)
- Recommended arrival: 3 hours before international flight
- Evening flight back to Mumbai/Pune (most India flights depart 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
Day 5 Total Activity Costs (Family of 4):
- SEA LIFE Ocean World: ₹7,000-9,000
- Meals and shopping: ₹2,000-4,000
- Airport transfer: ₹800-1,500
- Daily total: ₹9,800-14,500
Kid-Friendly Activities in Both Cities
Best for Toddlers (2-5 Years)
Bangkok:
- SEA LIFE Ocean World: Underwater tunnels mesmerize young children, penguin exhibit
- Children’s Discovery Museum: Hands-on interactive exhibits, water play area
- Lumphini Park: Paddle boats, playground, monitor lizards (kids safely watch from distance)
- Shopping mall play areas: Free or low-cost play zones in Siam Paragon, CentralWorld
Pattaya:
- Coral Island beaches: Shallow water, sandcastle building, gentle waves
- Nong Nooch Garden train ride: Low-key exploration perfect for short attention spans
- Hotel pools: Most family hotels have kids’ pools with slides
Best for School Kids (6-10 Years)
Bangkok:
- Safari World: Drive-through safari with giraffes, zebras, lions; marine park with dolphin shows (₹2,500 per person, full day)
- Madame Tussauds Bangkok: Wax figures of celebrities, superheroes, interactive photo ops (₹2,000 per adult, ₹1,500 per child)
- Dinner cruise: Kids love boat rides and city lights
Pattaya:
- Coral Island water sports: Banana boat, parasailing, snorkeling—supervised adventures
- Alcazar Show: Vibrant performances hold attention
- Cartoon Network Amazone Water Park: Slides, wave pool, lazy river themed around favorite cartoons (₹2,500 per person)
Best for Tweens/Teens (11-15 Years)
Bangkok:
- Shopping at Chatuchak Weekend Market: 15,000 stalls, street fashion, vintage finds, haggling practice (Saturdays/Sundays only)
- Street food tours: Trying exotic fruits, insects (for brave teens), Thai desserts
- Rooftop bars with family sections: Sky Bar views (soft drinks for kids), Instagrammable skyline photos
Pattaya:
- Jet skiing: Independent water adventure with safety supervision
- Sea walking: Underwater helmet walk—unique experience they’ll tell friends about
- Walking Street exploration: Bright lights, street performers, shopping (during early evening, family-safe hours)
Where to Stay: Family Hotels
Bangkok Hotels
Budget-Friendly (₹2,000-₹4,000 per night):
- Ibis Bangkok Siam: Pratunam area, walking distance to shopping, BTS Skytrain nearby
- Red Planet Bangkok Asoke: Clean, modern, near BTS for easy transport
- Baiyoke Sky Hotel: Tallest hotel, rooftop observation deck (kids love views)
Mid-Range (₹4,000-₹8,000 per night):
- Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20: Family rooms, rooftop pool, breakfast buffet with Indian options
- Grand Mercure Bangkok Fortune: Pratunam location, shopping nearby, spacious rooms
- Chatrium Hotel Riverside: River views, kids’ club, shuttle boat to city center
Premium (₹8,000+ per night):
- Shangri-La Bangkok: Riverside luxury, kids’ club, babysitting services
- Centara Grand at CentralWorld: Connected to mega-mall, rooftop pool, central location
Recommended Areas:
- Pratunam/Siam: Central shopping area, walking distance to malls, BTS access
- Sukhumvit: Expat neighborhood, international restaurants, BTS Skytrain for easy movement
- Riverside: Peaceful, shuttle boats to attractions, scenic views
Pattaya Hotels
Budget-Friendly (₹1,500-₹3,500 per night):
- Flipper House Hotel: 500m from beach, rooftop pool, budget-friendly
- Golden Sea Pattaya Hotel: Beach Road location, walking distance to everything
- Mike Garden Resort: Family rooms, pool, affordable
Mid-Range (₹3,500-₹7,000 per night):
- Holiday Inn Pattaya: Beach Road, kids eat free program, pool with slides
- Centara Pattaya Hotel: Beachfront, multiple pools, kids’ club
- A-One The Royal Cruise Hotel: Unique cruise ship design (kids love the theme!)
Premium (₹7,000+ per night):
- Hilton Pattaya: 34th floor infinity pool with ocean views, kids’ club, breakfast buffet
- Dusit Thani Pattaya: Clifftop location, multiple pools, babysitting available
Recommended Areas:
- Beach Road (North Pattaya): Family-friendly, restaurants nearby, calmer than South Pattaya
- Jomtien Beach: Quieter beach area, more space, family resorts concentrated here
- Central Pattaya: Easy access to everything, Walking Street nearby (but can be noisy at night)
Hotel Booking Tips:
- Always book “family room” or “connecting rooms” for families with multiple kids
- Verify breakfast included (saves ₹500-800 per person daily)
- Check if kids stay free (many hotels allow 1-2 kids under 12 free with parents)
- Request ground floor or lower floors if traveling with toddlers (elevator waits add up!)
Food Guide for Vegetarians
Pure Vegetarian Restaurants
Bangkok:
- Saras Indian Restaurant (Sukhumvit): North and South Indian, Jain options, ₹400-700 per person
- Punjab Grill (Radisson Blu): Upscale North Indian, ₹800-1,200 per person
- Govinda (Italian-Thai Tower): ISKCON-run pure veg, ₹200-400 per person
- Broccoli Revolution (Sukhumvit): Vegan Thai and Western, ₹300-600 per person
Pattaya:
- Flavor of India (Second Road): Pure veg, Gujarati thalis, ₹300-500 per person
- Indian By Nature (Central Pattaya): North Indian, tandoor specialties, ₹400-700 per person
- Cabbages & Condoms (Beach Road): Thai vegetarian, unique restaurant with social message, ₹400-600 per person
Thai Vegetarian Dishes to Try
Safe Vegetarian Options:
- Pad Thai Jay: Vegetarian pad Thai (specify “no fish sauce, no shrimp”)—₹150-250
- Tom Yum Het: Spicy mushroom soup—₹180-300
- Pad Pak Ruam Mit: Stir-fried mixed vegetables with garlic—₹120-200
- Khao Pad Jay: Vegetarian fried rice—₹150-250
- Spring Rolls (Poh Pia Tod): Vegetable spring rolls—₹100-180
- Mango Sticky Rice: Dessert (always veg!)—₹120-180
- Fresh Fruit Shakes: Mango, watermelon, coconut—₹80-150
Street Food Tips for Vegetarians
How to Communicate:
- Learn these phrases:
- “Jay” (pronounced “jay”) = vegetarian/vegan
- “Mai sai nam pla” = no fish sauce
- “Mai sai gung” = no shrimp
- “Gin jay” = I eat only vegetarian
Safest Street Foods:
- Fresh fruit (already cut mango, pineapple, watermelon)—₹50-80
- Coconut ice cream—₹80-120
- Corn on the cob (grilled)—₹40-60
- Mango sticky rice from carts—₹100-150
Foods to Avoid:
- Papaya salad (usually contains fish sauce and dried shrimp)
- Most noodle soups (broth typically has fish/meat)
- Fried items (might be cooked in same oil as meat)
Restaurant Budget (Family of 4, Per Day)
- Budget (Street food + basic restaurants): ₹1,500-2,500
- Mid-range (Mix of Indian and Thai restaurants): ₹3,000-5,000
- Premium (Hotel restaurants, upscale dining): ₹6,000-10,000
Money-Saving Tips:
- Hotel breakfast included saves ₹500-800 per person
- Mall food courts offer excellent variety (₹200-400 per person, clean, air-conditioned)
- 7-Eleven stores have ready-to-eat sandwiches, fruits, snacks (₹50-150 items)
- Share dishes (Thai portions generous—1 dish feeds 2 people easily)
Complete Package Prices from Pune
What’s Typically Included in Packages
Standard Inclusions:
- Return flights Mumbai/Pune to Bangkok
- Airport transfers (Bangkok airport to Pattaya, Pattaya to Bangkok hotel, Bangkok hotel to airport)
- 4 nights accommodation (3 nights Pattaya + 1 night Bangkok or 2+2 split)
- Daily breakfast
- Coral Island tour with lunch (Pattaya)
- Alcazar Show (Pattaya)
- Nong Nooch Village tour (Pattaya)
- Bangkok city temple tour
- Chao Phraya dinner cruise (Bangkok)
- All transfers on SIC (shared) basis
Typical Exclusions:
- Lunch and dinner (except where mentioned)
- Visa fees (Thailand currently free for Indians, but verify before travel)
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities (water sports, Safari World, Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE)
- Tips and personal expenses
- Shopping
Budget Tier (₹40,000-₹50,000 per person)
Inclusions:
- Economy class flights (possible with advance booking or off-season)
- 3-star hotels (Ibis, Red Planet, or equivalent)
- Shared (SIC) transfers
- Basic package activities listed above
- Breakfast only
Best For:
- Budget-conscious families
- First-time travelers testing international waters
- Off-season travel (May-September)
Sample Package Breakdown (Per Person):
- Flights: ₹18,000-₹22,000
- Hotels (4 nights): ₹8,000-₹10,000
- Transfers & tours: ₹8,000-₹12,000
- Meals (basic): ₹6,000-₹8,000
- Total: ₹40,000-₹52,000
Family of 4 Total: ₹1,60,000-₹2,08,000
Standard Tier (₹50,000-₹60,000 per person)
Inclusions:
- Economy flights with better timings
- 4-star hotels (Novotel, Centara, Holiday Inn)
- Mix of private and shared transfers
- All basic activities plus SEA LIFE Bangkok
- Some lunches included
Best For:
- Most Indian families seeking comfort without overspending
- Families with young kids needing better hotel facilities
- Peak season travel (December-February)
Sample Package Breakdown (Per Person):
- Flights: ₹20,000-₹25,000
- Hotels (4 nights): ₹12,000-₹16,000
- Transfers & tours: ₹10,000-₹13,000
- Meals (mid-range): ₹8,000-₹10,000
- Total: ₹50,000-₹64,000
Family of 4 Total: ₹2,00,000-₹2,56,000
Premium Tier (₹60,000-₹70,000+ per person)
Inclusions:
- Premium economy or business class flights (if available)
- 5-star hotels (Shangri-La, Dusit Thani, Hilton)
- All private transfers
- Extended activities (Safari World added, private guides)
- Most meals included
- Babysitting services at hotels
Best For:
- Luxury-seeking families
- Multi-generational trips with elderly grandparents
- Special occasions (anniversaries during family trip)
Sample Package Breakdown (Per Person):
- Flights: ₹25,000-₹35,000
- Hotels (4 nights): ₹20,000-₹30,000
- Transfers & tours: ₹12,000-₹15,000
- Meals (premium): ₹10,000-₹15,000
- Total: ₹67,000-₹95,000
Family of 4 Total: ₹2,68,000-₹3,80,000
Hidden Costs to Budget For
Beyond package price, expect additional expenses:
Per Person Additional Costs:
- Travel insurance: ₹1,500-₹2,500 (mandatory, covers medical emergencies)
- Lunches/dinners not included: ₹4,000-₹8,000 (5 days)
- Optional activities: ₹3,000-₹10,000 (water sports, extra attractions)
- Shopping & souvenirs: ₹3,000-₹8,000 (clothes, toys, gifts)
- Tips: ₹1,000-₹2,000 (guides, drivers)
- Snacks & miscellaneous: ₹1,500-₹3,000
Additional Budget Per Person: ₹14,000-₹33,500
Realistic Total Trip Cost Per Person: ₹54,000-₹1,03,500
Family of 4 Realistic Total: ₹2,16,000-₹4,14,000
When to Book for Best Prices
90-120 Days in Advance:
- Flight prices lowest (save ₹3,000-₹8,000 per person)
- Better hotel room availability and rates
- More package customization options
Off-Season Travel (May-October):
- Monsoon season but mostly afternoon rains
- Flights ₹5,000-₹10,000 cheaper per person
- Hotels 30-40% discounted
- Fewer crowds at attractions
- Risk: Weather less predictable, some beach days might be rainy
Peak Season (December-February):
- Perfect weather (20-30°C, minimal rain)
- Higher prices (₹8,000-₹15,000 more per person)
- Crowded attractions, longer queues
- Book minimum 90 days ahead
Sweet Spot (November or March):
- Good weather, fewer crowds
- Moderate pricing
- Best value for money
Essential Travel Tips
Packing Checklist
Documents (Carry Photocopies + Originals):
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Return flight tickets
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Travel insurance papers
- Emergency contact numbers
- ₹20,000 equivalent in cash (required for immigration)
Clothing:
- Light cotton clothes (hot-humid weather)
- One light jacket (air-conditioned spaces freezing)
- Temple-appropriate clothes (long pants/skirts, covered shoulders for 1-2 days)
- Swimwear (2-3 sets, they take time to dry in humidity)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Flip-flops/sandals for beach
For Kids:
- Favorite snacks from home (comfort foods for picky eaters)
- Medications (fever, stomach upset, motion sickness)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+, reapply every 2 hours)
- Mosquito repellent (dengue prevention)
- Small backpack for day trips
- Entertainment (iPad loaded with movies for downtime)
Don’t Forget:
- Universal power adapter (Thailand uses Type A/B/C plugs—Indian plugs work but adapter safer)
- Portable charger (long sightseeing days drain phones)
- Ziplock bags (keep phones dry during water activities)
- Small first-aid kit
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Money Matters
Currency:
- Thai Baht (THB)
- Exchange rate (January 2026): ₹1 = ~0.42 THB or 1 THB = ~₹2.38
Where to Exchange:
- Bangkok Airport: Convenient but 2-3% worse rates
- Super Rich (orange/green): Best rates in Bangkok, branches near BTS stations
- Local exchange booths: Compare 2-3 shops, rates displayed clearly
- Avoid: Hotel exchanges (worst rates, 5-8% markup)
How Much Cash to Carry:
- Budget: ₹15,000-₹20,000 per person for 5 days (₹60,000-₹80,000 family of 4)
- Mid-range: ₹20,000-₹30,000 per person (₹80,000-₹1,20,000 family of 4)
Credit Cards:
- Widely accepted at malls, hotels, larger restaurants
- 3-5% foreign transaction fees apply
- Notify bank before travel (prevent card blocking)
- Carry Visa/Mastercard (Rupay limited acceptance)
ATMs:
- Available everywhere, ₹200-250 withdrawal fee per transaction
- Withdraw maximum amount (₹15,000-₹20,000) to minimize fees
- Use bank ATMs inside malls (safer than street ATMs)
Safety Tips for Families
General Safety:
- Bangkok and Pattaya very safe for tourists—violent crime rare
- Watch belongings in crowded markets (pickpockets target distracted tourists)
- Use hotel safes for passports, excess cash, jewelry
- Avoid unlicensed taxis (use Grab app or hotel-arranged transport)
With Kids:
- Wristbands with hotel name/phone for young kids (if separated in crowds)
- Teach kids to identify police (tourist police wear “Tourist Police” badges)
- Avoid Walking Street late night with family (after 10 PM becomes adult-oriented)
- Swimming supervision crucial (ocean currents stronger than they appear)
Food Safety:
- Bottled water only (₹15-30, available everywhere)
- Avoid ice in street drinks unless from clean vendors
- Busy food stalls safer (high turnover = fresh food)
- Carry anti-diarrheal medication (Imodium)
Health:
- Travel insurance mandatory (medical costs high without insurance)
- Dengue prevention: use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves at dawn/dusk
- Sunstroke prevention: hydrate constantly, seek shade 12-3 PM
- Pharmacies everywhere (7-Eleven stores stock basics)
Cultural Etiquette
Do’s:
- Remove shoes when entering temples, homes
- Dress modestly at temples (cover shoulders, knees)
- “Wai” greeting (hands together, slight bow) appreciated
- Respect Buddha images (never climb on, point feet toward)
- Smile (Thailand is “Land of Smiles”—locals appreciate friendly tourists)
Don’ts:
- Never touch anyone’s head (sacred in Thai culture)
- Don’t point feet at people or Buddha images (feet considered lowest/dirtiest)
- Avoid loud voices or angry displays (Thais value “cool heart”)
- Don’t criticize Thai royalty (illegal, serious offense)
The Bangkok-Pattaya combination delivers the perfect first international experience—cultural depth, beach relaxation, family entertainment, and manageable logistics, all within a realistic budget of ₹2,00,000-₹2,80,000 for a family of four.
With visa-free entry, excellent vegetarian food options, short flight time from Pune, and activities spanning toddlers to teenagers, this 5-day itinerary removes the anxiety of international travel while creating memories your family will treasure forever. Book 90 days in advance, pack light, carry cash, respect local culture, and prepare for your family’s Thailand adventure to become the trip everyone talks about for years.
Start planning today—your Bangkok-Pattaya journey awaits!
