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Country Facts

Capital

Bangkok

Size

513,120 km2 (198,120 sq mi)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Population

71,668,011

Currency

Thai Baht

Thailand

Thailand

Thailand is one of Southeast Asia’s most popular travel destinations, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cities. It offers a diverse range of experiences for every kind of traveler, from historical temples to beautiful beaches, bustling markets to tranquil rural areas, and exciting nightlife to serene wellness retreats. Thailand is an ideal destination for travelers seeking variety of travel experiences. From the buzz of Bangkok to the tranquility of its islands, Thailand provides something for everyone.

Reasons to visit Thailand:

Key Highlights:

  • Bangkok: Thailand’s capital, a vibrant city blending tradition and modernity, famous for its Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha), and its floating markets. The bustling city is also known for its street food and lively nightlife.
  • Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai: In the mountainous north, these cities are renowned for their ancient temples, traditional culture, and the surrounding natural landscapes. Chiang Rai is home to the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), while Chiang Mai offers experiences like hill tribe villages and elephant sanctuaries.
  • Ayutthaya & Sukhothai: Both are UNESCO World Heritage sites and offer glimpses into Thailand’s ancient kingdoms with their ruins, temples, and historical monuments.
  • Beaches and Islands: Thailand boasts world-famous beach destinations like Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Tao. These islands offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, water sports, diving, and relaxation.
  • Cultural Experiences: Visitors can immerse themselves in Thai culture through festivals like Songkran (Thai New Year) and Loy Krathong, Thai cooking classes, and traditional Thai massages.
  • Adventure & Nature: Thailand is a great place for adventure lovers, offering trekking in the northern jungles, rock climbing in Krabi, scuba diving in the Andaman Sea, and national parks like Khao Yai and Doi Inthanon for wildlife and hiking.
  • Shopping & Night Markets: From high-end shopping malls in Bangkok to vibrant night markets in places like Chiang Mai and Phuket, Thailand is a haven for shopping enthusiasts. You’ll find everything from local handicrafts to international brands.
  • Wellness & Spas: Thailand is a leading destination for wellness tourism, offering luxurious spas, meditation retreats, and yoga programs, especially in places like Chiang Mai and the island of Koh Samui.

Preparing For A Trip To Thailand?

Visa Information / Entry requirements to Thailand

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Thailand set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Thai Embassy in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Thailand.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Thailand, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and have at least 1 blank page.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Dual nationals

If you’re a dual national, it is best to leave Thailand on the same passport you used to enter – this will avoid problems at immigration.

Visa requirements

You can visit Thailand for a period of 60 days for the purpose of tourism, business engagements, and urgent or ad-hoc work. This visa category can be extended for another period not exceeding 30 days.

You can also apply in advance for a multiple-entry visa for up to 60 days.

For work, study or other reasons, you need a visa before you travel.

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Tourism Health Information – Thailand

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 191 and ask for an ambulance.

Local number: 1669

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

See what health risks you’ll face in Thailand, including:

  • Zika virus
  • malaria and dengue

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Thailand. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

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Weather & When To Go To Thailand

Thailand’s weather is typically tropical, with three main seasons: the hot season, the cool season, and the rainy season. The climate varies depending on the region, but generally, the best time to visit is during the cool season when the weather is most comfortable for outdoor activities.

Seasons in Thailand:

  1. Cool Season (November – February):
    • Best Time to Visit: The weather is pleasant and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It’s ideal for sightseeing, beach vacations, and outdoor activities.
    • Popular Destinations: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and the islands are all great during this time, with cooler temperatures in the north and sunny skies in the south.
  2. Hot Season (March – May):
    • Temperature: This is the hottest time of the year, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). Coastal areas can be more tolerable due to sea breezes.
    • Activities: It’s a great time for beach destinations like Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui, where you can cool off in the ocean. However, inland destinations may feel uncomfortably hot for sightseeing.
    • Festivals: Songkran, Thailand’s water festival, is celebrated in April and is one of the country’s most vibrant events.
  3. Rainy Season (June – October):
    • Weather: Frequent rain showers, with heavy downpours typically in the afternoon. It’s still warm, with temperatures around 24°C to 33°C (75°F to 91°F).
    • Travel Considerations: While it’s the least popular time to visit due to potential flooding, the countryside becomes lush and green, making it a good time for exploring nature. Rain can be less intense in some regions like the Gulf of Thailand islands (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan).
    • Off-Peak Benefits: Fewer tourists and lower prices for accommodation and tours.

Regional Variations:

  • Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai): Cool season offers pleasant weather for trekking and cultural tours. The rainy season may bring scenic views of rice paddies but trekking paths can be muddy.
  • Southern Thailand (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui): The rainy season varies on the coasts. The Andaman Coast (Phuket, Krabi) has more rain from May to October, while the Gulf Coast (Koh Samui) sees rain from October to December.

Overall Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Thailand is during the cool season from November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier, making it ideal for both beach vacations and cultural sightseeing throughout the country.

Read More On Visas

Tailor-Made Holidays

At Earth Trip we will design and plan your personalised itinerary according to the exact requirements of your trip. Whether you prefer to be on a mountaintop or under a waterfall; wake up in the middle of a jungle or have a picnic with locals in the tea plantations – we select the accommodation and activities in order to suit not only your preferences, but also your budget.

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