Why do Indians enjoy travelling to Thailand so much? Well, this need not be a rhetorical question. The answer is simple, it's accessible, comes with an alluring budget, and offers you sun, sand and beach with a mix of shopping, nightlife and culture depending on the city you visit. However, in post-covid times, if feels like we have exhausted and are exhausted from this travel option. And if you share this feeling with us, here are the best alternatives to Thailand you can visit for a dose of fun sans the crowds and massage jokes.
Skip Thailand, Go To These 8 International Destinations Instead
Top Destinations Like Thailand
Malaysia
If you're looking for a destination like Thailand but with fewer crowds and just as much cultural charm and nightlife, Malaysia is a great alternative. From bustling street markets of Kuala Lumpur to tranquil beaches of Langkawi and lush rainforests of Borneo, Malaysia offers a diverse mix of city life, nature, and islands, just like Thailand. The food scene is great with a mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavours, while shopping and stays are often affordable. All in all, it offers a similar tropical vibe without the crowds.
Top Attractions: Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi beaches, Batu Caves, George Town, Mount Kinabalu, Sabah and Cameron Highlands.
Must-Do Things/Activities: Explore street food in Penang and KL, island-hopping in Langkawi or the Perhentians, trekking through Cameron Highlands or Taman Negara, snorkelling in Sabah or Tioman Island.
Best Time To Visit: March to early October.
Best Suited For: Travellers who want a mix of modern cities, beaches and cultural experiences.
Vietnam
With beaches, culture, and street food at the forefront of tourism in Vietnam, it is a great alternative for Thailand. When it comes to being a travel experience in itself, it is a bit more laid back and fresh minus the maddening hustle bustle of Thailand. You get to experience diverse options like the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An to the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay and the modern-city energy of Ho Chi Minh City.
Also, flights and accommodation are fairly cheap when travelling from India. Similar to Thailand, it delivers on the stunning landscapes and rich history with fewer crowds. Nightlife and shopping are on the low-low, while the street food will bowl you over, everything from pho, banh mi, to fresh spring rolls— and that too super cheap. Whether you are exploring ancient temples, cruising down the Mekong Delta, or lazing on a beach in the beautiful Da Nang, Vietnam offers all the charm of Southeast Asia with a unique twist of its own and lesser crowds.
LBB Tip: Here's our guide to places to see in Vietnam here.
Top Attractions: Ha Long Bay, Hoi An Ancient Town, Hanoi Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Cu Chi Tunnels, Ninh Binh, Sapa rice terraces, Phong Nha Caves, Da Nang beaches (especially for the lanterns).
Must-Do Things/Activities: Cruising through Ha Long Bay, exploring Hoi An's lantern-lit streets, exploring Hanoi or Saigon, trekking Sapa's rice fields, Cu Chi Tunnels, Da Nang or Phu Quoc's beaches, cycling through the Mekong Delta
Best Time To Visit: March to April and September to November
Best Suited For: Budget travellers and backpackers who enjoy a mix of food, history as well as adventure-seekers who wish to explore an offbeat Southeast Asian experience sans the nightlife and city scrapers of Bangkok.
Sri Lanka
A little more laid-back and less touristy— Sri Lanka is a great alternative for Thailand if you are visiting from India. This island nation has really picked up in the past year or two for tourism, and offers a nice mix of golden coastlines, ancient temples, lush tea plantations, and wildlife all packaged together for a wonderful vacation. There’s a whole lot to explore, you can consider surfing in Arugam Bay, spotting elephants in national parks to enjoy the jungle feels, or riding the scenic train through the hills of Ella. Apart from it’s scenic beauty and warm people, you have got flavourful cuisine, and voila, there you have a stunning tropical destination that ticks all the boxes.
Top Attractions: Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, Galle Fort, Ella and the Nine Arches Bridge, Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, Dambulla Cave Temple, Beaches of Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Arugam Bay.
Must-Do Things/Activities: Kandy to Ella train ride, hike Little Adam’s Peak or visit Horton Plains, surfing on the beaches on the east and west coast line, savouring different Sri Lankan delicacies
Best Time To Visit: South and West Coast: December to April and East Coast: May to September
Best Suited For: Nature and wildlife lovers looking for a quaint, tropical escape without the pressure of shopping and partying.
Philippines
This one is for those in need of a dopamine detox, wanting to be surrounded by nature all around. With over 7,000 islands, Philippines has got endless white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and amazing snorkeling and diving spots like Palawan and Cebu at your service, so consider it a haven for adventure and tranquil seekers alike. The Philippines also boasts friendly locals, delicious seafood, and lively festivals, all wrapped in a laid-back tropical vibe. Plus, you will not miss the usual holiday suspects like bar-hopping, clubbing and shopping since you will be busy exploring island to island, hiking volcanoes, and exploring hidden lagoons.
Top Attractions: Palawan (El Nido and Coron), Boracay Island, Chocolate Hills in Bohol, Banaue Rice Terraces, Taal Volcano, Cebu’s beaches and historical sites, Manila’s Intramuros district.
Must-Do Things/Activities: Island hopping in Palawan and Cebu, Snorkeling and diving in Coron and Apo Reef, climbing or trekking Taal Volcano, exploring the rice terraces of Banaue, relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Boracay, experiencing local festivals and vibrant street markets.
Best Time To Visit: November to April
Best Suited For: Beach lovers and island hoppers who want to indulge in water activities and diving with scenic views with untouched surroundings.
Japan
No, we are not talking about Tokyo here. Spots like Okinawa and the Izu Peninsula in Japan boast beautiful coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and a blend of traditional Japanese culture with island vibes, a mix you didn't know you needed to experience. While Japan's beaches aren't as warm year-round as Thailand's— the pristine scenery, snorkeling, and peaceful atmosphere makes them perfect for travellers seeking calm and natural beauty with a hint of culture. Plus, you can explore world-class cuisine and historic sites just a short trip away from the shore.
Top Attractions: Okinawa's beaches (Emerald Beach, Naminoue Beach), Shurijo Castle, Okinawa, Iriomote Island's jungle and waterfalls, Izu Peninsula's coastline and hot springs, Jogasaki Coast cliff walks, Churaumi Aquarium, Okinawa, Historic towns like Shimoda on Izu.
Must-Do Things/Activities: Okinawa’s coral reefs for snorkelling, relaxing in hot springs on the Izu Peninsula, waterfalls on Iriomote Island, hiking the Jogasaki Coast, visiting traditional Ryukyu culture sites and castles.
Best Time To Visit: May to October.
Best Suited For: Travellers looking for a unique coastal experience with a bit more quiet and peace plus culture.
Laos
Laos makes an excellent alternative for Thailand with its landscape spotted lush greens and beautiful waters. This landlocked country is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the majestic Mekong River, lush mountains, and peaceful waterfalls. Towns like Luang Prabang offer a blend of French colonial architecture and ancient Buddhist temples, perfect for those looking for a dose of culture. You can take slow boat cruises, explore traditional villages, and experience the local way of life, all while enjoying a quieter, more laid-back pace than Thailand’s bustling hotspots.
LBB Tip: Laos is also very budget-friendly, making it ideal for Indian travellers.
Top Attractions: Luang Prabang, Kuang Si Waterfalls, Plain of Jars archaeological site, Vang Vieng’s karst landscape and caves, The Mekong River and Pak Ou Caves, That Luang Stupa in Vientiane, Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands).
Must-Do Things/Activities: Luang Prabang's temples and night markets, swimming around Kuang Si Waterfalls, boat cruise on the Mekong River, tubing and caving in Vang Vieng, Spotting the rare Irrawaddy dolphins at Si Phan Don.
Best Time To Visit: November to February.
Best Suited For: Culture and history enthusiasts looking for a peaceful, less crowded destination with nature, adventure and decent food.
Cambodia
Cambodia is a fantastic alternative to Thailand for travellers seeking history and well, loads of it. Cambodia might feel slow and filled with architecture since it is home to the Angkor Wat temple complex. It offers a deep dive into ancient civilisations alongside charming towns like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. Beyond temples, one can enjoy peaceful countryside, beautiful riverside scenery, and friendly locals eager to share their traditions. Cambodia is also budget-friendly and less crowded than Thailand’s popular spots but do make a note that since it’s heavy on the culture than chilling, plan your trip accordingly.
LBB Tip: Here are the places to visit in Cambodia.
Top Attractions: Angkor Wat and Angkor Archaeological Park, Phnom Penh Royal Palace and National Museum, Tonle Sap Lake, Sihanoukville beaches and nearby islands, Kampot and Kep, The Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.
Must-Do Things/Activities: Explore the Angkor temple complex, boat tour on Tonle Sap Lake, Phnom Penh's marlets, relax on the beaches of Sihanoukville, explore nearby islands like Koh Rong, cycle or scooter through Kampot countryside.
Best Time To Visit: November to February.
Best Suited For: History and culture buffs looking for a mix of ancient architecture and beaches for some undisturbed time.
Mexico
Okay, not as budget-friendly as Thailand for Indian travellers but with definitely with lesser crowds and a better partying experience. Mexico is an option for those seeking stunning beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine with loads of partying with music festivals being a huge thing here. From the turquoise waters of Cancun and Tulum to the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza and the bustling markets of Mexico City, you pick the place and Mexico brings the vibes. Like Thailand, it flaunts beautiful coastlines perfect for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing under the sun, but with a unique Latin American flair.
Top Attractions: Cancun and Riviera Maya beaches, Tulum and Chichen Itza Mayan ruins, Mexico City’s historic center and museums, Playa del Carmen, Copper Canyon, Guadalajara and colonial towns like San Miguel de Allende, Cozumel Island.
Must-Do Things/Activities: Explore Chichen Itza and Tulum for music festivals, snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs of Cozumel and Cancun, Mexico City's vibrant markets and neighborhoods, chill on the white-sand beaches of Riviera Maya and take a train through Copper Canyon.
Best Time To Visit: November to April.
Best Suited For: Beach lovers and adventure seekers who want to enjoy festivals, food and a vibrant tropical life with a diverse mix of nature, history and partying with a Latin-American flair.
