A Whirlwind Adventure in Thailand: From Mumbai to Bangkok and Beyond

Greetings, fellow travelers! I recently embarked on an exhilarating journey from Mumbai to the vibrant city of Bangkok and beyond, exploring the diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Thailand. This nine-day adventure, spanning from December 5th to December 13th, was a blend of serene beaches, bustling city life, and unforgettable experiences. Join me as I recount the highlights of this amazing trip!

Day 1 - Arrival in Bangkok:

I took direct flight with Spicejet as they were the most economical one to Bangkok. The hack here is to take a early morning flight from India. Thai time is 1.5 hours ahead of us so if you fly early you have the day to yourself. The journey began with my arrival at Bangkok's Swarnbhoomi Airport. The energy of the city was palpable as I navigated through the bustling streets to reach my first destination, Pattaya. I rested for a while at the hotel and the headed out in the evening to take a stroll through the Walking Street and took a Thai massage to end the day.

Day 2 - Exploring Bangkok and Journey to Krabi:

I checked out early morning from the hotel after breakfast and then took a bus to Bangkok, where I exchanged some currency, visited temples and a unique cafe called Husky cafe. The cafe is home to Siberian Huskies which are very playful and the cafe organises activities of 1 hour twice a day where you can play with them and click photos. Post that I took a 6PM overnight bus to Krabi. Krabi is about 800 kms from Bangkok and bus is one of the cheapest option to travel.

Day 3 - Krabi and Sunset:

Leaving Pattaya, I embarked on a scenic bus ride to Krabi. The lush landscapes along the way were a photographer's dream. In Krabi, I stayed at the Ao Nang Viva Resort, which was a gateway to the beautiful islands nearby. I took a sunset 4 island tour on the same day. Most of the morning tours leave by 8.30 am so had to take this sunset tour which left in the afternoon and we got to witness a beautiful sunset. We visited the Hong island groups a lagoon and then ended the trip at Koh Pakbia with a barbeque and sutnning snorkell and sunset.

Day 4 - Krabi Jungle Tour:

The Krabi Jungle Tour was a highlight of my Thailand adventure, offering an immersive experience into the natural wonders of this enchanting region. The journey began with a soothing dip in the natural hot springs, whose therapeutic waters were a perfect antidote to the day's travel. Next, we marveled at the surreal beauty of the Blue Pool, a hidden gem with its mesmerizing turquoise waters. The Emerald Pool was equally captivating, with its crystal-clear waters set against a lush jungle backdrop. The day's most exhilarating challenge was the ascent to the Tiger Cave Temple, a test of endurance rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. The adventure concluded with a vibrant evening at the Krabi Night Market, where delicious local cuisine was complemented by a mesmerizing free fire show, encapsulating the spirit of Thailand’s rich culture and lively nightlife.

Day 5 - From Krabi to Phuket:

A bus and van journey took me to Phuket, known for its lively streets and beautiful beaches. Here, I stayed at the Andamantra Resort in the heart of Patong, a perfect spot to explore the city's vibrant night life. It was a lazy day, relaxed at the pool and then visited Patong walking street for some drinks and called it a day.

Day 6: Phi Phi Island Tour

The Phi Phi Island tour was a captivating experience, showcasing some of Thailand's most iconic natural beauties. Our first stop, the renowned Maya Bay Beach, was a picturesque paradise, famous for its role in 'The Beach'. Its pristine sands and azure waters set a tranquil tone for the day. The adventure continued at Pileh Lagoon, where the crystal-clear waters offered an ideal snorkeling spot. Here, I had the unforgettable experience of swimming alongside sea turtles and spotting the vibrant hues of Nemo-like clownfish. Our journey then led us to the intriguing Monkey Island, a unique encounter with playful primates in their natural habitat. Phi Phi Don Island provided a cultural and scenic contrast with its bustling vibe. The day culminated with a stunning sunset at Phang Naga Bay, a serene moment that beautifully wrapped up the day's diverse and awe-inspiring experiences.

Day 6 - Discovering Phuket:

Phuket was a blend of modernity and tradition. I spent my day exploring the city, visiting the famous Phuket Old Town, and enjoying a sunset at Karon Beach. The night ended with a stroll along Bangla Street, a hub of nocturnal activities.

Day 7 - Return to Bangkok:

An overnight bus journey brought me back to Bangkok. The contrast between Phuket's beach life and Bangkok's urban vibe was stark yet fascinating. I visited the unique Husky Café again, a haven for dog lovers, and spent the evening exploring the city's renowned nightlife.

Day 8 - Last Day in Bangkok:

My last day in Bangkok was about soaking in as much of the city as I could. From shopping in the Platinum Mall to experiencing the local cuisine, every moment was a new discovery. Reluctantly, I left Thailand, carrying with me memories of a lifetime. I reached the Swarnbhoomi Airport for my flight back to Mumbai, already planning my next visit to this beautiful country.

Thailand proved to be a land of contrasts, brimming with cultural richness, natural beauty, and urban energy. Each city had its unique charm, leaving an indelible mark on my heart. Until next time, Thailand, you will be missed!