Planning a trip to Asia? If you’re in the US, chances are two names come up right away—India and Thailand. Both are popular. Both are affordable. But if you’re making that long flight from America, one stands out more.
That’s India. And here’s why.
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Cost
Travelling in both countries is cheaper than back home. But in India, your money lasts longer.
A good hotel in Delhi or Jaipur can cost the same as a budget motel in the US. A full dinner might be under $10. Even taxis and trains are affordable.
Thailand is still cheap, but busy tourist spots push prices higher. In India, you can travel longer without worrying much about the budget.
Variety in One Country
Thailand is best known for its beaches. They are stunning, no doubt. But India gives you much more choice.
You can visit the Taj Mahal or explore forts in Rajasthan. You can also choose to spend time on the backwaters of Kerala. You can trek in the Himalayas or watch wildlife in national parks. For beaches you can visit Goa.
It feels like several trips in one. For Americans who are used to moving between states for new scenery, this is a big plus.
Culture and History
Thailand is known for its colorful temples and floating markets. It is beautiful. But India has a deeper culture, with a history over thousands of years.
In one trip, you may see Mughal palaces, British-era buildings, and Hindu temples. There are festivals like Holi and Diwali, which light up the streets of cities. Every city has a different feel.
For those travelers who don’t just want to sightsee, India has a stronger mix of culture.
Big Landmarks
If you are flying from the U.S., there is probably something you want to see on the world stage. India has that.
The Taj Mahal is on every traveler’s bucket list. But it is not the only one. Jaipur’s Amber Fort and the Golden Temple in Amritsar are must see. And the ghats of Varanasi are unforgettable.
Thailand has their Grand Palace and temples, but it doesn’t carry the same global weight.
Food
American diners already love Thai cuisine. Eating Thai food at a restaurant in Thailand is another level of enjoyment. As for the Indian food, the range and depth are hard to beat. Here are some of the famous things to eat, from street food all the way to royal preparations:
- North India: Butter chicken, Chole Bhature, and aromatic curries
- South India: Dosas, Idlis, and spicy Chettinad preparations
- West India: Seafood dishes from Goa, Gujarati thalis, and Rajasthani specialties
- East India: Pakhala, Macher Jhol and desserts like Rasgulla
When in India, eating is about more than just filling your stomach, it's part of the adventure.
Festivals and Events
India loves to celebrate and there’s a festival for every season! You have Holi, Diwali, Durga Puja and Ganesh Chaturthi. Other famous festivals include Rath Yatra, Onam, Lohri, Bihu, Navratri and more.
Thailand’s Songkran Festival (Thai New Year), the water festival, is pretty famous. But India’s festivals are bigger and more colorful. They promise a unique experience that you’ll never forget.
Both countries offer wellness travels. But it's within India where yoga and Ayurveda began.
Do yoga in Rishikesh. Meditate in the Himalayas. Enjoy Ayurveda in Kerala. Everything feels traditional and authentic.
Travel Access
Thailand is not as far from the USA, which means a shorter flight. But, India now has lots of direct flights. You can fly non-stop from New York, Chicago, or San Francisco.
It's also simple and quick to get an e-visa from the USA. So while the flight is longer, it's easier than it once was.
Hospitality
Thailand is known as the "Land of Smiles," and visitors often feel welcome immediately. India offers the same warmth, but in a different way. The local saying "Atithi Devo Bhava" means "the guest is God."
Many Americans are often surprised by the personal care they receive. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming. It might come from the hotel staff, a professional guide, or a local family inviting them into their home.
Final Thoughts
Thailand has a great beach and is fairly close if one is looking for a quick getaway. But if traveling half way across the world, and want something more, India is the best. You will find more history, more ancient monuments and more stories. It is not just another trip, but a trip that changes how a traveler sees the world.
So between India and Thailand, go for India!
