Thailand, a spectacular island country known for its glittering temples, welcoming locals, noodle shacks and spectacular beachside adventures, is one of the most visited destinations in Asia. However, the preferred mode of travel is by air, especially when the duration of the journey is considered. This vibrant land of smiles can also be reached by road through the India Myanmar Thailand Trilateral Highway, the famous 1360 km long highway connecting Moreh in Manipur to Mae Sot in Thailand via Mandalay and Naypyidaw in Myanmar. Now, India to Thailand road trip An expedition that gives an opportunity to explore the areas of three countries. If you want to do this journey in your personal vehicle, then continue reading to get all the necessary information.
About India to Thailand Road Trip
The India–Myanmar–Thailand (IMT) Trilateral Highway provides connectivity between India and Bangkok via Myanmar via the Asian Highway. However, you need to obtain permits and permissions in advance to avoid hassles. The journey starts from Moreh in Manipur, and you have to drive from your city towards Siliguri in West Bengal, then take the entrance gate of Moreh. You’ll cross Myanmar’s jade plains and rock formations, as well as visit the cultural cities of Mandalay and Myawaddy before traveling to Thailand.
route
Upon reaching Moreh, the Kuki town of Manipur on the India-Myanmar border, head north to Myanmar’s former royal capital Mandalay. The next stop will be Naypyidaw, the modern capital of Burma. Bago will be your next destination which is about 97 km away from the first. Myawaddy is in southeastern Myanmar and serves as a gateway to the city of Mae Sot in Thailand. This expedition takes you through the lush green forests of Tak. Bangkok is about 435 km from Tak and the road trip allows you to enjoy stunning views as you travel from the northern region to the centrally located capital city.
Moreh (India) ⇨ Mandalay (Myanmar) ⇨ Naypyidaw (Myanmar) ⇨ Bago (Myanmar) ⇨ Myawaddy (Myanmar) ⇨ Mae Sot (Thailand) ⇨ Tak (Thailand) ⇨ Bangkok (Thailand)
Places to visit during India to Thailand road trip
1. Chandel, India
Chandel is located in the south-eastern region of Manipur and is bordered by Myanmar to the south and east. Moreh is the southernmost part of this district which serves as a gateway to Asian countries. Langol Peak Garden is a refreshing place to relax for a while before heading to the international borders.
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2. Bagan, Myanmar
Bagan, an ancient city in Myanmar, is famous for being a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it contains more than 3,500 ancient Buddhist pagodas and other religious sites. The vast Bagan Archaeological Zone gives you a glimpse of archaeological wonders dating back approximately 800 to 1,000 years and reminds you of the glorious past of the old imperial capital.
3. Yangon, Myanmar
Formerly known as Rangoon, Yangon is geographically the largest city in the country and you can experience an excellent holiday experience with its blend of British colonial era structures, modern infrastructure and serene Buddhist pagodas. Shwedagon Paya is the most prominent gleaming pagoda complex in the city, followed by Botatung and Sule Pagodas.
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4. Mae Khasa Hot Springs, Thailand
Mae Khasa or Khachan Hot Springs is located in Wiang Pa Pao, Chiang Rai Province. You can experience thermal water at many places here. It is located next to the Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai Highway. It’s truly a rejuvenating encounter worth stopping by after a long road trip.
5. Pha Vo Shrine, Thailand
Pho is the iconic temple of Wu Tak and is called the Tiger God Shrine in English. The site features a typical southern Chinese architectural style. This tourist attraction is ideal for history lovers.
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6. The Grand Palace, Thailand
The Grand Palace complex in the capital city houses many attractions, including royal and throne halls, government offices, and the major temple of the Emerald Buddha. The palace was established in 1782 and is spread over an area of approximately 218,000 square metres.
India to Thailand road trip duration and expenses
The entire road trip will be distributed into different stops and you can choose the cities or towns where you want to stop. The entire journey with complete exploration takes at least 12 to 15 days but it depends on driving speed and stops. Excluding documentation and permit fees, the trip will cost you between Rs 4.5 to 5 lakh.
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Best time for Thailand road trip from India
It is best to plan your expedition during the winter season, i.e. between November and February. Temperatures remain relatively cool during these months in all three countries. The road conditions are favorable for driving and you can also enjoy sightseeing without being affected by the scorching heat of the region.
Permits and other required documents
For seamless travel you need to obtain the following permits and documents.
1. International Driving Permit
International Driving Permit is an important document that is required for road trips from India to Thailand. A fee of Rs 1000 is charged for this permit. Do not confuse it with your driving license and carry your Indian driving license with you otherwise the permit will not be applicable. So keep both the documents organized.
2. Visa
You are required to have a visa for Myanmar and Thailand, so make sure you have a tourist visa before entering these countries. You can apply for an eVisa for both countries and the entire documentation process will not take more than a week.
3. Carnet Fee
When traveling on your India to Thailand road trip, you will need to pay carnet fee to exit Myanmar and re-enter the country in your private vehicle. Its cost can range from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000 per car and this amount is taken for the security of the vehicle. Carnet pass is valid for a period of one year.
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things to carry
1. Travel Documents:
- Passport: Make sure you carry your passport and keep it safe during road trips. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity from the date of arrival.
- Visa: To avoid last minute hassles, complete all your visa formalities at least 7-8 days before your trip. If you are applying for a visa on arrival to Thailand, make sure you have all the mandatory documents.
- Photos: Keep at least 5-6 color photos on white background.
- travel insurance: Make sure you have travel insurance and carry all the mandatory documents related to it.
- hotel booking: Book all your stays and accommodations in advance and keep all booking documents with you.
2. Vehicle Documents:
- driving license: Keep your Indian driving license safe. Your IDP will not work without your license.
- International Driving Permit: To drive across the border you must carry an International Driving Permit.
- vehicle insurance: Make sure your car is fully insured and keep the papers safe.
- Vehicle Registration Documents: Keep the original RC of your car with you along with other documents related to registration.
- carnet document
what to pack
The following is a checklist that may be helpful while packing your bag for a road trip from India to Thailand:
- camera
- smartphone with gps
- First aid kit and medical kit
- tool kit for your vehicle
- essential clothing
- snacks, food and water
- Your original credit card with details of last 6 months.
- Bank statement of last 6 months.
- Cash in respective currencies.
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A road trip from India to Thailand is an adventure that will make for memorable encounters with your travel companions for years to come. You can book your future trip to Thailand with TourTravelHotels and enjoy exploring the mysterious experiences of this island country in your favorite way.
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FAQs About India to Thailand Road Trip
What is the distance by road between India and Thailand?
The India-Myanmar-Thailand (IMT) trilateral highway is 1360 km long connecting Moreh in Manipur with Bangkok by road.
Is it safe to go on a road trip from India to Thailand?
You need to plan your trip carefully to ensure a safe travel experience. Carry all permits and necessary documents to avoid hindrances in your further journey.
Where should I stay during a road trip from India to Thailand?
You have to set an itinerary and plan your stops accordingly to keep your journey comfortable. Moreh, Mandalay, Naypyidaw, Bago, Mae Sot and Tak are the major stops for overnight stay or rest before proceeding further.
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