6-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Thailand

1. Day 1: Explore Bangkok
   2 hours (20.4 km) from Suvarnabhumi Airport

   Visit the stunning Grand Palace, take a peaceful stroll through the lush Green Lung of Bangkok, and bargain at the lively Chatuchak Weekend Market.

2. Day 2: Trek to Doi Suthep
   1 hour 20 minutes (6.8 km) from Chiang Mai city center

   Take a tuk-tuk to Doi Suthep, a sacred temple atop a mountain, and trek down the rolling hills while immersing in nature's serenity.

3. Day 3: Thai Food and Night Browsing
   2 hours (91.7 km) from Chiang Mai to Pak Chong

   Savor delicious Thai food at Talat Pak Chong, a bustling night market, and roam around the neon-lit streets filled with shops and amusement activities.

4. Day 4: Admire the Erawan Falls
   2 hours (98.9 km) from Pak Chong to Si Sawat

   Wonder at the ethereal Erawan Falls, made up of seven tiers of turquoise waterfalls. Take a dip in the waters and stroll in the scenic paths teeming with flora and fauna.

5. Day 5: Beach Chill in Railay
   2 hours (215 km) from Si Sawat to Krabi province

   Enjoy Railay's stunning beaches, indulge in affordable massages and seafood, stroll through mangrove forests, and take a tranquil dip in the blue waters.

6. Day 6: Island Hop in Phi Phi Islands
   2 hours (46 km) from Krabi province

   Take a ferry to Islans-hopping adventure around Phi Phi Islands, filled with stunning beaches, water sports, hiking, and stunning scenic viewpoints. Experience the night scene filled with fire shows and music.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Grand Palace, Bangkok (2-3 hours, 500 baht)
• Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai (1 hour, 30 baht)
• Talat Pak Chong, Pak Chong (2-3 hours, food & drinks 100 baht onwards)
• Erawan Falls, Si Sawat (5-6 hours, 300 baht)
• Railay Beach, Krabi province (full day, 200 baht)
• Phi Phi Islands, Krabi province (full day, 500 baht)
Total Estimated Costs: 1,630 baht

Useful Tips

For more savings, opt for street food, local transportation, visiting places during off-seasons or weekdays. You could extend your trip to visit Pai, Ayutthaya or Khao Yai if you have more days.