Pattaya Travel Guide: Pattaya is one of the most popular beach cities in Thailand, known for its vibrant lifestyle, clean beaches, water sports, and colourful markets. Located just a few hours from Bangkok, Pattaya welcomes travellers from all over the world, including many from India. Whether you are planning a relaxing holiday or a fun-filled trip, Pattaya has something for everyone.
In this guide, you will find everything you need to plan your trip. We will tell you the best time to visit, top places to see, the best things to do, and helpful travel tips. This simple guide will help you make the most of your Pattaya holiday.
A Quick Overview of Pattaya
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Country | Thailand |
| Official Language | Thai |
| Currency | Thai Baht (THB) |
| Time Zone | UTC+7 (ICT) |
| Best Known For | Nightlife, beaches, Coral Island, Walking Street, Alcazar Show |
| Best Time to Visit | November to February |
| Peak Season | December to February |
| Off-Season | May to October (monsoon) |
| Ideal Duration | 2 to 3 days |
| Popular Indian Restaurants | Zaika, Madras Darbar, Indian by Nature, Maharaja |
| Famous Market | Thepprasit Night Market, Pattaya Floating Market |
| Things to Do | Coral Island tour, Sanctuary of Truth, water sports, cabaret shows, nightlife |
| Nearest Airport | U-Tapao–Rayong–Pattaya International Airport (UTP) |
Best Time to Visit Pattaya
The best time to visit Pattaya is from November to February. During these months, the weather stays pleasant and cool. The temperature usually stays between 23°C to 30°C, which is comfortable for sightseeing and beach activities. The air is less humid, and there is hardly any rain.
This time is also the peak tourist season, so many travellers come to enjoy the fresh sea breeze, clear skies, and sunny beaches. All major attractions stay open, and local festivals also happen around this time, adding colour to your trip.
If you want to enjoy Pattaya with fewer tourists and better hotel deals, you can also plan your visit in March or October. These are shoulder months, and the weather is still manageable.
But from May to September, Pattaya receives more rainfall. This is the off-season, and many outdoor activities might get affected. Still, some travellers choose this time for cheaper hotels and peaceful beaches.
Overall, if you love good weather and lively energy, winter months are perfect for your Pattaya trip.
Places to Visit in Pattaya
Pattaya is one of the most popular beach cities in Thailand. It is known for its beautiful beaches, fun activities, cultural places, and lively streets. Whether you are travelling with family, friends, or as a couple, Pattaya has something for everyone. From peaceful temples and gardens to exciting markets and viewpoints, you will find many interesting places to explore in Pattaya during your trip.
1. Pattaya Beach
2. Walking Street
3. Sanctuary of Truth
4. Coral Island (Koh Larn)
5. Pattaya Floating Market
6. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
7. Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
8. Art in Paradise 3d Museum
9. Khao Pattaya View Point
10. Mini Siam
Things to Do in Pattaya
Pattaya is a perfect holiday spot where you can enjoy beaches, water sports, cultural sites, and lively nightlife. Whether you want fun, peace, or local experiences, there’re number of things to do in Pattaya.
1. Relax on the Beach
Pattaya is famous for its long and clean beaches. You can sit and relax at Pattaya Beach or Jomtien Beach, enjoy the sea breeze, or take a walk along the shore. Many people also enjoy beachside massages and cold coconut water here.
2. Try Water Sports
If you love adventure, Pattaya offers many fun water sports. You can try jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, or even flyboarding. These activities are safe and guides are always there to help beginners.
3. Visit Coral Island (Koh Larn)
Just a short boat ride away from Pattaya is Coral Island, also called Koh Larn. It has white sand beaches and clear blue water. You can go swimming, snorkelling, or just relax under a beach umbrella.
4. See the Sanctuary of Truth
This is a big wooden temple made without using nails. It shows beautiful carvings and tells stories from Thai culture, religion, and art. It is peaceful and very photogenic, perfect for families and couples.
5. Go to the Big Buddha Temple
Also called Wat Phra Yai, this temple has a large golden Buddha statue on top of a hill. You need to climb a few stairs, but the view of the city from the top is really nice.
6. Enjoy Thai Culture at Nong Nooch Garden
Nong Nooch is a large tropical garden where you can see flower shows, elephant shows, and cultural dances. It’s colourful and enjoyable for children and adults both.
7. Shop at the Floating Market
Pattaya Floating Market is a place where you can shop and eat from small wooden boats. You can buy local food, handmade items, and souvenirs while enjoying the look of old Thai-style houses.
8. Explore Walking Street at Night
Walking Street is Pattaya’s most famous nightlife area. It comes alive in the evening with music, lights, and many food stalls. It’s a good place for adults to explore the fun side of Pattaya.
9. Take Fun Photos at Art in Paradise
Art in Paradise is a 3D art museum where you can take fun photos. The paintings look real, and you become part of the artwork. It’s very entertaining, especially for children.
10. Visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not
This museum is filled with strange and interesting things from around the world. From optical illusions to odd facts, it’s a place where you can spend a couple of hours learning and laughing.
11. See the City from Viewpoints
You can go to Khao Pattaya Viewpoint to see the whole city and the sea. The view is best during sunset. Another good spot is Bali Hai Pier, where the sea looks peaceful and lovely.
12. Enjoy Cabaret Shows
Pattaya is also known for its colourful cabaret shows like Alcazar and Tiffany. These shows include singing, dancing, and beautiful costumes, and are loved by tourists of all ages.
How to Reach Pattaya from India?
Want to planning a holiday and wondering how to reach Pattaya? Here’s the steps to travel Indian to Pattaya.
Reaching Pattaya from India is simple and budget-friendly. There are no direct flights to Pattaya, but you can easily travel through Bangkok.
- By Flight to Bangkok
First, take a flight from your nearest Indian city to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK) in Bangkok. Many airlines like IndiGo, Air India, Thai Airways, and SpiceJet operate daily flights from major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
The flight takes around 3.5 to 5 hours depending on your departure city. - From Bangkok to Pattaya by Road
After reaching Bangkok, you can travel to Pattaya by road. Pattaya is about 150 km from Bangkok and takes around 2 to 2.5 hours by car or bus.
By Taxi or Private Car: Easily available at the airport. Comfortable and takes you directly to your hotel in Pattaya.
By Bus: Buses run regularly from Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) in Bangkok. They are affordable and comfortable.
By Shared Van: Available from airports and city areas. A good option for budget travellers. - By Train (Less Common)
Trains run from Hua Lamphong Station in Bangkok to Pattaya, but they are slower and not very frequent. Most travellers prefer road travel over train.
Indian Restaurants in Pattaya
Whether you are looking for vegetarian meals, South Indian tiffin, or rich North Indian dishes, Pattaya has plenty of good options. Most of these restaurants are easy to find, close to tourist spots, and serve both casual and fine dining needs. Many places also offer Jain food and thali meals for those who want simple and pure vegetarian food.
Here are some of the best Indian restaurants in Pattaya that you can try during your trip.
1. Karma Indian Restaurant
Location: Soi 13/4, near Walking Street, South Pattaya
Best Dishes: Butter Chicken, Paneer Tikka, Garlic Naan
Timings: 11:30 AM to 11:30 PM
Karma is a popular place among Indian tourists and locals. The menu covers both North and South Indian food. The staff is friendly, and the prices are fair. The restaurant has a clean, cosy feel with Bollywood music in the background.
2. Indian By Nature
Location: Thappraya Road, Jomtien, Pattaya
Best Dishes: Lamb Rogan Josh, Chicken Malai Tikka, Dal Makhani
Timings: 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
This is one of the finest Indian restaurants in Pattaya, known for fine dining. The food is rich and well presented. They also serve wine with food. It is a bit more expensive but worth the experience.
3. Maharani – Queen of Indian Flavour
Location: Royal Cliff Beach Hotel, Pratumnak Hill
Best Dishes: Tandoori Prawns, Biryani, Chicken Curry
Timings: 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Located inside a luxury hotel, Maharani offers an elegant atmosphere with sea views. It is a great place for romantic dinners or special occasions. The menu includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian items.
4. Govindam Vegetarian Restaurant
Location: Central Pattaya Road, near Big C Extra
Best Dishes: South Indian Thali, Chole Bhature, Masala Dosa
Timings: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Govindam is a pure veg restaurant that offers homely Indian food. It is ideal for those looking for Jain or Saatvik meals. Their thali meals are filling and affordable.
5. Madras Darbar
Location: Soi Buakhao, Pattaya Klang
Best Dishes: Chicken 65, Mutton Curry, Dosa
Timings: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Madras Darbar serves both South Indian and North Indian food. The taste reminds many of home-cooked meals from Chennai or Hyderabad. It is a good place for casual lunch or dinner.
6. Shahi India Restaurant
Location: Pattaya Second Road, near Alcazar Show
Best Dishes: Mutton Biryani, Palak Paneer, Chicken Korma
Timings: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
This restaurant is known for spicy and flavourful dishes. It is close to popular tourist spots, so many Indian travellers visit after sightseeing. The portions are good for sharing.
7. Alibaba Tandoori Restaurant
Location: Pattaya Second Road, near Mike Shopping Mall
Best Dishes: Tandoori Chicken, Sheekh Kebab, Biryani
Timings: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Alibaba has a unique Mughal-style décor and a royal theme. The menu offers a wide variety of grilled tandoori dishes. It is a favourite among non-veg lovers.
8. Spirit of India
Location: Beach Road, near Pattaya Avenue
Best Dishes: Chicken Tikka Masala, Butter Naan, Mixed Veg Curry
Timings: 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM
This restaurant is small but clean and peaceful. The food is freshly made and not too oily. It is ideal for a quiet lunch or dinner near the beach.
9. Chutney Indian Restaurant
Location: Central Pattaya, Soi Diana
Best Dishes: Paneer Butter Masala, Naan, Tandoori Chicken
Timings: 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM
Chutney offers simple and tasty Indian meals at good prices. The service is fast and friendly. It is good for families and solo travellers.
10. Tarka House Restaurant
Location: Soi 15, off Pattaya Second Road
Best Dishes: Chicken Handi, Rajma, Paratha
Timings: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Tarka House gives a homely feel with its casual setup and comforting food. Both veg and non-veg options are available. It is a nice place for daily meals during a longer stay.
