Phuket on a Budget with TAGTHAi Pass (2024)

Exploring Phuket on a budget presents challenges, especially considering its reputation as one of Thailand’s pricier destinations. Having visited Thailand numerous times, including four trips to Phuket, I recognize its position as a city where expenses can quickly increase. However, amidst Phuket’s plethora of offerings and a flourishing travel industry, there are ways to navigate Phuket without breaking the bank.

In this post, I’ll share insights on leveraging a single digital pass to slash costs associated with visiting attractions and cafes in Phuket. You can make the most of your budget by unlocking the right deals and passes while indulging in the city’s vibrant activities.

PIN for later reference – Phuket on a Budget with TAGTHAi Pass

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here.

Phuket on a Budget

Upon arriving in Phuket, my top priority is securing the TAGTHAi Pass, a digital travel essential. This single investment holds the key to substantial savings, potentially amounting to thousands of Thai Bahts during your stay. With the TAGTHAi pass, you gain complimentary entry to many attractions and cafes, revolutionizing your Phuket experience.

About TAGTHAi Pass

The TAGTHAi Pass is a comprehensive digital tourist pass offering access to various attractions, cafes, SIM cards, and more within a designated city. With this pass, you make a single payment and unlock many complimentary benefits, eliminating the hassle of multiple transactions. Seamlessly accessible on your mobile device, the TAGTHAi pass ensures instant access to an array of experiences, making exploration effortless and cost-effective.

Cities Where You Can Purchase TAGTHAi Pass

The TAGTHAi pass is conveniently accessible in key cities across Thailand, including Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket. During my time in Phuket, I opted for the TAGTHAi one-day pass, maximizing its benefits by exploring numerous attractions throughout the day.

Types of TAGTHAi Passes

The TAGTHAi pass offers a diverse range of options tailored to suit the preferences of various travellers:

1. City Pass: Ideal for exploring a city’s offerings, this pass grants access to numerous benefits and attractions within the designated area.
2. Starter Pass: Upon app download, users gain immediate access to this pass, which includes a complimentary SIM card from AIS or TRUE, along with exclusive Foreign Exchange Rates.
3. Premium Pass: Embark on a comprehensive journey with the Premium Pass, unlocking over 100 experiences across all cities. Available in one-day or three-day options, this pass ensures access to many attractions.
4. Special Event Pass: In select cities, travellers can purchase discounted passes for exclusive events, adding a touch of excitement to their itinerary.
5. Foodie Pass: Designed for culinary enthusiasts, this pass opens doors to many cafes, restaurants, and culinary delights.
6. Specialty Passes: Tailored to specific interests, these passes provide access to unique experiences such as massages, visits to elephant sanctuaries, and more.

TAGTHAi‘s diverse range of passes allows travellers to curate their adventures to match their preferences and interests.

Cost of TAGTHAi Pass

Two main factors influence the pricing of the TAGTHAi pass:

1. City of use
2. Duration of the pass (available in either one-day or three-day options)

Below are the approximate prices for three of the major cities:

City pass	One day pass	Three days pass
Phuket – TAGTHAi Phuket pass	USD 48.52	USD 99.17
Bangkok – TAGTHAi Bangkok pass	USD 29.29	Not available
Chiang Mai – TAGTHAi Chiang Mai pass	USD 79.34	USD 109.85

Buying and Activating the TAGTHAi Pass

Acquiring a TAGTHAi pass necessitates using a mobile application, aligning with its core principle of providing a seamless and contactless experience. Available on both Android and iOS devices, the TAGTHAi pass can be effortlessly procured via the dedicated mobile app. Upon downloading the app, users gain access to the starter pass, initiating their journey of exploration and convenience.

1. The first step entails purchasing the premium pass, followed by its activation. Activating the pass on the intended day of use is crucial, as it expires at 11:59 PM on the final day, whether the same day for a one-day pass or the third day for a three-day pass.
2. Next, you’ll want to craft your itinerary by selecting the benefits you wish to utilize. Inform the stores or attraction front desks in advance, as some require prior booking.
3. Upon building your itinerary, the third step involves presenting your QR code, generated after pass activation, to the respective store or front desk for scanning. Note that each QR code is valid for use at a specific location.
4. Finally, with the formalities complete, it’s time to immerse yourself in enjoyment and make the most of your TAGTHAi pass experience.

Maximum Limit of Attractions You Can Use with TAGTHAi Pass

The TAGTHAi pass offers unlimited access to attractions within your allotted timeframe. There’s no upper limit on the number of attractions you can visit as long as you can fit them into the duration of your pass. However, it’s important to note that each benefit can only be availed once during the pass’s validity period.

Benefits that You Can Avail with TAGTHAi Starter Pass

You gain instant access to the starter pass upon downloading the TAGTHAi app and creating your login credentials. This introductory pass grants you the following benefits:

• Complimentary SIM card from either AIS or TRUE
• Exclusive Foreign Exchange (FX) rate

Benefits in Phuket that You Can Avail with TAGTHAi Premium Pass

Attractions and Sight-seeing Places

Hanuman World

Hanuman World, named after the revered monkey god Hanuman, offers an exhilarating themed park experience featuring thrilling adventures like zip lining, abseiling, and skywalking. With packages ranging from 3 to 16 zip lines, there’s something for everyone seeking an adrenaline rush.

• Operating Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM daily.
• Activities are scheduled at various times throughout the day, including 8 AM, 10 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM.

As part of the TAGTHAi Phuket pass, adventurers can opt for the Combine World C+ package, which includes Zipline 10 platforms (comprising three ziplines, two abseil points, and one spiral staircase), Roller, and Skywalk. The longest zip line in this package spans an impressive 500 meters.

To participate in this activity, booking must be made at least one day in advance via the mobile app.

As an added convenience, the package includes pick-up and drop-off services. Upon booking your activity, contact them to confirm whether your hotel is in the transportation arrangements.

Banana Beach

Nestled within Coral Island, Banana Beach remains a secluded gem awaiting discovery. Offering pristine shores and breathtaking vistas, it serves as an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of Phuket. The boat journey to Banana Beach spans approximately 15 minutes, allowing visitors to indulge in a half-day or full-day retreat.

With the TAGTHAi Phuket pass, adventurers can choose between snorkelling adventures or embarking on a weekend catamaran sail. Notably, the weekend catamaran option is exclusively available on weekends.

To partake in either of these activities, making reservations at least one day in advance is essential, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is a beacon of ethical and eco-friendly practices, providing a haven for approximately 19 rescued elephants. These majestic creatures find refuge after being rescued from riding camps and circuses. Visitors to the sanctuary have the unique opportunity to interact with these gentle giants in a secure environment, engaging in various activities such as bathing them and feeding them bananas.

Upon entering the sanctuary’s office or store, visitors are greeted by a heartening sight: a board proudly proclaiming “No Riding.” This policy underscores the sanctuary’s commitment to the well-being of the elephants. After check-in, guests receive a comprehensive briefing from an English-speaking guide. This informative session covers topics ranging from the sanctuary’s mission to the behaviour of elephants, fostering an interactive environment where the guides encourage and eagerly answer questions.

Included in the TAGTHAi Phuket pass is access to the feeding activity. With this delightful hour-long experience, visitors can feed the elephants and capture memorable moments with them through photographs.

Notably, reservations for this activity are not required. Visitors can walk in and be promptly accommodated for the next available session, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Phuket Eco Elephant Park

!! Update 29-01-2023: This benefit is temporarily unavailable.

Near the scenic Bangtao Beach, Phuket Eco Elephant Park is another ethical elephant park. You can interact with the elephants at this park by bathing them or walking around the forest.

The TAGTHAi Phuket pass includes the option to partake in the elephant bathing activity. This hour-long experience allows participants to connect with the elephants meaningfully while contributing to their well-being and conservation efforts.

Also, Read Chai Lai Orchid, an Elephant Camp

Thai Massages

Experiencing a traditional Thai massage is essential to any visit to Thailand, known for its unparalleled relaxation and rejuvenation. Imagine my delight when I discovered that massages were included as part of the TAGTHAi Phuket pass, adding an extra layer of relaxation to my itinerary. Two esteemed massage centres, each offering a variety of treatments, were included in the pass:

1. The Raintree Spa:
   • 2 hours Thai massage
   • 2 hours Thai and foot massage
   • 2 hours Thai Aromatic massage
2. Sansabai Massage and Spa:
   • Thai massage for 60 minutes
   • Head, neck, back, and shoulder massage for 60 minutes

With these options available, indulging in a rejuvenating massage experience became a delightful addition to my Phuket adventure, thanks to the TAGTHAi pass.

Food, Beverages and Cafes

The TAGTHAi Phuket pass grants access to a selection of delightful cafes and local eateries, each offering a unique culinary experience. Here’s a list of the fantastic establishments included:

1. Hickory
2. Yum Saab Ver
3. Sugar Dark Café
4. Cherna 88
5. Steak Ao-Kae
6. Kopi de Phuket Café and Restaurant

Indulge in a diverse range of food options at these cafes and restaurants, ensuring a memorable gastronomic journey in Phuket with the convenience of the TAGTHAi pass.

Booking the Attractions with TAGTHAi Pass

Booking attractions with the TAGTHAi pass is a straightforward process designed for convenience and ease. While some attractions can be reserved directly through the application, others allow you to enter and present your QR code.

It’s important to note that certain activities, such as zip lining, may require booking at least one day in advance. Information regarding such requirements is readily available within the mobile app, enabling you to plan and secure bookings well ahead of time for a seamless experience.

Recommended One-Day Itinerary

Morning

Start your day early by going on an adventure at Hanuman World. The Combine World C+ activity at Hanuman World takes around two to three hours, including transportation.

Afternoon

Head to Kopi de Phuket Café and Restaurant for lunch in the afternoon to enjoy the local cuisine. Once you finish with your lunch, visit the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary to feed the beautiful elephants. This will surely be the highlight of your itinerary.

Evening

In the evening, have a dessert or a light refreshment at Sugar Dark Café. And since it has been a power-packed long day, nothing can end the day better than having a two-hour relaxing massage at The Raintree Spa.

Savings

Activity	Actual Cost (in USD)
Zipline 10 platform	$75.95
Kopi de Phuket Café and Restaurant	$4.88
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary	$27.45
Sugar Dark Café	$6.53
The Raintree Spa	$36.60
Total cost	$151.41

Total Savings with TAGTHAi pass

Total cost for activities when planned independently: $151.41
TAGTHAi pass: $48.52
Total Savings: $102.89

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about TAGTHAi Pass

Q: How can I travel in Phuket on a budget?

Travelling in Phuket on a budget can be taxing, but with the right deal and pass, you can travel in Phuket without burning a lot of money. Buy the TAGTHAi Phuket pass to save lots of money on the attractions, food and massages.

Q: What is a TAGTHAi pass?

TAGTHAi pass is an all-day digital pass that provides a convenient and seamless way to avail benefits in a city. You pay once for the pass and use the pass multiple times, availing of the benefits.

Q: Which cities have TAGTHAi pass?

TAGTHAi pass is available in:

• Bangkok
• Chiang Mai
• Pattaya
• Ayutthaya
• Phuket

Q: How can I purchase and activate a TAGTHAi pass?

You can purchase and activate the TAGTHAi pass by following the below simple steps:

• Download the TAGTHAi app on your mobile.
• Create an account where you get access to the Starter pack.
• Upgrade to a Premium pack for the city you want to explore.
• On the day you wish to explore, activate the pass.

Q: How much does the TAGTHAi Phuket pass cost?

• A day pass costs USD 48.50, and
• Three days pass cost USD 99.13

Note: The prices for the pass vary depending on the city you select.

Q: How can I use the TAGTHAi pass to avail of benefits?

It is straightforward to avail of benefits. You plan out your itinerary by looking at the information given on the app. Once you have decided on the itinerary, you either pre-book them on the app if required or walk in to make an appointment. At the store’s front desk, show your QR code and get it scanned.

Q: What benefits are available for the TAGTHAi Phuket pass?

The TAGTHAi Phuket pass allows you to select from the benefits below. You can create your itinerary and use as many benefits as you want if you cover them in a day or three days based on the pass you buy.

• Attractions and sight-seeing places:
  • Hanuman World
  • Banana Beach
  • Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
  • Phuket Eco Elephant Park

• Thai Massages:
  • The Raintree Spa
  • Sansabai Massage and Spa

• Food, beverages and cafes
  • Hickory
  • Yum Saab Ver
  • Sugar Dark Café
  • Cherna 88
  • Steak Ao-Kae
  • Kopi de Phuket Café and Restaurant

Q: How many of these benefits can I avail? Does it have an upper limit?

You can avail as many benefits as you want. If you can accommodate the activities in a day or three days (depending on your pass), you can use them without paying an extra dollar. There is no upper limit. However, note that you can utilise a benefit only once on a pass.

Closing Notes

Discovering TAGTHAi was indeed a game-changer during my travels in Thailand. With the flexibility to explore numerous attractions and cafes without any upper limit within the duration of my pass (either one or three days), I felt empowered to make the most of my time in each city. It’s a relief to know that I’ll have this resource at my fingertips for future visits to new destinations in Thailand.

Please note that this post is written in collaboration with TAGTHAi. However, the views and opinions expressed are honest and unbiased, reflecting my genuine experience with the service.

PIN for later reference – Phuket on a Budget