A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Similan Islands vs. Jodhpur for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Similan Islands or Jodhpur?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Similan Islands and Jodhpur can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Where Should I go: Similan Islands or Jodhpur?

Similan Islands

There are places divers like, and there are places divers love. One of the most popular spots to visit the underwater world is at the national park of the Similan Islands in southern Thailand. With 140 square kilometers of land and nine islands, this area is a paradise for those ready to get their feet wet.

The park is made up of nine islands: Ko Bon, Ko Bayu, Ko Similan, Ko Payu, Ko Miang, Ko Payan, Ko Paying and Ko Huyong. If these names are a bit too similar for you to easily differentiate, don't worry. Most refer to each island with a number from 1 to 9. Two more islands were added to the park – Koh Bon and Koh Tachai – in 1998.

Even though the park was only established in 1982, the islands have been around for approximately 65 million years. They are the product of swells of hot magma during the Cretaceous period and smoothed over by glacial ice and water erosion. The reefs beneath the surface are approximately 5,000 years and therefor the oldest in Thailand. Luckily, because of its deep waters, the islands' underwater landscapes were essentially unharmed during the 2004 tsunami.

Each island is covered in lush, tropical jungle and white, sandy coastlines. There is fish of every shape, color and size – including the famous "Nemo" clownfish, batfish, barracudas, whale sharks and manta rays.

You'll want to plan your visit around monsoon season. So book a trip sometime between December and April. March is a particularly good time to visit as the winds have died down and the water is crystal clear. The park is closed from May to November.

There are a few tents and bungalows on some of the islands. They are government run, and you'll need to reserve them in advance. Many divers will simply take day trips, or sleep on board boats. There are several organized tour and boat options available out of Phuket, Khao Lak and Ranong. Both areas will likely offer day trips and live-aboard cruises. These cruises typically start at four days and 4 nights, but shorter trips are available. There is an entry fee to the park, along with a daily usage fee for those spending multiple days in the park. This fee is paid to your driver before the trip.

Jodhpur

Jodhpur is a city in the Rajasthan state of India. This city is located on the outskirts of the Thar Desert and is known for having sunshine almost every day of the year. Rao Jodha, an ancient Rajput chief, founded the city in 1459 AD. Many of the houses in the city are shades of blue, hence the reason that the city is sometimes referred to as the Blue City.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best Bicycle Tours in India, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in India.


Which place is cheaper, Jodhpur or Similan Islands?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Similan Islands Prices
    Thailand Prices
    Jodhpur Prices
    India Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Similan Islands $208
    Jodhpur $39

The average daily cost (per person) in Similan Islands is $208, while the average daily cost in Jodhpur is $39. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Similan Islands and Jodhpur in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Similan Islands $75
    Jodhpur $13
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Similan Islands $150
    Jodhpur $26
Compare Hotels in Similan Islands and Jodhpur

Looking for a hotel in Similan Islands or Jodhpur? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Similan Islands


Hotels in Jodhpur


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Jodhpur Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Similan Islands $107
    Jodhpur $5.65

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jodhpur

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jodhpur are as follows:


  • Tuk Tuk Ride
    $0.31

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jodhpur

Also for Jodhpur, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • private transfer from jodhpur to jaisalmer with osian temple: $90
  • Transfer from Jodhpur to Udaipur via Jain Temple in Ranakpur: $39
  • Transfer Jodhpur To Udaipur Via Ranakpur & Kumbhalgarh Fort: $44
  • Private transfer - Jodhpur to Udaipur via Ranakpur with lunch: $214
  • Private transfer - Jodhpur to Udaipur via Ranakpur: $172
  • Private Transfer from Jodhpur to Udaipur with Ranakpur Jain Temple: $126
  • Private Transfer from Jodhpur to Udaipur: $67
  • Private Transfer from Jodhpur to Jaipur: $44
  • Private Transfer from Jodhpur to Delhi by a/c car: $139
  • Private Transfer from Jodhpur (JDH) Airport to Jodhpur City: $44
  • Private Transfer From Jodhpur to Jaipur Via Ajmer and Pushkar: $45
  • Private Transfer From Jodhpur To Udaipur With Optional Stops: $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Similan Islands or Jodhpur?

Prices for flights to both Jodhpur and Similan Islands change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Similan Islands $68
    Jodhpur $19

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jodhpur

For Jodhpur, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • chai and pakora cooking class: $11
  • Experience Indian Food Cooking Session At Local Family: $20
  • Jodhpur Temple Tour & Food Tour with Local Guide: $21
  • street food tour with over 8 food tastings: $21
  • Jodhpur : Jeep Safari, Camel Ride,Buffet Dinner & Folk Dance: $24
  • Jodhpur Food Tour: $25
  • Jodhpur Food Tour With Pick Up & Drop Off: $25
  • Private Cooking Class in Jodhpur With Pick Up & Drop Off: $26
  • Vegetarian Cooking Class with a Local Family: $26
  • Traditional Food of Rajasthan Cooking Class Experience: $27
  • Jodhpur Private Cooking Class With Family: $27
  • Jodhpur Cooking Experience 11 Authentic Dishes Pickup & Drop: $27

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Similan Islands $48
    Jodhpur $10

Typical Entertainment Prices in Jodhpur

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Jodhpur's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Fort Entrance for Two
    $5.19
  • Astrology Reading
    $3.63

Tours and Activities in Jodhpur

For Jodhpur, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • (JODHPUR) BLUE CITY Guided TOUR with MEHREANGARH FORT: $9.54
  • 2 Days Safari Tour in Jawai and Jodphur: $250
  • 2 Days: Guided Jodhpur & Udaipur Tour From Jodhpur With Hotels: $198
  • 3 Days Jodhpur Cab And Driver City Tour in Jodhpur: $48
  • 3 Days Private Jodhpur City Tour With Village Tour & Desert Safari: $154
  • 3-Day Jaisalmer Tour From Jodhpur: $270
  • 3-Day Rajasthan Jodhpur, Jaisalmer & Desert Camp Adventure: $296
  • 3-Hour Guided Walking Tour in Jodhpur: $9.06
  • 7-Day Rajasthan Tour: Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur & Bikaner: $1,035
  • A Day Tour Of Ranakpur Temple Form Jodhpur and Drop At Mount Abu: $53
  • Agra: Skip-The-Line Sunrise Taj Mahal with Mausoleum Tour: $5.64
  • All Inclusive Jodhpur Full or Half Day Sightseeing Tour: $47

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Similan Islands $10
    Jodhpur $8.87


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Similan Islands and Jodhpur, we can see that Similan Islands is more expensive. And not only is Jodhpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Jodhpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jodhpur and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Similan Islands would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Similan Islands than you might in Jodhpur.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Similan Islands Expensive? and Is Jodhpur Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Similan Islands or Jodhpur?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Jodhpur in the Summer?

Both Jodhpur and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Jodhpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The rainy season in Similan Islands is June to September. It rains a lot this time of the year in Jodhpur. It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In July, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Jodhpur. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Jodhpur receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

It's very hot in Jodhpur this time of the year. In July, Similan Islands is generally cooler than Jodhpur. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 28°C (82°F), and Jodhpur fluctuates around 32°C (90°F).


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Similan Islands 28°C (82°F) 
    Jodhpur 32°C (90°F)

Should I visit Similan Islands or Jodhpur in the Autumn?

Both Jodhpur and Similan Islands during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Similan Islands because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jodhpur year-round.

October to May is the dry season in Similan Islands. It rains a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in October than Jodhpur. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Jodhpur receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Jodhpur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Jodhpur fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Similan Islands 27°C (81°F) 
    Jodhpur 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Similan Islands or Jodhpur in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Jodhpur. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Jodhpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In January, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Jodhpur. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Jodhpur receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In the winter, Similan Islands is much warmer than Jodhpur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Similan Islands in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Jodhpur averages at about 17°C (63°F).


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Similan Islands 27°C (80°F) 
    Jodhpur 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Similan Islands or Jodhpur in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Jodhpur. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jodhpur throughout the year.

Also, October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season. June to September in Similan Islands is the rainy season. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the spring. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in April than Jodhpur. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Jodhpur receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's very hot in Jodhpur this time of the year. In April, Similan Islands is generally around the same temperature as Jodhpur. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 29°C (83°F), and Jodhpur fluctuates around 31°C (88°F).


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Similan Islands 29°C (83°F) 
    Jodhpur 31°C (88°F)

Typical Weather for Jodhpur and Similan Islands

Similan Islands Jodhpur
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (80°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Mar 28°C (83°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 29°C (83°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 31°C (88°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
May 28°C (82°F) 345 mm (13.6 in) 35°C (95°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Jun 28°C (82°F) 286 mm (11.3 in) 34°C (93°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 284 mm (11.2 in) 32°C (90°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 28°C (82°F) 272 mm (10.7 in) 29°C (84°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Sep 27°C (81°F) 417 mm (16.4 in) 28°C (82°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 351 mm (13.8 in) 28°C (82°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Nov 27°C (80°F) 188 mm (7.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Dec 27°C (80°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)


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