Bamboo culms of Dendrocalamus strictus (Roxb.) were subjected to thermal modification at different treatment temperatures of 160, 180 and 200 °C under partial vacuum. Control and thermally modified bamboos were converted into strips and crushed strands to produce laminated (LBL) and scrimber (SBL) composites respectively using melamine formaldehyde adhesive. Effects of treatment temperatures on various properties including decay resistance were studied and characterized using XRD and FTIR. Average EMC was reduced to different levels depending on severity of thermal treatments. Density of composite was improved significantly and increasing treatment temperatures exhibited greater anti-swelling efficiency. Dark colour of modified bamboo was influenced by treatment parameters, while microstructure was not much affected. Most of mechanical parameters of composites produced from bamboo modified were enhanced. However, higher temperature (≥ 200 °C) showed detrimental effects on strength. Modified bamboo exhibited greater decay resistance against two rotting fungi. Some changes in crystalline structure and certain functional groups were observed after thermal modification. With desirable improvements in aesthetic and quality parameters, composites from thermally modified bamboo may be considered as ecological alternative to preservative treated materials. The LBL and SBL may, therefore, be utilized in production of valued-added lifestyle artifact in allied bamboo industry sectors. Display omitted •Laminated and scrimber composites prepared from thermally modified bamboo and MF resin.•Density, ASE and decay resistance of composites were significantly improved.•Bamboo composites exhibited significant variations in different mechanical properties.•Composites from thermally modified bamboo found suitable for structural applications.