Krabi is a dream destination for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. There are three main options for travelling from Bangkok to Krabi : bus, train, and flight. Each has its own pros and cons, so the best choice for you will depend on your budget, travel time, and preferences. Please refer to this article to help you choose Best mode of travel.
If you are not interested in reading the whole blog, here is a brief overview of all three options to reach Krabi.
| Type | Journey Time | Cost | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | 14-19 hours | 750-1100 THB(20-30 USD) | Low |
| Train + Van | 14-16 hours | 600-2800 THB (16-78 USD) | Medium |
| Flight | 1.5 hour | 1600-5000 THB (45-140 USD) | Medium |
Best time to visit Krabi :
November to March (peak season), Avoid travelling during rainy season (July-October)
Getting around Krabi :
Tuk-tuks, Songthaews, Bikes, Taxi
Index
How to travel from Bangkok to Krabi by Bus
Buses are the most affordable and convenient option to reach Krabi. It takes around 14-19 hours to reach Krabi from Bangkok via Bus. They cost around 750 THB to 1100 THB (20-30 USD) depending on bus company. Express buses are cheapest and VIP buses are the most expensive.
However, buses can be slow and uncomfortable, especially if you’re on an old bus. Modern buses are slightly comfortable with good onboard seats. If you’re looking for more comfortable journey, it is better book ticket for an VIP bus. Here’s a schedule for buses to Krabi by different bus operators.
Schedule for Buses to Krabi from Bangkok
Transport Co : 17:30 17:45
Bangkok Travel Plus : 18:30
Sapthaweephol Khao San : 19:00
Khao San Nara Travel : 19:00
Khao San Montanatip : 19:00
Bangkok bus station
Bangkok has three main bus terminals in the city, however most buses to Krabi depart from Mochit Bus Terminal and Southern Bus Terminal. The best way to reach both bus stations is via Taxi as MRT/BTS stations are far from the bus terminals. I would recommend using Grab or Bolt to book taxis as local taxis will charge more for foreigners.
Some bus companies like Khao San Nara Travel have their own small bus terminal, so be sure to check your departure point while booking.
Krabi Bus station
Krabi Bus Terminal is located a little bit outside from Krabi town. When you get down from the bus, there will be plenty of public songthaews waiting to take you to Krabi town. The fare should be 20 baht per person, though as a foreigner you will likely be charged more.
How to book and buy Bus tickets from Bangkok to Krabi
Bus tickets can be bought offline at bus station or online via third party vendors like 12go Asia or Baolau.
Tips
- Book your tickets online in advance, especially for overnight journeys.
- Choose VIP buses for more legroom and onboard amenities.
- Keep your valuables in your backpack.
- Pack snacks and water, as some buses might not have refreshments available.
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How to travel from Bangkok to Krabi by Train
Currently there are no direct trains between Bangkok and Krabi as there is no railway line that goes through Krabi. However, if you’re looking for a train trip, you can still do Bangkok to Krabi train by taking a train to Surat Thani and then taking a van/minibus to Krabi from there.
Bangkok to Surat Thani by train
Bangkok to Surat Thani trains are very frequent throughout the day as all trains to South Thailand go through there. It takes around 9-11 hours to reach Surat Thani from Bangkok. They cost around 216-2372 THB (6-65 USD) depending on the coach and class type. Thai trains are a more comfortable option than buses as they offer more legroom, scenic views and a unique experience overall.
There are daily 10 trains available to Surat Thani and additional trains are added during peak season and festivals. However, I would recommend booking trains which reach Surat Thani in morning or afternoon as there are no vans to Krabi afterwards.
Schedule for Trains to Surat Thani from Bangkok
Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat) Train Station
Bangkok has two main train terminals, however trains to Surat Thani depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal station. The best way to reach Krung Thep Aphiwat (KTW) is via Bang Sue MRT station as it’s located just outside the terminal. Alternatively you can always take Grab or Bolt to the station.
Surat Thani Train Station
Surat Thani railway station is located outside Surat Thani town in Phunphin. There will be shuttle buses across the train station to take you to Surat Thani town.
How to book and buy train tickets from Bangkok to Surat Thani
Train tickets to Surat Thani can be bought 30 days (90 days for special and special express) before scheduled departure. Travellers can buy tickets both via offline at train station and online on official website or third party vendors like 12go Asia or Baolau. To know more, please read on How to book train tickets in Thailand.
Tips
- Book your tickets well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Book trains which reach Surat Thani in morning or afternoon.
- Remember to select Krung Thep Aphiwat while booking on official website as Bangkok option refers to Hua Lamphong station.
- Opt for first-class carriages for added comfort and amenities.
Surat Thani to Krabi by Van/Minibus
Vans/minibuses to Krabi are frequent during daytime. It takes around 3-4 hours to reach Krabi from Surat Thani. They cost around 300-600 THB (8-16 USD) depending on the tour company.
Schedule for vans/minibuses to Krabi from Surat Thani
Phantip Travel : 9:00 10:30 10:30 10:30 12:00 12:00 12:00 13:30 13:30 13:30 15:00 16:30
Phangan Tour : 9:00 9:00 10:30 10:30 12:00 13:30 15:00 16:30
Surat Thani van terminal
Both Phantip Travel and Phangan Tour van terminals are just few meters apart in Surat Thani town. However, as I mentioned above, Surat Thani train station is far from the town. So, I would recommend taking taxi directly to van terminals.
Krabi van terminal
Vans in Krabi stop at different places in Krabi town, however all vans stop at Krabi Bus Terminal. I would recommend getting down here as there will be plenty of public songthaews waiting to take you to Krabi town. The fare should be 20 baht per person, though as a foreigner you will likely be charged more.
How to book and buy van/minibus tickets from Surat Thani to Krabi
Van tickets can be bought offline at respective van terminals or online via third party vendors like 12go Asia or Baolau. I would recommend giving 1-2 hour buffer while booking online as you’ll be coming by train which are prone to late arrivals.
How to travel from Bangkok to Krabi by Flight
Flights are the fastest option, but they are also the most expensive way to reach Krabi. It takes approximately 1.5 hour to reach Krabi via flight from Bangkok. Flight prices vary season by season and are around 1600-2500 THB (45-70 USD) during off season and around 2500-5000 THB (70-140 USD) during peak season
There are many daily flights departing to Krabi by several airlines. Here’s a list of airlines which fly DMK to KBV and BKK to KBV routes :
Thai Airasia, Thai Vietjet Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai Smile, Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways
Bangkok Airports
Bangkok has two major international airports, namely Suvarnabhumi International Airport – BKK (new airport) and Don Mueang International Airport – DMK (old airport). Flights to Krabi depart from both airports, so better check your departure airport while booking the flights.
Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)
Suvarnabhumi International Airport is located outside main city in Samut Prakan district. The best way to reach BKK airport is via Airport Rail Link from the city. Alternatively you can also take Grab or Bolt to the airport.
Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)
Don Mueang International Airport is located in Don Mueang and Sana Bin area in the city. The best way to reach DMK airport is via SRT Red line service. You can also take A1-A4 buses from different parts of the city to reach the airport. The A1 bus is particularly famous as it runs between DMK and Mochit bus terminal, which is one of the main bus terminals in the city. Alternatively, you can always take Grab or Bolt to the airport.
Krabi International Airport (KBV)
Krabi International airport is located a little far from Krabi town. There will be lot of buses and vans outside the airport and they will take you to your hotel. They cost around 100-200 THB. Alternatively you can always book taxi to your Hotel/accommodation.
How to book and buy flight tickets from Bangkok to Krabi
It is always recommended to buy flight tickets via official airline website. However, travellers can also be book through third party vendors like Agoda, Expedia, 12go Asia.
Tips
- Look for deals and promotions offered by airlines, especially during weekdays.
- Remember to check your departure airport as flights to Krabi depart from both airports.
- Pack light to avoid baggage fees
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when planning your trip
- Book your tickets in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
- Pack light, especially if you’re flying.
- Be prepared for delays, no matter which mode of transportation you choose.
- Relax and enjoy the journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to book / buy bus, train or flight tickets from Bangkok to Krabi?
It is always recommended to book train or flight tickets through official websites. However, you can also book through third party vendors like 12go Asia or Baolau.
How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Krabi?
It takes 14-19 hours to reach Krabi via Bus, 14-16 hours via train + van and approximately 1.5 hour via flight.
How much does it cost to travel from Bangkok to Krabi?
It costs around 20-30 USD to travel to Krabi via Bus, 16-78 USD via Train + Van and 45-140 USD via Flight
What is the fastest way of travel from Bangkok to Krabi?
Fastest way to travel to Krabi is via Flight as it takes approximately 1.5 hour.
What is the cheapest way of travel from Bangkok to Krabi?
Cheapest way to travel to Krabi is via Train + Van, as it costs around 16-78 USD.
What is best time to visit Krabi?
Best time to visit Krabi is during November to March. You can also visit during April to June, but weather is will be hot and humid. I would recommend avoid travelling during July to October as it is rainy season.
What are some places to visit in Krabi?
Krabi is a dream destination for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. From soaring limestone cliffs and pristine beaches to vibrant coral reefs and ancient temples, Krabi offers something for everyone. Here’s a list of some things to see in Krabi for every traveller :
- Railay Beach
- Koh Phi Phi Island
- Krabi Hot Springs
- Emerald Pool
If you want to know in detail about places to visit in Krabi, click here.
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I hope this information helps you choose the best way to get from Bangkok to Krabi. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below. Happy travels!
