Bangkok to Krabi? Organize Your Trip with Our Tips in 2024!

With its fine sandy beaches surrounded by palm trees and towering limestone cliffs, Krabi is a renowned beach destination in Thailand that offers a spectacular landscape where land and sea blend harmoniously. While Krabi is a highly sought-after spot, getting there can be a significant aspect of your travel plans. From choosing the right Bangkok to Krabi flight to considering alternative routes like buses or trains, find out how to get to Krabi from Bangkok with ease and start your adventure on the right foot. This guide will provide all the information you need to organize your Bangkok to Krabi journey seamlessly, ensuring a memorable experience in one of Thailand's most beautiful provinces.

Written by Preetika Narula (Local Expert)Updated on 15-08-2024

Comments

Distance between Bangkok and Krabi

Krabi is a province in southwestern Thailand known as the gateway to stunning islands such as Ko Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Railay Beach, and over 150 other islands that offer an intoxicating mix of paradise beaches, tropical forests ideal for hiking, and a variety of exotic wildlife.

To get from Bangkok to Krabi, you have several options: take a flight to save time, or choose the road to admire the rural Thai landscape on your way to this dream destination. If you opt for the land route, prepare for a long day of travel, as there are approximately 814 kilometers between Bangkok and Krabi.

1. Traveling from Bangkok to Krabi by Plane

One of the fastest and most convenient options to reach Krabi from Bangkok is by flight. The flight from Bangkok to Krabi takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes on average. Several airlines offer regular flights from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Krabi Airport (KBV). Among the airlines offering direct flights on this route are Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways.

You can also choose low-cost flights, which typically depart from Bangkok's other airport, Don Muang International Airport (DMK), to Krabi (KBV) with airlines like Thai Lion Air, Thai AirAsia, or Nok Air.

It’s important to note that most low-cost airlines only include carry-on luggage in the ticket price, meaning additional fees for checked baggage. The flight costs start from 35 dollars.

>>>> 3 Weeks of Adventure from North to South Thailand 🕺🌴

Krabi International Airport is located 15 km northeast of Krabi town, making it easily accessible from the city center. It offers connections to all major tourist attractions, facilitating your journey to this popular destination.

>>> Read more: 

•  🏝️ Every thing you need to know about Krabi 🏝️
• 🌟 12 Unique Things to Do in Bangkok! 🌟

2. Traveling from Bangkok to Krabi by Bus

Opting for a bus as your mode of transportation from Bangkok to Krabi can be an economical option. Night buses are particularly appreciated, as they allow you to save a night of accommodation and arrive in Krabi in the morning. The bus journey typically takes between 10 to 12 hours. Bus tickets generally range between 19€ and 35€, depending on the transport company and the departure time.

To reach Krabi by bus from Bangkok, you have a choice between classic express buses or more comfortable luxury buses. Both options offer air conditioning and convenient stops at well-equipped stations.

Upon arrival in Krabi, buses from Bangkok stop either at the bus station near Talat Kao, 4 km north of Krabi, ideally located for reaching the islands, or at Nuea Khlong, 15 km from Krabi.

Departures are from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) on Phutthamonthon Sai Road in the Thonburi district. A taxi can take you there easily in 25 to 45 minutes from central Bangkok, for about 170 THB.

From East Bangkok and Sukhumvit, the taxi fare will be slightly higher. Although there is no direct Skytrain (BTS) station nearby, there are stations in the vicinity where you can then take a taxi.

>>>> What is Skytrain (Metro in Bangkok, Thailand)?

3. Traveling from Bangkok to Krabi by Train

Traveling from Bangkok to Krabi by train offers a practical option for travelers with time and who enjoy admiring the Thai landscape. However, it is important to note that there is no direct train from Bangkok to Krabi. Combined offers are available, including a train journey to Surat Thani followed by a bus trip to Krabi. The train and bus journey from Bangkok to Krabi (via Surat Thani) takes about 15 hours.

To start, take the train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong station towards Surat Thani. While daytime travel options are available, sleeper trains offer a much more pleasant way to travel.

The most common option is the night train number 85, which departs at 7:30 PM. You will arrive in Surat Thani at 6:25 AM or 7:10 AM respectively. Prices are 1,500 bahts, which equals 38.6 dollars (first class), and 950 bahts, equivalent to 24.7 dollars (second class). Once in Surat Thani, you can take a local bus, which takes about three hours to reach Krabi.

>>>> Party Across Thailand in 18 Epic Days 🎉🍹

You have the option to book train and bus tickets separately via an online travel platform, or purchase both as a combined trip directly at the station. Alternatively, you can simply buy the train ticket and then book a seat on the bus upon arrival in Surat Thani.

4. Ferries from Krabi to the Islands

If your final destination is one of Krabi’s paradisiacal islands, a ferry will be necessary from Krabi town. Indeed, after arriving in Krabi by bus or plane, you will need to board a boat to reach the coveted islands. Railay Beach to the west or the famous Koh Phi Phi, one of the renowned islands in Andaman Sea, attract many travelers, and the final transfer is by sea.

Ferries depart from different piers in Krabi and offer various levels of comfort. Expect a 2-hour crossing to Koh Phi Phi on a comfortable ferry with air conditioning, a panoramic deck, and onboard dining.

High-speed catamarans reduce the travel time to 1.5 hours, but allow less enjoyment of the journey. Due to their high speed, these boats are more shaken on the water, and it is necessary to remain seated throughout the crossing.

You can buy your ferry ticket on-site in Krabi. However, during the high season, it’s best to book your combined bus/ferry ticket in advance for highly sought-after islands like Koh Phi Phi to ensure you have a seat. Plan this maritime transfer into your itinerary for a smooth arrival on your dream island!

>>>> You might be interested in How to Get Around in Thailand?

5. Practical Tips for Organizing Your Trip

To ensure your trip from Bangkok to Krabi goes smoothly, follow these tips:

• Book your plane or bus tickets in advance, especially during the high season, to secure your spot and avoid any issues.
• Take the time to plan your stay before departure. Choose the must-see places you want to visit and estimate the duration of each visit.
• Also, check the weather forecast for your travel dates to pack accordingly.
• Finally, explore the different accommodation options on-site, from luxury hotels to budget hostels, and book your lodging as early as possible to take advantage of the best rates and ensure a comfortable stay.

By following these tips, your trip from Bangkok to Krabi will be well-prepared, and you’ll be able to fully enjoy this magnificent Thai destination.

Final Words

The journey from Bangkok to Krabi offers numerous exciting options for travelers, each with its unique advantages. The choice of transportation depends on your personal preferences regarding time, comfort, and exploration. Whether you travel by plane, road, or along the coast, the key is to savor every moment of this unforgettable experience.

>>>> Related Articles:

• How to Get from Krabi to Koh Phi Phi: 4 Things You Should Know!
• Krabi or Phuket? - 10 Key Questions To Make a Decision
• Top 10 Best Beach Hotels and Resorts in Krabi for Your 2024 Vacation!