Bangkok to Krabi: flight, bus or train, the complete guide

Bangkok to Krabi: all options compared

Three main ways to get there, plus a scenic combination through Khao Sok.

Unlike the route to Chiang Mai, where the night train is a genuine highlight, the ground options to Krabi involve at least one change or a long bus ride and rarely beat a flight on cost once you count meals and transfers. Low-cost fares booked a few weeks ahead are often only slightly more expensive than the bus. The overland route really comes into its own when you want to see Khao Sok National Park or are travelling slowly down the peninsula.

Flying from Bangkok to Krabi: which airport?

Most low-cost flights to Krabi leave from Don Mueang (DMK) in the north of Bangkok, which usually offers the most departures and the lowest fares. Suvarnabhumi (BKK), the main international airport, has fewer Krabi flights but is the better choice if you are connecting from a long-haul arrival, because switching airports across Bangkok takes one to two hours. Krabi International Airport sits about 15 km from Krabi Town and 30 to 40 km from Ao Nang.

1. 1Compare fares from both Bangkok airports for your date
2. 2Add checked baggage at booking, as airport rates are much higher
3. 3Double-check which airport is on your ticket
4. 4Allow at least 3 hours if connecting from an international flight on a separate ticket
5. 5Pre-book or plan your airport transfer if you land in the evening

Bangkok to Krabi by overnight bus

Government-licensed VIP buses leave in the late afternoon and evening from the Southern bus terminal, called Sai Tai Mai, on the Thonburi side of Bangkok. They arrive at Krabi bus terminal in Talat Kao, a few kilometres north of Krabi Town, early the next morning after roughly 12 hours with a rest stop. From there, songthaews and taxis run to Krabi Town and Ao Nang, and some buses continue towards Ao Nang or Koh Lanta, so check when you buy.

• Buy at the operator's counter at Sai Tai Mai or on its official website or app
• Choose the top VIP class for fewer, wider reclining seats
• Keep valuables in a small bag with you, never in the hold
• Bring a warm layer, as bus air conditioning is cold
• Allow 45 to 90 minutes to reach Sai Tai Mai by taxi in evening traffic

Train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, then bus to Krabi

There is no railway to Krabi, but the southern line gets you within about 3 hours.

Night trains to the south leave from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, the former Bang Sue Grand Station, in the evening. They reach Surat Thani station, which is actually in the small town of Phun Phin about 14 km west of Surat Thani city, early the next morning after 9 to 12 hours depending on the train. Buses and minivans to Krabi wait near the station or leave from Surat Thani's bus terminals, taking about 2 to 3 hours. Some agents and the railway sell combined train and bus tickets.

In second class, an attendant turns the facing seats into berths with sheets, pillow and blanket in the evening, and a curtain gives each bunk some privacy. Air conditioning is strong, corridor lights stay on and simple meals are sold onboard, while alcohol is banned on Thai trains. Delays of an hour or more are common, which is why a bus connection with a fixed departure can be stressful.

Stopovers worth doing on the way to Krabi

If you go overland, the journey can become part of the trip. Khao Sok National Park, with its limestone peaks, rainforest and the famous Cheow Lan Lake, lies roughly between Surat Thani and the Andaman coast, about 1.5 to 2 hours by minivan from Phun Phin. From Khao Sok, minivans continue to Krabi and Ao Nang in about 2.5 to 3 hours, making a natural two or three night stop.

From Krabi airport to Ao Nang, Krabi Town, Railay and Koh Lanta

Transfer counters in the arrivals hall sell shuttle bus, shared minivan and private taxi tickets at posted prices, and ride-hailing apps also work. Shuttles make several hotel stops in Ao Nang, so a private taxi is worth it for a group or a late arrival. Ferries to Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta leave mainly from Klong Jilad pier near Krabi Town, and some boats also depart from Ao Nang in high season. To choose between these bases, see where to stay around Krabi.

Best time to travel from Bangkok to Krabi

The Andaman coast is at its best from November to April, with calm seas, sunshine and every boat trip running, but flights and hotels cost more and sell out around Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year. The south-west monsoon from about May to October brings more rain, rougher seas and some suspended boat routes, though many days are still sunny and prices drop. Flights run all year, which makes them the most dependable option in the wet season. See the Krabi and Railay weather by month.

Budget scenarios: what the trip really costs

Because the ground options take so long, compare the full journey rather than the ticket. The bus saves a hotel night but adds a taxi to Sai Tai Mai, meals and a transfer from Krabi bus terminal, and the train needs a second bus. These scenarios for one adult are indicative. Our Thailand travel budget calculator adds the rest of the trip.

Luggage and travelling with kids

Low-cost airlines apply strict hand-luggage weight limits and charge a lot for excess at check-in, so add a bag when booking. On buses, luggage goes in the hold and minivans have little space for big suitcases, which is another reason a backpack or medium bag works better. If you are heading to Railay, remember the longtail landing: rolling a suitcase through water and sand is no fun.

With children, flying is by far the easiest option: a morning flight puts you on the beach by lunchtime. If you choose the train, a lower berth can be shared with a small child and a first-class cabin works well for a family. Twelve hours on a night bus is hard for young kids, and car seats are rarely available in taxis or minivans, so check official rules and consider bringing a travel seat. More tips in our guide to Thailand with kids.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Looking for a train to Krabi: the railway stops at Surat Thani
• Going to Hua Lamphong instead of Krung Thep Aphiwat for southern trains
• Booking a Don Mueang flight when you land at Suvarnabhumi
• Flying to Phuket to save a little, then spending hours on the road
• Buying cheap Khao San Road tourist bus tickets
• Planning a tight bus connection after a night train that may be late
• Arriving at Ao Nang after dark and expecting a longtail to Railay