Chiang Mai to Surat Thani
Chiang Mai to Surat Thani is one of the longest trips you can take in Thailand, as you’ll be traveling from the North to the very south. The distance by road is around 1,350 kilometers. If you need to know what’s the fastest and most comfortable way to get to Surat Thani, read on. Below, we will describe how to travel by direct flight, via connecting train or connecting bus.
How to Get from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani
If you’re planning to travel from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani, you have a few options to choose from. You can either take a direct flight, which takes just 2 hours and prices start from 1,500 Thai Baht. The other option is to take a connecting train via Bangkok, which takes around 25 hours in total but is the cheapest option, prices start at 600 Thai Baht. Your last option is a bus (connecting via Bangkok), taking 20-22 hours in total and costing approximately 1,100 Thai Baht. In the end, it’s all up to your personal preference – whether it be an easy but pricier direct flight or a cost-effective but lengthier journey on the train or night bus – the choice is yours! Below, we will explore all these options in detail.
Chiang Mai to Surat Thani by Flight
- Price: from 1,500 THB
- Transport type: flight
- Companies: Thai AirAsia
- Travel time: 2 hours
The best way to get from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani is by taking a direct flight with AirAsia. The flight departs CNX Chiang Mai Airport at 19:20 and arrives at Surat Thani at 21:20. The flight only takes 2 hours and prices start at 1,500 THB, however, the earlier you book your ticket – the cheaper it will be. There is also the possibility of getting a discount if you book your tickets early enough so it’s always worth checking out their website before booking your ticket.
Since CNX is a busy airport serving all of northern Thailand, we recommend arriving there 2 hours before the flight in order to avoid any issues with security or other delays. Once you arrive in Surat Thani you can easily take a taxi or bus which will take you anywhere in town that you need to go.
If you are looking for an easier option, plenty of hotel shuttles regularly leave from the airport straight into town, and private car rides can be booked online ahead of time or directly when arriving at the airport.
Chiang Mai to Surat Thani by Train via Bangkok
- Price: 600 THB
- Transport type: train+train
- Companies: Thai Railway
- Travel time: 25-30 hours
Although it may take up to 30 hours, this train ride through Thailand is well worth it. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also allows you to get a glimpse of the Thai countryside and some of the country’s major cities.
Step 1: Train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok
The train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is a long, but comfortable journey. You can choose between different classes of seats or sleeper trains, depending on your budget and preferences. The train ride takes about 11 to 14.5 hours, and the ticket cost starts from 278 THB.
There are two main train stations in Bangkok. Trains from Chiang Mai arrive at either the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station or Don Mueang Station, depending on the train schedule. You can easily transfer to either of these stations via public transportation, taxis, or private shuttles.
Step 2: Train from Bangkok to Surat Thani
Once you arrive in Bangkok, it’s time to catch another train to Surat Thani. This train ride takes about 11 to 13 hours, depending on the train. You can choose between 1st, 2nd or 3rd class fan seats or sleeper trains, depending on your budget and preferences. The train tickets cost starting 266 THB.
The trains to Surat Thani depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station in Bangkok and arrive at Surat Thani Train Station. From there, you can easily take a taxi or a public bus to your final destination in Surat Thani or other nearby attractions, such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, or the Khao Sok National Park.
Tips for a comfortable train journey
- Book your train tickets in advance via 12go to secure a good seat or sleeper train.
- Pack some snacks, water, and entertainment for the long train journey. You can also buy food and drinks at the train stations or from food vendors who walk around the train carriages (although this service is available not on all the trains).
- Bring a warm blanket, as the air conditioning can get quite cold on the trains.
- You can use the train’s restroom facilities but be prepared for squat toilets and limited toilet paper. We recommend bringing your own toilet paper and sanitizer.
Chiang Mai to Surat Thani by Bus via Bangkok
- Price: 1,100 THB
- Transport type: bus+bus
- Travel time: 20-22 hours
Getting from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani by bus via Bangkok may seem like a long journey, but with comfortable and modern buses, it becomes a pleasant experience. In this article, we’ll guide you through the two-step journey, covering everything from bus companies, costs, travel time, and tips to make your journey enjoyable.
Step 1: Bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok
The first step of the journey is to get from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, and this can be done with a comfortable seat bus or a sleeper bus. These buses have modern facilities like air conditioning, onboard toilets, and charging facilities for your electronics. The seat buses are ideal for those on a budget, while the sleeper buses offer more comfort, privacy, and the ability to sleep comfortably throughout the journey. The bus ticket from Chiang Mai to Bangkok costs 650 THB, and depending on the type of bus you take, the journey can take anywhere from 10 to 12 hours.
Some of the bus companies offering this route are Transport Co, Bangkok Busline, Nakhonchai Air, and Budsarakham Tour, and they all arrive at the Mochit Bus terminal in Bangkok.
Step 2: Bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani
The second step of the journey involves taking a bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani, and this can be done from either the Mochit Bus Terminal or the Southern Terminal Bangkok. Buses from Bangkok are also comfortable and modern like the ones from Chiang Mai, and the ticket costs 611 THB. Depending on the bus company you choose, the journey can take anywhere from 9 to 14 hours. Bangkok Busline, Transport Co, Sombat Tour, Krungsiam Tour, Montanatip, and ChokeAnan Tour are some of the bus companies offering this route, and they all have different schedules and facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani
Is there a Direct Train from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani?
No, unfortunately, there is no direct train service between Chiang Mai and Surat Thani. The only way to reach Surat Thani from Chiang Mai by train is by traveling through Bangkok (as we described above in this post). This makes for a much longer ride than if you could take a direct route, and it may not be convenient for some travelers. If you’re looking for a fast journey from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani, air travel will be your best bet.
What Is the Distance from ​​Chiang Mai to Surat Thani?
It’s 1340 kilometers by road, clocking a total of 17 hours by car, through some of Thailand’s most beautiful landscapes. However, if making up that much mileage in a single trip doesn’t quite fit into your plans, then there is always the option of taking the 2-hour flight!
How to Book Tickets from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani?
When traveling from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani, the easiest option is often to book tickets through the 12Go. With 12Go you can book a direct flight according to your schedule and budget, in addition to taking a comfortable train or bus via Bangkok. Furthermore, if you’re looking for value-for-money travel options then 12Go has it all covered. You’ll find great deals on multi-city trips even to remote destinations.
Is Surat Thani Worth Visiting?
Surat Thani is a great destination for travelers looking for fun, adventure, and relaxation all in one place.
From the world-renowned Khao Sok National Park to the majestic Rajjaprabha Dam, there is something for everyone.
Adventure-seekers should check out Si Surat Buddha’s Footprint and spend an afternoon at Khao Na NiLuang Dhamma Park while those looking to connect with nature can explore Koh Raet.
Lastly, Khanom Beach offers picture-perfect views accompanied by stunning sunsets that will make any visit to Surat Thani unforgettable.
Whether you are after a getaway filled with activities or a peaceful escape take it slow, and add this fantastic Thai province to your bucket list!
How Long from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani?
If you’re traveling from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani in Thailand, you have a few options. The first would be to take a direct flight, which takes just 2 hours and is the most consistent way to get there. Alternatively, you might opt for the train or bus journey that goes via Bangkok. Although this route could take up to 25 hours, it offers a unique insight into the landscape and culture of rural Thailand that can’t be experienced from an airplane. For those on a tight budget, trains and buses are also much cheaper than flying!
