Siem Reap, the gateway to the famous Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia, is a popular destination for travelers coming from Bangkok. There are several ways to make the journey from Thailand’s bustling capital to this historical city, depending on your budget and preferences. Whether you choose to fly, take a bus, or travel overland via train and bus, this guide covers all the details you need to know about getting from Bangkok to Siem Reap.
Overview of Travel Options
Here’s a breakdown of the different ways you can travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap:
- By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Bus: A budget-friendly choice, but the journey can be long.
- By Train and Bus Combo: An adventurous option, with a mix of train travel and border crossing via bus or taxi.
- By Private Taxi: A more comfortable and private way to travel, though expensive.
Each method has its advantages in terms of cost, time, and convenience, which we’ll explore in detail below.
Timetable
| Flight Don Mueang Airport - Siem Reap ฿ 1,747–1,922 1h – 1h 10m | |
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| Taxi Don Mueang Airport - Siem Reap ฿ 8,650–12,460 8h | |
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| Flight Bangkok - Siem Reap ฿ 2,808–16,981 1h – 1d 35m | |
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| Bus Bangkok - Siem Reap ฿ 1,250–1,473 8h 30m – 13h | |
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| Taxi Bangkok - Siem Reap ฿ 5,482–13,844 6h 30m – 9h | |
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| Van Bangkok - Siem Reap ฿ 1,300 7h 30m – 8h | |
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| Taxi Suvarnabhumi Airport - Siem Reap ฿ 6,064–11,075 8h – 9h | |
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By Flight: The Fastest and Easiest Option
Flying is the quickest way to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap, cutting down what can be a full day of overland travel into a short 1-hour flight. This option is ideal if you want to maximize your time exploring the temples of Angkor and avoid the long, sometimes tiring, overland journey.
Key Details:
- Airports: Flights depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and land at Siem Reap International Airport (REP).
- Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
- Price Range: Tickets range from 1,500 to 5,000 THB (~$45 to $150 USD), depending on the season and how early you book.
- Airlines:
- Bangkok Airways: Often referred to as “Asia’s Boutique Airline,” it offers multiple flights daily with excellent service.
- Thai AirAsia: A budget-friendly airline offering affordable direct flights.
Pros:
- Fastest option, with direct flights lasting about 1 hour.
- Multiple flights available daily.
- No border hassle, as immigration is handled directly at the airports.
Cons:
- More expensive than overland travel.
- You miss the overland experience and sights along the way.
Booking Tip:
Book your flight as early as possible to secure the best price. Use our integrated search form at the top of this page to compare flight options, departure times, and fares.
By Bus: The Budget-Friendly Option
For those traveling on a budget, taking a bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap is one of the most affordable options. Buses typically leave from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal and arrive directly in Siem Reap. This overland journey involves crossing the border at Poipet, one of the busiest border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Buses leave from Mo Chit Bus Terminal or Khao San Road in Bangkok.
- Duration: The journey takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on border crossing times.
- Price Range: Bus tickets cost between 700 to 1,000 THB (~$20 to $30 USD).
- Bus Companies:
- Giant Ibis: A reputable company offering comfortable buses with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets.
- Nattakan Transport: Offers a direct bus service from Bangkok to Siem Reap, including assistance at the border crossing.
Pros:
- One of the cheapest ways to travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap.
- Direct buses make the journey more straightforward, including help with the border crossing.
Cons:
- Long travel time, especially if there are delays at the Poipet border.
- Border crossing can be stressful and time-consuming.
Onboard Experience:
Many buses provide comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and amenities like Wi-Fi and snacks. Rest stops are made along the way, and some companies even assist passengers through the border process, helping to make the journey smoother.
By Train and Bus Combo: For the Adventurous Traveler
Although there is no direct train from Bangkok to Siem Reap, you can take a train from Bangkok to the Thai border town of Aranyaprathet, and then continue by bus or taxi from the border at Poipet to Siem Reap. This route is slower but offers a more scenic and adventurous way to travel.
Key Details:
- Train Departure Point: Trains leave from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Aranyaprathet.
- Train Duration: Around 6 hours to Aranyaprathet.
- Price Range: Train tickets cost around 50 THB (~$1.50 USD) for third-class seats.
- From Poipet to Siem Reap: Once you cross the border, you’ll need to catch a bus, shared van, or taxi to Siem Reap.
- Bus/Van Duration: The ride takes around 2 to 3 hours.
- Cost: Between 300 to 500 THB (~$10 to $15 USD).
Pros:
- One of the most affordable ways to travel.
- Scenic train ride through rural Thailand.
- A chance to experience the adventure of crossing the Thailand-Cambodia border.
Cons:
- Time-consuming journey, often taking more than 10 hours in total.
- Border crossing can be hectic, and scams are common, so it’s important to stay alert.
Booking Tip:
Train tickets for this route cannot be booked online, but they are easy to purchase at Hua Lamphong Railway Station. Once at the border, negotiate the best price for onward transportation or use trusted services like shared vans.
By Private Taxi: For Comfort and Convenience
For travelers who prefer a more comfortable and private journey, hiring a private taxi is a viable option. This overland route provides a direct and hassle-free transfer from Bangkok to Siem Reap.
Key Details:
- Duration: Around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the border crossing time.
- Price Range: A private taxi costs between 3,500 to 5,000 THB (~$100 to $150 USD).
- Border Crossing: The taxi will take you directly to the Poipet border crossing, where you’ll handle immigration yourself before continuing to Siem Reap.
Pros:
- Most comfortable and private way to travel.
- Faster than taking the bus or train.
- Direct service, reducing the hassle of multiple transfers.
Cons:
- More expensive than other options.
- Border crossing still required, though the driver will assist with logistics.
Booking Tip:
Private taxis can be arranged through travel agencies or hotel concierge services. Be sure to agree on the price beforehand and confirm that the driver will assist with the border crossing process.
Border Crossing at Poipet
Whether you’re taking the bus, train, or private taxi, most overland routes from Bangkok to Siem Reap pass through the Poipet border crossing. Here are some tips to make the crossing smoother:
- Visa Requirements: Most travelers can get a Cambodian visa on arrival at the border. Make sure to have a passport-sized photo and $30 to $35 USD in cash ready for the visa fee.
- Avoid Scams: There are often touts offering to expedite your visa process for an extra fee—stick to the official process at the border.
- Expect Delays: The border can get busy, especially during peak travel times, so be prepared for potential delays.
Final Tips for Traveling from Bangkok to Siem Reap
- Plan Your Border Crossing: The Poipet border can be chaotic, so it’s important to have your documents and cash ready, and remain cautious of scams.
- Book in Advance: Whether you’re flying, taking the bus, or opting for a private taxi, book your tickets or arrangements in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
- Pack Snacks and Water: If you’re traveling overland, especially by bus or train, bring snacks and plenty of water, as the journey can be long and rest stops may be limited.
