How to get from Bangkok to Khao Sok National Park (Explained Fully)

Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand is one of the country’s most stunning natural reserves, famous for its limestone karst mountains, dense jungles, and the spectacular Cheow Lan Lake. Located approximately 750 kilometers south of Bangkok, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This guide covers all the transportation options for getting from Bangkok to Khao Sok National Park, including travel times, costs, and convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.

Overview of Travel Options

Here are the main ways to get from Bangkok to Khao Sok National Park:

• By Flight and Bus: The fastest and most efficient option.
• By Bus: A budget-friendly overland option.
• By Train and Bus: A scenic but slower route.
• By Private Car or Taxi: The most flexible option for personalized travel.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel to Khao Sok National Park.

Timetable

By Flight and Bus: The Fastest and Most Efficient Option

The quickest way to get from Bangkok to Khao Sok is by flying to nearby cities such as Surat Thani or Phuket, followed by a bus or minivan ride to Khao Sok. This combination significantly reduces travel time.

Key Details:

• Step 1: Fly from Bangkok to Surat Thani or Phuket.
  • Airports: Flights depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK).
  • Arrival Points: Flights arrive at Surat Thani International Airport (URT) or Phuket International Airport (HKT).
  • Flight Duration: The flight takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.
  • Price Range: Flights typically range from 1,000 to 3,500 THB (~$30 to $100 USD), depending on the airline and booking time.
  • Airlines: Popular airlines include Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, AirAsia, and Nok Air.
• Step 2: Take a Bus or Minivan from Surat Thani or Phuket to Khao Sok.
  • Duration: From Surat Thani, the bus ride takes about 2 hours; from Phuket, it takes about 3 to 4 hours.
  • Price Range: Bus tickets cost between 150 to 300 THB (~$5 to $10 USD).
  • Bus and Minivan Services: Popular services include Phantip Travel (Surat Thani) and local minivan operators (Phuket).

By Bus: The Budget-Friendly Overland Option

Taking an overnight bus from Bangkok to Khao Sok is a cost-effective option, especially for budget-conscious travelers. Buses run regularly from Bangkok to Surat Thani, where you can transfer to a bus or minivan to Khao Sok.

Key Details:

• Step 1: Take an Overnight Bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani.
  • Departure Point: Buses depart from Mo Chit Bus Terminal or Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) in Bangkok.
  • Arrival Point: Buses arrive at Surat Thani Bus Terminal.
  • Duration: The overnight bus ride takes about 10 to 12 hours.
  • Price Range: Tickets cost between 500 to 1,000 THB (~$15 to $30 USD), depending on the class (VIP, first, or second class).
  • Bus Services: Companies such as Transport Co. Ltd. and Phantip Travel offer comfortable, air-conditioned overnight buses.
• Step 2: Take a Local Bus or Minivan from Surat Thani to Khao Sok.
  • Duration: The bus ride from Surat Thani to Khao Sok takes about 2 hours.
  • Price Range: Tickets cost between 150 to 300 THB (~$5 to $10 USD).

Onboard Experience:

Overnight buses are generally comfortable and air-conditioned, with reclining seats. VIP buses often include blankets, snacks, and onboard restrooms. Local buses from Surat Thani to Khao Sok are more basic but convenient.

By Train and Bus: The Scenic Route

For travelers who enjoy scenic train journeys, taking a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani followed by a bus or minivan to Khao Sok is a great way to experience Thailand’s countryside.

Key Details:

• Step 1: Take a Train from Bangkok to Surat Thani.
  • Departure Point: Trains depart from Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok.
  • Arrival Point: Trains arrive at Surat Thani Railway Station.
  • Duration: The train ride takes about 8 to 12 hours, depending on the type of train.
  • Price Range: Train tickets cost between 600 to 1,500 THB (~$18 to $45 USD), depending on the class (first-class sleeper, second-class sleeper, or third-class seats).
  • Train Services: Overnight sleeper trains are popular, offering comfortable cabins for long journeys.
• Step 2: Take a Bus or Minivan from Surat Thani to Khao Sok.
  • Duration: The bus ride takes about 2 hours.
  • Price Range: Tickets cost between 150 to 300 THB (~$5 to $10 USD).

Onboard Experience:

Trains offer various classes, from third-class seats to first-class sleeper cabins with private bunks. Second-class sleeper cabins are air-conditioned and offer shared bunks for a comfortable night’s sleep. Food and drinks are available for purchase on the train.

By Private Car or Taxi: The Flexible and Direct Option

For travelers seeking a more personalized and flexible journey, hiring a private car or taxi from Bangkok to Khao Sok is the best option. This method allows you to travel at your own pace and stop along the way for sightseeing.

Key Details:

• Duration: The drive from Bangkok to Khao Sok takes about 10 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
• Price Range: A private car or taxi costs between 8,000 to 12,000 THB (~$250 to $350 USD), depending on the vehicle and service provider.
• Route: Drivers typically take Highway 4 (Phet Kasem Road), which passes through scenic regions of southern Thailand.

Final Tips for Traveling from Bangkok to Khao Sok National Park

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Khao Sok National Park is during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is ideal for trekking, wildlife viewing, and exploring Cheow Lan Lake.
• Prepare for the Journey: If traveling by bus or train, bring snacks, water, and entertainment for the long journey. The weather can be hot, so pack appropriately.
• Book in Advance: Whether you’re flying, taking the bus, train, or hiring a private car, booking in advance ensures availability and the best prices. Use our online search form at the top of this page to compare all travel options and book your trip to Khao Sok National Park.