How to Get from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani
Fly direct from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani in under 2 hours, or take the train via Bangkok. Times, fares and what to expect.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
Contents
Chiang Mai to Surat Thani is the length of Thailand in one trip: from the cool, temple-studded north to the gateway of the Gulf islands. Most travellers come to Surat Thani for Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, or for the limestone lakes of Khao Sok.
Flying is the practical choice, because there is a direct flight. The train takes you through the whole country with a change in Bangkok and suits anyone who likes slow travel.
Chiang Mai to Surat Thani by Plane
Thai AirAsia flies non-stop from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Surat Thani (URT) in about 1 hour 50 minutes to 1 hour 55 minutes.[1]
Fares start at about THB 2,100 one way, and many dates sit near THB 2,600; fares rise on busy dates.[1]
Surat Thani airport is in Phunphin District, about 27 km from the city centre, a ride of 30 to 40 minutes. A taxi to town costs THB 350 to 500 on average.[2]
Chiang Mai to Surat Thani by Train via Bangkok
There are two legs. From Chiang Mai, Special Express 14 leaves at 17:05 and the Uttrawithi (No. 10) at 18:20, both heading south to Bangkok.[3]
From Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat), the Special Express railcar No. 43 leaves at 07:30 and reaches Surat Thani at 16:20. Evening trains (Rapid 171 at 15:10, Special Express 37 at 16:10, Thaksinarath 31 at 16:50, Rapid 169 at 17:30) pass Surat Thani between 01:14 and 04:09.[4]
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Flight | 1h 50min - 1h 55min | Thai AirAsia, non-stop, from about THB 2,100[1] |
| Train via Bangkok | Two legs with a change in Bangkok | Night train south from Chiang Mai, then Bangkok to Surat Thani by day or night train[4] |
Tips for Traveling from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani
- Fly if time is short: One flight replaces two long train legs and leaves your days free for the islands.
- Island connections: From Surat Thani, Raja Ferry sails from Donsak pier to Koh Samui every hour between 04:00 and 19:00, about 1 hour 30 minutes.[5]
- Dress in layers: Chiang Mai can be cool on winter mornings, while Surat Thani is warm and humid all year.
- Book early for busy dates: Songkran and the Full Moon Party on the islands fill flights and trains.
Timetable
| Taxi Chiang Mai - Surat Thani $ 851.21 1days | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani, including current prices and schedules.
Fly. Thai AirAsia flies non-stop from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani in about 1 hour 50 minutes to 1 hour 55 minutes.
Fares start at about THB 2,100 one way. Many dates sit near THB 2,600, and fares rise on busy dates.
No. You take a train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and a second train from Bangkok to Surat Thani.
At Surat Thani airport in Phunphin District, about 27 km from the city centre. A taxi to town takes 30 to 40 minutes.
Ferries run from Donsak pier. Raja Ferry sails to Koh Samui every hour from 04:00 to 19:00.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] AirAsia: Cheap flights from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani. Retrieved November 2, 2026.
- [2] Grab: Surat Thani International Airport (URT) transfers. Retrieved October 27, 2026.
- [3] State Railway of Thailand: SRT Timetable Matrix 2026 (Northern Line inbound), Chiang Mai to Lamphun. Retrieved November 1, 2026.
- [4] State Railway of Thailand: SRT Timetable Matrix 2026 (Southern Line outbound). Retrieved October 30, 2026.
- [5] Raja Ferry Port PLC: Sailing schedule. Retrieved October 31, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.