Moving from the ancient ruins of Thailand first capital to the gateway of the eastern islands is a journey that spans the heart of the kingdom. While Sukhothai offers a quiet immersion into history and stone temples, Trat serves as the jumping off point for the white sands of Koh Chang and the secluded bays of Koh Kood. It is a transition from the dusty, golden hues of the north-central plains to the vibrant blues of the Gulf of Thailand.
Because these two destinations are separated by a significant distance and the bustling sprawl of the capital, most travelers look for the most efficient way to bridge the gap. Navigating this route requires a bit of planning, as you are essentially moving between two boutique regional airports that serve as vital links for those who want to skip the long, hot hours on a public bus. You can easily secure your passage and check availability for this route on GoAsia.cc to ensure your transition from history to the coast is seamless.
Sukhothai to Trat by Flight
Flying is the primary and most convenient way to cover the distance between Sukhothai and Trat. This route typically involves a connection in Bangkok, as both airports are operated by Bangkok Airways, which essentially runs a boutique hub-and-spoke model connecting Thailand's most scenic provinces. The experience of flying this route is often cited as one of the most pleasant in Southeast Asia because of the high level of service provided at these smaller, open-air terminals.
The Flight Experience
The journey starts at Sukhothai Airport, a beautifully designed facility that feels more like a tropical garden than a transport hub. From there, you will fly into Bangkok before catching a secondary flight down to Trat. The total travel time, including the layover, ranges from approximately 4 hours to just over 9 hours, depending on the connection window in the capital. While the flight time itself is short, the convenience of avoiding a 12 hour drive cannot be overstated.
The price for an Economy class ticket is remarkably consistent at around $50. This is excellent value considering Bangkok Airways includes boutique perks that other airlines charge extra for. Passengers usually have access to a courtesy lounge with snacks and drinks at the airport, and a light meal is typically served on board even on these short hops. The aircraft used are often ATR-72 turboprops or Airbus A319s, providing a smooth ride with great views of the changing Thai landscape below.
Upon arrival at Trat Airport, you are greeted by another charming, small-scale terminal. From here, minivans and private transfers are readily available to whisk you away to the piers for the ferry crossings to the islands. The efficiency of flying means you can spend your morning wandering through the Sukhothai Historical Park and your evening watching the sunset over the Gulf of Thailand.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight (Economy) | $50 | 4h - 9h | High |
Tips for Traveling from Sukhothai to Trat
- Book in Advance: Since only one major carrier operates these regional airports, seats can fill up quickly, especially during the peak season from November to March. Booking early ensures you get the best connection times.
- Check Your Connection: When booking your flight, pay close attention to the layover time in Bangkok. A 4 hour total duration is very efficient, but if you have a 9 hour window, you might have time for a quick meal or some shopping at Suvarnabhumi Airport.
- Luggage Allowance: Standard Economy tickets on this route usually include a checked baggage allowance, which is a significant advantage over budget carriers. Double-check your specific ticket rules before heading to the airport.
- Transport from Trat Airport: Trat Airport is located about 30 to 45 minutes from the main ferry piers (like Ao Thammachat). It is wise to have some Thai Baht ready for the shared minivan transfers that meet every arriving flight.
- Stay Hydrated: While the airports are beautiful and often open-air, they can get quite warm. Keep a bottle of water handy, though you will be well-fed and hydrated once you board the aircraft.
Timetable
| Flight Sukhothai - Trat $ 49.04 3h 59m – 9h 14m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Sukhothai to Trat directly on GoAsia.cc. Use the booking tool on this page to compare all available options and prices in real time.
The most cost-effective and efficient way to travel this route is by flight, with Economy tickets priced at approximately $50. While buses may exist with multiple transfers, they are significantly slower and often not much cheaper once all segments are totaled.
Flying is the fastest option, with the quickest connections taking about 3 hours and 59 minutes. This includes the flight from Sukhothai to Bangkok and the subsequent flight to Trat.
The total travel time by air varies between 4 hours and 9 hours. The variation is due to the length of the layover at the connecting airport in Bangkok.
No, there are no direct flights between these two regional airports. All flights require a connection, typically at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is the main hub for the airline serving this route.
Generally, yes. Since the route is operated by a full-service boutique airline, Economy class tickets usually include a checked baggage allowance and onboard refreshments, making the $50 price point very competitive.
Trat Airport has dedicated shuttle services and minivans that meet every arriving flight. These services can take you directly to the ferry piers, and some even offer combined van and ferry tickets to your hotel on Koh Chang.