How to get from Bangkok to Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta, known for its pristine beaches and relaxed vibe, is a beautiful island on Thailand’s Andaman coast. To reach Koh Lanta from Bangkok, you’ll need a combination of air, land, and sea travel options. This guide covers all the transportation methods, including travel times, costs, and tips for 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 Koh Lanta:

• By Flight, Minivan, and Ferry: The fastest and most convenient choice.
• By Train, Bus, and Ferry: For a scenic and budget-friendly route.
• By Bus and Ferry: A direct and affordable option.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Lanta.

Timetable

By Flight, Minivan, and Ferry: The Fastest and Most Convenient Choice

Flying from Bangkok to Krabi or Trang Airport, followed by a minivan and car ferry to Koh Lanta, is the fastest way to reach the island. This option minimizes travel time and offers multiple departure times.

Key Details:

• Step 1: Fly from Bangkok (BKK or DMK) to Krabi (KBV) or Trang (TST).
  • Flight Duration: Around 1.5 hours.
  • Price Range: Flights cost between 1,000 to 3,000 THB (~$30 to $90 USD), depending on the airline and time of booking.
  • Airlines: Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air operate flights to Krabi, while Nok Air operates flights to Trang.
• Step 2: Take a minivan from Krabi Airport or Trang Airport to Koh Lanta.
  • Duration: The minivan journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, including the car ferry.
  • Price: Minivan tickets range from 400 to 600 THB (~$12 to $18 USD).
  • Operators: Several minivan services run directly from Krabi and Trang airports to Koh Lanta, such as Lanta Minivan.

Pros:

• The fastest way to reach Koh Lanta from Bangkok.
• Direct connection with minimal waiting time between transfers.
• Multiple daily flights to Krabi and Trang offer flexibility.

Cons:

• Higher overall cost than bus or train options.
• Requires advance booking to secure coordinated transfers.

Booking Tip:

It’s best to book a combination ticket that includes both the flight and minivan transfer for seamless travel. Use our online search form to find and book your flight and minivan combination tickets.

By Train, Bus, and Ferry: A Scenic and Budget-Friendly Route

For those seeking a more scenic and affordable journey, taking an overnight train from Bangkok to Trang or Surat Thani, followed by a bus or minivan and ferry to Koh Lanta, is an option worth considering.

Key Details:

• Step 1: Take an overnight train from Bangkok (Hua Lamphong Station) to Trang or Surat Thani.
  • Duration: The train ride takes about 8 to 12 hours, depending on the route.
  • Price: Sleeper tickets range from 500 to 1,500 THB (~$15 to $45 USD), depending on class.
  • Train Options: Choose from first-class (private cabins) and second-class (reclining seats) sleepers.
• Step 2: Take a bus or minivan from Trang or Surat Thani to Koh Lanta.
  • Duration: The journey takes about 3 hours from Trang and about 4 hours from Surat Thani, including ferry time.
  • Price: Tickets cost between 400 to 600 THB (~$12 to $18 USD).

Pros:

• A budget-friendly way to travel long distances while sleeping overnight.
• Scenic journey, allowing you to see more of Thailand’s landscape.
• Great for travelers who want to break up the journey.

Cons:

• Longer travel time than flights.
• Requires multiple transfers, including a car ferry.

Booking Tip:

Train tickets, especially sleeper cabins, should be booked in advance. Use our online search form to book your train, bus, and ferry combination tickets.

By Bus and Ferry: A Direct and Affordable Option

For budget-conscious travelers, taking a bus and ferry combination from Bangkok to Koh Lanta offers an affordable and straightforward option. Buses run from Bangkok to Krabi and connect with minivans and ferries to Koh Lanta.

Key Details:

• Step 1: Take a bus from Bangkok (Southern Bus Terminal) to Krabi.
  • Duration: The bus ride to Krabi takes about 10 to 12 hours.
  • Price: Tickets range from 500 to 900 THB (~$15 to $27 USD).
  • Bus Operators: Companies like Transport Co. and Lignite Tour offer overnight buses to Krabi.
• Step 2: Take a minivan from Krabi Bus Terminal to Koh Lanta.
  • Duration: The minivan ride, including the car ferry, takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
  • Price: Minivan tickets cost between 400 to 600 THB (~$12 to $18 USD).

Pros:

• The most affordable way to get from Bangkok to Koh Lanta.
• Overnight bus options help save on accommodation costs.
• Direct route with coordinated transfers.

Cons:

• Longer travel time compared to flights.
• May be less comfortable for those unused to long bus rides.

Booking Tip:

To ensure a smooth journey, book a combination ticket that covers both bus and minivan transfers. Use our online search form to find and book your tickets.

Final Tips for Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Lanta

• Best Time to Visit: The dry season, from November to April, offers ideal weather for visiting Koh Lanta.
• Book in Advance for High Season: Koh Lanta is popular during peak season, so flights, buses, and ferries fill up quickly.
• Pack Light: With multiple transfers, light luggage can make your journey more comfortable.