Koh Lipe, a small tropical island in the Andaman Sea, is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere. Getting from Bangkok to Koh Lipe involves a combination of air, land, and sea travel, as the island is far from the mainland and only accessible by boat. This guide covers all transportation options for getting from Bangkok to Koh Lipe, 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 Koh Lipe:
- By Flight and Ferry: The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Train, Bus, and Ferry: A budget-friendly, scenic adventure.
- By Bus and Ferry: Another affordable and direct option.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Lipe.
Timetable
| Bus Bangkok - Koh Lipe ฿ 1,637 20h 15m | |
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| Taxi Bangkok - Koh Lipe ฿ 9,816–12,650 14h | |
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By Flight and Ferry: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Lipe. You can fly to either Hat Yai Airport (HDY) or Trang Airport (TST), followed by a transfer to the pier for a ferry to the island. Hat Yai is the more common route for Koh Lipe.
Key Details:
- Step 1: Fly from Bangkok (BKK or DMK) to Hat Yai Airport (HDY) or Trang Airport (TST).
- Flight Duration: About 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, Thai Lion Air, and Thai Smile offer regular flights.
- Step 2: Take a transfer from Hat Yai or Trang to the pier.
- Hat Yai to Pak Bara Pier: Takes about 2 hours by van or taxi.
- Trang to Pak Bara Pier: Takes about 1.5 hours by van or taxi.
- Step 3: Take a ferry from Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe.
- Ferry Duration: About 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Price: Ferry tickets cost around 650 to 1,200 THB (~$20 to $35 USD), depending on the operator and season.
- Ferry Operators: Popular operators include Satun Pakbara Speedboat Club and Adang Sea Tours.
Pros:
- The fastest and most convenient way to reach Koh Lipe.
- Multiple flights available daily from Bangkok to Hat Yai and Trang.
- Ideal for travelers short on time.
Cons:
- More expensive than land-based options.
- Requires multiple transfers, from airport to pier, and then ferry.
Booking Tip:
Flights can fill up quickly, especially during high season, so it’s best to book early. Use our online search form to compare flight and ferry schedules and secure your tickets.
By Train, Bus, and Ferry: The Budget-Friendly, Scenic Adventure
For travelers who want a more scenic and budget-friendly experience, combining a train from Bangkok to Hat Yai with a bus or van to the pier and a ferry to Koh Lipe is an excellent option. This journey takes longer but offers a chance to explore more of Thailand along the way.
Key Details:
- Step 1: Take a train from Bangkok to Hat Yai.
- Departure Point: Trains depart from Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok.
- Duration: The train ride takes about 14 to 17 hours.
- Price Range: Tickets cost between 800 to 1,800 THB (~$25 to $55 USD), depending on the class (sleeper, first-class, second-class).
- Train Services: Thai State Railway offers comfortable sleeper trains.
- Step 2: Take a van or taxi from Hat Yai to Pak Bara Pier.
- Duration: The ride takes about 2 hours.
- Price: Around 250 to 400 THB (~$7 to $12 USD).
- Step 3: Take a ferry from Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe.
- Duration: The ferry ride takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Price: Tickets cost 650 to 1,200 THB (~$20 to $35 USD).
Pros:
- More affordable than flying.
- A scenic and adventurous way to explore Thailand.
- Sleeper trains offer a comfortable overnight journey.
Cons:
- Much longer travel time, taking a full day.
- Requires multiple transfers.
Onboard Experience:
Sleeper trains offer comfortable berths for overnight travel, with options for air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned cars. The ferry ride provides stunning views of the Andaman Sea and nearby islands.
Booking Tip:
Train tickets, especially sleeper berths, should be booked in advance, particularly during busy travel periods. Use our online search form to find train schedules and book your ferry tickets.
By Bus and Ferry: The Affordable and Direct Option
Taking a bus and ferry combination is another budget-friendly way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Lipe. This option involves an overnight bus ride to Hat Yai or Pak Bara Pier, followed by a ferry to the island.
Key Details:
- Step 1: Take a bus from Bangkok to Hat Yai or Pak Bara Pier.
- Departure Point: Buses depart from Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) or Mo Chit Bus Terminal.
- Duration: The bus ride to Hat Yai takes about 12 to 14 hours, while the ride to Pak Bara Pier takes about 15 hours.
- Price Range: Tickets cost between 700 to 1,000 THB (~$20 to $30 USD).
- Step 2: Take a ferry from Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe.
- Duration: The ferry ride takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Price: Ferry tickets cost 650 to 1,200 THB (~$20 to $35 USD).
Pros:
- The most affordable way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Lipe.
- Direct routes from Bangkok to Hat Yai or Pak Bara, with no need for flights.
- Great for budget-conscious travelers.
Cons:
- Long journey time, taking up to 17 hours.
- Less comfortable than flying or taking the train.
Onboard Experience:
Buses offer air-conditioned seating, and some overnight buses have reclining seats for added comfort. The ferry ride to Koh Lipe is scenic and relaxing, offering beautiful views of the Andaman Sea.
Booking Tip:
Bus and ferry tickets should be booked early, especially during high season. Use our online search form to compare schedules and book your bus and ferry tickets.
Final Tips for Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Lipe
- Best Time to Travel: The best time to visit Koh Lipe is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is ideal for beach activities and sea travel is smooth.
- Prepare for Transfers: Regardless of which option you choose, getting to Koh Lipe involves multiple transfers, so be prepared for a combination of land and sea travel.
- Book in Advance: During peak travel periods, it’s essential to book flights, buses, and ferries early. Use our online search form at the top of this page to compare all travel options and secure your trip from Bangkok to Koh Lipe.
