How to get from Bangkok to Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan, renowned for its vibrant Full Moon parties, serene beaches, and lush jungle landscapes, is a tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand. Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Phangan requires a combination of air, bus, train, and ferry options, as Koh Phangan doesn’t have its own airport. This guide covers all transportation options for getting from Bangkok to Koh Phangan, 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 Phangan:

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

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

Timetable

By Flight and Ferry: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Flying is the fastest way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Phangan. You can fly to Koh Samui Airport or Surat Thani Airport and then transfer to a ferry to reach Koh Phangan.

Key Details:

• Step 1: Fly from Bangkok (BKK or DMK) to Koh Samui (USM) or Surat Thani (URT).
  • Flight Duration: About 1 hour to Koh Samui or 1 hour 15 minutes to Surat Thani.
  • Price Range: Flights to Koh Samui range from 2,500 to 5,500 THB ($70 to $160 USD), while flights to Surat Thani are typically cheaper, around 1,000 to 3,000 THB ($30 to $90 USD).
  • Airlines: Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways offer flights to Koh Samui; Thai Lion Air, AirAsia, and Nok Air operate flights to Surat Thani.
• Step 2: Take a ferry from Koh Samui or Surat Thani to Koh Phangan.
  • From Koh Samui: Ferries depart from Big Buddha Pier, Mae Nam Pier, and Nathon Pier, taking 20 to 30 minutes to reach Koh Phangan. Prices range from 300 to 500 THB (~$9 to $15 USD).
  • From Surat Thani: Ferries depart from Donsak Pier, taking about 2.5 to 3 hours. Tickets cost between 400 to 600 THB (~$12 to $18 USD).

Pros:

• The fastest option, taking around 2 to 3 hours in total.
• Direct flights to Koh Samui save travel time.
• Multiple daily flights and ferry departures offer flexibility.

Cons:

• More expensive than other options.
• Requires coordination between flights and ferry schedules.

Booking Tip:

Flights to Koh Samui tend to be pricier than those to Surat Thani, but they save time. Use our online search form to compare flights and ferry schedules and book your tickets.

By Train and Ferry: The Scenic and Budget-Friendly Choice

Taking a train and ferry combination is a budget-friendly and scenic way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Phangan. Overnight sleeper trains make this option comfortable and efficient for travelers who want to save on accommodation.

Key Details:

• Step 1: Take a train from Bangkok (Hua Lamphong Station) to Surat Thani.
  • Duration: The train ride takes about 8 to 12 hours.
  • Price: Sleeper tickets range from 600 to 1,500 THB (~$18 to $45 USD), depending on class.
  • Train Options: Overnight sleeper trains offer first-class (private cabin) and second-class (reclining seat) options.
• Step 2: Take a transfer from Surat Thani railway station to Donsak Pier and board a ferry to Koh Phangan.
  • Duration: The bus transfer takes about 1 hour; the ferry ride takes 2.5 to 3 hours.
  • Price: Combined ferry and transfer tickets cost between 400 to 600 THB (~$12 to $18 USD).
  • Ferry Operators: Lomprayah, Seatran, and Raja Ferry offer services from Donsak Pier.

Pros:

• A scenic route with the comfort of overnight train travel.
• Budget-friendly compared to flights.
• Offers a relaxing experience with the option of a private sleeper cabin.

Cons:

• Longer travel time, taking 12 to 15 hours in total.
• Requires transfers from the train to ferry.

Booking Tip:

Train tickets, especially sleeper berths, should be booked well in advance, especially during peak season. Use our online search form to book your train and ferry combination tickets.

By Bus and Ferry: The Direct and Affordable Route

For travelers looking for the most affordable option, a bus and ferry combination from Bangkok to Koh Phangan is ideal. Direct bus services run overnight and are coordinated with ferry schedules for a smooth transfer.

Key Details:

• Departure Point: Buses depart from Khao San Road or Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai).
• Arrival Point: Buses arrive at Donsak Pier in Surat Thani for ferry transfer.
• Duration: The total journey takes 12 to 15 hours.
• Price: Combined bus and ferry tickets range from 900 to 1,400 THB (~$27 to $42 USD).
• Bus and Ferry Operators: Companies like Lomprayah, Seatran, and Raja Ferry offer this service with seamless transfer to the ferry.

Pros:

• The most affordable way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Phangan.
• Direct route with no need to change transport modes in Surat Thani.
• Overnight bus saves on accommodation costs.

Cons:

• A long journey that can take up to 15 hours.
• Buses may be crowded during peak travel periods.

Onboard Experience:

Buses offer air-conditioned reclining seats, and some services provide blankets and rest stops along the route. Ferries are equipped with indoor and outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the view during the sea crossing.

Booking Tip:

It’s recommended to book your bus and ferry tickets in advance, as these routes fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Use our online search form to compare bus schedules and book your tickets.

Final Tips for Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Phangan

• Best Time to Visit: Koh Phangan is a year-round destination, but the dry season from December to April offers ideal weather for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
• Consider the Full Moon Party: If you’re attending the Full Moon Party, book transport early, as travel demand surges during party dates.
• Pack Smart: Koh Phangan’s tropical climate means you’ll need light clothing, sunscreen, and swimwear.