Getting from Bangkok to Khao Sok through Surat Thani
One of the most central points of travel that can be found in Thailand is Surat Thani. Providing travellers with the choice between the various natural wonders that Thailand has to offer. Surat Thani provides a midpoint between the Eastern infamous islands of Koh Tao, Koh Pha Ngan, and Koh Samui, and the Western jungles and beaches of both Khao Sok and Phuket.
For those wanting to see the infamous Khao Sok National Park, here I’ll go over your options when it comes to getting from Bangkok to Surat Thani and the following journey to Khao Sok.
Getting from Bangkok to Surat Thani
When making the trip from Bangkok to Surat Thani there are many different travel options depending on your budget. These include trains (260 to 1,870 Thai baht), buses (600 to 1,000 Thai baht), planes (THB 1,300), and private taxis/vans (7,590 to 14,950 Thai baht).
Options by train
The cheapest method of travel is the 10-hour overnight trains that usually go from about 8pm to 7am the next day. These trains also include different qualities of seating at a range of costs. Note that they stop at different stations throughout the night and can be late to depart and arrive. I would recommend booking your journey in advance for the most train seating options because they do sell out fast. See the booking options here!
Class 3 Fan (260 Thai baht)
The lowest cost ticket you can find is the Class 3 Fan option at 260 baht which only includes an assigned seat on a 2-person bench, fans throughout the train, and a washroom. From personal experience, this travel method is perfect for the budget backpacker, but I definitely would not recommend it if you’re in desperate need of a good night’s sleep as there is no room to lay down and loud vendors are walking through quite continuously throughout the night.
The train usually begins very humid and warm in the evening and moves to be quite chilly during the early hours of the morning. Fun adventure and a great place to make friends, but I’d recommend going to the washroom before boarding and bringing your own toilet paper in the chance that you’d need to go. Plus of course snacks, a neck pillow, water, and maybe even a small blanket.
Class 2 Fan (425 to 830 Thai baht)
For a more premium feel, there are three different versions of the Class 2 option. 2nd Class Fan (THB 425) includes comfier and more spacious chairs that can lean back, a steward, and a washroom. Similarly to the 3rd Class Seat though it is still quite hard to sleep as there are lights on all night, loud vendors, and you can’t lay down.
The 2nd Class Sleeper Fan (600 Thai baht) includes a more private area of seating that can shift into a sleeping area, usually containing a curtain. Note that it is still quite loud with vendors and train sounds.
The 2nd Class Sleeper A/C (824 Thai baht) is known to be very cold, so I would advise packing warm clothes for the journey.
1st Class Sleeper Train (1,862 Thai baht)
The 1st Class Sleeper Train is the premium overnight option, featuring 24 seats and 12 cabins per carriage. Each cabin has two berths, with the option to share or book for single occupancy. Interconnecting cabins are available for those travelling together. Ideal for those seeking comfort and privacy during their journey.
Buses
Buses from Bangkok to Surat Thani take approximately 8 to 16 hours. They depart and arrive at a variety of times throughout both day and nighttime. There are a variety of companies that run them, and options range from express rides to standard, longer ones. It is advisable to bring your own snacks for the journey.
Plane
By far the quickest option at only a 1 hour and 15 min journey, a flight may be worth the splurge if you want to make the most of your time while travelling and would prefer a more luxurious travel experience.
Taxis or vans
Private taxis or vans can be a good option for those looking to travel with a set group and wanting the luxury road trip experience. Car types range depending on amount of seats needed and the ride duration can be from approximately 9 to 13 hours.
Getting from Surat Thani to Khao Sok
The journey from Surat Thani to Khao Sok is much shorter than the journey from Bangkok to Surat Thani, so here is where the travel gets easy! Sit back, relax and enjoy the trip in whatever feels most comfortable to you (and within budget of course).
Travel types include shared vans (220 to 450 baht), buses (280 to 320 baht), and private taxi van transfers (1,725 to 3,105 Thai baht). Each of these travel types takes approximately 2 to 3 hours and includes comfortable seating.
For those not taking private transport, it is important to know where you want to be dropped off as some bring you right to the Entrance to the National Park, while others bring you to the Khao Sok bus station.
Transport options to get from Surat Thani to Khao Sok can be found here.
Ready to start your adventure at Khao Sok National Park? Book your journey today and choose the most convenient travel option to get to Surat Thani and beyond, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
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