Thailand Sukhothai

How to get from Bangkok to Sukhothai

In this in-depth route guide, you can compare the best ways to travel the 425 kilometres (264 miles) from Bangkok to Sukhothai. Our team of indpendent travel experts researched each route — breaking down each option by travel time, price, and comfort. Plus, we’ll share the best booking options to help you get the best deal.

Written by Maarten - Trip Planning ExpertReviewed by Abegail - Travel WriterLast updated: September 26, 2024

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Why visit Sukhothai?

Sukhothai is home to one of Thailand’s most stunning World Heritage sites — Sukhothai Historical Park. With ruins dating back to the 13th century, the park gives us a glimpse of what was once the capital of the first Kingdom of Siam (the former name of Thailand).

The city’s name literally translates to “dawn of happiness.” And if you’re a history buff, that’s exactly what you will get in Sukhothai. In this often-forgotten city, you can escape from the backpacker trail and just get lost in an impressive collection of temples and ruins.

What are the 4 ways to travel from Bangkok to Sukhothai?

There are 4 ways to travel the 425 kilometres (264 miles) from Bangkok to Sukhothai. You can choose between the bus, private transport, train and flight. The journey takes 1 hour 20 minutes to 9 hours 30 minutes and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by train with tickets starting at 320 THB ($9.90).

Transport

Duration

Pricing

Transport Options

Train

5h 20m - 7h 50m

From 320 THB ($9.90)

Bus

6h 10m - 9h 30m

From 382 THB ($11.80)

Book Tickets

Flight

1h 20m

From 1,250 THB ($38.50)

Book Tickets

Private Transport

From 6,308 THB ($195)

Book Tickets

Where to stay in Sukhothai?

Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Sukhothai at the bottom of this page.

Bangkok to Sukhothai by Train

Duration: 5h 20m - 7h 50m

Costs: 320 THB ($9.90)

Duration: 5h 20m - 7h 50m

Costs: 320 THB ($9.90)

The nearest train station to Sukhothai is in Phitsanulok, which is approximately 70 km from Sukhothai.

To travel by train from Bangkok to Sukhothai, you will first need to head to Phitsanulok and then transfer to a bus onward to Sukhothai.

Step 1: Bangkok to Phitsanulok by Train

Duration: 3h 50m - 6h 20m

Costs: 204 THB ($6.30)

Duration: 3h 50m - 6h 20m

Costs: 204 THB ($6.30)

Many trains run from Bangkok to Phitsanulok day and night.

However, we recommend leaving in the morning so you can arrive at Phitsanulok a little after 13:00. This should give you enough time to find a ride to continue your journey to Sukhothai.

You can hop aboard any of these trains:

Don Mueang

Third Class Seat Fan

Phitsanulok

07:47

5h 56m

13:43

14:32

6h 3m

20:35

20:22

5h 25m

01:47

21:02

5h 34m

02:36

22:47

5h 50m

04:37

Thai Railway

From 204 THB ($6.30)

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

Third Class Seat Fan

Phitsanulok

07:30

6h 13m

13:43

14:15

6h 20m

20:35

20:05

5h 42m

01:47

20:45

5h 51m

02:36

22:30

6h 7m

04:37

Thai Railway

207 THB ($6.40)

Don Mueang

Second Class Seat Fan

Phitsanulok

07:47

5h 56m

13:43

14:32

6h 3m

20:35

20:22

5h 25m

01:47

21:02

5h 34m

02:36

22:47

5h 50m

04:37

Thai Railway

304 THB ($9.40)

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

Second Class Seat Fan

Phitsanulok

07:30

6h 13m

13:43

14:15

6h 20m

20:35

20:05

5h 42m

01:47

20:45

5h 51m

02:36

22:30

6h 7m

04:37

Thai Railway

307 THB ($9.50)

Don Mueang

Second Class Seat

Phitsanulok

09:20

3h 52m

13:12

Thai Railway

453 THB ($14)

Get Your Tickets

Don Mueang

Second Class Sleeper

Phitsanulok

14:32

6h 3m

20:35

18:57

5h 18m

00:15

20:22

5h 25m

01:47

21:02

5h 34m

02:36

22:47

5h 50m

04:37

Thai Railway

712 THB ($22)

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

Second Class Sleeper

Phitsanulok

14:15

6h 20m

20:35

18:40

5h 35m

00:15

20:05

5h 42m

01:47

20:45

5h 51m

02:36

22:30

6h 7m

04:37

Thai Railway

715 THB ($22)

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We recommend booking your tickets online through BookAway. Their site is intuitive, provides a clear picture of what you can expect, and offers great customer service. If you’re eying the best deals, you might occasionally find slightly cheaper tickets on Baolau.

Tip: Train tickets are sold up to 90 days prior to departure. Book your ticket in advance as train tickets tend to sell out fast!

Step 2: Phitsanulok to Sukhothai by Bus

Duration: 1.5 hours

Costs: 115 THB ($3.60)

Duration: 1.5 hours

Costs: 115 THB ($3.60)

The bus is an easy and cheap way to get from Phitsanulok to Sukhothai. A ticket costs 115 THB ($3.60) for the journey that takes 1.5 hours.

Buses depart from Phitsanulok Bus Terminal 1, about 2.3 km from the train station. If you are coming from the train station in Phitsanulok, you can hire a tuk-tuk to Phitsanulok Bus Terminal 1 (2.3 km away) for 60 THB ($1.90).

The bus ride ends at Sukhothai Bus Terminal, which is 2 km from the New Sukhothai city centre.

Alternative: Phitsanulok to Sukhothai by Taxi

Duration: 1.5 hours

Costs: 2,400 THB ($74)

Duration: 1.5 hours

Costs: 2,400 THB ($74)

If you’re travelling in a group from Phitsanulok to Sukhothai, you can take a taxi. Fares start from 2,400 THB ($74).

It’s more expensive, but you will be dropped off at your hotel so you no longer have to make additional trips to reach the Old or New Sukhothai from the bus terminal.

To make the journey easier, we recommend booking a taxi ahead of time. Among the operators that receive high ratings from travellers is the Smart En Plus. It offers a ride from Phitsanulok Train Station to your hotel that costs around 2,400 THB ($74).

Phitsanulok to Sukhothai by Tuk-tuk

Keep in mind that tuk-tuks are designed for short-distance travelling within the city. They run much slower than a car and their open carriage will expose you and your luggage to the elements.

Thus, a tuk-tuk is not exactly a good option when travelling the 63 km distance from Phitsanulok to Sukhothai. We recommend taking a bus or a taxi instead.

Check Private Transfers on 12GoAsia

Bangkok to Sukhothai by Bus

Duration: 6h 10m - 9h 30m

Costs: 382 THB ($11.80)

Duration: 6h 10m - 9h 30m

Costs: 382 THB ($11.80)

There are three companies operating daily trips from Bangkok to Sukhothai: Phitsanulok Tour, Sukhothai Wintour and Khao San Tara Tour.

Departure in Bangkok

All buses depart from Mo Chit Bus Terminal, located in the northern part of Bangkok. Note that Mo Chit Bus Terminal is also known as Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, Chatuchak Bus Terminal, or Northern Bus Terminal.

Arrival in Sukhothai

All buses make their final stop at the Sukhothai Bus Terminal.

Sukhothai Bus Terminal

The Sukhothai Bus Terminal is only 2 km away from the New Sukhothai city centre, where many accommodations are located. You can easily reach your hotel via tuk-tuk or songthaew.

A songthaew is a good option for those who are on a budget since it only costs between 20 THB ($0.60) to 30 THB ($0.90). To travel between the Old and New Sukhothai, choose the blue songthaew.

Getting around the city centre by tuk-tuk costs around 60 THB ($1.90). If you need to go to the Historical Park from the bus station, expect to pay around 150 THB ($4.60).

If you are a first-timer in Sukhothai, we recommend taking the tuk-tuk since the driver can drop you off at the hotel from the bus terminal.

Sawankhalok Bus Station

The Sawankhalok Bus Station is about 40 km away from the New Sukhothai Area and it is much closer to the Sukhothai Airport.

Since most hotels are in the New Sukhothai area, you will need to travel the 40 km distance by taxi. Expect to pay 1,800 THB ($56) – 2,200 THB ($68).

Bus schedules from Bangkok to Sukhothai

Mochit

Standard

Sukhothai

07:00

7h 30m

14:30

14:00

7h 30m

21:30

Phitsanulok Tour

382 THB ($11.80)

Get Your Tickets

Mochit

Standard

Sukhothai Historical Park

07:00

15:00

14:00

22:00

Phitsanulok Tour

395 THB ($12.20)

Get Your Tickets

Bangkok

Sukhothai

08:30

6h 9m

14:39

10:00

6h 9m

16:09

14:00

6h 9m

20:09

21:00

6h 9m

03:09

Sukhothai Wintour

401 THB ($12.40)

Get Your Tickets

Mochit

Express

Sukhothai

12:00

7h 30m

19:30

Phitsanulok Tour

456 THB ($14.10)

Get Your Tickets

Mochit

Express

Sukhothai Historical Park

12:00

20:00

Phitsanulok Tour

469 THB ($14.50)

Get Your Tickets

Khao San Tara Travel office

Economy

Sukhothai Bus Terminal

09:30

9h 30m

19:00

Khao San Tara Tour

721 THB ($22.50)

Get Your Tickets

Show 1 more operator(s)

Bangkok to Sukhothai by Flight

Duration: 1h 20m + transfer time

Costs: 1,250 THB ($38.50)

Duration: 1h 20m + transfer time

Costs: 1,250 THB ($38.50)

Bangkok Airways offers daily flights from Bangkok to Sukhothai. These depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).

One-way flight ticket prices start at 1,250 THB ($38.50) and the flight takes 1 hour 20 minutes.

Sukhothai Airport is located 30 km north of New Sukhothai, which means you will need to arrange for another transfer from the airport to your hotel.

Bangkok Airways offers a shuttle service for a fee. You will need to contact them directly to inquire about updated prices, schedules and availability. Another option is to arrange a transfer with your hotel.

Check Flights on Skyscanner

TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.

Bangkok to Sukhothai by Private Transport

Duration: 6h

Costs: 6,308 THB ($195)

Duration: 6h

Costs: 6,308 THB ($195)

A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Bangkok to Sukhothai.

Rates start from 6,308 THB ($195) for a 9-seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s just about 701 THB ($21.50) per person.

Private Transport options from Bangkok to Sukhothai

Standard

Standard Minivan 9 PAX

Price per person = 701 THB ($21.50)

MCC Van

6,308 THB ($195)

Get Your Tickets

Standard

Standard Car 3 PAX

Price per person = 2,135 THB ($66)

Taxi Tour Service

6,405 THB ($200)

Get Your Tickets

Standard

Standard Car 3 PAX

Price per person = 2,135 THB ($66)

Taxi Tour Service

6,405 THB ($200)

Get Your Tickets

Standard

Standard Car 3 PAX

Price per person = 2,135 THB ($66)

Taxi Tour Service

6,405 THB ($200)

Get Your Tickets

Standard

Standard Minivan 7 PAX

Price per person = 1,068 THB ($33)

Taxi Tour Service

7,473 THB ($230)

Get Your Tickets

Standard

Standard Minivan 7 PAX

Price per person = 1,068 THB ($33)

Taxi Tour Service

7,473 THB ($230)

Get Your Tickets

Standard

Standard Minivan 7 PAX

Price per person = 1,068 THB ($33)

Taxi Tour Service

7,473 THB ($230)

Get Your Tickets

Show 2 more operator(s)

Best places to stay in Sukhothai

TR Guesthouse - Budget Friendly

TR Guesthouse is great value for money! For less than $20 you get to enjoy a HUGE and comfortable bed and meet one of the friendliest guesthouse owners in Thailand.

Staying here feels more like you’ve been welcomed into a home and is a great way to experience Thai culture and local life. The guesthouse is a 15-minute walk from the bus station or a short tuk-tuk ride away.

Amazing host
Great value for money
20-minute drive from Sukhothai Historical Park
Cosy and clean rooms

Private rooms start from $19 per night.

Check Available Rooms

Mango House - Budget Friendly

Mango House is centrally located in Sukhothai, just a few minutes walk to downtown New Sukhothai and a few meters from the bus to Old Sukhothai.

Cool off in the outdoor swimming pool and enjoy the garden and terrace area for relaxing. A wonderful breakfast is included with your stay and hosts are exceptionally friendly and helpful.

Ideal location
Swimming pool
Breakfast included
Walking distance to shops and restaurants

Private rooms start at $28 per night.

Check Available Rooms

Scent of Sukhothai Resort - Mid Range

If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, then be sure to check out the Scent of Sukhothai Resort.

This resort offers a stunning garden and lovely outdoor swimming. Breakfast is included daily with your stay. Located near the Historical Park, you can easily ride your bike there or hop in a taxi for a short ride.

Swimming pool
Near Historical Park
Outdoor garden area
Breakfast included

Private rooms start at $30 per night.

Check Available Rooms

Thai Thai Sukhothai Resort - Mid Range

Fancy something a touch more luxurious, Thai Thai Resort is exactly that and great value for money! Enjoy a spacious private balcony adorned with traditional Thai decor.

And when you’re not relaxing in your room, you can go for a swim in the pool, chill in the gardens or even have a massage. Situated 1.5km from Sukhothai Historical Park, you’ll be staying in a great location. Don’t worry about getting hungry, the complimentary delicious breakfast will fill you up for the day.

Beautiful bungalows
Swimming pool
Great location
Delicious free breakfast

Bungalows start from $41 per night.

Check Available Rooms

BaanSuk Sukhothai Resort - Treating Yourself

And if you want somewhere even more fancy, you have to stay at BaanSuk Resort. This place is amazing and feels like an oasis hidden from the world by all its lush greenery. The pool is the epitome of peace and the perfect place to cool off after a day exploring Sukhothai Historical Park.

Their family villas are spacious, bright and very clean. Forget about the pool, wait until you see the bathtub. A superb breakfast is also included in the price.

Stunning swimming pool
Huge and luxurious villas
Amazing staff
Free delicious breakfast

Villas start from $51 per night.

Check Available Rooms

Frequently Asked Questions about Bangkok to Sukhothai

What is the distance from Bangkok to Sukhothai?

The distance from Bangkok to Sukhothai is 425 kilometres (264 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Bangkok to Sukhothai?

The fastest way to get from Bangkok to Sukhothai is by flight and takes 1 hour 20 minutes.

What is the cheapest way to get from Bangkok to Sukhothai?

The cheapest way to get from Bangkok to Sukhothai is by train with ticket costs starting from 320 THB ($9.90).

Rounding it up

We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Bangkok to Sukhothai. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.

PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!

About the author(s)

Maarten

Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

Abegail

Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.

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