How to get from Phuket to Surat Thani

Why visit Surat Thani?

Surat Thani is a popular transport hub in southern Thailand. It often serves as a stop along the way to Krabi, Phuket or to islands in the Gulf of Thailand. The city may not be as exciting as the islands but it still offers some charm and sights.

Often used as a mere stopover by tourists, you can enjoy a more authentic Thai experience in this city. So if you have some extra time in your itinerary, our recommended activities in Surat Thani include exploring the floating market, the nearby Khao Sok National Park, and Surat Thani Pillar Shrine.

There are 3 ways to travel the 240 kilometers (149 miles) from Phuket to Surat Thani. You can choose between the bus, minivan and taxi. The journey takes 4 hours to 6 hours 20 minutes and the quickest way is by minivan. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by minivan with tickets starting at 313 THB ($9.40).

Hopping on a minivan is a lot cheaper than hiring a taxi. If you’re on a budget, this is the best option for you.

There are numerous minivan trips operating from Phuket to Surat Thani daily. The earliest trip is at 7:00 in the morning and the latest is at 15:00 in the afternoon.

Departure and arrival stations

Phantip minivans on the Phuket to Surat Thani route depart from Phuket Bus Terminal 1. You can reach the terminal in 5 minutes if you ride a taxi from Phuket Town.

Minivans arrive at Phantip Travel Head Office in Surat Thani Town.

To serve as your guide, see the schedules below that we have provided for you:

The bus is an affordable way to get from Phuket to Surat Thani. Bus fares start from 349 THB ($10.50) and the journey takes around 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 20 minutes.

You can choose from two bus companies operating on this route: 465 Surat Thani Phuket Transport and Phantip 1970.

Prefer a convenient car ride from Phuket to Surat Thani? Then it’s best to hire a taxi service. It’s quite pricey, but it allows you the convenience of door-to-door travel. Travel time takes around 4 hours 30 minutes.

You can hail a taxi along the streets of Phuket, but you’ll need to negotiate a fair price with the driver. Taxis can also be booked through local travel agencies, or you can ask your hotel for assistance.

The fare starts from 4,400 THB ($130) from any Phuket hotel to Surat Thani town. If you’re coming from Phuket Airport, it’s even a bit cheaper with rates starting from 3,520 THB ($105).