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How to get from Surat Thani to Bangkok
Bangkok is often referred to as “The City of Life”. As Thailand’s capital city, Bangkok is one of the most visited cities in the world. It is home to famous sites such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and over 400 other temples.
The distance from Surat Thani to Bangkok is 645 km (400 miles). In this post, we compare the 3 options to travel from Surat Thani to Bangkok: by bus (9-10.5 hours), by train (13-14.5 hours), or by flight (1hr 10m). Ticket prices range from 670 THB ($19) to 790 THB ($22.50).
3 ways to get from Surat Thani to Bangkok
The night bus is a cheap and comfortable option starting at 670 THB ($19). Travel time is 9-10.5 hours and you can choose from several trusted bus companies.
Night trains are also a good option for this route because you can get a good night of sleep and also save on accommodation. While you only get a declined seat with night buses, trains provide you with a good bed to get a decent night of sleep during the 13 to 14.5-hour ride to Bangkok. Prices start from 730 THB ($21).
A flight from Surat Thani to Bangkok takes a little over an hour and is the fastest option. It is also only slightly more expensive than taking the bus or train, just around 790 THB ($22.50).
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to help reduce your impact on the environment.
Note that if you opt to fly or take the train, you’ll need to arrange transportation to the airport or to the train station.
Itinerary from Surat Thani to Bangkok
Surat Thani to Bangkok by Bus
It takes approximately 9-10.5 hours to travel by bus from Surat Thani to Bangkok. We suggest taking the night bus to catch up on some sleep and save your day for seeing the sights of the capital city.
There are several bus companies that operate the Surat Thani to Bangkok route: Krung Siam Tour, Bangkok Buslines, Sri Suthep Tour, and Choke Anan Tour. The earliest bus departure is 07:30 with the last trip at 19:15.
Fares for VIP buses start at 670 THB ($19). VIP buses provide a little more space with a reclining seat and often a blanket and bottled water for your comfort.
Departure and arrival station
All buses depart from Surat Thani Bus Terminal which is just a 15-minute drive from Surat Thani town.
These buses make a final stop at the Bangkok Southern Terminal (Sai Tai Mai). Upon arrival in Bangkok, you can take a taxi ride to bring you to Bangkok city centre in 20-30 minutes.
Bus Schedule from Surat Thani to Bangkok
Since this is a long-distance trip, the bus will make 2-3 stops along the way for bathroom and food breaks, and each stop will be approximately 10-20 minutes. You have the option to stay on the bus if you don’t want to explore the local market or restaurant.
Surat Thani to Bangkok by Train
Taking the train is the longest option when travelling from Surat Thani to Bangkok.
There are multiple trains to choose from that operate daily, all offering different seats and berths. There is a morning departure at 10:35, and the rest departs at night with the last trip at 22:27.
For this long journey, we recommend taking night trains with second-class berths and an air conditioning unit so that you don’t lose a day and for a more comfortable trip. The ticket price starts at 730 usd ($730) and the journey takes 13-14.5 hours.
Departure and arrival station
Trains operating between Bangkok to Surat Thani depart from the Surat Thani Railway Station. You can reach the train station from Surat Thani town via taxi which takes 25 minutes.
The train arrives at Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok after a long journey. This train station is about 5 km from the centre or at least 15 minutes away from the city centre. You may check out more info on this station in our article Hua Lamphong Railway Station.
Train Schedule from Surat Thani to Bangkok
The quoted prices are for 2nd class sleeper berths.
Surat Thani to Bangkok by Flight
Flying from Surat Thani to Bangkok is the fastest option and sometimes only costs a little more than taking the train or flight.
Flights fares start from 790 THB ($22.50). However, if you book later, flight tickets tend to increase. For this option, you would also need extra time to travel from and to the airport.
If you’re staying in the city centre, you need to travel the 30 km distance to Surat Thani Airport. You can ask your hotel if they offer airport drop-off services.
When booking your flight, you can also choose a flight that arrives at either Don Muang Airport in the north or Suvarnabhumi Airport on the western side of Bangkok. Both airports are around 30 km away from Bangkok city centre and are accessible by bus, train, and taxi.
Our favourite places to stay in Bangkok
Here Hostel
If you’re looking for a fun social atmosphere then Here Hostel is the place for you! Enjoy relaxing by the pool in the garden area or enjoying a drink with travelers from around the world. Why take the stairs when you can use the indoor slide to travel between floors, this place is full of fun, energy, and laughter. Located less than 1km from Khao San Road, this is the perfect hostel if you’re looking to have a great time in Bangkok!
Dorm rooms start at $16 per night
Hom Hostel & Cooking Club
Located in the heart of downtown Bangkok, between Nana and Ploen Chit BTS stations, this hostel is the perfect location in the Sukhumvit area. The hostel offers a garden area, a rooftop terrace and an on-site kitchen for guests to cook their own food or take part in the daily cooking classes. There is also a restaurant and bar on-site if you’d prefer someone else cook for you, as well as buffet breakfast included each day. Extremely clean and very friendly staff are top priorities for this hostel.
Single bed in dorm rooms start at $15 per night
Lamphuhouse Bangkok
If you’re looking to be near the excitement of Khao San Road but still enjoy some peace and quiet, this guesthouse is absolutely perfect. A delicious breakfast is included in your stay and the restaurant is open 24/7 for your convenience. A lovely garden area to relax in the afternoons and very comfortable beds in rooms will make for a great stay. Just 300m to Khao San road, this guest house is walking distance to many sights including the Grand Palace and the Golden Mountain Temple.
Rooms start at $19 per night
Mam’s House
Just 700m from Khao San road and sitting along the river is Mam’s House. The staff here will welcome you with open arms and help you in any way that they possibly can. The rooms are huge, the beds are comfortable and it’s extremely clean. There is a cafe on the ground floor of the hotel, street food along the riverbank and countless restaurants, bars and shops just steps away. Locally owned and operated by Mam, this hotel is all about customer service and making sure you have the best stay possible. Perfect location, great views and all the comforts you need!
Rooms start at $26 per night
Blue Chang House
Cozy, comfortable, and ideal location! This guest house is less than 1km from Khao San Road and offers all the comforts you need. It is within walking distance to numerous Temples, Wats and attractions throughout Old Town. On-site bar to enjoy a drink while taking in the sights from the terrace or a lovely garden area to enjoy to relax in if you need some quiet time. The staff is known to be exceptionally welcoming and happy to assist with all guest requests. Located in a quiet area so you will be sure to get a good night's rest after exploring the Capital City!
Rooms start at $40 per night
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About the author(s)
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.
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.
