Traveling from Bangkok to Phangan: Everything You Need to Know – How to Get from Bangkok to Phangan

Koh Phangan is an idyllic island in the Gulf of Thailand, famous for its pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, and the renowned Full Moon Party. Before diving into the exotic atmosphere of this place, it’s important to understand the best ways to get from Bangkok to Phangan. We’ve prepared a comprehensive guide describing all possible routes, including train and bus details, schedules, ticket prices, and useful tips.

Route Options from Bangkok to Phangan

1. Flying

The fastest way to reach Phangan is by plane. However, there are no direct flights to the island, so you’ll need to fly to the nearest airports: Koh Samui or Surat Thani.

Flight to Koh Samui

• Airline: Bangkok Airways
• Departure Airport: Suvarnabhumi (BKK)
• Flight Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
• Ticket Price: 4,000 to 6,000 baht

Upon arrival on Koh Samui, you need to take a ferry:

• Ferry Operators: Seatran Discovery, Lomprayah
• Crossing Time: 30–45 minutes
• Price: around 300–400 baht
• Departure Points: Bangrak and Maenam piers

Flight to Surat Thani

• Airlines: AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air
• Departure Airport: Don Mueang (DMK)
• Flight Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes
• Ticket Price: 800 to 2,000 baht

After arriving in Surat Thani, you’ll need to travel to Donsak Pier:

• Bus Transfer: about 1.5 hours, cost 150–200 baht
• Ferry to Phangan: 2–3 hours, price 300–500 baht

2. Train Trip from Bangkok to Phangan

Taking the train lets you enjoy the landscapes of Thailand’s countryside. Trains depart from Bangkok’s main railway station, Hua Lamphong.

Main Routes

1. Train No. 85 “Special Express”
   • Departure: 19:30
   • Arrival in Surat Thani: 07:06
   • Travel Time: 11 hours 36 minutes
   • Prices:
     • First Class: 1,500–1,800 baht
     • Second Class: 800–1,000 baht
2. Train No. 167 “Rapid”
   • Departure: 18:30
   • Arrival: 06:23
   • Travel Time: about 12 hours
   • Prices:
     • Second Class A/C: 800 baht
     • Second Class with Fan: 700 baht
3. Train No. 43 “Special Express” (daytime service)
   • Departure: 08:05
   • Arrival: 17:35
   • Travel Time: 9 hours 30 minutes
   • Price: around 700–800 baht

After arriving in Surat Thani, you need to take a bus to Donsak Pier (1.5 hours, 150 baht) and then catch a ferry to Phangan.

3. Bus Service from Bangkok to Phangan

Taking a bus is the most budget-friendly way to travel. Buses depart from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) or from the tourist center on Khao San Road.

Direct Buses to Surat Thani

1. VIP24 Buses
   • Departure: 19:00
   • Travel Time: about 10 hours
   • Ticket Price: around 1,000 baht
2. VIP32 Buses
   • Departure: 20:00
   • Travel Time: about 10 hours
   • Ticket Price: around 800 baht
3. First-Class Buses
   • Departure: 18:00 and 19:30
   • Travel Time: about 11 hours
   • Ticket Price: around 600 baht

Combo Tickets (Bus + Ferry)

• Lomprayah offers convenient overnight services:
  • Departure: 21:00 from the office on Khao San Road
  • Arrival in Phangan: around 11:45 the next day
  • Total Travel Time: about 14 hours
  • Price: 1,300–1,500 baht

Ferry Crossings to Phangan

Major Ferry Operators

1. Lomprayah High Speed Ferries
   • Crossing Duration: about 2 hours
   • Price: around 500 baht
   • Schedule: morning and afternoon departures
2. Seatran Discovery
   • Crossing Duration: about 2.5 hours
   • Price: around 400 baht
   • Schedule: several departures per day
3. Raja Ferry
   • Crossing Duration: about 3 hours
   • Price: around 300 baht
   • Features: budget-friendly option with regular departures

Traveler Tips for Getting from Bangkok to Phangan on Your Own

1. Book in advance: especially important during peak season and before the Full Moon Party.
2. Check the schedule: it may change depending on weather and season.
3. Consider combo tickets: they simplify logistics and reduce the stress of transfers.
4. Bring essentials: water, light snacks, sunscreen, and motion-sickness remedies can make the trip more comfortable.

Conclusion

When it comes to how to get from Bangkok to Phangan, there are several answers: by plane, by train, by bus, or a combination of these. Each option offers its own advantages: flying saves time, rail travel lets you enjoy picturesque landscapes, and the bus route is appealing for its affordability. Whichever way you choose, your journey will be an exciting start to your Koh Phangan adventure.

May your trip be smooth and your memories unforgettable!