Thinking about a trip to Koh Lanta? We share different ways to travel from Bangkok to Koh Lanta, so you can decide the right route for you.
Tucked away in the Andaman Sea, Koh Lanta is one of Thailand’s most laid-back and underrated islands. Known for its long, quiet beaches, relaxed vibe, and stunning sunsets, it offers a slower pace compared to busier destinations like Phuket or Koh Phi Phi. Whether you’re looking to unwind on golden sands, explore nearby islands, or enjoy a more authentic slice of Thai island life, Koh Lanta is the perfect escape for travelers seeking peace, nature, and a touch of adventure; it really is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Thailand.
Why visit Koh Lanta?
Koh Lanta is a relaxed, beautiful island in Thailand and is well with a visit. This is a very laid back island, so don’t expensive lots of parties here. However, you can spend your days relaxing on the beach and spend your evenings sipping on cocktails along the beach bars. You can explore Ko Lanta Old Town, a charming destination where the old harbour use to be. Explore the national park and make sure to visit the various beaches around the island.
How to travel from Bangkok to Koh Lanta?
The Fastest way
The quickest way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Lanta is via flight. You can fly from Bangkok to Krabi Airport then take a private car straight to Koh Lanta.
Flights to Krabi are available with Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) whilst budget airlines like Thai Lion air, Not Air and Air Asia from Don Mueang airport (DMK). The flight takes under an hour and a half.
Once you land in Krabi, you can take a private transfer or taxi to the Hua Hin Pier, where a ferry is available to travel over to the island of Koh Lanta. Alternatively, you can take one of the minivans that are available from outside of the Krabi Airport.
TIP: Book your flights with Air Asia for an all-included package; you will fly to Krabi then take their transfer bus over to Koh Lanta.
Other flight options include flying from Bangkok to Trang or Phuket then making your way to Koh Lanta from here. This is a great option if you have the time and want to explore Trang or Phuket before heading over to Koh Lanta. Trang is around a 2 hour minivan ride away from Koh Lanta and you can catch a ferry from Phuket to Koh Lanta.
Prices: Prices will of course vary depending on what time of year you are travelling and which airline you choose to fly with. Flights can be found for as little as 814B one way when booking in advance, however, you will need to be additional prices for checked luggage.
The cheapest way
Koh Lanta is around 1000KM from Bangkok, so quite a journey via car. If you are travelling on a budget, it is possible to catch an overnight bus to Krabi then travel to Koh Lanta via the ferry.
This journey tends to begin in the evening in Bangkok and takes around 11 hours to drive to the Krabi Bus Terminal. One you are at the terminal, you may have to wait for 2-3 hours to take a minivan or taxi towards the pier, to then catch the ferry.
Prices: You can reserve your bus seat using the 12GoAsia website and tickets cost around 1100B. Compare flight and bus prices before your trip, as prices can work out cheaper depending on the time of the year you are travelling. Additionally, you may be able to haggle for cheaper prices when booking at a tour company along Khao San Road or via your hotel/hostel.
The unique way
It is possible to take the train to Koh Lanta and this is a unique option for many. This is a 16-17 hour overnight sleeper train that runs from Bangkok to Trang, and then you would take a 2-hour minivan or taxi to Koh Lanta.
Prices: These train routes can also be booked on 12GoAsia but will only take you to Trang. From the Trang Station, you can book a minivan trip from the tour agent near the station. The 2nd Class Sleeper AC train ticket costs around 1080B whilst a 1st class Sleeper train (that will give you more privacy) costs 1767B.
How to travel from Bangkok to Koh Lanta Overview
| Transport Option | Route Details | Duration | Cost (Approx.) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Fly + Transfer | Fly to Krabi → Minivan/Ferry to Koh Lanta | 4–6 hours | $$–$$$ | Fastest & most convenient |
| ✈️ Fly via Trang | Fly to Trang → Van + Ferry | 5–7 hours | $$ | Fewer crowds, scenic route |
| 🚆 Train + Transfer | Train to Trang → Van + Ferry to Koh Lanta | 12–16 hours | $–$$ | Budget travellers, scenic journey |
| 🚌 Bus + Ferry | Direct bus from Bangkok → Ferry to Koh Lanta | 12–15 hours | $ | Cheapest option |
| 🚗 Private Transfer | Private car/van from Bangkok → Koh Lanta | 10–12 hours | $$$$ | Comfort & flexibility |
Bangkok to Koh Lanta Travel Tips
- Fly for the easiest journey: Flying from Bangkok to Krabi is by far the quickest and least stressful option, especially if you’re short on time.
- Book transfers in advance: Minivans and ferries to Koh Lanta can fill up quickly in high season, so it’s worth booking ahead to avoid long waits.
- Allow extra travel time: Connections don’t always run perfectly in Thailand. Give yourself a buffer, especially if you’re catching flights or ferries.
- Consider an overnight journey: If you’re travelling by train or bus, overnight options can save you money on accommodation and maximize your time on the island.
- Pack essentials in your hand luggage: Keep snacks, water, sunscreen, and a change of clothes handy—travel days can be long and involve multiple transfers.
- Check ferry schedules carefully: Ferries to Koh Lanta don’t run late into the evening, so plan your arrival time accordingly to avoid getting stuck overnight on the mainland. This is especially true when planning your Thailand island hopping itinerary.
- Travel early in the day: Morning departures reduce the risk of delays and give you a better chance of reaching Koh Lanta the same day.
- Prepare for multiple transfers: Most routes involve at least one change (plane → van → ferry), so pack light and be ready to move between transport modes.
- Use reputable transport providers: Stick to well-reviewed companies or book through your hotel to avoid unreliable services.
- Watch your luggage during transfers: When switching between vans, buses, and ferries, keep an eye on your bags to make sure nothing gets lost.
- Bring cash for small expenses: You may need cash for taxis, snacks, or small ferry fees along the way.
- Check the weather before travelling: During monsoon season, rough seas can delay ferries to Koh Lanta—always check conditions before you go.
- Upgrade for comfort if needed: If you’re travelling long distances by bus or train, consider VIP buses or sleeper trains for a more आरामable journey.
- Stay overnight if arriving late: If your flight lands late in Krabi or Trang, it’s often easier to stay overnight and continue to Koh Lanta the next morning.
- Enjoy the journey: Whether you’re flying or taking the scenic route, the journey to Koh Lanta is part of the adventure—especially the final ferry ride across the Andaman Sea.
Bangkok to Koh Lanta FAQ
The best way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Lanta is to take a short domestic flight to Krabi, followed by a minivan or private transfer to the island. Flights take around 1 hour 30 minutes, and the transfer from Krabi to Koh Lanta takes approximately 2–3 hours, including a short car ferry crossing. This option is the fastest, most convenient, and ideal for first-time visitors or anyone on a tighter schedule. While it is slightly more expensive than overland travel, it significantly reduces travel time and hassle.
Travel time depends on your chosen route. The fastest option—flying to Krabi and transferring—takes around 4 to 6 hours in total. If you choose to travel overland by bus or train, the journey can take anywhere from 12 to 16 hours, depending on connections and waiting times. Overnight travel can help break up the journey, but for most travellers, flying is the most time-efficient choice.
No, Koh Lanta does not have its own airport. The closest airport is in Krabi, which is the most popular gateway to the island. Alternatively, you can fly to Trang, which is slightly further away but often less crowded. From either airport, you’ll need to take a minivan, taxi, or private transfer that includes a ferry crossing to reach Koh Lanta.
There are no direct flights to Koh Lanta, but you can book combined tickets that include flights, transfers, and ferry connections in one package. Some bus companies also offer direct bus + ferry routes from Bangkok, which simplify the journey by handling all transfers for you. While these options are convenient, they take longer than flying.
From Krabi, the most common way to reach Koh Lanta is by shared minivan or private taxi. The journey takes around 2 to 3 hours and includes a short car ferry between the mainland and the island. Transfers are widely available from Krabi Airport, Krabi Town, and Ao Nang, and many can be booked online or through your accommodation.
There is no direct train to Koh Lanta. However, you can take a train from Bangkok to Trang, which takes approximately 12–15 hours. From Trang, you’ll need to continue your journey by minivan and ferry to reach Koh Lanta. This option is more time-consuming but offers a scenic and budget-friendly alternative for those who enjoy slower travel.
The cheapest way to travel is by long-distance bus combined with a ferry transfer. These journeys can take 12–15 hours but are significantly more affordable than flying. Prices vary depending on comfort level, with VIP buses offering more space and reclining seats for a slightly higher cost. This option is best suited for budget travellers with flexible schedules.
Yes, ferries and car ferries to Koh Lanta are generally reliable and run frequently throughout the day. However, during the rainy season (especially from October to November), rough sea conditions can occasionally cause delays or cancellations. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast and allow extra time if travelling during this period.
While you can travel overnight from Bangkok to southern Thailand by train or bus, the final leg to Koh Lanta typically operates during daylight hours only. This means you may need to stay overnight in Krabi or Trang if you arrive late, then continue your journey to the island the following morning.
Yes, booking transport is very easy. You can arrange flights, buses, trains, and combined transfer tickets online, through travel agencies, or via your hotel. During peak travel season (December to March), it’s recommended to book in advance to secure the best prices and availability, especially for flights and popular transfer routes.
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[…] 26. Fly AirAsia – We aren’t big fans of the overnight buses and long train journeys and if you’re not either then check out the flights on AirAsia.com. We managed to get Bangkok to Phuket flights for just 1000 baht (£20). Don’t miss out on the beautiful islands of Thailand like the beaches of Krabi and Koh Lanta. […]
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