If you want to know how to get to Koh Phangan, this text is your answer. Koh Phangan is a tropical paradise, known for its stunning beaches, nightlife parties and the well-known Full Moon Party. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get there hassle-free. Whether you prefer flying, taking a boat, or catching a bus, we’ve got you covered with detailed options, connections, and tips for a smooth journey.
Route 1: Koh Samui – Koh Phangan
This is one of the most popular routes and provides more comfort and ease for the traveler. While it’s the quickest option, it comes with a higher price tag. Here is a complete and detailed guide for this route, exploring flights, ground transportation from the airport to the pier, and ferry options.
Flights only by Bangkok Airways
Despite being the only airline option, Bangkok Airways offers direct flights to Koh Samui from several cities in Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Pattaya, Hat Yai, Lampang, Sukhothai and Trat.
Different options how to get from Koh Samui Airport to the Pier:
Upon arrival at Koh Samui Airport, travelers have several options to reach the pier for onward travel to Koh Phangan:
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. Expect a journey of approximately 15-30 minutes to reach the piers.
- Minivan: Shared minivan services operate between the airport and the piers, offering a cost-effective option for travelers.
- Shuttle Service: Lomprayah ferry company provides shuttle services from the airport to the piers for passengers booked on their ferries.
Distance between Koh Samui Airport and Big Buddha Pier
Between Koh Samui Airport and Bangrak Pier
Between Koh Samui Airport and Nathon Pier
Ferry Options to Koh Phangan:
On Koh Samui you will have three options for ferry companies:
- Seatran Ferry: This is the best option if you want to arrive in Thong Sala. Departs from Bangrak Pier on Koh Samui to Thong Sala Pier on Koh Phangan. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
- Haad Rin Queen Ferry: This is the best option if you want to arrive in Haad Rin. Operates from Big Buddha Pier on Koh Samui to Haad Rin Pier on Koh Phangan. Travel time is around 30-40 minutes.
- Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran: Offers services from Nathon Pier on Koh Samui to Thong Sala Pier on Koh Phangan. The crossing typically takes 20-30 minutes.
- There are also private speed boat options that are more expensive, but can also be used in those gaps between one ferry and another. The quantity is greater in high season, but although difficult you can also find it in periods of less movement. 12Go Asia is a good option to check the tickets because you can see the ferries and also options of speed boat.
Conclusion:
Price: $$$$
Time: 2-3h
This is the option that guarantees more comfort and agility, but you pay the price for it. If you want to be fast, that’s the best option.
Route 2: Surat Thani – Koh Phangan
This is the ideal route for those looking for a more economical trip, but it is also the option that takes the longest.
Arriving by plane
Surat Thani Airport serves as a gateway for travelers heading to Koh Phangan, offering only domestic flights from various cities in Thailand. Upon arrival, travelers can choose from several bus and minivan services that provide transportation from the airport to the pier. As soon as you leave the airport lobby, you will find counters offering options including the bus to the pier and the ferry.
Ferry options include Raja Ferry, Seatran Ferry, and Lomprayah Ferry. Raja Ferry provides a budget-friendly option, while Seatran Ferry offers reliability and comfort. Lomprayah Ferry, known for its speed, provides high-speed catamaran services for passengers seeking a quick journey to Koh Phangan. All boats arrive at Thong Sala Pier on Koh Phangan, providing easy access to the island’s main town.
Conclusion:
Price: $$$
Time: 6h
This is the option that guarantees a medium-high price option, for those who don’t want to spend a lot of time on the bus.
Arriving by train from Bangkok
Travelers arriving from Bangkok by train have several options and providers to choose from. Thailand’s State Railway of Thailand (SRT) operates trains departing from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Surat Thani Railway Station.
There are different types of trains available, ranging from standard to sleeper options. Standard trains offer reclining seats and are more economical, while sleeper trains provide berths for overnight journeys, allowing passengers to rest comfortably during the trip.
The duration of the train journey varies depending on the type of train chosen. Standard trains typically take around 8 to 10 hours to reach Surat Thani, while sleeper trains may take up to 12 hours due to additional stops and longer travel times.
Upon arrival at Surat Thani Railway Station, travelers can easily find taxis or shared minivans waiting outside the station to transport them to the pier. Thong Sala Pier serves as the main arrival point for ferries from Surat Thani to Koh Phangan, offering convenient access to the island’s attractions and accommodations.
Conclusion:
Price: $$
Time: 11-15h
This option can be one of the cheapest if you take the train in standard mode, but also a comfortable option at a medium-high price if you opt for the sleeping train.
Arriving by bus from Bangkok
Travelers opting for a bus journey from Bangkok to Surat Thani can select from several providers offering services along this route. Options include both standard and VIP buses, with varying levels of comfort and amenities. The duration of the bus journey typically ranges from 8 to 12 hours, depending on the route.
- Thai Sriram: Offers comfortable buses with reclining seats and air conditioning. They provide both standard and VIP options, allowing travelers to choose based on their preferences and budget.
- Lignite Tour: Known for its reliable services and comfortable buses. They offer both standard and VIP buses, with amenities such as onboard toilets and entertainment systems.
- The Transport Company: Operates government buses that provide affordable transportation options for travelers. While these buses may not offer the same level of luxury as private operators, they are a budget-friendly choice for those looking to save money on their journey.
- Nakhonchai Air: Offers modern buses equipped with comfortable seats and amenities such as Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. They provide both standard and VIP options, ensuring a comfortable journey for passengers.
Upon arrival at Surat Thani Bus Station, travelers can easily find taxis or shared minivans waiting outside the station to transport them to the pier.
Extra tip: If you are looking for convenience by booking your ticket through 12Go Asia or BookAway, as they offer direct service to the pier, you will not need to travel from the bus station to the pier yourself.
Conclusion:
Price: $
Time: 11-15h
This is the most economical option, ideal for backpackers and those who travel more economically.
Route 3: Chumpon – Koh Phangan
This is the least used route, and the longest by ferry, so for people who feel seasick it may not be worth it, but it is still an option.
Arriving by plane
Chumphon Airport serves as a domestic airport, offering limited flights within Thailand. Upon arrival, travelers can find buses or minivan services available from the airport to the pier.
For ferry options, travelers departing from Chumphon can choose from various ferry companies operating services to Koh Phangan. The popular options:
- Lomprayah Ferry
- Songserm Express
- Raja Ferry
The duration of the ferry journey from Chumphon to Koh Phangan varies depending on the chosen ferry company and weather conditions. On average, the journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. All boats arrive at Thong Sala Pier on Koh Phangan, providing easy access to the island’s main town.
Conclusion:
Price: $$$
Time: 6h
This is the option that guarantees a medium-high price option, for those who want to go by plane.
Arriving by train from Bangkok
Thailand’s State Railway of Thailand (SRT) operates trains departing from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Chumphon Railway Station.
Popular train providers include:
- State Railway of Thailand (SRT): SRT offers various train services from Bangkok to Chumphon, catering to different budgets and preferences. Options include both standard and sleeper trains, with ticket prices varying accordingly.
- Nakhon Chai Air: Nakhon Chai Air provides modern and comfortable trains equipped with amenities such as air conditioning and reclining seats. They offer both standard and VIP options for passengers.
The duration of the train journey from Bangkok to Chumphon typically ranges from 6 to 8 hours, depending on factors such as the type of train and number of stops along the route. Ticket prices also vary depending on the class of service and amenities provided, with sleeper trains generally costing more than standard ones.
Upon arrival at Chumphon Railway Station, travelers can easily find taxis or shared minivans waiting outside the station to transport them to the Chumphon Pier. Thong Sala Pier serves as the main arrival point for ferries from Chumphon to Koh Phangan.
Conclusion:
Price: $$
Time: 9-11h
This option can be one of the cheapest if you take the train in standard mode, but also a comfortable option at a medium-high price if you opt for the sleeping train.
Arriving by bus from Bangkok
Travelers opting for a bus journey from Bangkok to Chumphon can choose from various reputable bus companies offering services along this route. Some of the popular bus companies operating on this route include:
- Sombat Tour
- Lomprayah: Since they also operate catamaran boats to Koh Phangan, if you get the ticket for the roll trip on the website, the bus stop is already on the pier.
- Transport Company: Also known as BKS, operates government buses that provide affordable transportation options for travelers.
The duration of the bus journey from Bangkok to Chumphon typically ranges from 8 to 10 hours, depending on factors such as traffic and the chosen bus company.
You can easily find taxis or shared minivans waiting outside the bus station to transport them to the Chumphon Pier.
Conclusion:
Price: $
Time: 9-11h
This is the most economical option, ideal for backpackers and those who travel more economically.
In conclusion, each mode of transportation to Koh Phangan has its pros and cons. If you prioritize speed and convenience, flying may be the best option for you, despite the higher cost. On the other hand, if you’re looking to save money and don’t mind a longer journey, taking a bus and ferry combination could be the way to go. Whichever option you choose, plan ahead, stay flexible, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on Koh Phangan!