Domestic Travel

Arrival Insights

Domestic Travel

Traveling to various provinces within Thailand is convenient and offers a range of methods, including by airplane, train, private car, or bus. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the convenience and budget of travelers.

Although traveling from various provinces can be done in many convenient and quick ways, traveling within provinces, excluding Bangkok, is quite challenging. This is because the provinces do not have officially operating public buses. There may be "Songthaews" - It is shared pickup truck taxis commonly used in Thailand for affordable and flexible transportation within cities, operating on fixed routes that passengers can hail along the way. available, but their service times cannot be reliably predicted.

Driving a car

Traveling by car is the most convenient and comfortable way to get around, as you can go anywhere.
If you have an international driver’s license, you can also rent a car or motorcycle in Thailand.
You can read articles about driving in Thailand here [Article: Driving].

Airplane

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Traveling by plane within Thailand is a convenient and quick option for tourists who wish to visit various provinces. The country has several major airports that offer domestic flights, particularly those that frequently connect major cities, making it easy to reach your desired tourist destinations.

List of Airports in Thailand

  • Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) - Bangkok
  • Don Mueang Airport (DMK) - Bangkok
  • Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) - Chiang Mai Province
  • Phuket International Airport (HKT) - Phuket Province
  • Hat Yai International Airport (HDY) - Songkhla Province
  • Udon Thani International Airport (UTH) - Udon Thani Province
  • Khon Kaen Airport (KKC) - Khon Kaen Province
  • Nakhon Ratchasima Airport (NOK) - Nakhon Ratchasima Province
  • Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) - Chiang Rai Province
  • Ranong Airport (RAN) - Ranong Province
  • Trang Airport (TST) - Trang Province
  • Krabi Airport (KBV) - Krabi Province

Popular Airlines Operating in Thailand

  • Thai Airways: The national carrier known for its high-quality service, flying to many destinations both domestically and internationally, typically at a higher price point.
  • Nok Air: A budget airline popular for domestic flights, offering reasonable prices for travelers looking to explore various provinces.
  • Thai Smile: A subsidiary of Thai Airways providing comfortable service on domestic routes, generally at mid-range prices.
  • AirAsia: A well-known low-cost carrier that often features the most affordable fares and various promotions, though travelers should be aware of potential additional fees.
  • Bangkok Airways: Offers a comfortable flying experience to tourist destinations, with prices ranging from mid to high.
  • Thai Lion Air: A Thai low-cost airline that offers affordable domestic flights and regional routes, known for its budget-friendly fares.
  • Thai VietJet Air: A low-cost airline offering affordable flights to various domestic and international destinations, including Thailand.

Bus / Van

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Traveling by public bus, whether it's a bus or a minivan, is a convenient and cost-effective option for tourists wanting to explore different provinces in Thailand. There are various types of public transportation available, ranging from minivans and standard budget buses to luxurious coaches equipped with all the amenities. This variety makes it easy to access different provinces comfortably and conveniently. The fares are also budget-friendly and typically lower than those for flights or private cars.

Booking bus tickets is straightforward through various websites or applications. Many companies offer modern services such as Wi-Fi on board and reclining seats to enhance your travel experience. This ensures that your journey is as pleasant as possible.

Here are some popular bus companies in Thailand that offer services to various provinces:

  • Transport Co., Ltd. (BKS) : This is the largest bus company in Thailand, providing services across the country with a wide range of buses, including standard, VIP, and first-class options.
  • Sombat Tour : Known for its comfortable buses and good service, Sombat Tour operates routes to many major cities, including Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, and Phuket.
  • Nakhonchai Air : This company offers luxurious buses with a focus on customer comfort and convenience, providing services mainly between Bangkok and the northeastern provinces.
  • Green Bus : Operating mainly in the southern region, Green Bus provides comfortable travel options to popular destinations like Phuket and Krabi.

Commuter Train

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Traveling in Thailand by train is another convenient and interesting option for tourists who want to experience the Thai culture and enjoy the beautiful scenery during their journey. Thai trains are available on various routes that cover provinces across the country, divided into different types, such as express trains, regular trains, and first-class trains.

Traveling by train not only helps save costs but also allows you to see Thailand’s landscapes in a way that differs from traveling by car or plane. Moreover, Thai trains offer various amenities, such as meals and drinks during the trip.

Popular and significant train routes in Thailand include:

  • Bangkok - Chiang Mai: This route connects Bangkok and Chiang Mai and is the most popular, especially during festivals and holidays.
  • Bangkok - Phuket: This route serves trains to Surat Thani Station, where passengers can take a bus to Phuket.
  • Bangkok - Hat Yai: This route connects Bangkok with southern Thailand.
  • Bangkok - Ubon Ratchathani: This route connects with the northeastern region.
  • Bangkok - Khon Kaen: Another important route for travel in the northeast.

Traveling by train in Thailand is a memorable way to experience the beauty of the country in a new way. If you're looking for convenience and a different experience, taking the train is an option you shouldn't miss!

For more information about travel schedules and ticket bookings, you can visit the official website State Railway of Thailand.

Taxi

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Traveling in Thailand by taxi meter may be convenient, but it is not a popular choice among many tourists due to the high costs associated with it. The fare can quickly add up, especially for longer distances, making it more expensive compared to other forms of transportation like buses or trains. Traffic congestion in major cities such as Bangkok can also lengthen travel times, resulting in unpredictable fares based on distance.

If you are looking for a more comfortable and private way to travel, contacting a car rental company with a driver is a better option. These services often offer competitive prices and greater flexibility, allowing you to customize your route and schedule according to your needs. Additionally, car rental services can provide helpful recommendations for tourist attractions in the area.

For these reasons, using a taxi meter for transportation in Thailand is less common compared to other options, such as renting a car or utilizing public transport systems, which can significantly reduce expenses and enhance comfort.