Flight + van via Krabi
Fastest and easiest way with smooth transfer to the island
Private car + ferry
Door-to-door transfer with flexible stops and maximum comfort
Bus + ferry (combined ticket)
Cheapest option with direct route and included transfers
Train + van combination
More transfers required and less practical than other options
Quick answer: Travelling from Bangkok to Ko Lanta gives you several smart options—either combine a flight with a bus/van transfer (plus short ferry) for speed, take the long-haul bus for budget travel, or go by train + bus/van for a slower scenic route. You can book tickets or a private transfer to Koh Lanta online in advance to lock in your preferred schedule and connection.
At a glance:
- 📍 Travel distance: approx. 850 km by land via Krabi or Surat Thani.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Flight + Bus/Van ~8–12 h | Bus direct ~15–16 h | Train + Bus/Van ~16–21 h.
- 💰 Price range: Flight + Bus/Van US$40–150 per person | Bus US$35–55 per person | Train + Bus US$35–80 pp.
- ✈️ Flight + Bus/Van: Fly Bangkok → Krabi (~1.5 h), then bus/van and short ferry to Ko Lanta (~2-3 h).
- 🚍 Bus direct: Regular tourist buses from Bangkok to Krabi or straight to Ko Lanta region, then local transfer.
- 🚆 Train + Bus/Van: Train from Bangkok → Surat Thani, followed by bus/van to Krabi/Ko Lanta area.
- 🚕 Private Car / Taxi + Transfer: Hire a vehicle for door-to-door service
Last updated in April 2026
From Bangkok to Koh Lanta by combination of plane, bus, train + boat.
-
- When journeying from Bangkok to Koh Lanta, spanning approximately 750 kilometers by land, opting for a direct flight from Bangkok to Krabi proves to be the most efficient route, taking merely about 1.5 hours. From Krabi Airport, travelers can seamlessly transition to Koh Lanta via tourist van/minivan or shuttle bus, with a travel duration of around 2-3 hours. A short ferry-boat ride from Hua Hin Pier to Koh Lanta, spanning about 1.5 km, completes the journey. This plane + bus option, facilitated via Krabi Airport, typically ranges from $35 to $150 per person, offering a time-saving alternative. Additionally, ferries/speedboats departing from Krabi to Koh Lanta Saladan Pier provide another transportation option.
- Alternatively, travelers can embark on a train journey from Bangkok to Surat Thani, albeit with a longer travel time of about 9-12 hours. Private transport companies also offer buses, vans, or taxi services from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta. For utmost comfort and speed, traveling via Krabi (by plane+van or bus) is recommended. From Koh Lanta, adventurers can further explore by ferry, venturing to Koh Lipe in southern Thailand, near Malaysia, or to Koh Phi Phi. Secure flights to Krabi Airport from Bangkok and bus/ferry tickets to Koh Lanta conveniently online.
-
- Koh Lanta, nestled in the Andaman Sea, stands as the largest island in southern Thailand, forming an archipelago of approximately fifty islands and islets in Krabi province. The peak tourist season on Ko Lanta spans from October to April, with minimal tourist activity during the remainder of the year. Lacking its own airport or railway station, access to the island is facilitated via bus/van or ferry/speedboat, with Krabi Airport, situated approximately 50 kilometers away, serving as the closest air hub.
- Travelers have various options to reach Koh Lanta from Bangkok, with the plane+van/bus route via Krabi offering the most efficient and versatile choice, allowing for potential stopovers at Koh Phi Phi. From Koh Lanta, further exploration options include venturing to Koh Mook, Phuket, a renowned tourist destination, or exploring Ao Nang in Krabi.
| Transfer Mode – Bangkok to Koh Lanta | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Plane + Bus/Van (via Krabi Airport) | 8–12 hours | $40–150 per person |
| Bus | 15–16 hours | $35–55 per person |
| Train + Bus/Van (via Surat Thani) | 16–21 hours | $35–80 per person |
| Private Taxi / Car with a driver | 13–17 hours | $320–580 per vehicle |
How do I get from Bangkok to Koh Lanta?
1. FLIGHT + VAN/BUS from Bangkok to Koh Lanta
👉 Flight + van/bus is the fastest and most convenient way from Bangkok to Koh Lanta.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who want to save time and prefer an easy connection
- ✔️ Total travel time: ~8–12 hours
- ✔️ Cost: about $40–150 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: high (short flight + minivan transfer with short ferry crossing)
- ✅ Best Option: Fly to Krabi, then take a direct minivan transfer from the airport to Koh Lanta
- 💡 Tip: Book a combined transfer in advance to ensure smooth pickup and minimize waiting time.
The fastest and most convenient way to get from Bangkok to Koh Lanta is by plane and bus/minivan via Krabi. There is no airport on Koh Lanta, but you can use direct flights to Krabi and from the airport you can take a minivan to Koh Lanta immediately. Krabi International Airport is about 60 km from Koh Lanta.
This transport option therefore has a total of 2 steps (+ a short boat transfer to Koh Lanta) and the total transfer time can be approx. 8-12 hours, but this time can also vary. It depends, for example, on waiting for a minivan from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta. In total, an air and minivan transfer from Bangkok to Koh Lanta via Krabi can cost about $40-150/pp.
For direct flights from Bangkok to Krabi, you can use the airlines Thai VietJet, Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air or Hanh Air Systems. A direct flight from Bangkok to Krabi takes about 1.5 hours, but you also need to take into account the transfer to the airport in Bangkok and the wait before departure, so in total it can take up to 5 hours.
Prices for direct flights to Krabi from Bangkok can be relatively affordable and range from $30-90/pp. You can easily find and buy tickets to Krabi from Bangkok online ahead of time.
In the second step, you can use a minivan / minibus transfer from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta. Companies such as Jijie Tour and Travel and Good Luck Lanta Tour will offer you transportation between the airport and this island. Some other companies also go to Koh Lanta via Krabi town and area and then continue to Koh Lanta. So you can definitely visit the Krabi area and then move to Koh Lanta. Transportation by minivan or bus from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the travel route of individual companies.
The indicated travel time by minivan to Koh Lanta may vary slightly. Minivan tickets from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta range from $11-16/pp, depending on the company. You can easily find and buy these tickets online in advance, which is also convenient due to the more limited timetables between the airport and Koh Lanta.
A short boat transfer to Koh Lanta is usually included in the fare. Therefore, when booking a ticket, always read the current information and instructions for the transfer and comply with the given conditions.
2. BOOK TICKETS to Koh Lanta ➜
2. BUS from Bangkok to Koh Lanta
👉 Bus is a low-cost but long way from Bangkok to Koh Lanta.
- ✔️ Ideal for: budget travelers who don’t mind extended travel time
- ✔️ Total travel time: ~15–16 hours
- ✔️ Cost: about $35–55 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: medium (long-distance buses with reclining seats)
- ✅ Best Option: Choose a direct overnight bus or a connection via Krabi for more options
- 💡 Tip: Expect possible delays and consider breaking the journey with a stopover in Krabi.
A cheaper but long way to get from Bangkok to Koh Lanta by land is by bus. This transport option is offered by Bangkok Travel Plus, The Twin 2000, Montanatip, Raja Ferry, Nara Travel, Jarinthon Tour, The Tiger 2022, Oniam Transport, but other companies also go via Surat Thani or Krabi, so there may be more companies. The bus transfer from Bangkok to Koh Lanta takes about 15-16 hours, but if you change in Surat Thani or Krabi, for example, the time may vary.
Buses can also be delayed when departing or during the journey, it is good to count on this fact as well. Bangkok Travel Plus will offer you modern buses with reclining seats. You can see information about departure points in Bangkok and arrival points in Koh Lanta when searching and booking tickets online.
So read everything carefully and see exactly where you will go. A bus transfer from Bangkok to Koh Lanta costs between $35-55/pp, if you go with a transfer in Surat Thani or Krabi, the prices may vary slightly. Bus tickets to Koh Lanta from Bangkok can be easily searched and booked online in advance.
BOOK BUS TICKETS on 12go.asia ➜
A minor disadvantage of the bus transfer is the more limited timetable of buses going directly from Bangkok to Koh Lanta. More buses may be offered with a transfer in another place or city.
Arrive at the departure point in Bangkok well in advance, at least 30-60 minutes before the bus departs. Also, when booking your ticket to Koh Lanta, please read the current transfer information carefully and follow all instructions given.
3. TRAIN + VAN/BUS from Bangkok to Koh Lanta
👉 Train + van/bus is a budget-friendly land option from Bangkok to Koh Lanta.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who want to combine rail travel with affordable transfers
- ✔️ Total travel time: ~16–21 hours
- ✔️ Cost: about $30–75 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: medium (overnight train + minivan and short ferry)
- ✅ Best Option: Take a sleeper train to Surat Thani, then continue by minivan + ferry to Koh Lanta
- 💡 Tip: Book train and transfer tickets in advance and allow time between connections.
Another land transfer option from Bangkok to Koh Lanta is to travel by train and minivan / bus via the city of Surat Thani. You cannot go directly to the island of Koh Lanta by train, there is no railway. So if you would like to go by train, it is best to go to Surat Thani and then use a minivan or bus going to Koh Lanta. The total time of this transfer to Koh Lanta can be approx. 16-21 hours, but this time can vary slightly.
Transfer by train from Bangkok to Surat Thani takes about 9-12 hours, and transfer by minivan or bus from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta takes about 5-6.5 hours. Thai trains will offer you seats or sleeping beds on the way to Surat Thani, it is better to use a sleeping bed, because it is a relatively long route. Ticket prices for these trains also vary according to comfort, seats are always a cheaper option and sleepers more expensive.
Train tickets to Surat Thani from Bangkok cost between $8-50/pp, the cheapest is a seat in 3rd class, but it is also the least comfortable. A good alternative is a sleeping bed in the 2nd class of the train. Train tickets to Surat Thani are easy to find and book in advance online. These trains depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station in Bangkok and arrive to Surat Thani Railway Station, check the Thailand Railway Map.
1. BOOK TICKETS to Surat Thani ➜
In the second step, you will use minivan or bus transfers from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta. This itinerary also includes a short boat transfer to Koh Lanta Island. You can use the services of companies such as Phantip 1970, 12GO Transport, Phangan Tour 2000 or Ramon Transport for transport in this way, i.e. by minivan + boat. Most of these companies operate comfortable smaller minivans for a limited number of passengers.
A short boat transfer to Koh Lanta is usually included in the fare. A minivan transfer from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta costs between $20-25/pp, these prices may vary slightly throughout the year. These minivans depart from Surat Thani city or company branches and arrive at Koh Lanta Saladan Pier or other locations. You will always see this information when searching for tickets online, so review everything carefully.
Again, you can find and buy tickets for minivans or buses to Koh Lanta from Surat Thani easily online. If you travel by train and minivan via Surat Thani from Bangkok to Koh Lanta, you need to purchase a separate ticket for the train and then another ticket for the minivan / minibus.
2. BOOK TICKETS to Koh Lanta ➜
4. PRIVATE TAXI / CAR from Bangkok to Koh Lanta
👉 Private taxi/car is the most comfortable but most expensive way from Bangkok to Koh Lanta.
- ✔️ Ideal for: groups or travelers who want a fully private and flexible journey
- ✔️ Total travel time: ~13–17 hours
- ✔️ Cost: about $320–580 per car
- ✔️ Comfort: very high (modern vehicles with door-to-door service)
- ✅ Best Option: Book a private car with direct transfer to Koh Lanta including the ferry crossing
- 💡 Tip: Split the cost among passengers and confirm all details (route, ferry, stops) before booking.
If you were looking for a private transfer from Bangkok to Koh Lanta, this option is also available. This is the most expensive transport option and the offer includes modern and comfortable air-conditioned vehicles for smaller or larger groups of travelers. Glassflower, Easyride Services and Van2Travel companies offer this option of transport to Koh Lanta, these companies also offer transfers on other popular routes in Thailand.
They offer modern smaller classic cars, SUVs and even minivans for multiple passengers at the same time. The advantage of a private transfer is the possibility of choosing a departure point in Bangkok and an arrival point on Koh Lanta, so the indicated travel time may vary slightly.
Transfer by private car/taxi with driver from Bangkok to Koh Lanta takes about 13-17 hours and the fare ranges from $320-580/pp. These prices are based on the type of car you choose, smaller classic cars are always a cheaper option than larger minivans or SUVs for more people. However, you can calculate the fare for individual passengers.
BOOK PRIVATE CAR to Koh Lanta ➜
The advantage of a private transfer is that you will not have to make other stops during the journey, as in the case of a bus or train. However, random stops are only by agreement with the company and the driver.
You can easily search for your private car/taxi with driver from Bangkok to Koh Lanta, view photos and book online ahead of time. Always read the current information and instructions for the transfer and follow the conditions of the transport company to avoid possible misunderstandings.
❓ FAQ + TIPS – Travel from Bangkok to Koh Lanta:
1. How to book tickets or flights from Bangkok to Koh Lanta?
-
- You can book tickets+flights from Bangkok to Koh Lanta on 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜.
- You can search, book another route, e.g. Bangkok > Krabi Airport, Krabi > Koh Lanta…
2. What is the travel time from Bangkok to Koh Lanta?
-
- Travel by plane + bus/van + ferry from Bangkok to Koh Lanta (via Krabi Airport) takes about 8-12 hours.
- Travel by bus from Bangkok to Koh Lanta (via Surat Thani) takes about 15-16 hours.
- Travel by train + bus/van from Bangkok to Koh Lanta (via Surat Thani) takes about 16-21 hours.
- Travel by private taxi/car from Bangkok to Koh Lanta (via Surat Thani) takes about 13-17 hours.
3. What is the travel distance from Bangkok to Koh Lanta?
-
- Travel distance from Bangkok to Koh Lanta (via Krabi or Surat Thani) is totally about 850 km by land.
4. How much does it cost to get from Bangkok to Koh Lanta?
-
- Travel by plane + bus/van from Bangkok to Koh Lanta (via Krabi Airport) costs about $40-150/pp.
- Travel by bus from Bangkok to Koh Lanta (via Surat Thani) costs about $35-55/pp.
- Travel by train + bus/van from Bangkok to Koh Lanta (via Surat Thani) costs about $35-80/pp.
- Travel by private taxi/car from Bangkok to Koh Lanta costs about $320-580/pp.
5. What is the best+fastest way how to get from Bangkok to Koh Lanta?
-
- The best and fastest way of getting to Koh Lanta from Bangkok is to travel by combination of plane and bus/van via Krabi Airport. There are direct flights to Krabi Airport and buses/vans from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta.
6. What is the cheapest of transport from Bangkok to Koh Lanta?
-
- The cheapest way how to travel to Koh Lanta from Bangkok is to travel by tourist bus + boat transfer from Hua Hin Pier, but it takes a lot of time. Another option is to take a low-cost flight to Krabi and bus from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta.
7. How to get to Koh Lanta? Is there a ferry or boat transfer?
-
- Yes, there is a short boat/ferry transfer from Hua Hin Pier to Koh Lanta. Travel distance by ferry is about 1.5 km from Hua Hin Pier to Koh Lanta.
8. Is there an airport on Koh Lanta?
-
- No, there is no airport on Koh Lanta, so there is no direct flight between Bangkok and Koh Lanta. The closest airport is in Krabi or Trang. Travel distance from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta is about 70 km by road.
9. What is the closest railway station to Koh Lanta?
-
- The closest railway station to Koh Lanta is in Trang. Another option is railway station in Surat Thani town.
10. Is it possible to get to Koh Lanta from Trang?
-
- Yes, you can travel by train from Bangkok to Trang, from Trang you can travel by van+ferry (via Pak Meng Pier) to Koh Lanta. Travel by van+ferry from Trang to Koh Lanta costs about $25-37, you can book tickets on 12go.asia.
11. How to get from Koh Lanta to Koh Phi Phi?
-
- There is only one way how to travel to Koh Phi Phi from Koh Lanta, you can travel by ferry/speedboat. Travel by ferry takes about 30 minutes – 2.5 hours and it costs about $14-24/pp.
12. Where to stay on Koh Lanta?
-
- Koh Lanta offers various accommodation, cheap resorts, guesthouses or private luxury resorts or villas, bungalows. Search and book your accommodation online: Book your accommodation on Koh Lanta (Discount up to 60%).
13. Which are the most popular and nice islands in Thailand?
-
- There are a lot of various interesting, nice and also isolated or tourist islands in Thailand. Most of them are in the Gulf of Thailand or Phang Nga Bay. Read this article: The Best Islands in Thailand.
14. Where to go from Koh Lanta?
-
- From Koh Lanta you can travel to the most visited island in southern Thailand – by ferry to Koh Phi Phi. There are various ferries or speedboats between Koh Lanta – Koh Phi Phi – Krabi – Koh Yao Yai. From Koh Lanta you can also travel by private modern minivan or taxi/car to Surat Thani town and via this town to Koh Phangan.
| Operator | Class | Departs | Arrives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Van 2 Travel | Van 10pax | Any time | +17h |
| Glassflower | Luxury VIP Van 9pax | Any time | +13h |
| At Lanta Vacation | Van + Ferry | 06:30 | 12:30 |
| At Lanta Vacation | Van + Ferry | 10:30 | 16:30 |
| Next Step Journey | Van + Normal Bus + Ferry | 17:00 | 10:00 |
| Next Step Journey | Van + Bus VIP 24 + Ferry | 17:00 | 10:00 |
| The Twin 2000 | Bus | 18:40 | 11:10 |
| Bangkok Travel Plus | VIP Bus | 18:45 | 09:25 |
| Bangkok Travel Plus | VIP Bus | 18:45 | 10:05 |
| Bangkok Travel Plus | Express | 18:50 | 09:50 |
| Bangkok Travel Plus | Express | 18:50 | 10:00 |
| The Nine Travel | VIP24 + Van | 18:55 | 11:15 |
| Montanatip | Express | 19:00 | 11:30 |
| Montanatip | VIP Bus | 19:00 | 11:30 |
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Thailand ➜
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Bangkok to Koh Lanta
Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Lanta involves a combination of flights, buses, and ferry rides, as the island is a more remote and less developed destination known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches. Proper planning will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to this hidden gem of southern Thailand.
1. Fly to Krabi for the Fastest Access
The quickest route is to fly from Bangkok to Krabi Airport, which takes about 1.5 hours. From Krabi, you can take a taxi or shuttle to the ferry pier for the short boat ride to Koh Lanta.
2. Combine Bus and Ferry Tickets for Seamless Transfers
Many operators offer combined bus and ferry tickets from Bangkok to Koh Lanta, simplifying transfers and reducing waiting times. Booking these packages in advance is highly recommended, especially during high season.
3. Be Aware of Ferry Schedules and Weather Conditions
Ferries to Koh Lanta operate regularly but may be affected by weather conditions during the monsoon season. Check ferry times and possible delays ahead of time to avoid last-minute surprises.
4. Plan Your Arrival to Match Ferry Departures
It’s important to coordinate your flight or bus arrival in Krabi with ferry or minivans departure times. Arriving too early or late can result in long waits or missed connections, so plan carefully.
5. Arrange Local Transfers on Koh Lanta in Advance
Koh Lanta is a spread-out island with limited public transportation. Pre-book taxis or motorbike rentals from the ferry pier to your accommodation to avoid delays and higher prices.
6. Prepare for a Relaxed Pace and Limited Nightlife
Koh Lanta offers a quieter alternative to busier southern islands. Expect fewer nightlife options and a more laid-back atmosphere — perfect for travelers seeking tranquility but important to plan activities accordingly.
Tip: Flight, bus, and ferry tickets from Bangkok to Koh Lanta can be searched and booked online in advance, helping you organize a comfortable and smooth multi-leg journey — especially during peak travel times.