1. Bus / Van to Khao Lak
2. Flight + Bus to Khao Lak
3. Train + Taxi to Khao Lak
4. Taxi / Car to Khao Lak
🎫 Book Ticket to Khao Lak
From Chiang Mai to Khao Lak you can get by plane+bus, train, bus, car.
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- The distance between Chiang Mai and Khao Lak spans approximately 1,460 km by road via Bangkok. The optimal and swiftest route to reach Chiang Mai is by taking a direct flight to Phuket, followed by a bus or minivan journey to Khao Lak. This method significantly reduces travel time. Traveling to Khao Lak via plane and minivan through Phuket Airport typically takes around 5-7 hours, with costs ranging from $75 to $170 per person. Private minivans and minibuses are available between Phuket International Airport and Khao Lak.
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- Another economical approach to reach Khao Lak from Chiang Mai is to travel by train and bus/minivan via Bangkok and Surat Thani. You can embark on a train journey from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani with a layover in Bangkok. From Surat Thani, buses or minivans are available to Khao Lak. This route takes approximately 27-32 hours and costs about $40-100 per person. Alternatively, you can opt for a tourist bus or minivan via Bangkok, or the most luxurious option is to arrange a private car or taxi. Easily search and book tickets or flights to Khao Lak from Chiang Mai online in Thailand. From Khao Lak, you can journey through Khao Sok National Park and Surat Thani town to Koh Phangan or Koh Samui.
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- Khao Lak lies in southern Thailand and is conveniently accessible from Phuket or Surat Thani. This locale boasts one of Thailand’s most stunning coastal landscapes, with fewer crowds compared to other tourist hubs in Thailand. Situated in Phang Nga province, renowned for its natural beauty, Khao Lak offers a plethora of attractions. It’s not just about pristine beaches; the hills east of the beaches host a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a hotspot for national parks. Excellent fishing opportunities and exhilarating rafting adventures are available during and after the rainy season. The region also offers ample opportunities for mountain hiking. Snorkeling and diving along the coast are must-do activities. Before your visit to Khao Lak, thoroughly review this article on the Weather in Khao Lak. You can travel from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak through various means – flight + bus, train + bus, bus/minivan, or private car/taxi via Bangkok and Phuket or Surat Thani. From Khao Lak, you can venture to Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Phi Phi.
| Transfer Mode – Chiang Mai to Khao Lak: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Plane + Bus/Taxi (via Phuket Airport) | 5-8 hours | $80-220/pp |
| Train + Taxi/Bus (via Bangkok, Surat Thani) | 27-34 hours | $40-140/pp |
| Private Car (via Bangkok) | 26-30 hours | $700-820 (car) |
How do I get from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak?
1. BUS / MINIVAN from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak
A) Bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok
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- from Chiang Mai to Bangkok you can travel by tourist bus or minivan
- there are comfortable and modern, new seat or sleeper tourist buses, minivans
- transfer by bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok costs about $20-32/pp
- transfer by bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok takes about 11-14.5 hours
- bus companies to Bangkok from Chiang Mai: Sombat Tour, Lignite Tour PK, Thai Sriram…
- buses arrive to various bus stations in Bangkok: Mo Chit, Khao San, Sombat Tour Viphavadee 13…
B) Bus from Bangkok to Khao Lak
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- transfer by sleeper tourist bus or minivan from Bangkok to Khao Lak takes about 13-15 hours
- transfer by bus / minivan from Bangkok to Khao Lak costs about $28-43/pp
- transfer by bus / minivan is the most cheapest option of transport to Khao Lak
- private bus companies to Khao Lak from Bangkok: Krungsiam Tour, Tara Tour and Travel
- there are tourist sleeper or seat buses and minivans to Khao Lak
- buses to Khao Lak depart from Khao San or Southern Terminal in Bangkok
- read this article: How to reach Khao Lak from Bangkok?
2. FLIGHT + BUS from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak
A) Flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket
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- there are direct flights from Chiang Mai to Phuket in Thailand
- airlines to Phuket: Nok Air, Air Asia, Thai Airways, Thai Lion Air, Thai Smile, Bangkok Air…
- direct flight to Phuket from Chiang Mai is the most fastest option of transport
- flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket takes only about 2 hours or 5-7 hours with stopover in Bangkok
- flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket costs only about $60-150/pp
- you can search and book these flights with 12go.asia
B) Minivan / Taxi from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak
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- from Phuket International Airport to Khao Lak you can get by minivan/bus or private car/taxi
- minivans and minibuses of Call Me Taxi private company
- private cars to Khao Lak by Bangkok Taxi24, Andaman Taxis, Phuket Ground Services…
- transport by minivan from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak costs about $17/pp
- transport by private taxi or car from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak costs about $50-60/car
- travel by minivan or taxi from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak takes about 1.5-2 hours
- Book bus tickets or private car / taxi from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak on 12go.asia ➜
3. TRAIN + TAXI / VAN from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak
A) Train from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok)
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- from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani you can travel by train of Thai Railways via Bangkok
- 1.step – train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, 2.step – train from Bangkok to Surat Thani
- Surat Thani Railway Station is located about 160 km east of Khao Lak
- there are sleeper or seat trains, 1st+2nd class trains for tourists
- travel by train to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai costs about $16-110/pp
- travel by train to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai takes about 22-28 hours
- read this article: How to reach Surat Thani from Chiang Mai?
B) Taxi or Minivan from Surat Thani to Khao Lak
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- from Surat Thani you can travel by minivan or taxi / car to Khao Lak (via Khao Sok Park)
- transport by minivan or car from Surat Thani to Khao Lak takes about 3.5 hours
- transport by private car or taxi from Surat Thani to Khao Lak costs about $90-120/car
- transport by minivan from Surat Thani to Khao Lak (via Khao Sok) costs about $25/pp
- from Khao Sok National park you can travel by another minivan to Khao Lak
- Book tickets or car from Surat Thani to Khao Lak (via Khao Sok) on 12go.asia ➜
4. TAXI / CAR from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak
A) Private Taxi from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani
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- you can travel by private taxi/car from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (with stop in Bangkok)
- transport time by private taxi or car from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani via Bangkok is about 22 hours
- taxi from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani: Jed Yord, Bangkok Taxi 24, Glassflower
- private taxi or car from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani costs about $600-700 (vehicle, car, minivan)
- read this article: How to go to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai?
B) Private Taxi from Surat Thani to Khao Lak
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- from Surat Thani you can get by minivan or taxi / car to Khao Lak (via Khao Sok Park)
- transfer by car from Surat Thani to Khao Lak takes about 3.5 hours
- transfer by private car or taxi from Surat Thani to Khao Lak costs about $90-120/car
- Book your private taxi/car from Surat Thani to Khao Lak on 12go.asia ➜
❓ FAQ — Travel route from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak:
1. How to book + buy tickets / flights from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak?
2. What is the travel time from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak?
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- Transport by tourist bus from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak (via Bangkok) takes about 26-32 hours.
- Transport by plane+bus/taxi from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak (via Phuket Airport) takes about 5-8 hours.
- Transport by train+taxi/bus from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak (via Bangkok, Surat Thani) takes about 27-34 hours.
- Transport by private taxi or car from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak (via Bangkok) takes about 26-30 hours.
3. How far is Khao Lak from Chiang Mai?
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- Travel distance from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak (via Bangkok) is about 1 460 km by bus + train, car.
4. How much does it cost to travel from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak?
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- Transport by tourist bus from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak (via Bangkok) costs about $50-75/pp.
- Transport by plane+bus from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak (via Phuket Airport) costs about $80-220/pp.
- Transport by train+bus from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak (via Bangkok, Surat Thani) costs about $40-140/pp.
- Transport by private taxi from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak (via Bangkok) costs about $700-820 (vehicle).
5. What is the best way of transfer from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak?
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- The best, comfortable and fast option of transport to Khao Lak from Chiang Mai is to travel by plane + bus/minivan via Phuket Airport. There are direct flights from Chiang Mai to Phuket Airport and from this airport you can travel by minivan or car to Khao Lak.
6. What is the cheapest way of transfer from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak?
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- The most cheapest way of transport to Khao Lak from Chiang Mai is to travel by train + bus via Bangkok and Surat Thani. It is good to know – this way of transport takes a lot of time.
7. Is there a direct flight to Khao Lak from Chiang Mai?
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- No, there are no flights to Khao Lak from Chiang Mai because Khao Lak has no airport. The closest airport is in Phuket.
8. Is it possible to travel by train to Khao Lak from Chiang Mai?
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- No, Khao Lak has no railway station. It is possible to travel by train from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani via Bangkok. Surat Thani Railway Station is about 175 km from Khao Lak. There are some buses or minivans between these places.
9. Where to go and travel from Khao Lak?
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- From Khao Lak you can travel also to Phuket in the south. Another option is to travel to Khao Sok National Park. There are some minivans or private cars to Khao Sok National Park from Khao Lak.
10. Where to stay in Khao Lak? Hotel, guesthouse, bungalow?
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- Khao Lak in Thailand offers some private resorts, hotels or guesthouses in the town or at the beach area. You can easily search and book your stay in Khao Lak online > Book hotel in Khao Lak online.
11. How to travel solo in Thailand?
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- Embark on a solo adventure in Thailand by researching destinations, ensuring personal safety, trying local experiences, connecting with fellow travelers, and savoring the diverse landscapes and attractions the country has to offer. Traveling on your own in Thailand is very popular by travelers. Read this article: Solo Travel in Thailand.
12. What are the most interesting things and facts about Thailand?
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- In summary, Thailand is a multifaceted gem that captivates visitors with its unique blend of cultural heritage, culinary excellence, and warm hospitality. From the enchanting traditions of its classical arts like Khon to the exhilarating water festivities of Songkran, the country offers a sensory feast. Thailand’s diverse landscapes, ranging from tropical islands to mountainous regions, contribute to its allure, making it a destination that seamlessly combines ancient traditions with modern vibrancy. The symphony of flavors in Thai cuisine and the welcoming smiles of its people further enrich the tapestry of experiences. Read this article: 15 Interesting Things of Thailand.
13. What is the weather and climate in Thailand?
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- Weather in Thailand varies across three main seasons, creating a tropical climate. The hot season typically spans from March to June, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). During this period, the weather is characterized by intense heat and occasional brief showers. The rainy season occurs from July to October, bringing heavy monsoon rains and increased humidity. Average temperatures remain high, ranging from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C). The cool season, from November to February, is marked by milder temperatures and lower humidity. Average temperatures range from 64°F to 86°F (18°C to 30°C), making it a popular time for tourism.
14. What you can buy and bring home from Thailand?
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- From Thailand, you can bring home a variety of souvenirs such as traditional Thai jewelry, packaged herbal teas, handcrafted Thai puppets, exotic spices and sauces, artistic ceramics, quality Thai soap and cosmetics, traditional musical instruments, fine Thai silk products, herbal oils and balms, and traditional playing cards and board games. These items reflect Thailand’s rich culture, craftsmanship, and diverse offerings, making them unique and memorable souvenirs. Read this article: What to bring from Thailand?
15. Is traveling and living in Thailand cheap or expensive?
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- The cost of traveling and living in Thailand can vary depending on various factors such as lifestyle, location, and personal preferences. Generally, Thailand is known for being a budget-friendly destination, attracting travelers seeking affordable adventures. While Thailand is known for being a budget-friendly destination, costs can vary depending on whether you choose to live in popular tourist areas or less-explored regions. Overall, many people find that the cost of living in Thailand offers good value for money.
16. What is the official currency of Thailand and how to exchange money?
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- The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). To exchange money, you can visit banks, currency exchange booths, or use ATMs. Banks typically offer competitive exchange rates, but may charge transaction fees. Currency exchange booths are convenient, often open longer hours, but their rates might be less favorable. Using ATMs connected to banks is a common and convenient option; however, be mindful of potential withdrawal fees from both your home bank and the local Thai bank. Always check rates and fees beforehand to make informed choices.
17. What is the cuisine and food in Thailand and what to expect?
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- Thai cuisine is renowned for its vibrant and harmonious flavors, combining sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and bitter elements in each dish. Expect a diverse range of dishes, often aromatic herbs and spices like lemongrass, basil or galangal. Rice, a staple, plays a central role, and street food is a must-try for an authentic culinary experience. Signature dishes include Pad Thai, Tom Yum, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice. Embrace the rich cultural diversity through regional variations, and don’t miss out on the lively street food culture.
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Thailand ➜
4 Ways of Transfer from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak:
| 1. BUS / MINIVAN from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak | |
|---|---|
| A) Bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok | |
| Transfer Price | About $20-32 per person |
| Travel Duration | About 11-14.5 hours |
| Bus Companies | Sombat Tour, Lignite Tour PK, Thai Sriram… |
| Buses Arrive to | Various bus stations in Bangkok: Mo Chit, Khao San, Sombat Tour Viphavadee 13… |
| B) Bus from Bangkok to Khao Lak | |
| Transfer Price | About $28-43 per person |
| Travel Duration | About 13-15 hours |
| Bus Companies | Krungsiam Tour, Tara Tour and Travel |
| 2. FLIGHT + BUS from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak | |
| A) Flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket | |
| Airlines | Nok Air, Air Asia, Thai Airways, Thai Lion Air, Thai Smile, Bangkok Air… |
| Travel Duration | About 2 hours (direct) or 5-7 hours (with stopover in Bangkok) |
| Transfer Price | About $60-150 per person |
| B) Minivan / Taxi from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak | |
| Transport Options | Minivans and minibuses of Call Me Taxi |
| Transfer Price | About $17 per person (minivan), $50-60 per car (private taxi) |
| Travel Duration | About 1.5-2 hours |
| 3. TRAIN + TAXI / VAN from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak | |
| A) Train from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok) | |
| Transfer Price | About $16-110 per person |
| Travel Duration | About 22-28 hours |
| B) Taxi or Minivan from Surat Thani to Khao Lak | |
| Transfer Price | About $25 per person (minivan), $90-120 per car (private taxi) |
| Travel Duration | About 3.5 hours |
| 4. TAXI / CAR from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak | |
| A) Private Taxi from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani | |
| Transfer Price | About $600-700 (vehicle, car, minivan) |
| Travel Duration | About 22 hours (with stop in Bangkok) |
| B) Private Taxi from Surat Thani to Khao Lak | |
| Transport Options | Minivan or taxi/car |
| Transfer Price | About $90-120 per car (private taxi) |
| Travel Duration | About 3.5 hours |
🎫 Book tickets or flights from Chiang Mai to Khao Lak online:
(You can also book another travel routes and tickets, e.g. Chiang Mai to Bangkok, Bangkok to Khao Lak…)
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