How to go → CHIANG MAI to KOH LANTA? ☀️

chiang-mai-to-koh-lanta-transport
How do you get to Koh Lanta from Chiang Mai? You can travel by train, bus or plane + van, ferry.

1. Flight + Bus to Koh Lanta
2. Bus / Van to Koh Lanta
3. Train + Bus to Koh Lanta
4. Taxi / Car to Koh Lanta
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From Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta by plane / bus / van / train + speedboat.

    • The distance from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta spans approximately 1,550 km via Bangkok. The most efficient and quickest mode of transportation from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is by taking a direct flight to Krabi Airport, followed by a van or bus journey. Upon arrival at Krabi Airport, you can proceed to Koh Lanta via van or tourist bus combined with a boat ride. This option typically takes about 7-8 hours and costs approximately $40-120 per person. Additionally, there are various private car or taxi services available from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta.
    • Alternatively, you can opt to travel by Thai Railways train + bus/van via Bangkok and Surat Thani. There are trains available from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and from Bangkok to Surat Thani. Upon reaching Surat Thani, you can continue your journey to Koh Lanta by minivan or bus combined with a boat ride. Options include sleeper trains to Bangkok and Surat Thani, as well as seat buses or minivans. Another possibility is to travel by tourist buses or minivans to Koh Lanta, although bus travel may not be as comfortable due to the extended duration. The most luxurious yet costly option is to arrange a private car or taxi. Tickets and flights from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta can be easily booked online.

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    • Koh Lanta is an island situated in southern Thailand, near Krabi in the Koh Lanta district. Renowned for its picturesque and secluded beaches, Koh Lanta is a favored destination for beach enthusiasts seeking tranquility away from the tourist crowds. The local beaches, characterized by gentle slopes and generally calm waves throughout most of the year, are particularly noteworthy. Expect expansive beaches lined with coconut palms and the occasional hammock suspended between trees, rather than rows of umbrellas. Local beach bars offer refreshing cocktails or cold Chang beer at reasonable prices. Prior to your visit, familiarize yourself with the weather patterns in Koh Lanta. There are four main travel options from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta: plane + bus, train + bus, tourist bus, or private car/taxi + ferry/speedboat. You can access Koh Lanta from Chiang Mai via Bangkok, Krabi, Surat Thani, or theoretically Trang. From Koh Lanta, you can journey to Koh Lipe or Koh Mook by ferry or speedboat, with a travel time of approximately 2-3 hours. Alternatively, you can explore Koh Yao Yai in Phang Nga Bay. Koh Yao Yai is in close proximity to Phuket, one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations.
Transfer Mode – Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta: Travel Time Cost Range
Plane + Bus/Van (via Krabi Airport) 7-8 hours $40-120/pp
Bus (via Bangkok, Surat Thani) 30-36 hours $50-85/pp
Train + Bus/Van (via Bangkok, Surat Thani) 30-38 hours $35-140/pp
Private Car (via Bangkok, Surat Thani) 26-28 hours $750-860 / car

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How do I get from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta?


1. FLIGHT + BUS from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta


This is the most comfortable option of transfer to Koh Lanta. Direct flights from Chiang Mai to Krabi Airport and from this airport you can get to Koh Lanta by tourist bus / van + boat. In this way of transfer you save a lot of travel time.

A) Direct flight from Chiang Mai to Krabi Airport

    • the best and fastest option how to travel from Chiang Mai to Krabi
    • it is also a cheap option of transfer to Koh Lanta from Chiang Mai
    • travel time by direct flight from Chiang Mai to Krabi is about 2 hours
    • airlines from Chiang Mai to Krabi Airport: Thai Air Asia, Bangkok Air…
    • one-way direct flight to Krabi Airport from Chiang Mai costs about at $30-80/pp
    • you can read this article: How to go to Krabi from Chiang Mai?

B) Van or bus from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta (+Boat Transfer)

    • you can travel by tourist bus or minivan from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta
    • transport by van/bus from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta costs about $12-16/pp
    • travel time by van/bus from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta is about 3-4 hours
    • bus companies to Koh Lanta: Bus Cooperative of Krabi, Krabi Airport Shuttle
    • there is a boat / ferry transfer from Hua Hin Pier to Koh Lanta (it is only about 1.5 km)
    • read this article: How to go from Krabi to Koh Lanta?
flight-bus-chiang-mai-to-koh-lanta
From Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta you can travel by plane (direct flight) + bus or minivan via Krabi Airport.


2. BUS from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta


A) Bus from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok)

    • from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani you can travel by tourist bus via Bangkok
    • travel by tourist bus from from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani costs about $35-60/pp
    • travel by tourist bus from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani takes about 22-28 hours
    • there are various bus companies to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai with stopover in Bangkok
    • read this article: How to go from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani?

B) Van/Bus from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta (+Boat Transfer)

    • from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta you can travel by tourist bus or minivan
    • travel time by bus or minivan to Koh Lanta from Surat Thani is about 5.5-6 hours
    • modern, fast, comfortable, air-conditioned buses or private minivans
    • there are also some buses or minivans from Surat Thani Railway Station
    • transport by bus from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta costs about $17-22/pp
    • read this article: How to go to Koh Lanta from Surat Thani?
bus-chiang-mai-to-koh-lanta
From Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta you can also travel by bus + minivan via Bangkok and Surat Thani (photo: 12go.asia)


3. TRAIN + VAN/BUS from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta


A) Train from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok)

B) Bus from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta (+Boat Transfer)

    • from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta you can get by tourist bus or private minivan
    • travel by bus or minivan to Koh Lanta from Surat Thani takes about 5.5-6 hours
    • modern, fast and comfortable, air-conditioned buses or private minivans
    • transfer by tourist bus or minivan from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta costs about $17-22/pp
    • read this article: How to get to Koh Lanta from Surat Thani?
train-bus-chiang-mai-to-koh-lanta
From Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta you can also get by train of Thai Railways + bus/minivan via Bangkok and Surat Thani (photo: 12go.asia).


4. PRIVATE CAR from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta


A) Taxi / Car from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok)

    • you can also travel by private taxi/car from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok)
    • transport by private taxi / car from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani via Bangkok takes about 22 hours
    • taxi from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani: Jed Yord, Bangkok Taxi 24, Glassflower and other companies
    • private taxi or car from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani costs about $600-700 (vehicle)
    • read this article: How to travel from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani?

B) Taxi / Car from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta (+Boat Transfer)

    • the most comfortable and fast way of transport from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta
    • transport by private taxi or vehicle/car from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta takes about 2-3 hours
    • private companies from Surat Thani to Krabi: Ramon Transport, Mr Toon, Phantip Charter, Andaman Taxis…
    • you can also book private minivan for up to 9 passengers
    • transport by private car / taxi to Koh Lanta costs about $140-160 (vehicle)
    • read this article: How to travel to Koh Lanta from Surat Thani?
taxi-car-chiang-mai-to-koh-lanta
From Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta you can also travel by private car / taxi via Bangkok and Surat Thani (photo: 12go.asia).


FAQ + Tips – Travel from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta:

1. How to book tickets or flights from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta?

    • Book tickets + flights from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta online 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 Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta?

    • Travel by plane+bus/van from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta (via Krabi Airport) is about 7-8 hours.
    • Travel by bus from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta (via Bangkok, Surat Thani) takes about 30-36 hours.
    • Travel by train+bus/van from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta (via Bangkok, Surat Thani) takes about 30-38 hours.
    • Travel by private car/taxi from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta (via Bangkok, Surat Thani) takes about 26-28 hours.

3. What is the travel distance from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta?

4. How much does it cost to get from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta?

    • Transport by plane+bus/van from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta (via Krabi Airport) costs about $40-120/pp.
    • Transport by bus from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta (via Bangkok, Surat Thani) costs about $50-85/pp.
    • Transport by train+bus/van from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta (via Bangkok, Surat Thani) costs about $35-140/pp.
    • Transport by private car from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta (via Bangkok, Surat Thani) costs about $750-860/car.

5. What is the best + fastest option how to get from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta?

    • The best and fastest option how you can reach Koh Lanta from Chiang Mai is to take a direct flight to Krabi Airport and from this airpot you can use various private buses or comfortable minivans.

6. What is the cheapest of transfer from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta?

    • The most cheapest option how to reach Koh Lanta from Chiang Mai is to travel by train + bus. But this way of transport takes a lot of travel time, so another option is to travel by plane + bus via Krabi Airport. Direct flights to Krabi Airport are also very cheap.

7. Is there a direct flight from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta?

    • No, it is not possible to travel by plane directly to Koh Lanta because this island has no airport. The closest international airport is in Krabi. It is about 80 km north of Koh Lanta and is accessible by bus, minivan or taxi.

8. What is the closest train station to Koh Lanta?

    • The closest train station to Koh Lanta is in Trang. Another option is a railway station in Surat Thani town.

9. Is it possible to travel to Koh Lanta from Trang?

    • Yes, you can get by train from Bangkok to Trang and from Trang you can use van+ferry transfer (via Pak Meng Pier) to Koh Lanta. Travel by van+ferry from Trang town to Koh Lanta Island costs about $25-37/pp, you can book tickets on 12go.asia.

10. Where to stay on Koh Lanta? Hotel, homestay, bungalow?

    • Koh Lanta offers various types of accommodation, cheap resorts, guesthouses or private luxury resorts or villas and some nice tourist bungalows. Search and book your accommodation in Koh Lanta online: Book hotel / stay on Koh Lanta (Discount up to 60%).

11. Where to go and travel from Koh Lanta?

    • From Koh Lanta you can travel by ferry or speedboat to the most visited island in southern Thailand – to Koh Phi Phi or Krabi. Another option is to take a ferry or boat to Koh Lipe in the south of Thailand. From Koh Lipe you can also travel to Langkawi and visit Malaysia, travel by ferry takes about 2-3 hours. You can also travel to Surat Thani and via this town you can also travel to Koh Phangan in the Gulf of Thailand.

12. 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.

13. How to travel solo in Thailand?

    • 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.

14. What is the weather and climate in Thailand?

    • 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.

15. What you can buy and bring home from Thailand?

    • 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?

16. Is traveling and living in Thailand cheap or expensive?

    • 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.

17. What is the official currency of Thailand and how to exchange money?

    • 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.

18. What is the cuisine and food in Thailand and what to expect?

    • 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.

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4 Ways of Transfer from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta:

1. FLIGHT + BUS from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta
A) Direct flight from Chiang Mai to Krabi Airport
Transfer Price About $30-80 per person
Travel Duration About 2 hours
Airlines Thai Air Asia, Bangkok Air…
B) Van or bus from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta (+Boat Transfer)
Transfer Price About $12-16 per person
Travel Duration About 3-4 hours
Bus Companies Bus Cooperative of Krabi, Krabi Airport Shuttle
2. BUS from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta
A) Bus from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok)
Transfer Price About $35-60 per person
Travel Duration About 22-28 hours
B) Van/Bus from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta (+Boat Transfer)
Transport Options Tourist bus or minivan
Travel Duration About 5.5-6 hours
Transfer Price About $17-22 per person
3. TRAIN + VAN/BUS from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta
A) Train from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok)
Transport Options Train with stopover in Bangkok
Transfer Price About $16-110 per person
Travel Duration About 22-30 hours
B) Bus from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta (+Boat Transfer)
Travel Duration About 5.5-6 hours
Transport Options Tourist bus or minivan
Transfer Price About $17-22 per person
4. PRIVATE CAR from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta
A) Taxi / Car from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok)
Transfer Price About $600-700 (vehicle)
Travel Duration About 22 hours
B) Taxi / Car from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta (+Boat Transfer)
Transport Options Private taxi or vehicle/car
Travel Duration About 2-3 hours
Private Companies Ramon Transport, Mr Toon, Phantip Charter, Andaman Taxis…

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🎫 Book tickets / flights from Chiang Mai to Koh Lanta + Schedule:

(You can change and book another travel route, e.g. Chiang Mai to Bangkok, Bangkok to Koh Lanta…)


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