Flight (direct)
Fastest option with easy booking and minimal travel hassle
Flight + private transfer
Smooth journey with minimal effort and comfortable onward travel
Train + bus (via Bangkok)
Cheapest option but long journey with multiple transfers
Direct bus routes
No true direct route without transfers via Bangkok
Quick answer: Travelling from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani gives you the option to fly for speed, take a train (with a transfer via Bangkok) for a more leisurely journey, or use a bus/van for the lowest cost. Choose based on how much time you have and what level of comfort you prefer.
At a glance:
- 📍 Travel distance: Approx. 1,300 km by land between Chiang Mai and Surat Thani.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Flight ~2 hours direct; Train (via Bangkok) ~21–30 hours; Bus/Van ~22–28 hours.
- 💰 Price range: Flight US$80–200 per person; Train US$16–100 per person; Bus/Van US$35–65 per person.
- ✈️ Flight: Direct or via Bangkok from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani Airport—fastest option.
- 🚆 Train: Chiang Mai → Bangkok, then transfer to a train to Surat Thani—comfort with longer time.
- 🚍 Bus/Van: Tourist buses or vans via Bangkok to Surat Thani—budget-friendly but long.
Last updated in April 2026
From Chiang Mai to Surat Thani you can travel by train, bus, car or plane.
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- The travel distance from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani in Thailand spans approximately 1330 kilometers by train, bus or private car, or about 1100 kilometers by plane via Bangkok. The most convenient and efficient option for traveling to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai is by plane. A direct flight typically takes around 2 hours, while flights with a layover in Bangkok may extend to about 5-7 hours. The cost of air travel from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani ranges from approximately $80 to $200 per person. Another popular and economical choice is traveling by train, with both day and night trains available via Bangkok.
- Train travel to Surat Thani via Bangkok takes approximately 21-30 hours, with ticket prices varying from $16 to $100 per person depending on the class of seating or sleeper accommodations. Although bus or van/minivan options exist, they may not offer the same level of comfort as sleeper trains. Bus travel to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai typically takes about 22-28 hours. Private taxi/car options are also available for travelers wishing to book transportation to Surat Thani town or Surat Thani train station via Bangkok. Private taxi services operate from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and onward to Surat Thani, offering the most comfortable albeit expensive mode of transport.
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- Upon arrival in Surat Thani town or at the railway station, travelers can further explore transportation options to destinations such as Krabi + Koh Phi Phi or Phuket. Krabi, a prominent tourist destination situated approximately 160 km from Surat Thani, awaits exploration. Secure your travel plans by booking train, bus tickets, taxis, minivans, or flights from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani online.
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- Surat Thani holds the distinction of being the largest and most significant province in the South, serving as a pivotal transportation hub of Thailand. The province’s landscape features expansive plateaus and forest-clad mountains in the west transitioning to low basins in the central region and along the southern coast. Nestled amidst this coastal stretch are numerous islands including Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao, alongside two major rivers. One of Surat Thani’s prized gems is the renowned Khao Sok National Park, captivating visitors with its natural splendor.
| Transfer Mode – Chiang Mai to Surat Thani: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Train (via Bangkok) | 21-30 hours | $16-100/pp |
| Tourist Bus (via Bangkok) | 22-28 hours | $35-65/pp |
| Plane (Direct Flight or flights via Bangkok) | 2-8 hours | $80-200/pp |
| Private Taxi/Car (via Bangkok) | 19-22 hours | $500-920 (car) |
How do I get from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani?
1. TRAIN from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok)
👉 Train via Bangkok is the cheapest and most popular way to travel from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani.
- ✔️ Best for: budget travelers and those who prefer rail travel
- ✔️ Travel time: ~21–30 hours (with transfer in Bangkok)
- ✔️ Cost: $16–100 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: moderate to high (best with sleeper berths)
- ✅ Best Option: Sleeper trains from Chiang Mai to Bangkok + Bangkok to Surat Thani
- 💡 Tip: Book both train tickets online in advance, especially sleepers.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Arrive at the station at least 30–60 minutes early.
The most used and cheapest land transfer option from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani is a train transfer via Bangkok. This transport option has 2 steps and involves a transfer in Bangkok to another train bound for Surat Thani. Trains depart from Chiang Mai Railway Station and arrive at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station (they also stop at Don Mueang) and then go to Surat Thani Railway Station, see Thailand Railway Map.
The journey by train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok takes approx. 10-14 hours and by train from Bangkok to Surat Thani it takes approx. 9-12 hours, so in total it can be approx. 21-30 hours with a transfer.
The trains offer you seats and sleeping berths in 1st to 3rd class, 1st class being the most comfortable but most expensive train option, 3rd class being the least comfortable but cheapest option.
A train transfer from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani via Bangkok will cost between $16-100/pp, the cheapest option is a seat in the 3rd class train, sleepers are the more expensive option. So the price depends on what you choose, for this long route you should definitely use a sleeping bed. Train tickets from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani via Bangkok can be easily searched and purchased online in advance.
You must purchase 2 tickets for these 2 routes, separately for each route. There is no need to print the tickets, just store them in your phone with your QR code and then present this code when boarding the train in Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
It is advisable to arrive at the railway station in Chiang Mai and Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal) at least 30-60 minutes before the departure of the train. Also, read all the train transfer instructions and terms and conditions when booking your ticket and follow all instructions given.
2. BOOK TICKETS to Surat Thani ➜
2. BUS from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok)
👉 Bus via Bangkok is a budget-friendly way to travel from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani, but with a long journey.
- ✔️ Best for: low-cost travelers who don’t mind extended travel time
- ✔️ Travel time: ~22–28 hours (including transfer in Bangkok)
- ✔️ Cost: $35–65 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: moderate (modern buses with reclining seats)
- ✅ Best Option: Reliable companies like Sombat Tour, Nakhonchai Air, or Bangkok Busline
- 💡 Tip: Book both bus tickets online in advance and plan transfer time.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Overnight buses can help save time and accommodation costs.
Another option for land transfer to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai is to travel by bus via Bangkok. Buses depart from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 or Chiang Mai MCA Bus Terminal and in Bangkok arrive at Mochit, Nakhonchai Air Station or other stations.
You can see all the information about the departure points in Chiang Mai and Bangkok and the arrival points in Bangkok and Surat Thani when searching and booking tickets. A bus transfer from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani with a transfer in Bangkok takes about 22-28 hours, but this travel time may vary and buses may also be late.
The bus timetable is relatively long and there are many buses of different companies running between these cities every day. Companies that you can use for transfers to Bangkok and Surat Thani are, for example, Sombat Tour, Nara Travel, Transport Co, Nakhonchai Air, Chredchai Tour, Sritawong Tour, Bangkok Busline, Viriya Tour, Sappaisal, Sawadee Tour, Phuket Travel, SOT Travel and other.
These companies will offer you modern and comfortable buses with reclining seats. Bus transportation from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani via Bangkok costs between $35-65/pp in total, again prices can vary throughout the year and are not fixed. Chiang Mai to Surat Thani via Bangkok bus tickets can be easily searched and purchased online in advance.
It is better and more convenient to search for 2 tickets separately for each route. When booking, read all transfer instructions and follow the bus company’s terms and conditions. Bus transfer is sought after mainly among ordinary solo low-cost travelers.
2. BOOK TICKETS to Surat Thani ➜
3. FLIGHTS from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani
👉 Flight via Bangkok is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani.
- ✔️ Best for: travelers who want to save time and prefer a comfortable journey
- ✔️ Travel time: ~6–10 hours (or ~2 hours if direct flight available)
- ✔️ Cost: $80–200 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: high (flight connections with multiple daily options)
- ✅ Best Option: Flights with Thai AirAsia or other carriers via Bangkok
- 💡 Tip: Book flights early to get the best price.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Check transfer times in Bangkok for smooth connections.
Another and the fastest and most convenient transfer option from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani is an air transfer. There are mainly flights with a transfer in Bangkok and, to a limited extent, also direct flights, rather count on flights with a transfer. Flights are operated from Chiang Mai International Airport to Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok and then to Surat Thani Airport.
Air transfer from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani via Bangkok will be offered by Thai Air Asia, Thai VietJet, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air, Thai Smile, Bangkok Air or Hanh Air Systems. On both routes between Chiang Mai – Bangkok – Surat Thani, there are enough air connections in operation every day and you will definitely choose your suitable connection.
There are mainly Economy class flights on offer, and prices vary accordingly. An air transfer from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani with a transfer in Bangkok can take about 6-10 hours, depending on the transfer in Bangkok and also the wait before departure in Chiang Mai.
If direct flights are on offer, the flight time in this case is approx. 2 hours. Air transfer from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani via Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, costs in the range of $80-200/pp, this is the price even with a transfer to the next flight, flight prices can change during the year. The cheapest flights to Surat Thani and Bangkok are usually offered by Thai AirAsia.
Again, you can easily search and buy your flight to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai online ahead of time. Air transfer will probably not be the best transport option to Surat Thani for low-cost travelers, sometimes flights can be more expensive.
4. TAXI / CAR from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani
👉 Private taxi/car is the most comfortable but most expensive way to travel from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani.
- ✔️ Best for: groups, families, and travelers seeking maximum comfort
- ✔️ Travel time: ~19–22 hours (may vary by route and stops)
- ✔️ Cost: $500–920 per car
- ✔️ Comfort: high (private car, SUV or minivan with experienced driver)
- ✅ Best Option: Companies like Glassflower, Van2Travel, or Gosafe Transport
- 💡 Tip: Book your transfer online and plan stops if needed.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Best for groups—split the cost for better value.
The most expensive ground transfer option to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai is private car/taxi with a driver. Only those who have a larger budget for their travel or are traveling in a group of several people at the same time will use this transport option. You can use private car/taxi transport mostly with a transfer in Bangkok, or Van2Travel or Gosafe Transport will offer you a minivan for up to 9-10 passengers without a transfer. Easyride Services also have classic modern cars without transfer in Bangkok.
Companies that otherwise offer transfers by modern cars from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and from Bangkok to Surat Thani are, for example, Jed Yord, Bangkok Taxi 24, Glassflower, Kim Transfers Thailand, Smart En Plus, Freedom Tour and Service, Go2Trip, Kanokwan Travel, Andaman Taxis , N and T Travel, Firstplan Transport Services, Gosafe Transport, Van 2 Travel, Easyride Services.
These companies offer modern smaller classic cars and even larger SUVs or minivans that are suitable for groups of travelers. Transportation by private car/taxi from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani via Bangkok takes approximately 19-22 hours, however, the stated travel time may vary depending on your travel route.
BOOK TAXI / CAR to Surat Thani ➜
The advantage is that you can choose your departure point in Chiang Mai and Bangkok or your arrival point in Bangkok and Surat Thani, the travel time varies accordingly. Transfer by private car/taxi with driver costs between $500-920 (car), this is the price for both routes through Bangkok.
Prices for a car transfer vary depending on the type of vehicle, smaller classic cars are always a cheaper option than larger minivans or minibuses for more people. However, you can always calculate the fare for a car transfer to Surat Thani per passenger. Again, you can easily find and book your car with driver to Surat Thani online in advance.
| Taxi Service | Travel Time | Price (Car) |
|---|---|---|
| Gosafe Transport | 24:00 | From $800.00 / Van 9-10pax |
| Van 2 Travel | 24:00 | From $889.00 / Van 10pax |
| Easyride Services | 17:30 | From $530.00 / Economy 2pax |
| Easyride Services | 17:30 | From $566.00 / SUV 4pax |
| Easyride Services | 17:30 | From $920.00 / Van 8pax |
❓ FAQ – Travel route from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani:
1. How to book tickets/flights to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai?
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- Book tickets / flights from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani easily on 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜.
- you can search another routes, e.g. Chiang Mai to Bangkok, Bangkok to Surat Thani…
2. What is the travel time from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani?
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- Travel by train from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok) takes about 21-30 hours.
- Travel by tourist bus/van from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok) takes about 22-28 hours.
- Travel by plane (direct flight) from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani takes about 2 hours.
- Travel by private taxi/car from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok) takes about 19-22 hours.
3. How far is Surat Thani from Chiang Mai?
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- Travel distance from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok) is about 1330 km by land and about 1100 km by plane.
4. How much does it cost to travel from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani?
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- Transfer by train from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok) costs about $16-100/pp.
- Transfer by tourist bus from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok) costs about $35-65/pp.
- Transfer by plane (direct flight) from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok) costs about $80-200/pp.
- Transfer by private taxi/car from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani (via Bangkok) costs about $500-920 (vehicle).
5. What is the best way of getting from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani?
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- The best option how you can get to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai is to travel by plane. There is a direct flight and it takes about 2 hours, these direct low-cost flights start already at $45/pp. It is also the fastest way of transport, there are also flights with stopover in Bangkok.
6. Where you can go from Surat Thani?
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- From Surat Thani in southern Thailand you can travel to various places and islands. You can travel by van/bus to Khao Sok National Park (about 2-3 hours) or you can travel by van or bus to Koh Lanta (5.5-6 hours). There are also ferries and boats from Surat Thani to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan or Koh Tao, these islands are also very popular by tourists.
7. Is there an airport in Khao Sok National Park?
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- No, there is no airport in Khao Sok National Park. This park is accessible only by bus/minivan or taxi from Surat Thani town, it is not possible to travel by plane or train to the park.
8. What is the most cheapest way of transport to Surat Thani?
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- The most cheapest way of travel to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai is to travel by train or bus. The most cheapest train is a seat train, but you do not want to sit about 20-30, travel by train starts at $16/pp. Another option are sleeper tourist buses. You can also watch for low-cost flights.
9. Is there some private transfer to Surat Thani from Chiang Mai?
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- Yes, there are a few private companies and you can book your private taxi/car or modern minivan for a group of people. You can book taxi from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and taxi from Bangkok to Surat Thani. It is the most expensive option of transport.
10. How do you get from Surat Thani to Phuket?
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- Because there is no railway from Surat Thani to Phuket you have to travel by bus/minivan or private taxi. Travel time to Phuket is about 4-5 hours and bus tickets cost about $6-12/pp. There are also private minivans, cars and taxi for up to 9 passengers. Read this > How to get to Phuket from Surat Thani?
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Chiang Mai to Surat Thani
Traveling from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani is a long-distance trip across Thailand, with multiple transport options including flights, buses, and trains. Careful planning and advance bookings can help you navigate this journey comfortably.
1. Flights Are the Fastest Option
Direct flights from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani are limited, often requiring a stopover in Bangkok. Though slightly longer than direct flights, this remains the quickest way to cover the distance.
2. Consider Train Travel for Scenic Routes
Taking the train from Chiang Mai southward offers a scenic experience but involves long travel times, often over 20 hours. Train journeys typically require transfers at major stations, so plan accordingly.
3. Buses and Minivans Are Budget-Friendly
Direct buses and minivans operate between Chiang Mai and Surat Thani, though journey times can exceed 18 hours. Overnight buses are common and help save daytime but may be less comfortable.
4. Book Tickets in Advance
Especially during peak seasons, booking flights, buses, or train tickets ahead helps secure your preferred schedules and avoids last-minute unavailability.
5. Prepare for Long Travel Times and Transfers
Whether flying with layovers or traveling by land, expect a full day or more on the move. Bring snacks, water, entertainment, and dress comfortably.
6. Coordinate Arrival Transfers in Surat Thani
Surat Thani serves as a gateway to popular islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Arrange onward transfers or accommodation pick-ups in advance to avoid delays after arrival.
7. Travel Light and Keep Essentials Accessible
Multiple legs and transfers mean handling luggage often. Keep passports, tickets, and valuables in a small carry-on bag for convenience and security.
Tip: Flight, train, and bus tickets from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani can be searched and booked online in advance, helping you secure preferred travel times and smooth connections during busy travel periods.