How to get from Bangkok to Nan

Travelling from Bangkok to Nan is straightforward, with a choice of quick flights, comfortable overnight buses and scenic overland combos depending on how much time and budget you have.

At A Glance (Bangkok to Nan)

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest & most convenient: Choose the direct flight if you want to maximise time in Nan, are arriving or departing via Bangkok’s airports anyway, or prefer to avoid a long overnight journey. It’s especially good for short trips (2–4 days) or when travelling with kids.
• Cheapest & surprisingly comfortable: The direct bus from Mo Chit 2 is the classic choice for budget-conscious travellers and backpackers. Book a VIP or first-class night bus, sleep most of the way, and arrive in Nan early morning ready to explore.
• Most scenic & flexible: If you enjoy train travel and want to break the journey with a stop in Phitsanulok, Sukhothai or Uttaradit, the train-plus-bus combo turns the transfer into a mini road trip. Best for travellers with at least a week in Northern Thailand.
• Best for road trips & remote villages: Renting a car or booking a private transfer is ideal if you’re travelling as a family or group, carrying bulky gear (e.g. bikes, camera equipment) or planning to connect Nan with Phrae, Phayao, Chiang Rai and smaller towns.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Domestic flights: Check direct DMK/BKK → NNT services and compare prices on platforms like Trip.com and Booking.com Flights. Book at least a few days in advance in high season (Nov–Feb and Thai holidays).
• Bus tickets: For Bangkok → Nan buses, you can compare operators and seat types on 12Go Asia, or buy directly at Mo Chit 2 and via official operators such as The Transport Co. (BorKorSor). Kiosks and counters usually accept cash and Thai cards.
• Train bookings: There is no railway station in Nan; you’ll book trains only for the Bangkok → Phitsanulok/Den Chai leg. Reserve seats on the official State Railway of Thailand online system or at major Bangkok stations, then buy your connecting bus ticket separately.
• Airport & station transfers in Bangkok: To move between airports, hotels and Mo Chit 2, you can prebook a car or van via GetYourGuide transfers, Klook airport transfers, or Welcome Pickups. As an everyday alternative, use the Grab ride-hailing app (download here).
• Luggage storage: If you have several hours between connections in Bangkok, store bags near the city centre or malls via networks like Radical Storage in Bangkok, or at selected airports and terminals, then explore baggage-free.
• Accommodation in Nan: For hotels and guesthouses close to Nan Bus Terminal or the old town, compare options and reviews on Booking.com; staying central makes it easy to connect with local buses and tours.
• Season & weather: Northern Thailand can be cool in the cool season and hazy during the agricultural burning period (roughly Feb–Apr). Pack a light jacket for night buses and early mornings, and check air quality when planning your trip.

✈️ Option 1 — Direct Flight (Fastest, Most Convenient)

Fastest Low hassle Great for short trips

• Overview: Fly from Bangkok (usually Don Mueang DMK, sometimes Suvarnabhumi BKK) to Nan Nakhon Airport (NNT). Flight time is around 1h 10–20 minutes, with several departures daily in high season. Nan’s airport is a small, relaxed facility just a short ride from town.
• How to book (with price): One-way fares typically start around THB 900–1,200 on promo and go up to THB 2,500+ closer to departure or during holidays. Compare airlines and schedules on Trip.com Bangkok–Nan or search flexible dates via Booking.com Flights.
• Pros: By far the quickest option; minimal fatigue; easy connections with onward local buses or songthaews in Nan. Cons: Higher cost than the bus, especially for last-minute bookings; you may still need a transfer between Bangkok’s airports and your hotel or Mo Chit 2.
• Official info: For airport facilities, transport and updates, see the Nan Nakhon Airport page on Thailand’s Department of Airports site (Thai language, but useful for basic details).

Step-by-step: Flight from Bangkok to Nan

1. Choose your Bangkok airport: Most Nan flights depart from Don Mueang (DMK). If you’re landing at Suvarnabhumi (BKK), decide whether to transfer to DMK or look for a same-airport connection if available on your dates.
2. Search flights: Enter Bangkok → Nan on platforms like Trip.com and filter for “non-stop” to see direct options. Cross-check times and baggage policies, then book on your preferred OTA or directly with the airline.
3. Plan your airport transfer in Bangkok: From downtown, you can use the Airport Rail Link (for BKK), commuter trains, airport buses, or prebook a car or van with GetYourGuide airport transfers, Klook, or Welcome Pickups. As a flexible alternative, call a Grab car via the app.
4. Check in & fly: Arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure, especially if checking baggage. Domestic terminals at both BKK and DMK are well signposted in English, and security is usually efficient, though queues grow at peak times.
5. Arrive in Nan & continue: On arrival at Nan Nakhon Airport, pick up your bag and either take a local taxi, songthaew or prearranged hotel transfer into town (about 15–20 minutes). Some travellers rent a car in Nan and use it to explore surrounding national parks and mountain roads.

Getting to the main embarking points (Bangkok Airports)

• From central Bangkok to Suvarnabhumi (BKK): Take the Airport Rail Link from Phaya Thai or Makkasan, or prebook a private car/van through Klook airport transfers or GetYourGuide Suvarnabhumi transfers. Meter taxis and Grab are widely available.
• From central Bangkok to Don Mueang (DMK): Use SRT’s suburban trains, airport buses, or a direct taxi/Grab car. If you prefer a pre-arranged meet-and-greet, services like Welcome Pickups Bangkok can collect you from your hotel.
• Switching between BKK and DMK: Check if your airline provides a shuttle; otherwise, combine the Airport Rail Link, BTS/MRT and a taxi/Grab, or book a point-to-point car via Klook or GetTransfer for a simple door-to-door ride.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option 2 — Direct Bus (Most Popular, Good Value)

Low cost Overnight-friendly Central terminals

• Overview: Comfortable long-distance buses link Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak/Mo Chit 2) with Nan Bus Terminal. Most departures are in the evening or at night, arriving in Nan early the next morning, but some daytime services also operate.
• Seat types & comfort: Expect 2nd class air-con, VIP and “First Class” buses depending on operator. VIP/First Class usually means fewer seats per row, more legroom, blankets and sometimes snacks, making the overnight journey much more pleasant.
• How to book (with price): One-way fares usually range from THB 550–1,100. You can compare departure times and classes on 12Go bus listings for Bangkok–Nan, or book via official and partner sites such as The Transport Co. (transport.co.th) and agencies like BusOnlineTicket. Buying in person at Mo Chit 2 on the day is possible outside of holidays, but advance booking is strongly advised for weekends and festivals.
• Pros: Cheapest long-distance option; no airport security or baggage limits beyond what you can carry; schedules that work well for night travel, saving a hotel night. Cons: Long sitting time; drivers may keep the air-con quite cold; limited space if you’re very tall or carrying bulky luggage.
• Good to know: Most long-distance buses include rest stops at highway service areas with food, toilets and convenience stores. Keep small change handy, and bring a light jacket, earplugs and an eye mask for better sleep.

Step-by-step: Direct Bus from Bangkok to Nan

1. Check schedules & choose a departure: Decide whether you prefer a daytime or overnight bus. Use 12Go Asia’s Bangkok–Nan bus page or check The Transport Co. and other operators for the latest timetables and seat types.
2. Book your ticket: Reserve online (card payment) or buy at Mo Chit 2 ticket counters. For popular VIP/First Class night buses, book at least a day or two ahead, longer over New Year, Songkran and long weekends.
3. Arrive early at Mo Chit 2: Get to the station 45–60 minutes before departure to find your counter, pick up or print tickets if needed, and locate your platform. Signs are in Thai and English; staff can point you in the right direction.
4. On board: Keep essentials (passport, money, phone, a warm layer) in a small daypack with you, and store your main luggage in the hold. The bus will usually stop once or twice at service areas for toilets and snacks.
5. Arrival in Nan: Buses terminate at Nan Bus Terminal a short ride from the town centre. From here, take a tuk-tuk, songthaew, or pre-arranged hotel pickup to your accommodation.

Getting to the main embarking points (Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal)

• By BTS/MRT: Take the BTS to Mo Chit station or MRT to Chatuchak Park station, then continue by taxi, motorcycle taxi or bus (about 2 km) to Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak/Mo Chit 2).
• By taxi or Grab: From most central areas (Sukhumvit, Silom, Old Town) you can reach Mo Chit 2 in 20–45 minutes depending on traffic. Meter taxis are plentiful; alternatively, use Grab for an app-based fare estimate and cashless payment.
• From the airports: From Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang, either connect via Airport Rail Link/BTS/MRT or book a direct car/van transfer, for example with GetTransfer, GetYourGuide, or Klook.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚆 Option 3 — Train + Bus via Phitsanulok or Den Chai (Scenic, Slower)

Scenic Flexible stops For slow travellers

• Overview: There is no direct train to Nan. Instead, you take a northbound train from Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal or Hua Lamphong) to Phitsanulok or Den Chai, then continue by bus or minivan to Nan. This is slower than flying or a direct bus, but offers views of Thailand’s countryside and the option to stop over in historic towns.
• Typical routing & duration: Train Bangkok → Phitsanulok or Den Chai (~5–7h depending on train), plus a connecting bus/minivan (~4–5h) to Nan. Total travel time usually falls in the 11–14h range including connections.
• How to book (with price): Reserve train tickets on the official SRT dticket website or at stations; 2nd class A/C seats or sleepers commonly cost THB 400–900. For the bus leg, buy tickets locally at Phitsanulok or Den Chai bus terminals, or check aggregators like 12Go for Phitsanulok–Nan.
• Pros: More legroom and the ability to walk around on the train; scenic views; chance to visit cities such as Phitsanulok or Sukhothai en route. Cons: More complex logistics, at least one transfer, and slower overall than both flights and direct buses.
• Who it suits: Travellers who enjoy classic rail journeys, photographers, and anyone building a multi-stop itinerary through Northern Thailand rather than heading straight to Nan.

Step-by-step: Train + Bus to Nan

1. Decide your transfer town: Phitsanulok works well if you also want to see Sukhothai; Den Chai can make sense if you’re combining Nan with Phrae or Uttaradit. Look at train and bus timetables to see which gives the smoothest connections.
2. Book your train ticket: Use the SRT dticket system to reserve seats or sleepers from Bangkok to your chosen station. Print your ticket or keep the QR code ready on your phone.
3. Ride the train north: Board at Krung Thep Aphiwat or Hua Lamphong. Keep your valuables with you and enjoy the scenery. Long-distance trains have food vendors and basic facilities on board.
4. Change to a bus/minivan: From Phitsanulok or Den Chai railway station, take a short taxi or songthaew to the provincial bus terminal. Buy a ticket for the next departure to Nan; buses and vans run several times daily.
5. Arrive in Nan & transfer to your hotel: At Nan Bus Terminal, hop on a local songthaew, tuk-tuk or pre-booked transfer to reach your guesthouse in town.

Getting to the main embarking points (Bangkok Rail Stations)

• Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal: Connected by MRT (Bang Sue area) and suburban SRT lines. From central Bangkok, take the MRT Blue Line or connect via BTS + MRT, then walk or follow station signs to the long-distance platforms.
• Hua Lamphong Station (if used on your route): Reachable via MRT Blue Line (Hua Lamphong station) or by taxi/Grab from the Old Town and riverside areas. Many travellers still like departing from this historic station when services allow.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option 4 — Self-drive / Rental Car or Private Transfer (Flexible Road Trip)

Maximum freedom Door-to-door Great for groups

• Overview: Driving from Bangkok to Nan takes roughly 8–9 hours depending on traffic and stops, mostly on good highways. This is a rewarding option if you enjoy the flexibility to stop at smaller towns, viewpoints and national parks along the way.
• Car rental: Daily rental rates for a small automatic car often start around THB 900–1,800, excluding fuel and tolls. Compare offers and pick-up locations (airport vs city) via Booking.com car rental, or consider motorcycles and scooters for local exploring via platforms like BikesBooking in Bangkok if you are experienced.
• Private transfer: If you prefer not to drive, arrange a private car or van with a driver. Services such as GetTransfer or airport-focused options on GetYourGuide and Klook can quote long-distance rides. Expect prices from roughly THB 7,000–10,000+ per vehicle depending on size and inclusions.
• Pros: Total schedule freedom, easy detours, no need to carry bags on and off public transport. Great value for families or groups of 3–6 people when costs are shared. Cons: Long driving day; you must be confident on Thai highways, deal with tolls and occasional heavy traffic leaving/entering Bangkok; rental companies require a valid licence and usually a credit card deposit.
• Safety & rules: Thailand drives on the left; seat belts are compulsory and drink-driving laws are strict. Avoid night driving in rural areas due to poor lighting and animals on the road.

Step-by-step: Self-drive / Private Car to Nan

1. Choose your vehicle: Decide between renting a car (self-drive) or hiring a private car/van with driver. For self-drive, compare rates on Booking.com car rental; for chauffeured options, request quotes from GetTransfer or tour platforms.
2. Plan your route & stops: The most common route runs north via Phitsanulok and Uttaradit before turning east toward Nan. Mark petrol stations, rest areas and any sightseeing stops you’d like, and download offline maps for backup.
3. Collect your car in Bangkok: Pick up your vehicle at the airport or a city office. Inspect it carefully, photograph existing scratches, and ensure you understand fuel type, toll payment and return conditions.
4. Drive north: Leave Bangkok early to avoid rush hour. Drive steadily, take breaks every 2–3 hours, and keep to the left except when overtaking. Watch speed limits and be cautious of motorbikes and slow vehicles on rural stretches.
5. Arrive in Nan: Once you reach Nan, follow signs to your accommodation or Nan Bus Terminal/airport. Many hotels and guesthouses provide free parking; double-check when booking.

Getting to the main embarking points (Pickup & Drop-off)

• Airport pick-up: Most big rental companies have desks at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. You can also use Welcome Pickups or other private transfer services if you want a driver to meet you with a name sign.
• City pick-up: For central Bangkok pick-ups and drop-offs, check if your rental office is near BTS or MRT stops. Alternatively, take a short Grab or taxi ride to collect or return the car.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Bangkok to Nan)

Is it better to fly or take the bus from Bangkok to Nan?

• If you value speed and comfort, flying is usually the best option: around 1h 15m in the air plus airport time, with easy connections to central Nan. It’s ideal for short trips and those who dislike overnight travel.
• If budget is your priority and you don’t mind sleeping on the move, the direct night bus offers great value and saves a hotel night, arriving early enough to start sightseeing the same day.

Is there a train from Bangkok directly to Nan?

• No. Nan has no railway station. The nearest major rail stops are Phitsanulok and Den Chai. To incorporate a train, you’ll need to follow the train + bus combo: train from Bangkok to one of these towns, then bus or minivan onward to Nan.

How far in advance should I book tickets for Bangkok–Nan?

• Flights: For the best choice and prices, book at least 1–3 weeks ahead, especially from November to February and during Thai holidays. Last-minute tickets can still be available but often cost more.
• Buses: Outside peak periods, booking 1–3 days in advance is usually enough, but for VIP/First Class night buses around holidays it’s wise to reserve earlier via 12Go Asia or directly at Mo Chit 2.

Is the night bus from Bangkok to Nan safe?

• Reputable operators on the Bangkok–Nan route are generally considered safe, with professional drivers and regulated rest breaks. Choose well-reviewed companies, avoid carrying valuables in the luggage hold, and keep your passport, money and electronics on you in a small daypack.

How many days should I spend in Nan?

• A quick trip can be done in 2–3 full days (not counting travel), enough to see Nan town’s key temples and nearby viewpoints. With 4–5 days or more, you can venture deeper into Nan Province’s mountains, rivers and villages. For inspiration, check itineraries from the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Nan pages before you go.

This guide was researched and written by Jacob, and it was last updated on June 15, 2026. 0 people found this post useful.

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