How to get from Bangkok to Khao Sok

Getting from Bangkok to Khao Sok can be as simple or as scenic as you like. This guide compares night buses, sleeper trains, flights plus minivans, and private transfers so you can choose the route that fits your time, budget, and comfort level.

At A Glance (Bangkok to Khao Sok)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚌 Night Bus / Bus+Van (Bangkok → Khao Sok)	~13–16h (usually overnight)	Most budget travelers, simple & direct
🏷️ Cost: ~THB 850–1,400 one-way depending on class/operator. You can compare departures and companies on 12Go Asia.
✈️ Flight to Surat Thani (URT) + Shared Minivan	~1h 15m flight + 2–3h road (4.5–7h door-to-door)	Balanced time & comfort, avoiding very long bus rides
🏷️ Cost: Flights often ~THB 900–2,500 one-way BKK/DMK→URT (see options or check Trip.com) + ~THB 300–500 for a minivan to Khao Sok (bookable on 12Go).
🚆 Sleeper Train to Surat Thani + Minivan	~9–12h train (often overnight) + 2–3h road	Train lovers, comfortable overnight travel
🏷️ Cost: Sleeper tickets roughly ~THB 1,000–2,500 per person depending on class, plus ~THB 300–500 for the minivan to the park. Check train availability via official State Railway of Thailand booking and compare van connections on 12Go.
🚕 Private Transfer / Taxi (Bangkok → Khao Sok)	~9–11h door-to-door (traffic dependent)	Small groups, maximum comfort & flexibility
🏷️ Cost: From roughly ~THB 7,000–11,000 per vehicle one-way (varies by size and season). You can request quotes via GetTransfer or arrange custom long-distance rides using services like Welcome Pickups (Bangkok) as an alternative to local apps such as Grab and Bolt.

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest door-to-door: If you want to minimise travel time and avoid a very long bus ride, choose a flight to Surat Thani plus a shared minivan. It usually gets you from Bangkok to your Khao Sok accommodation in half a day.
• Cheapest / Most economical: Go for the night bus / bus+van from Bangkok. You travel while you sleep, arrive in the morning, and save a hotel night.
• Most comfortable overnight: If you like trains, the sleeper train from Bangkok to Surat Thani plus a van gives you a proper bunk and a more relaxed overnight journey.
• Most flexible & private: For families or groups who want hotel pick-up and no shared vehicles, consider a private transfer or taxi all the way to Khao Sok, or a combination of flight and pre-booked private car.
• Combining with islands or beaches: Some travellers fly to Surat Thani, Phuket, or Krabi first, then head to Khao Sok between beach stays; in that case, look at regional transfers and day tours on Klook or GetYourGuide.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Compare Bangkok → Khao Sok options in one place: Use 12Go Asia to see night buses, bus+van combos, flight+van packages, and taxis on a single page, then compare prices and travel times.
• Book flights 2–6 weeks ahead: For the flight-to-Surat-Thani route, compare airlines and times on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com for the best combination of fare and schedule.
• Use official channels for Thai trains: If you plan to take the sleeper, check and book tickets on the official State Railway of Thailand system at dticket.railway.co.th, especially in high season or on weekends.
• Taxis & ride-hailing in Bangkok: Within the city, apps like Grab and Bolt make it easy to reach bus terminals or train stations. For airport hotel pickups, consider pre-booked services from Welcome Pickups or options on Klook.
• Luggage storage for awkward gaps: If you have several hours between check-out in Bangkok and your night bus or train, stash your bags using Radical Storage so you can explore hands-free.
• Book accommodation close to your arrival area: In Khao Sok, many guesthouses are in or around Khlong Sok village, near the park entrance. You can filter by distance and reviews on Booking.com.
• Add scooters or motorbikes later: If you want more freedom once in the south, you can rent scooters around Surat Thani or the islands via BikesBooking, and then continue by minivan into Khao Sok.
• Check park info before you go: For trail, safety, and seasonal updates, review Khao Sok details on the official Tourism Authority of Thailand page for the park and via the Department of National Parks’ information on national parks.

🚌 Option #1 — Night Bus / Bus+Van from Bangkok (Most Popular, Good Value)

Low cost Direct or semi-direct Overnight travel

• Overview: Several operators run night buses and combined bus+minivan services from Bangkok to Khao Sok, often departing from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai). Many services run overnight, leaving Bangkok in the early evening and arriving at or near Khao Sok National Park the next morning.
• How to book (with price): Expect fares from around THB 850–1,400 per person one-way, depending on operator and seat type. You can compare departure times, bus types, and reviews on 12Go Asia, or buy tickets at the station or via Thai platforms. Some routes are pure bus, others include a pre-arranged minivan change closer to the park.
• Pros: One of the cheapest ways to get to Khao Sok; overnight services save a hotel night and bring you close to your accommodation in the morning. Cons: Long ride; sleep quality depends on road conditions and bus comfort; bathroom breaks are at roadside stops.

Step-by-step: Night Bus / Bus+Van Bangkok → Khao Sok

1. Choose date and route: Decide whether you want a direct bus that stops near Khao Sok or a bus+van combo (often via Surat Thani). Platforms like 12Go Asia clearly show whether a transfer is included.
2. Pick your departure terminal: Most services leave from Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai), but some may depart from other Bangkok hubs. Double-check the exact departure terminal printed on your ticket.
3. Arrive at the station early: Aim to get there 45–60 minutes before departure to find your counter, platform, and grab snacks or dinner. Large stations can be busy in the evening.
4. Board the bus: Store big luggage in the hold (keep a tag if given) and bring valuables and overnight essentials (jumper, eye mask, earplugs, water, power bank) onto the bus. Seats are usually reclining with air-conditioning.
5. Transfer to a minivan if included: If your ticket includes a van portion, staff will guide you at the transfer point in the morning. Make sure to keep your ticket handy and listen for announcements.
6. Arrive near Khao Sok: Many services drop you in or near Khlong Sok village; from there, your accommodation may offer a pickup, or you can walk or take a short local ride.

Getting to the main embarking points (Sai Tai Mai)

• Reaching Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai): The terminal is on the Thonburi (west) side of the Chao Phraya River. You can use city buses, taxis, or ride-hailing apps like Grab and Bolt to get there; allow extra time during rush hour.
• From central Bangkok: From areas like Khao San Road, Silom, or Sukhumvit, a taxi or Grab is usually the simplest, especially with luggage. Agree on using the meter or book via app for a fixed fare estimate.
• Arriving at Khao Sok: Check in advance whether your guesthouse offers free or paid pickup from the bus/minivan drop-off point; many do if you share your arrival time.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

✈️ Option #2 — Flight to Surat Thani + Shared Minivan

Fast(ish) Good balance of cost & comfort Fewer hours on the road

• Overview: Fly from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi – BKK or Don Mueang – DMK) to Surat Thani Airport (URT), then continue by minivan or private transfer to Khao Sok. The flight is about 1 hour 15 minutes, and the onward drive is another 2–3 hours.
• How to book (with price): One-way flights often range from THB 900–2,500, with low-cost carriers offering good deals if you book ahead. Compare at Booking.com Flights or Trip.com. Minivans from Surat Thani Airport or town to Khao Sok are typically ~THB 300–500, with many services listed on 12Go Asia.
• Pros: Much shorter total travel time than the bus; comfortable; multiple flights per day. Cons: Slightly higher cost; you must coordinate flight and van timings; luggage limits on budget airlines.
• Helpful official sites: Check Bangkok airport information via Airports of Thailand and general travel info on Khao Sok via the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s attraction page.

Step-by-step: Flight + Minivan via Surat Thani

1. Choose your Bangkok airport: BKK (Suvarnabhumi) and DMK (Don Mueang) both have flights to Surat Thani. Pick whichever is easiest to reach from your accommodation and offers the best schedule.
2. Book your flight: Once you know your dates, search on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com. Aim to arrive mid-morning or early afternoon so you can comfortably catch a van to the park.
3. Reserve the van: Pre-book a shared minivan from Surat Thani Airport or town to Khao Sok on 12Go Asia, or arrange through your Khao Sok accommodation.
4. Get to your Bangkok departure airport: Use the airport rail link, metro, public buses, or taxi/ride-hailing apps like Grab and Bolt. For a fixed-price pickup and meet-and-greet, you can book with Welcome Pickups or via Klook airport transfers.
5. Fly Bangkok → Surat Thani: Check in at least 90 minutes before departure for domestic flights. Flight time is typically a little over an hour.
6. Connect to Khao Sok: Meet your pre-booked minivan at Surat Thani Airport (look for signs/counters) or transfer into town if needed. The drive to Khao Sok takes 2–3 hours with one or two short breaks.

Getting to the main embarking points (Bangkok Airports & Surat Thani)

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Connected to the city by the Airport Rail Link, buses, and taxis; details are on the official Suvarnabhumi pages under Airports of Thailand.
• Don Mueang Airport (DMK): Reachable by rail (Red Line), buses, and taxis/ride-hailing apps. Always allow extra time in peak traffic.
• Surat Thani Airport (URT): A small airport where minivans and car rentals (searchable on Booking.com Car Rental) operate just outside the terminal.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚆 Option #3 — Sleeper Train to Surat Thani + Minivan

Comfortable overnight Scenic Good value

• Overview: Take an overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, then continue by minivan to Khao Sok. You get a proper bunk, can stretch your legs on board, and wake up in the south with only a few hours of road travel left.
• How to book (with price): Sleeper berths generally cost around THB 1,000–2,500 per person depending on class (2nd vs 1st, fan vs air-con). Book via the official State Railway of Thailand system at dticket.railway.co.th. Minivans from Surat Thani railway station or town to Khao Sok cost about THB 300–500 and can be reserved on 12Go Asia or via local agents.
• Pros: More comfortable overnight experience than a bus; you can walk around and use onboard facilities. Cons: Requires an extra transfer to the minivan; popular trains can sell out in high season, so booking ahead is wise.

Step-by-step: Sleeper Train + Minivan via Surat Thani

1. Choose your train: Look up Bangkok → Surat Thani services on the SRT system or via aggregators like 12Go Asia. Aim for an evening departure that arrives in the morning.
2. Book your sleeper berth: Reserve online on dticket.railway.co.th, at SRT stations, or authorised agents. Decide between 1st class (more private) or 2nd class (great value).
3. Get to the Bangkok train station: Long-distance trains now depart from main hubs such as Krung Thep Aphiwat (Bang Sue Grand Station) and occasionally others; check your ticket. Use MRT, buses, or ride-hailing apps like Grab/Bolt to reach the station with time to spare.
4. Overnight on the train: Your seat will usually convert into a bunk later in the evening. Bring light layers, earplugs, and snacks or buy food from the dining car if available.
5. Arrive in Surat Thani & connect: Once you arrive, follow signs to the station exit where minivan operators wait; if you pre-booked via 12Go or another agent, show your voucher and confirm your name and destination (Khao Sok).
6. Minivan Surat Thani → Khao Sok: The drive typically takes about 2–3 hours, with one or two short comfort stops. You’ll be dropped near your accommodation or at a central point in Khlong Sok.

Getting to the main embarking points (Bangkok Train Stations)

• Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bang Sue Grand): Linked to the MRT Blue Line and buses; from older tourist areas like Khao San Road, a taxi or Grab ride to the station is easiest.
• Surat Thani Railway Station: Located outside Surat Thani city; minivans to Khao Sok often leave directly from outside the station or via a short shuttle into town.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option #4 — Private Transfer or Self-Drive (Door-to-Door & Flexible)

Maximum comfort Great for groups Most expensive

• Overview: For full control over your schedule, you can book a private car/van from Bangkok all the way to Khao Sok or combine a short flight with a pre-arranged private transfer from Surat Thani, Phuket, or Krabi. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive yourself.
• How to book (with price): Long-distance private transfers Bangkok → Surat Thani or beyond typically start around THB 7,000–11,000 per vehicle depending on distance and vehicle type. You can request custom routes and quotes from GetTransfer, and consider services like Welcome Pickups for airport-city legs. If you prefer self-drive, search rentals in Surat Thani or nearby hubs via Booking.com Car Rental and then drive on to Khao Sok.
• Pros: Door-to-door convenience; flexible departure time; ideal for families, groups, or travellers with bulky gear. Cons: Highest cost; long driving day if going the entire way from Bangkok; you need to be comfortable with Thai traffic rules if self-driving.

Step-by-step: Private Transfer / Self-Drive

1. Decide how far you want to drive: Many travellers break the journey by flying to Surat Thani or Phuket and arranging a private car just for the shorter leg to Khao Sok. Others commission a full Bangkok → Khao Sok car or van.
2. Request quotes: Use platforms like GetTransfer to compare offers from different drivers/companies, or check airport and city transfer options with Welcome Pickups. As a backup or for shorter hops in the city, you can always book standard rides using Grab or Bolt.
3. Confirm vehicle size & baggage: Make sure the vehicle can handle your luggage, especially if you have backpacks plus hard suitcases or sports equipment.
4. For self-drive: Book a rental car (for example collecting at Surat Thani Airport or city) via Booking.com Car Rental at URT. Check what insurance is included, and whether one-way drop-offs are allowed if you plan to return the car in a different city.
5. Plan rest stops: The drive from Bangkok to Khao Sok is long; schedule fuel and food stops along the highway and avoid driving when very tired or during heavy storms.
6. Arrive in Khao Sok: Many accommodations have parking. In or near Khlong Sok village, roads are small and relaxed compared to Bangkok.

Getting to the main embarking points (Pick-up Spots & Car Rentals)

• Bangkok hotel / airport pickups: Private transfer companies can collect you from most central hotels or directly from BKK/DMK; always confirm your meeting point and time by message.
• Surat Thani rentals: At Surat Thani Airport and in town you will find several rental counters; booking ahead online helps ensure car availability in peak months.
• Using ride-hailing to reach pick-up points: For short repositioning rides within Bangkok or Surat Thani, Grab and Bolt are quick and simple alternatives to flagging street taxis.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Bangkok to Khao Sok)

How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Khao Sok?
For most travellers, expect about 13–16 hours with a night bus or bus+van, around 4.5–7 hours door-to-door if you fly to Surat Thani and then take a minivan, and roughly 9–12 hours if you go by sleeper train plus minivan (including transfers). A full private car from Bangkok is similar to the train+van option in total time, but all in one vehicle.

What is the cheapest way to get from Bangkok to Khao Sok?
The cheapest options are usually night buses or bus+van combos from Bangkok, which start from roughly THB 850 one-way. Trains and flights can be competitive if booked well in advance, but generally cost more than the lowest bus fares once you add transfers.

Is there a direct train to Khao Sok?
No. There is no direct train into Khao Sok. The nearest main railway hub is Surat Thani. You can take a sleeper train from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then connect by minivan or bus to Khao Sok village and the national park.

Which Bangkok bus terminal should I use for Khao Sok?
Most services to Khao Sok and the southern provinces depart from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) in Bangkok. Some operators may also offer services from other stations, so always check the departure terminal listed on your ticket or booking confirmation.

When is the best time of year to visit Khao Sok?
Khao Sok is a rainforest, so showers are possible year-round. Generally, the drier and more popular period is roughly December–April. The wetter months (roughly May–October) bring lusher scenery and fewer crowds but also heavier rain, occasional trail closures, and changes to lake tours depending on water conditions. Always check recent conditions with your accommodation or tour operator.

Is it safe to travel from Bangkok to Khao Sok?
For most visitors, these routes are straightforward and commonly used. Bus, train, and flight operators are used to handling tourists. As always, choose reputable companies, wear seatbelts where available, keep valuables with you, and avoid travelling when extremely tired. In the park itself, follow ranger and guide advice about trails, wildlife, and weather.

Where can I find official information about Khao Sok National Park?
For background, rules, and conservation details, it is worth checking both the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s attraction page and the Department of National Parks information on Khao Sok before you go.