How to get from Bangkok to Koh Phangan?

How to get from Bangkok to Koh Phangan – convenient routes and tips

When planning a trip from Bangkok to Koh Phangan, it is important to consider seasonal features, as they affect the availability of transport, travel comfort and ticket prices. At different times of the year, the route may be more expensive, longer or more difficult due to weather conditions. Let's look at when it is best to go to Koh Phangan and how to choose the best way to travel.

Flight Bangkok - Koh Samui

Parameter

Description

Airline

Bangkok Airways

Travel time

about 1 hour 15 minutes

Price

from 2,600 Thai baht (approx. $80)

 

Ferry Koh Samui - Phangan

Parameter

Description

Ferry companies

Seatran Discovery, Lomprayah

Travel time

30-45 minutes

Price

approximately 300-400 Thai baht (about $9-$12)



It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and avoid delays.

Flight to Surat Thani with subsequent transfer and ferry to Koh Phangan

This route is a more economical option and includes a flight to Surat Thani, then a bus transfer to Donsak Pier and a ferry to Koh Phangan.

Flight Bangkok - Surat Thani

Parameter

Description

Airlines

AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air

Travel time

about 1 hour 10 minutes

Price

800 to 2,000 Thai baht (approx. $24–$60)

 

Transfer to Donsak Pier

Parameter

Description

Means of transportation

bus or minivan

Travel time

about 1.5 hours

Price

150-200 Thai baht (about $5)

Donsak - Phangan Ferry

Parameter

Description

Ferry companies

Raja Ferry, Lomprayah

Travel time

2-3 hours

Price

300-500 Thai baht (around $9-$15)

This route takes more time than the first one, but allows you to save significantly on the cost of travel.

Both options have their advantages and are suitable for different categories of travelers depending on their budget and travel time preferences.

Bus and ferry from Bangkok to Koh Phangan

This route is one of the most budget-friendly ways to get to Koh Phangan. It involves a long bus ride to Surat Thani or Donsak, then a ferry ride. It is suitable for travelers who are willing to sacrifice comfort for the sake of economy.

Bus Bangkok – Surat Thani/Donsak

Parameter

Description

Departure

Southern Bus Station (Sai Tai Mai) or Khao San Road

Travel time

10–12 hours 

Price

600–1,000 baht ($18–$30)

Donsak - Phangan Ferry

Parameter

Description

Ferry companies

Raja Ferry, Lomprayah 

Travel time

2-3 hours

Price

300–500 baht 

This route is suitable for those who want to save on the flight, but are ready to spend a significant amount of time on the road. It is better to buy tickets in advance, as bus seats can fill up quickly during the high season.

Train and ferry from Bangkok to Koh Phangan

This option is convenient for those who want to travel in comfort while enjoying the scenic views. A train ride to Surat Thani, then a bus to Donsak Pier and a ferry to Phangan is a popular option for tourists who prefer more convenient overnight transport.

Train Bangkok – Surat Thani

Parameter

Description

Departure

Hua Lamphong Main Station 

Travel time

9-12 hours

Price

1st class: 1,500–1,800 baht ($45–$55)

2nd class: 800–1,000 baht ($24–$30)

Transfer to Donsak Pier

Parameter

Description

Means of transportation

Bus or minivan 

Travel time

1.5 hours

Price

150-200 baht ($5)

Donsak - Phangan Ferry

Parameter

Description

Ferry companies

Raja Ferry, Lomprayah

Travel time

2-3 hours

Price

300–500 baht ($9–$15)

If you choose a night train, it is better to book a ticket in 1st or 2nd class with seats that fold out into a sleeping position. This will allow you to rest before arrival and not waste time on the road.
🚆 Train + ferry is a more comfortable option compared to the bus, suitable for those who want to travel at night.
🚌 Bus + ferry is the most budget option, but it takes more time.

In both cases, it is important to take into account the season - during peak periods (December - March, as well as during the Full Moon Party) tickets can sell out quickly, so it is recommended to book seats in advance.

Seasonal Features of Travel to Koh Phangan

When planning a trip to Koh Phangan, it is important to consider seasonal factors, as they can affect ticket prices, weather conditions, and transport availability. Depending on the time of year, you may encounter increased demand for tickets or, conversely, disruptions to the ferry schedule due to storms.

High season (December – February)

This time of year is considered the most popular for trips to Koh Phangan due to the comfortable weather.

       Dry, warm (daytime +28…+32°C, nighttime +23…+26°C), calm sea.

       High demand for flights, buses, trains and ferries, which could lead to higher prices and a shortage of seats.

       Hotels and bungalows fill up quickly, especially before the New Year holidays.

       Book your tickets and accommodation at least 2-3 months before your trip to avoid overpaying.

Low season (May – October)

The monsoon season makes travel less predictable, but still budget-friendly.

       High humidity, frequent rains, especially in September-October. Temperature +27…+31°C.

       Ferries may be cancelled due to storms, so it is advisable to have a backup option.

       Hotel prices are lower, there are fewer tourists, and you can find good deals.

       Choose flexible tickets, take into account the possibility of delays due to weather conditions.

Full Moon Party Period

The island's main party takes place every month on the night of the full moon and attracts thousands of tourists.

       Phangan is becoming the center of Thailand's party life, and hotels and transport are overloaded.

       Tickets for ferries and buses sell out several days before the event.

       In the Haad Rin area, hotel prices can be 2-3 times higher than usual.

       If you plan to attend the Full Moon Party, book your transportation and accommodation in advance. If you want to avoid the noise, choose the northern part of the island.

Conclusion

Koh Phangan is not only a party place, but also a paradise for beach lovers, snorkelers and solitude. There are different ways to get here, depending on your budget and travel time.

       ✈ Fast but expensive option: Air travel via Koh Samui.

       💰 Economical but long route: Bus/train + ferry.

       ⛴ Moderate in price and time: Flight to Surat Thani + transfer + ferry.

When planning your trip, take into account seasonal features: in high season, book tickets in advance; in low season, prepare for possible weather changes.

Regardless of the route you choose, Koh Phangan will give you an unforgettable experience, whether it's a beach holiday, partying, or exploring the island. 🌴🚤