How to Get from Bangkok to Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is one of Thailand's most laid-back island paradises - less developed than Phuket or Koh Samui, more accessible than Koh Lipe. This comprehensive guide covers all the ways to reach this beautiful Andaman island from Bangkok.

Transportation Options Overview

✈️ Flight to Krabi + Ferry (Fastest, Most Popular)

Total Cost: 2,500-5,000 THB
Total Duration: 4-5 hours
Recommended!

Step 1: Bangkok to Krabi Airport

Flight Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
Cost: 1,500-3,500 THB

Airlines:

• Thai AirAsia: Cheapest, 1,200-2,000 THB (budget carrier)
• Thai Lion Air: 1,500-2,500 THB (budget carrier)
• Bangkok Airways: 3,000-5,000 THB (full service, more comfortable)
• Thai Airways: 3,500-6,000 THB (premium, included baggage)

Departure Airports:

• Don Mueang (DMK): AirAsia, NokAir, Lion Air
• Suvarnabhumi (BKK): Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways

Flight Schedule:

• Multiple flights daily: 6:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:30 PM, 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM
• Most frequent: 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM slots

Step 2: Krabi Airport to Klong Jilad Pier

Duration: 1.5 hours
Cost: 200-400 THB

Options:

1. Shared Minivan: 200-250 THB (pre-booked with ferry)
2. Private Taxi: 1,200-1,500 THB (direct, 4 people max)
3. Hotel Transfer: Often included if booked package

Step 3: Ferry to Koh Lanta

Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Cost: 400-600 THB
Departure Point: Klong Jilad Pier (or Ban Hua Hin Pier)

Ferry Schedule:

• High Season (Nov-Apr): 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM
• Low Season (May-Oct): 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM (weather dependent)

Operators:

• Tigerline Travel
• Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club
• Bundhaya Speed Boat

Complete Journey Timeline:

• 8:30 AM: Depart Bangkok (DMK/BKK)
• 9:50 AM: Arrive Krabi Airport
• 10:30 AM: Depart for pier (minivan)
• 12:00 PM: Arrive Klong Jilad Pier
• 1:00 PM: Ferry departs
• 2:15 PM: Arrive Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier)
• 2:45 PM: Arrive at hotel (songthaew/taxi)

Pros:

✅ Fastest option by far
✅ Most comfortable
✅ Arrive same day in afternoon
✅ Multiple daily flights
✅ Can book entire journey as package

Cons:

❌ More expensive than bus
❌ Ferry dependent on weather
❌ Need to coordinate multiple bookings
❌ Budget airlines charge for luggage

💡 Pro Tip: Book a combined flight + ferry + transfer package through Klook or 12Go Asia. It's often 200-500 THB cheaper than booking separately, and all logistics are coordinated!

🚐 Flight to Krabi + Minivan + Ferry (Alternative Route)

Total Cost: 2,000-4,000 THB
Total Duration: 5-6 hours

Same flight to Krabi, but instead of going to pier:

Alternative: Minivan to Krabi Town/Ao Nang First

Cost: 150-200 THB
Why?

• Grab lunch in Krabi Town
• Check out Ao Nang Beach
• Catch later ferry
• More flexible timing

From Krabi Town to Koh Lanta:

• Minivan + Ferry Combo: 350-450 THB
• Departures: 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM from Krabi Bus Terminal
• Duration: 2.5-3 hours total (includes ferry)

Pros:

✅ More flexible timing
✅ See more of Krabi province
✅ Lunch options in town
✅ Slightly cheaper

Cons:

❌ Longer total journey
❌ More transfers
❌ Later arrival at hotel

🚌 Overnight Bus + Ferry (Budget Option)

Total Cost: 800-1,200 THB
Total Duration: 14-16 hours
For: Budget-conscious travelers who don't mind overnight travel

Step 1: Bangkok to Krabi Town

Bus Cost: 600-900 THB
Duration: 12-13 hours
Departure: Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai)

Schedule:

• Evening Departures: 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, 8:00 PM
• Arrival in Krabi: 5:00-8:00 AM next morning

Bus Types:

• Standard: 600-700 THB (reclining seats, AC)
• VIP: 800-900 THB (wider seats, more legroom, blanket)
• VIP 24: 900-1,000 THB (lie-flat seats, fewer passengers)

Step 2: Krabi Town to Koh Lanta

Minivan + Ferry: 350-450 THB
Duration: 2.5-3 hours
Departures: 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM

Pickup Points in Krabi:

• Krabi Bus Terminal (main)
• Vogue Shopping Center
• Hotels in Ao Nang (extra 50-100 THB)

Complete Journey Timeline:

• 6:00 PM: Depart Bangkok (Southern Bus Terminal)
• 6:00 AM+1: Arrive Krabi Town
• 7:00 AM: Breakfast/refresh at terminal
• 9:00 AM: Minivan departs to Koh Lanta
• 11:30 AM: Arrive Koh Lanta

Pros:

✅ Cheapest option
✅ Save on one night accommodation
✅ Direct buses reliable
✅ Bus stations safe and clean

Cons:

❌ Very long journey
❌ Difficult to sleep well
❌ Arrive tired
❌ Less time to enjoy first day
❌ Ferry timing dependent

💡 Pro Tip: Take the 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM bus. You'll arrive in Krabi around 6:00-7:00 AM, have time for breakfast, and catch the 9:00 AM or 11:00 AM minivan. Book the VIP 24 bus if your budget allows - the lie-flat seats make a huge difference for sleep!

🚐 VIP Minibus + Ferry (Joint Ticket)

Total Cost: 1,000-1,500 THB
Total Duration: 13-14 hours
Recommended Budget Option!

The All-in-One Ticket:

Many companies offer combined Bangkok → Koh Lanta tickets including:

• Pickup from Bangkok hotel/Khao San Road
• VIP minibus to Krabi
• Ferry transfer
• Drop-off at Koh Lanta hotel

Departure Points:

• Khao San Road: 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM
• Victory Monument: 5:30 PM, 6:30 PM
• Various hotels: 4:30 PM onwards

What's Included:

• VIP AC minibus (15-20 passengers)
• Water and snack
• Bathroom stops
• Ferry ticket
• Drop-off at your Koh Lanta hotel

Booking:

• 12Go Asia
• Lomprayah
• Phi Phi Cruiser
• Local travel agents (Khao San Road)

Journey Breakdown:

• 6:00 PM: Depart Bangkok
• 10:00 PM: Dinner stop (30-40 minutes)
• 2:00 AM: Rest stop
• 6:30 AM: Arrive Krabi area
• 7:00 AM: Breakfast stop
• 9:00 AM: Board ferry
• 10:30 AM: Arrive Koh Lanta
• 11:00 AM: Hotel drop-off

Pros:

✅ Door-to-door service
✅ Better than regular bus
✅ All logistics handled
✅ More comfortable than standard bus
✅ Meet other travelers

Cons:

❌ Still overnight journey
❌ Fixed schedule
❌ Can't choose seat
❌ Might wait for other passengers

💡 Pro Tip: This is the best budget option! For 1,000-1,200 THB, you get picked up at your Bangkok hotel and dropped at your Koh Lanta resort. Book through 12Go for best prices and reliability.

🚗 Private Car/Van + Ferry (Luxury)

Total Cost: 8,000-12,000 THB (entire vehicle)
Total Duration: 12-13 hours (with stops)
Capacity: 3-4 passengers + luggage

What You Get:

• Private vehicle with English-speaking driver
• Flexible departure time
• Your choice of route and stops
• Door-to-door service
• Rest/meal stops as needed
• Ferry coordination

Popular Itineraries:

Direct Route (12 hours):

• Bangkok → Chumphon → Krabi → Ferry → Koh Lanta
• Scenic coastal drive

Sightseeing Route (2 days):

• Day 1: Bangkok → Hua Hin (lunch) → Chumphon (overnight)
• Day 2: Chumphon → Krabi (sightseeing) → Ferry → Koh Lanta

Recommended Stops:

1. Phetchaburi: Royal Palace (30 min)
2. Hua Hin: Beach lunch (1 hour)
3. Prachuap Khiri Khan: Scenic viewpoint (20 min)
4. Chumphon: Overnight option (if 2-day trip)
5. Khao Sok: Jungle scenery (1 hour)

Booking:

• Smile Taxi Service (reliable, English support)
• Klook/GetYourGuide
• Hotel concierge
• Thailand Limo Service

Pros:

✅ Ultimate flexibility
✅ Most comfortable
✅ Can break journey with overnight stop
✅ Sightseeing opportunities
✅ Private, safe, convenient
✅ Cost-effective for 4 people (2,000-3,000 THB per person)

Cons:

❌ Expensive for 1-2 people
❌ Long driving hours
❌ Need to arrange in advance

💡 Pro Tip: If you're a group of 4, this becomes very affordable (2,500-3,000 THB per person) and is FAR more comfortable than the overnight bus. Split into 2-day journey with overnight in Chumphon or Surat Thani for a more relaxed trip.

🗺️ Understanding the Route

Geography:

• Bangkok to Koh Lanta: ~900 km (560 miles)
• Driving time: 10-12 hours (not including ferry)
• Ferry crossing: 1-1.5 hours

The Journey Stages:

1. Bangkok to Chumphon (460 km, 5-6 hours)

• Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road)
• Passes through: Phetchaburi, Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan

2. Chumphon to Krabi (380 km, 5-6 hours)

• Continues on Highway 4
• Passes through: Ranong, Phang Nga

3. Krabi to Klong Jilad Pier (60 km, 1 hour)

• Route 4206

4. Ferry to Koh Lanta (1-1.5 hours)

• Across the Andaman Sea

Important Note:

Koh Lanta used to require 2 car ferries to reach, but now there's a bridge from the mainland to Koh Lanta Noi, and a second bridge to Koh Lanta Yai (main island). However, most travelers still arrive via passenger ferry from Krabi piers as it's faster and more convenient.

📍 Koh Lanta Overview

Once you arrive at Saladan Pier (main arrival point):

Getting to Your Hotel:

• Songthaew (shared taxi): 50-150 THB depending on distance
• Private taxi: 200-400 THB
• Hotel pickup: Often free if pre-arranged
• Motorbike taxi: 80-150 THB

Main Beach Areas (North to South):

1. Saladan Village (Arrival Point)

   • Restaurants, shops, tour booking
   • Not a beach area
   • Budget accommodation available

2. Klong Dao Beach (3 km from pier, 10 min)

   • Long, wide beach
   • Family-friendly
   • Mid-range resorts
   • Hotel examples: Crown Lanta, Lanta Casuarina

3. Phra Ae (Long Beach) (5 km, 15 min)

   • Most popular area
   • Best restaurants and bars
   • Mix of accommodation
   • Hotel examples: Lanta Miami Resort, Somewhere Else

4. Klong Khong Beach (7 km, 20 min)

   • Bohemian/hippie vibe
   • Yoga retreats
   • Beach bars
   • Hotel examples: Bee Bee Bungalows, Oasis

5. Klong Nin Beach (12 km, 30 min)

   • Quieter, more local
   • Long beach
   • Good for swimming
   • Hotel examples: Lanta Pavilion, Dream Team

6. Kantiang Bay (18 km, 40 min)

   • Most beautiful beach
   • Upscale resorts
   • Secluded
   • Hotel examples: Pimalai Resort (luxury), Lanta Emerald

7. Bamboo Bay (20 km, 45 min)

   • Very quiet
   • Limited facilities
   • Budget bungalows

Island Size:

• Length: 25 km (north to south)
• Width: 6 km (east to west)
• Main road runs north-south along west coast
• Quieter on east coast (mangroves)

🎯 Recommended Options by Traveler Type

Time-Conscious Travelers

Flight + Ferry (2,500-5,000 THB)
Book 8:30 AM flight from Bangkok, arrive Koh Lanta by 2:00-3:00 PM. Enjoy afternoon at beach!

Budget Solo Traveler

VIP Minibus Joint Ticket (1,000-1,200 THB)
Best value for money. Door-to-door overnight service. Book through 12Go.

Couples

Flight + Ferry Package (2,000-2,500 THB per person)
Comfortable, fast, arrive refreshed. Worth the extra cost over bus.

Families with Kids

Flight + Private Transfer + Ferry (Split 4 ways = reasonable)
Don't put kids through 14-hour bus ride. Fly to Krabi, book private transfer to hotel.

Groups of 4+

Private Van (2,500-3,000 THB per person for 4 people)
Split cost makes this very affordable. Break journey with overnight in Chumphon.

Ultra Budget Backpackers

Standard Bus + Ferry (800-900 THB)
Cheapest option. Take evening bus, arrive morning, connect to ferry.

Luxury Travelers

Business Class Flight + VIP Transfer + Speedboat (6,000-10,000 THB)
Bangkok Airways business class + private speedboat from Krabi. Arrive in style!

📅 Sample Itineraries

Fast Track (Flight Route):

Day 1:

• 8:30 AM: Depart Bangkok
• 2:30 PM: Arrive Koh Lanta, check in
• 4:00 PM: Relax at Long Beach
• 6:30 PM: Sunset at beach bar
• 8:00 PM: Dinner at Saladan

Budget Route (Overnight Bus):

Day 1:

• 6:00 PM: Depart Bangkok (Southern Bus Terminal)
• Overnight on bus

Day 2:

• 6:30 AM: Arrive Krabi, breakfast
• 9:00 AM: Minivan + ferry departs
• 11:30 AM: Arrive Koh Lanta
• 12:30 PM: Check in, rest
• 3:00 PM: Beach time
• 6:00 PM: Sunset
• 8:00 PM: Dinner

Leisure Route (2-Day Private Car):

Day 1:

• 8:00 AM: Depart Bangkok
• 10:30 AM: Coffee at Phetchaburi
• 12:30 PM: Lunch at Hua Hin beach
• 3:00 PM: Arrive Chumphon
• 3:30 PM: Check into hotel
• 5:00 PM: Beach walk
• 7:00 PM: Seafood dinner
• Overnight in Chumphon

Day 2:

• 8:00 AM: Breakfast, checkout
• 9:00 AM: Depart Chumphon
• 12:00 PM: Lunch at Khao Sok
• 2:30 PM: Arrive Krabi pier
• 3:00 PM: Ferry to Koh Lanta
• 4:30 PM: Arrive hotel, relax
• 6:30 PM: Welcome sunset
• 8:00 PM: Dinner at Long Beach

💡 Essential Tips

Best Time to Visit:

• Peak Season: November - March (dry, calm seas, all ferries running)
• Shoulder: April, October (good weather, fewer crowds, better prices)
• Low Season: May - September (monsoon, some ferries cancelled, very quiet)
• Avoid: If visiting May-Oct, have backup plans as ferries can be cancelled

Booking Timeline:

• Flights: 1-2 months ahead for best prices
• Bus: 3-7 days ahead (high season), same day okay (low season)
• Ferry: Usually okay to book 1-2 days ahead
• Package deals: 1-2 weeks ahead for guaranteed spots

What to Bring:

• ✅ Sunscreen and hat
• ✅ Beach clothes and swimwear
• ✅ Light rain jacket (even dry season has occasional rain)
• ✅ Motion sickness pills (if sensitive on ferry)
• ✅ Cash (many beach places don't take cards)
• ✅ Reef-safe sunscreen (coral protection)
• ✅ Mosquito repellent
• ✅ Good book for journey

Money:

• ATMs: Available in Saladan and major beaches
• Exchange: Better rates in Bangkok before you leave
• Cards: Accepted at resorts, not always at small restaurants/shops
• Budget: 1,000-2,000 THB per day (mid-range)

Ferry Safety:

• ✅ Ferries are very safe and well-maintained
• ✅ Life jackets always provided and mandatory
• ✅ Cancelled in bad weather (reassuring!)
• ✅ Operators experienced and professional
• ⚠️ Sit in middle of boat if prone to seasickness

🏖️ What to Do in Koh Lanta

Top Activities:

1. Four Island Tour

   • Koh Chuek, Koh Muk, Koh Ngai, Koh Kradan
   • Snorkeling, swimming, beach time
   • 800-1,200 THB including lunch

2. Scuba Diving

   • Hin Daeng, Hin Muang (world-class sites)
   • 2-dive trip: 3,000-4,000 THB
   • PADI courses available

3. Kayaking in Mangroves

   • East coast mangrove forests
   • Sunset tours popular
   • 500-800 THB

4. Old Town (Lanta Old Town)

   • Historic sea gypsy village
   • Wooden houses on stilts
   • Seafood restaurants
   • Free to explore

5. Mu Ko Lanta National Park

   • Southern tip of island
   • Lighthouse viewpoint
   • Hiking trails
   • 200 THB entrance fee

6. Cooking Class

   • Learn Thai cuisine
   • Market visit + cooking
   • 1,200-1,800 THB

7. Sunset Beach Bars

   • Same Same But Different (Klong Khong)
   • Freedom Bar (Long Beach)
   • Mushroom Bar (Klong Khong)

Best Beaches:

• Swimming: Kantiang Bay, Klong Dao
• Snorkeling: Bamboo Bay (south)
• Sunset: Long Beach, Klong Khong
• Quiet: Bamboo Bay, Klong Nin
• Lively: Long Beach (Phra Ae)

⚠️ Important Notes

Ferry Considerations:

• High Season (Nov-Apr): Multiple daily ferries, very reliable
• Low Season (May-Oct): Limited schedule, weather dependent
• Monsoon: Ferries can be cancelled with little notice
• Backup Plan: Always have contact info for your hotel in case of delays

Island Infrastructure:

• Roads: Main road paved but narrow
• Transport: Rent motorbike (200-300 THB/day) or use songthaews
• Internet: Good at resorts, spotty elsewhere
• Medical: Small clinics, serious issues need Krabi hospital
• Shopping: Limited - bring what you need from Bangkok

Departure from Koh Lanta:

• To Bangkok: Reverse your arrival route
• To Phi Phi: Direct speedboat (600-800 THB, 1.5 hours)
• To Krabi: Ferry + minivan (350-450 THB, 2.5 hours)
• To Phuket: Minivan + ferry (450-600 THB, 4 hours)

🎁 Final Recommendation

Best Overall Option: Flight + Ferry Package (2,500-3,500 THB)

Book through 12Go or Klook for a combined ticket:

• Early morning flight Bangkok → Krabi
• Airport pickup included
• Minivan to pier
• Ferry to Koh Lanta
• Drop-off at hotel

Why this is best: ✅ Arrive same day in early afternoon
✅ Enjoy your first day
✅ Well-rested and comfortable
✅ All logistics coordinated
✅ Reliable and safe
✅ Only 1,000-1,500 THB more than bus but saves 10+ hours

Budget Alternative: VIP Minibus Overnight (1,000-1,200 THB)
If you genuinely can't afford the flight, this is the best budget option. Door-to-door, comfortable enough, all-inclusive.

Luxury Option: Private Van over 2 Days (2,500-3,000 THB per person for 4 people)
Turn the journey into part of the experience. Stop at Hua Hin, Chumphon, Khao Sok.

Koh Lanta is worth every baht and every hour of travel. It's one of Thailand's most authentic island experiences - less developed than Phuket, less party-focused than Phi Phi, with stunning beaches, friendly locals, and incredible sunsets. The laid-back atmosphere will make you wish you'd booked more days!

Pro tip: Koh Lanta rewards longer stays. Book at least 4-5 nights to truly unwind and explore the island properly. Many visitors extend their stay because they fall in love with the relaxed pace of life!

Questions about bookings, best beaches, or activities? Happy to help!