Quick Answer
The best way to get from Lamphun to Lampang Airport (LPT) is by taxi or private transfer: it takes just 30–40 minutes and costs 600–800 THB (≈ $17–23). This is the only direct, door-to-door option. If you're on a tight budget, take a songthaew (shared pickup truck) to Lampang city and then a second songthaew to the airport — total cost 50–80 THB (≈ $1.40–2.30), but allow at least 45–60 minutes. The train + taxi combo offers a scenic ride for about 120–250 THB (≈ $3.40–7.10) but takes 1.5–2 hours. For most travelers, the taxi is the best balance of speed, cost, and convenience.
🚕 Taxi & Private Transfer – Fastest & Most Convenient
A taxi or private transfer is the most straightforward way to reach Lampang Airport from Lamphun. The distance is only about 30 km (19 miles) via Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) and the airport access road, making the drive quick and hassle-free.
💰 Costs
- Standard taxi (fixed price): 600–800 THB (≈ $17–23)
- Pre-booked private transfer: 800–1,200 THB (≈ $23–34) for a sedan or minivan
- Grab / ride-hailing: 550–750 THB (≈ $16–21) depending on demand
⏱ Duration
- 30–40 minutes door-to-door in normal traffic
- During morning rush (7:00–8:30 AM) or local festivals, allow up to 50 minutes
📋 Step-by-Step
- Hail a taxi in Lamphun (ask your hotel or find one near the main market) or book via Grab.
- Confirm the price before starting the trip (fixed-price is standard).
- Relax as you head north on Highway 1, passing rural scenery and small towns.
- Turn onto the airport access road (route 3021) – the terminal is clearly signposted.
- Arrive at the departures curb. Total time: 30–40 minutes.
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fastest option (30–40 min) | More expensive than public transport |
| Direct, door-to-door service | Price can vary with demand (Grab surge) |
| Comfortable with A/C and luggage space | Not the most “local” experience |
| Available 24/7 | — |
🎯 Who Should Choose This?
Anyone who values speed, simplicity, and comfort. Ideal for travelers with heavy luggage, families with young children, late-night or early-morning flights, or those unfamiliar with local transport. If your flight departs before 8 AM or after 8 PM, a taxi is strongly recommended.
📖 Source: Tourism Authority of Thailand – transport guidelines for Northern Thailand.
🛻 Songthaew (Shared Pickup Truck) – Budget Local Experience
The songthaew (literally “two benches”) is a covered pickup truck that serves as shared public transport in Northern Thailand. It’s the cheapest way to get from Lamphun to Lampang, but requires one transfer in Lampang city before reaching the airport.
💰 Costs
- Lamphun → Lampang city (songthaew): 40–60 THB (≈ $1.10–1.70)
- Lampang city → Airport (songthaew): 20–30 THB (≈ $0.60–0.90)
- Total: 60–90 THB (≈ $1.70–2.60)
⏱ Duration
- 45–60 minutes total (including waiting and transfer time)
- The first leg (Lamphun → Lampang) takes about 30–40 minutes
- The second leg (city → airport) takes 10–15 minutes
📋 Step-by-Step
- Go to the songthaew stand near Lamphun Market or the main road (Charoenrat Rd). Red or white songthaews head to Lampang.
- Flag one down and confirm “Lampang?” – the driver will nod or quote the fare.
- Ride to Lampang city center, usually stopping near the Kad Kong Ta street market or the central bus stop.
- Get off and walk to the nearby songthaew stop for the airport route (ask locals for “santhi baht pai sanam bin”).
- Take the second songthaew (yellow or white) to Lampang Airport. The driver will drop you at the terminal entrance.
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very cheap (under 100 THB) | Requires a transfer in Lampang city |
| Authentic local experience | No fixed schedule – you wait until full |
| Frequent departures during daytime | Uncomfortable with large luggage |
| Good for short-notice travel | Not ideal for early morning (before 6 AM) or late evening (after 7 PM) |
🎯 Who Should Choose This?
Backpackers, solo travelers, and budget-conscious visitors who don’t mind a short transfer and want to experience local life. Best suited for daytime flights and travelers with light luggage (backpack or small duffel). Not recommended if you’re in a hurry or have mobility issues.
📖 Source: TAT – Local Transport Guide.
🚆 Train + Taxi / Songthaew – Scenic & Affordable
Taking the train from Lamphun to Lampang is a charming and inexpensive option, especially for railway enthusiasts. Lamphun Railway Station is located on the Northern Line, and the journey to Lampang station takes you through lush countryside. However, the airport is still 3 km from Lampang station, so you’ll need a taxi or songthaew for the final leg.
💰 Costs
- Train ticket (Lamphun → Lampang): 20–50 THB (≈ $0.60–1.40) – 3rd class fan / 2nd class AC
- Taxi from Lampang station → Airport: 100–150 THB (≈ $2.90–4.30)
- Songthaew from station → Airport: 20–30 THB (≈ $0.60–0.90)
- Total combo (train + songthaew): 40–80 THB (≈ $1.10–2.30)
- Total combo (train + taxi): 120–200 THB (≈ $3.40–5.70)
⏱ Duration
- Train journey: 1 hour – 1 hour 20 minutes (depending on train type)
- Transfer at Lampang station: 5–10 minutes to find transport
- Final leg to airport: 10–15 minutes by taxi, 15–20 minutes by songthaew
- Total: 1.5–2 hours
📋 Step-by-Step
- Check the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) schedule for trains from Lamphun Station to Lampang Station. There are roughly 4–6 trains daily, mostly between 6 AM and 6 PM.
- Buy your ticket at the station (no advance booking needed for 3rd class).
- Board the train and enjoy the ride through rice fields, palm groves, and rural villages.
- Alight at Lampang Railway Station – a charming early-20th-century wooden station.
- Walk outside the station and take a taxi (100–150 THB) or songthaew (20–30 THB) to Lampang Airport. Taxis are parked just outside; songthaews pass by every 10–15 minutes.
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very low cost (especially with songthaew transfer) | Longer total travel time (1.5–2 hrs) |
| Scenic and cultural experience | Limited train schedules – not available for very early or late flights |
| Comfortable seats on 2nd class AC trains | Requires transfer at Lampang station |
| Lamphun station is easy to access | 3rd class trains have no A/C (fans only) |
🎯 Who Should Choose This?
Train enthusiasts, slow travelers, and budget tourists who enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Best for daytime flights (between 10 AM and 4 PM) when train schedules align. Not ideal for those with tight flight connections or heavy suitcases.
📖 Source: State Railway of Thailand – Northern Line Timetable.
🚌 Bus & Minivan – Ultra-Budget Alternative
Local buses and minivans connect Lamphun to Lampang city, from where you can take a short songthaew or taxi to the airport. This is the absolute cheapest motorized option, but it requires the most navigation and patience.
💰 Costs
- Lamphun → Lampang city (bus/minivan): 30–50 THB (≈ $0.90–1.40)
- Lampang city → Airport (songthaew): 20–30 THB (≈ $0.60–0.90)
- Total: 50–80 THB (≈ $1.40–2.30)
⏱ Duration
- Bus leg: 35–50 minutes (depending on stops)
- Transfer in Lampang: 5–15 minutes (waiting for songthaew)
- Final leg: 10–15 minutes
- Total: 50–70 minutes
📋 Step-by-Step
- Walk to the Lamphun Bus Terminal (near the clock tower) or the main highway stop on Charoenrat Road.
- Board a yellow-and-white local bus or a minivan heading to Lampang. These run roughly every 30–45 minutes from 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Ask the driver to drop you at Lampang Bus Station or the central market (Talat Yod).
- From the bus station, walk to the songthaew stop (often near the 7-Eleven on Phahonyothin Road) and take a songthaew to Lampang Airport.
- Arrive at the airport terminal. Total cost: 50–80 THB.
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cheapest option (under 80 THB) | No direct bus – must transfer |
| Buses run regularly during daytime | Uncomfortable with large luggage |
| Good for very tight budgets | Language barrier possible (limited English) |
| — | Not available after 6 PM |
🎯 Who Should Choose This?
Ultra-budget travelers, backpackers, and locals who are comfortable with navigating public transport. Best for daytime travel with minimal luggage. Not suitable for early morning or late evening flights.
📖 Source: Transport Co., Ltd. – Northern Bus Routes.
🚗 Car & Scooter Rental – Maximum Flexibility
Renting a car or scooter in Lamphun gives you complete freedom to explore the region and drive yourself to Lampang Airport at your own pace. This option works well for groups, families, or independent travelers who want to combine the trip with stops along the way.
💰 Costs
- Car rental (economy): 800–1,200 THB/day (≈ $23–34) – includes insurance
- Scooter rental: 200–400 THB/day (≈ $6–11) – helmet included
- Fuel (one-way): 80–120 THB (≈ $2.30–3.40) for car; 30–50 THB for scooter
- Total one-way (if renting for a single trip): 280–520 THB scooter / 880–1,320 THB car
⏱ Duration
- 30–40 minutes by car or scooter (same route as taxi)
- Add 15–20 minutes for rental pickup and paperwork
📋 Step-by-Step
- Book a rental in Lamphun through your hotel, a local shop, or platforms like RentalCars.com.
- Pick up the vehicle, check for damage, and ensure you have valid insurance.
- Set your GPS or map to Lampang Airport (LPT) – the route is straightforward via Highway 1.
- Drive north for about 25 km, then follow signs to the airport (turn left onto route 3021).
- Park at the airport’s short-term lot (free for the first 30 min) or return the vehicle if rental allows airport drop-off.
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Complete flexibility – stop anywhere | Rental cost can be high for one-way trips |
| Comfortable for groups (car) | Need valid driving license (IDP required) |
| Scooter is fun and cheap for solo travelers | Traffic and parking at airport may be unfamiliar |
| No waiting or scheduling | Fuel costs add up |
🎯 Who Should Choose This?
Independent travelers, couples, or small groups who want flexibility to make stops (e.g., at Wat Phra That Hariphunchai in Lamphun or Baan Sao Nak in Lampang). Also good if you plan to explore Lampang province after your flight. Not recommended if you’re not comfortable driving on Thai roads.
📖 Source: TAT – Car Rental Tips.
📊 Cost & Time Comparison – All Options at a Glance
Use this table to quickly compare every transport mode from Lamphun to Lampang Airport. Bold rows highlight the recommended and cheapest choices.
| Mode | Total Cost (THB) | Total Cost (USD) | Total Time | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi / Private Transfer | 600–800 THB | $17–23 | 30–40 min | 0 (direct) | Speed & convenience |
| 🛻 Songthaew (shared) | 60–90 THB | $1.70–2.60 | 45–60 min | 1 (in Lampang city) | Budget travel |
| 🚆 Train + Songthaew | 40–80 THB | $1.10–2.30 | 1.5–2 hrs | 1 (station→airport) | Scenic & cheap |
| 🚆 Train + Taxi | 120–200 THB | $3.40–5.70 | 1.5–2 hrs | 1 (station→airport) | Train experience + comfort |
| 🚌 Bus + Songthaew | 50–80 THB | $1.40–2.30 | 50–70 min | 1 (city→airport) | Cheapest option |
| 🛵 Scooter rental (self-drive) | 280–520 THB* | $8–15* | 30–40 min | 0 (direct) | Flexibility & fun |
| 🚗 Car rental (self-drive) | 880–1,320 THB* | $25–38* | 30–40 min | 0 (direct) | Groups & families |
* Rental cost includes fuel for one-way trip, but not full-day rental fees if you return the vehicle. Prices are indicative and may vary.
💡 Traveler Tips & Local Advice for a Smooth Trip
These insider tips will help you save time, money, and avoid common hassles when traveling from Lamphun to Lampang Airport.
🧳 Luggage & Baggage
- Songthaews and buses have limited space for large suitcases. If you have more than a backpack, choose a taxi or private transfer.
- For the train, 3rd class carriages have open shelves above seats – fine for backpacks but not for big rolling bags.
- Consider using Takkyubin (luggage delivery) if you're staying in Thailand for a while – you can send your bags ahead to your next destination and travel light. Ask your hotel for help.
🕐 Timing & Schedules
- Train tip: The Northern Line trains can run 15–30 minutes late, so don’t cut your connection too tight. Aim to arrive at Lampang station at least 1.5 hours before your flight.
- Songthaews run frequently from 5:30 AM to 6:30 PM, but after dark they become scarce. If your flight is after 6 PM, book a taxi.
- Peak seasons (November–February, Songkran in April, and Chinese New Year) see higher demand for taxis. Book at least one day in advance.
📍 Navigation & Language
- Learn a few Thai phrases: “Pai sanam bin Lampang” (ไปสนามบินลำปาง) = “Go to Lampang Airport.”
- Use Google Maps or Maps.me – the route is simple, but GPS helps if your driver is unsure.
- Lampang Airport is small (one terminal, one gate). Check-in counters open 1.5 hours before departure. There’s a small café and a 7-Eleven inside.
💰 Money & Payments
- Taxi drivers in this area usually prefer cash. Carry small bills (100 THB and 20 THB notes).
- Songthaew drivers almost never have change for large bills – keep 50 THB and 20 THB notes handy.
- ATMs are available at Lampang Airport (ground floor) but may charge a fee. Withdraw cash in Lamphun if possible.
🛩️ Lampang Airport (LPT) Quick Facts
- Destinations: Daily flights to Bangkok (Don Mueang – DMK) with Nok Air and AirAsia. Occasional flights to Chiang Mai and Mae Sot.
- Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, small restaurant, coffee shop, souvenir stalls, and a taxi stand.
- Runway length: 2,100 m – handles A320 and Q400 aircraft.
📖 Source: TAT – Lampang Travel Guide.
❓ FAQs: Getting from Lamphun to Lampang Airport
Is there a direct bus from Lamphun to Lampang Airport?
No, there is no direct bus from Lamphun to Lampang Airport. You need to take a local bus or songthaew from Lamphun to Lampang city first, then transfer to a songthaew or taxi for the final 3 km to the airport. A direct taxi or private transfer is the only door-to-door option.
How much does a taxi cost from Lamphun to Lampang Airport?
A standard taxi from Lamphun to Lampang Airport costs 600–800 THB (≈ $17–23). The price may vary slightly depending on the time of day, traffic, and whether you book in advance via a hotel or app. Metered taxis are rare on this route; fixed-price is the norm.
How long does it take to get from Lamphun to Lampang Airport?
By taxi or private car it takes 30–40 minutes. By songthaew (shared pickup) with a transfer in Lampang city, allow 45–60 minutes. By train plus taxi, the total journey is 1.5–2 hours. The fastest option is always a direct taxi or pre-booked transfer.
Is there a train from Lamphun to Lampang?
Yes, Lamphun Railway Station has regular trains to Lampang Railway Station on the Northern Line. The journey takes about 1–1.5 hours and costs 20–50 THB (≈ $0.60–1.40). From Lampang station you then need a taxi or songthaew for the remaining 3 km to the airport.
What is the cheapest way to get from Lamphun to Lampang Airport?
The cheapest combination is taking a local bus or songthaew from Lamphun to Lampang city (30–50 THB) and then a short songthaew to the airport (20–30 THB), total 50–80 THB (≈ $1.40–2.30). The train + songthaew option is also very affordable at 40–80 THB total.
Can I book a private transfer from Lamphun to Lampang Airport?
Yes, private transfers can be arranged through your hotel in Lamphun, local travel agencies, or online platforms. Prices range from 800–1,200 THB (≈ $23–34) depending on the vehicle type and service. This is a good option for groups, late-night departures, or if you have heavy luggage.
Is it better to take a taxi or songthaew from Lamphun to Lampang Airport?
It depends on your priorities. A taxi (600–800 THB) is faster, direct, and more comfortable, ideal if you are short on time or have luggage. A songthaew (50–80 THB) is much cheaper but requires a transfer in Lampang city and takes longer. For most travelers, the taxi is recommended for convenience and reliability.
How early should I leave Lamphun for a flight from Lampang Airport?
For domestic flights, aim to arrive at Lampang Airport at least 1 hour before departure. Adding travel time, you should leave Lamphun 1.5–2 hours before your flight if taking a taxi, or 2.5–3 hours if using public transport (songthaew or train) to allow for transfers and delays.