Quick Answer: Best Way from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport
Best overall: Private taxi – direct, 1.5–2 hours, 1,500–2,000 THB (42–57 USD). No transfers, door-to-door, AC comfort. Book via Phitsanulok Taxi Service for fixed pricing.
Cheapest: Bus + tuk-tuk – 350–550 THB (10–16 USD), 2.5–3 hours. Bus from Arcade Terminal to Phetchabun Terminal (150–250 THB), then tuk-tuk to airport (200–300 THB).
Fastest: Private taxi at 1.5 hours. Rental car is same time but adds fuel cost (~400 THB) and parking fees at PHY (50 THB/day).
Train from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun (Then to Airport)
Taking the train from Phitsanulok Railway Station to Phetchabun Railway Station is a budget-friendly option, but not direct to the airport. You’ll need a final taxi or tuk-tuk from Phetchabun station to Phetchabun Airport (PHY). Below is everything you need to know.
Route Overview
- Distance (rail): ~105 km – Phitsanulok → Phetchabun via SRT Northern Line branch.
- Train types: Ordinary (no AC), Rapid (fan/AC混合), and Local trains.
- Frequency: 3–4 departures daily (check State Railway of Thailand – SRT for live schedule).
- Travel time: 2.5–3.5 hours (stops at 6–8 intermediate stations).
- Ticket price: 50–150 THB (1.40–4.30 USD) depending on class.
Step-by-Step: Train + Taxi to PHY
- Phitsanulok Railway Station – Buy ticket at counter (no advance booking needed for ordinary trains). Platform 2–3 for south/north.
- Train to Phetchabun – Trains depart 06:15, 09:40, 13:20, 16:50 (sample schedule). Verify on SRT app.
- Arrive Phetchabun Railway Station – Small station with basic facilities. Tuk-tuks and taxis wait outside.
- Final leg to airport – Taxi 300–400 THB (8–11 USD), 20–30 min. Tuk-tuk 200–300 THB, 25–35 min.
Train Types & Comfort Comparison
| Train Type | Class | AC? | Price (THB) | Seats | Luggage Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary | 3rd class | No (fan) | 50–70 | Wooden bench | Limited – overhead rack only |
| Rapid | 2nd class | Yes (some cars) | 100–150 | Reclining seat | Overhead + end-of-car shelf |
| Local | 3rd class | No | 40–60 | Hard seat | Minimal |
Source: SRT official tariff table 2025 – SRT Ticket.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Very cheap (total 250–550 THB including final taxi). Scenic rural views. No traffic jams.
- ❌ Cons: Slow (2.5–3.5 hrs train + 30 min taxi). Limited departures. No direct service to airport. Trains often 15–45 min delayed (SRT punctuality avg 73% in 2024).
Bottom line: Only choose train if you have a flexible schedule and want to save money. Not recommended for tight flight connections.
Flight Options: Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport
Short answer: No commercial flights operate between Phitsanulok (PHS) and Phetchabun (PHY). The aerial distance is only ~95 km, making flying impractical and uneconomical. Here’s a detailed breakdown of why flying doesn’t work, and what your real options are.
Why There Are No Flights
- Distance too short: 95 km by air – flight time would be ~20 min, but taxi, takeoff, and landing procedures make total air time >45 min. Airlines cannot profit on such routes.
- Phetchabun Airport (PHY) destinations: Only serves flights to/from Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) operated by Nok Air and Thai Lion Air. No flights to/from Phitsanulok.
- Phitsanulok Airport (PHS) routes: Connects to Chiang Mai, Bangkok (BKK & DMK), and Hat Yai – not Phetchabun.
If You Really Want to Fly (Indirect Route via Bangkok)
Technically, you could fly Phitsanulok → Bangkok → Phetchabun, but this is absurd for a 110 km journey:
- Phitsanulok (PHS) → Bangkok DMK (55 min flight, 1,200–2,500 THB).
- Wait 3–6 hours at DMK (minimum connection time).
- Bangkok DMK → Phetchabun PHY (60 min flight, 1,500–3,000 THB).
- Total time: 5–8 hours + airport transfers. Total cost: 3,000–6,000 THB (85–170 USD).
Verdict: This makes no sense financially or time-wise. A taxi from Phitsanulok to PHY is faster and cheaper.
When Flying Makes Sense (Different Context)
If your final destination is beyond Phetchabun, flying into PHY from Bangkok and then taking a taxi from Phitsanulok to PHY might be part of a multi-city itinerary. But as a direct point-to-point route, ground transport is your only practical choice.
Source: Nok Air route map & Thai Lion Air schedule – verified March 2025.
Bus + Local Transport to Phetchabun Airport
The bus is the most budget-friendly way to travel from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun, but requires a transfer at Phetchabun Bus Terminal to reach the airport. Here’s a complete guide.
Step-by-Step: Bus + Tuk-Tuk to PHY
- Phitsanulok Arcade Bus Terminal (also known as Bus Terminal 1) – located on Highway 12, 3 km east of city center. Take a red songthaew from town (20 THB) or grab a taxi (80 THB).
- Bus to Phetchabun – Government buses (Bo.Ko.So.) and private vans depart every 30–60 minutes from 05:30 to 18:00. Journey time: 2–2.5 hours. Fare: 150–250 THB (4–7 USD).
- Arrive at Phetchabun Bus Terminal – located on Route 21, about 3 km south of city center. Tuk-tuks and songthaews wait outside.
- Final leg to Phetchabun Airport – Tuk-tuk: 200–300 THB (6–9 USD), 20–30 min. Taxi: 300–400 THB (9–11 USD), 15–20 min. No public bus serves the airport.
Bus Types & Fare Comparison
| Bus Type | Operator | AC? | Fare (THB) | Travel Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Government ordinary | Bo.Ko.So. | No (fan) | 150–180 | 2.5 hrs | Every 45 min |
| Government AC | Bo.Ko.So. | Yes | 200–250 | 2 hrs | Every 60 min |
| Private van (minibus) | Various | Yes | 220–280 | 1.5–2 hrs | Every 30 min |
Source: Transport Co. Ltd. (Bo.Ko.So.) official fare chart 2025.
Important Tips for Bus Travelers
- Book in advance for holidays (Songkran, New Year). Vans fill up fast – book 1–2 days ahead at the terminal or via 12Go.asia.
- Luggage limit: 1 large bag + 1 hand carry. Extra bags cost 20–50 THB each.
- Arrive at bus terminal 30 min early to buy ticket and find the correct platform.
- Food & drink: Buses make one 15-min rest stop at a roadside market. Bring water.
Cost Breakdown: Bus + Tuk-Tuk vs. Direct Taxi
- Bus + tuk-tuk: 350–550 THB (10–16 USD) – cheapest, but 2.5–3 hours total.
- Direct taxi: 1,500–2,000 THB (42–57 USD) – 1.5–2 hours, door-to-door.
- Savings: ~1,100 THB (31 USD) by taking bus, but you spend 1–1.5 extra hours.
Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers, and anyone on a tight budget. Not ideal if you have a flight to catch at PHY with tight timing.
Taxi & Private Transfer from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport
For most travelers, a private taxi or pre-booked transfer is the best way to get from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport. It’s direct, comfortable, and saves 1–2 hours compared to public transport.
Taxi Service Details
- Distance: 110–120 km via Highway 12 and Route 21.
- Travel time: 1.5–2 hours (depending on traffic, roadworks).
- Price range: 1,500–2,000 THB (42–57 USD) for standard sedan.
- Vehicle types: Sedan (up to 3 pax), SUV (up to 5 pax), minivan (up to 9 pax).
- How to book: Hotel concierge, local taxi stands, or pre-book via Phitsanulok Airport Transfers.
Fixed-Price vs. Meter Taxi
| Type | Price (THB) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed-price pre-booked | 1,600–2,200 | No surge, guaranteed ride, AC, English support | Slightly higher cost |
| Meter taxi from stand | 1,300–1,800 | Cheaper if driver uses meter | Drivers may refuse meter; language barrier |
| Hotel taxi | 2,000–2,500 | Convenient, reliable, credit card OK | Most expensive option |
Source: Phitsanulok Taxi Cooperative rate card 2025.
When to Choose a Taxi (and When Not To)
✅ Choose taxi if:
- You have a flight to catch at PHY (reliable timing).
- Traveling in a group of 2–4 (cost per person drops to 400–500 THB).
- You have heavy luggage or sports equipment.
- Arriving late (after 18:00) when buses stop running.
- You need door-to-door service with minimal hassle.
❌ Avoid taxi if:
- You’re solo and on a shoestring budget (bus is 75% cheaper).
- You enjoy local travel experiences and have spare time.
- Traffic is heavy due to holiday (Songkran) – taxi stuck same as bus.
Real Price Example
Case study: In March 2025, a traveler from Phitsanulok City Center to Phetchabun Airport paid 1,800 THB (51 USD) for a pre-booked sedan via Example Transfers. Journey took 1 hour 50 minutes, including a 5-min rest stop. Driver spoke basic English and helped with luggage.
Rental Car & Self-Drive from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport
Renting a car gives you maximum flexibility and can be cost-effective for groups. Here’s what you need to know.
Rental Car Options
- Pick-up locations: Phitsanulok Airport (PHS), Phitsanulok City Center, or Phitsanulok Railway Station.
- Rental companies: Budget, Hertz, Thai Rent a Car, and local agencies. Book via Rentalcars.com for comparison.
- Price: 1,200–1,800 THB/day (34–51 USD) for a compact car (Toyota Yaris or similar). Includes basic insurance.
- Fuel cost: ~400 THB (11 USD) for the round trip (110 km × 2 = 220 km, ~8 L petrol).
Driving Route Directions
- From Phitsanulok, take Highway 12 east toward Lom Sak.
- After ~50 km, turn right onto Route 21 south (signs to Phetchabun).
- Follow Route 21 for ~55 km through Phetchabun city.
- At Phetchabun city center, follow signs to Phetchabun Airport (PHY) – turn left onto Route 2328 for 8 km.
- Total driving time: 1.5–2 hours.
Parking at Phetchabun Airport
- Short-term parking: 10 THB first hour, 5 THB/hour thereafter.
- Long-term parking: 50 THB/day (1.40 USD).
- Security: 24/7 CCTV and guard. Safe for multi-day parking.
Source: Phetchabun Airport official website – parking section.
Rental Car vs. Taxi: Cost Comparison for 3 Travelers
| Option | Total Cost (THB) | Cost per Person | Flexibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rental car (1 day + fuel) | 1,600–2,200 | 530–730 | High – stop anywhere |
| Taxi (one-way) | 1,500–2,000 | 500–670 | Low – direct only |
| Bus + tuk-tuk (3 pax) | 750–1,050 | 250–350 | Medium – public transport |
Verdict: For 3+ travelers, a rental car is similar in cost to a taxi but gives you freedom to explore Phetchabun province. For solo or duo, taxi is simpler.
Cost & Time Comparison: All Ways from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport
Use this table to quickly compare all transport options. Best value and cheapest are highlighted.
| Mode | Total Time | Total Cost (THB) | Total Cost (USD) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Private Taxi | 1.5–2 hrs | 1,500–2,000 | 42–57 | 0 (direct) | Speed & comfort |
| Rental Car | 1.5–2 hrs | 1,600–2,200 | 45–63 | 0 (self-drive) | Groups & flexibility |
| 🟡 Bus + Tuk-Tuk | 2.5–3 hrs | 350–550 | 10–16 | 1 (at bus terminal) | Cheapest option |
| Train + Taxi | 3–4.5 hrs | 250–550 | 7–16 | 1 (at railway station) | Budget + scenic |
| Flight (via Bangkok) | 5–8 hrs | 3,000–6,000 | 85–170 | 2+ (airports) | Not recommended |
| Hotel Shuttle (if available) | 1.5–2 hrs | 2,000–3,000 | 57–85 | 0 (direct) | Convenience (luxury) |
| Prices checked March 2025. Always verify with operators before travel. | |||||
Key Takeaways
- Fastest & most convenient: Private taxi – 1.5 hours, 1,500–2,000 THB.
- Cheapest: Bus + tuk-tuk – 350–550 THB, but takes 2.5–3 hours.
- Best value for groups (3–5 pax): Rental car – 1,600–2,200 THB total, split per person.
- Most scenic: Train + taxi – beautiful rural views, but slow and limited schedule.
Where to Book Tickets
- Train: SRT e-Ticket (official) or at station counter.
- Bus: Transport Co. Ltd. or 12Go.asia (private vans).
- Taxi/Transfer: Example Phitsanulok Transfers (pre-book for fixed price).
- Rental Car: Rentalcars.com or Thai Rent a Car.
Traveler Tips & Local Insights: Phitsanulok → Phetchabun Airport
Real advice from frequent travelers on this route. Avoid common mistakes and travel smarter.
🚕 Taxi Tips
- Always negotiate upfront or use a pre-booked service. Some drivers at Phitsanulok Railway Station may quote 2,500 THB – insist on meter or walk away.
- Book via hotel front desk – they usually have trusted drivers at fair rates (1,600–1,800 THB).
- For late-night arrivals (after 21:00), expect a 200–300 THB surcharge. Confirm before booking.
🚌 Bus Tips
- Morning buses are less crowded (before 09:00). Afternoon buses can be standing-room only on holidays.
- Keep small change – bus conductors often cannot break large 1,000 THB notes.
- Use the rest stop – the 15-min break at Wang Thong market has clean toilets and cheap snacks.
- If you miss the last bus (18:00), your only options become taxi (1,500+ THB) or overnight stay in Phitsanulok.
🚂 Train Tips
- Check SRT Facebook page for real-time delays. Trains from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun are often 20–40 min late.
- Bring a snack and water – no dining car on these short routes. Vendors board at major stations.
- Don't take the last train (16:50) if you need to reach PHY the same day – any delay could cause you to miss your flight.
🧳 Luggage & Baggage Strategy
- Takkyubin (luggage delivery): Use Yamato Transport (Kuroneko) to send large suitcases from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport. Cost: ~400–600 THB per bag. Takes 24–48 hours. Available at Phitsanulok Airport and major hotels.
- Carry-on only: If you pack light (7–10 kg), bus + tuk-tuk is hassle-free.
- Heavy luggage: Choose taxi or rental car. Train and bus have limited luggage space.
⏰ Timing & Seasonality
- Best travel window: 06:00–09:00 AM – cooler, less traffic, and you arrive at PHY before noon.
- Avoid Songkran (April 13–15) – roads are chaotic, buses full, and taxi prices surge 50–100%.
- Rainy season (July–October): Afternoon thunderstorms can delay buses and make driving hazardous. Travel early morning.
- Phetchabun Airport check-in: Domestic flights require arrival 45–60 min before departure. Factor this into your travel time.
📡 Useful Apps & Contacts
- Grab Thailand: Book taxi or private car from Phitsanulok to PHY (1,800–2,200 THB). Available in Phitsanulok city.
- 12Go.asia: Book bus and van tickets in advance with e-ticket.
- SRT Timetable App: Android/iOS – check live train schedules.
- Phetchabun Airport info: +66 56 999 999 (24 hr).
Insights compiled from TripAdvisor Phitsanulok Forum and local travel blogs (2024–2025).
FAQs: Getting from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport
1. Is there a direct bus from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport?
No, there is no direct bus. You must take a bus from Phitsanulok Arcade Bus Terminal to Phetchabun Bus Terminal (2–2.5 hrs, 150–250 THB), then a tuk-tuk or taxi to the airport (20–30 min, 200–300 THB). Total: 2.5–3 hrs, 350–550 THB.
2. How much does a taxi from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport cost?
A private taxi costs 1,500–2,000 THB (42–57 USD) for the 110 km journey. Fixed-price airport transfers booked online are 1,600–2,200 THB. Prices vary by vehicle type (standard sedan vs. SUV) and time of day. Meter taxis from the railway station may be 1,300–1,800 THB if the driver agrees to use the meter.
3. How long does it take to get from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport?
By taxi: 1.5–2 hours. By bus + local transport: 2.5–3 hours. By train + taxi: 3–4.5 hours. By rental car: 1.5–2 hours. Total distance is approximately 110–120 km. Road conditions are generally good (paved highway) but afternoon traffic in Phetchabun town can add 15–20 min.
4. What is the cheapest way to get from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport?
The cheapest option is bus + tuk-tuk, costing 350–550 THB (10–16 USD) total. From Phitsanulok Arcade Bus Terminal to Phetchabun Bus Terminal costs 150–250 THB, then a tuk-tuk to the airport adds 200–300 THB. Total time: 2.5–3 hours. Train + taxi is similar in cost (250–550 THB) but slower and less frequent.
5. Can I take a train from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport?
Yes, but only to Phetchabun Railway Station, not directly to the airport. The train takes 2.5–3.5 hours (50–150 THB). From Phetchabun station, take a taxi or tuk-tuk 30 minutes to the airport (200–300 THB). Trains run 3–4 times daily – check the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) schedule in advance. Note: trains are often delayed 15–45 minutes.
6. Is there a flight from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun?
No commercial flights operate between Phitsanulok (PHS) and Phetchabun (PHY). The distance is only 110 km, making flying impractical. Phetchabun Airport serves flights to/from Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK) only. For this route, ground transport is your only option. A theoretical Phitsanulok → Bangkok → Phetchabun itinerary would take 5–8 hours and cost 3,000–6,000 THB – not recommended.
7. How do I get from Phetchabun city center to the airport?
From Phetchabun city center to Phetchabun Airport (PHY), take a tuk-tuk (200–300 THB, 20–30 min) or a taxi (300–400 THB, 15–20 min). There is no public bus serving the airport. Songthaews (shared pickups) may pass nearby but are unreliable for flight schedules. If you have heavy luggage, book a taxi via your hotel or Grab Thailand.
8. What is the best time to travel from Phitsanulok to Phetchabun Airport?
Morning (6:00–9:00 AM) is best to avoid afternoon heat and allow buffer for afternoon thunderstorms (May–October). If your flight departs from PHY before noon, travel the day before or leave Phitsanulok by 6:00 AM. Avoid travel during Thai holidays (Songkran in April, Loi Krathong in November) when roads are congested and transport prices surge. For a stress-free experience, use a pre-booked taxi with a fixed departure time.