Quick Answer
Best overall option: Take a taxi or book a GrabCar from the temple's main entrance to Phitsanulok Airport (PHS). Total time: 5–10 minutes; total cost: 150–250 THB (≈5–8 USD). No transfers needed — door-to-door convenience. If you're on a tight budget, a songthaew (30–50 THB / 1–2 USD) or motorcycle taxi (60–100 THB / 2–3 USD) works well but requires a short walk from the temple grounds. For groups of 3–4, a taxi offers the best value per person.
Pro tip: If you're catching a domestic flight to Bangkok (DMK or BKK), aim to leave the temple 90 minutes before your boarding time — the airport is small and check-in is quick, but morning traffic on Phra Ong Dam Road can add 5–10 minutes.
🚕 Taxi & Grab – The Best Option for Most Travelers
A metered taxi or GrabCar is the most convenient and reliable way to travel from Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat to Phitsanulok Airport. The distance is only 5–7 km (3–4 miles) along Phra Ong Dam Road and Highway 12, taking 5–10 minutes in normal traffic. This option is ideal for travelers with luggage, families, or anyone prioritizing comfort and speed.
Taxis in Phitsanulok are not as plentiful as in Bangkok, but there is usually a small queue of waiting taxis near the main temple entrance (especially near the parking area and the tourist information booth). If none are available, simply open the Grab app — the service is active in Phitsanulok and typically connects you to a driver within 3–5 minutes.
💰 Price Breakdown
| Service Type | Estimated Fare (THB) | Estimated Fare (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metered taxi (street hail) | 150–200 THB | 5–7 USD | Confirm meter is on; if driver refuses, negotiate a fixed price of ~200 THB. |
| GrabCar (standard) | 180–220 THB | 6–7 USD | Fixed upfront pricing via app. Slightly higher during peak hours (7:00–8:30 AM & 4:30–6:00 PM). |
| GrabCar (XL / family) | 250–350 THB | 8–11 USD | For groups of 4–6 or travelers with large luggage. |
| Airport taxi (pre-booked via hotel) | 200–300 THB | 7–10 USD | Often includes a small surcharge for hotel concierge service. |
📋 Step-by-Step: How to Take a Taxi from the Temple
- Step 1: Exit the main temple hall (Ubosot) and walk toward the front parking lot along Phra Ong Dam Road.
- Step 2: Look for taxis waiting near the tourist police booth or the public parking meters. If none, use the Grab app.
- Step 3: Show the driver this phrase: "ไปสนามบินพิษณุโลก" (bpai sa-nam-bin Phitsanulok) — "Go to Phitsanulok Airport."
- Step 4: Confirm the price or meter before departure. If using Grab, the fare is already fixed in the app.
- Step 5: Relax — the drive takes under 10 minutes. The airport entrance is on the left just after the Ban Mai Samakkhi intersection.
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
- ✅ Pros: Door-to-door, air-conditioned, luggage-friendly, available via app, fast.
- ❌ Cons: More expensive than public options; surge pricing on Grab during peak hours; occasional queue if many travelers are leaving the temple at once (e.g., after major festivals).
Best for: Most travelers — especially those with luggage, families with children, and anyone taking an early morning or late evening flight.
Authoritative source: Grab Thailand official website | Tourism Authority of Thailand – Phitsanulok
🛺 Tuk-tuk – Authentic Thai Experience
Riding a tuk-tuk from Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat to Phitsanulok Airport is a short but memorable experience. Tuk-tuks are ubiquitous around the temple — drivers often wait near the main gate, the market stalls, and the taxi stand. The open-air design gives you a last taste of Phitsanulok's tropical breeze before you fly out.
Tuk-tuks are slightly slower than taxis due to their smaller engines (typically 550–660 cc), but the short distance means the difference is minimal. Always negotiate the fare before getting in — tuk-tuk drivers in Phitsanulok are generally honest, but a clear agreement avoids misunderstandings.
💰 Price Details
| Passengers | Typical Fare (THB) | Typical Fare (USD) | Negotiation Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–2 people | 100–150 THB | 3–5 USD | Start offer at 80 THB; settle at 100–120 THB. |
| 3–4 people | 150–200 THB | 5–7 USD | Agree on 180 THB if luggage is minimal. |
| With large luggage (2+ suitcases) | 200–250 THB | 7–8 USD | Luggage takes up passenger space — expect a higher fare. |
⏱ Time & Route
Tuk-tuks take the same main roads as taxis: Phra Ong Dam Road → Highway 12 → Airport access road. The total trip is 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Tuk-tuks have a top speed of about 50–60 km/h, so they are slightly slower than cars but perfectly adequate for this short hop.
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
- ✅ Pros: Low cost, fun experience, easy to find near temple, no app needed.
- ❌ Cons: No air conditioning (can be hot after 10:00 AM), limited luggage space, open to weather, requires negotiation.
Best for: Solo travelers & couples with light backpacks who want a quick taste of local transport. Not recommended for travelers with large suitcases or during the hot season (March–May).
Local tip: Tuk-tuks in Phitsanulok are less aggressive with pricing than in Bangkok — drivers are generally friendly and fair.
🚐 Songthaew – The Budget Traveler's Choice
The songthaew (shared pickup truck) is the cheapest motorized way to get from Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat to Phitsanulok Airport. These red or blue trucks operate on fixed routes and pick up passengers along the way. At 30–50 THB (≈1–2 USD) per person, it's hard to beat the price.
Note that songthaews do not stop directly at the temple gate. You need to walk about 5 minutes to the main songthaew stop on Phra Ong Dam Road (near the intersection with Highway 12, opposite the 7-Eleven). Songthaews heading east toward the airport pass approximately every 15–20 minutes during daytime hours (6:00 AM – 6:00 PM).
💰 Price & Route Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Fare per person | 30–50 THB (1–2 USD) |
| Route number / color | Red songthaew – Route: City Center ↔ Phitsanulok Airport ↔ Wang Thong |
| Pickup location | Songthaew stop on Phra Ong Dam Road, ~150 m east of the temple entrance |
| Drop-off location | Airport terminal entrance (same as taxi drop-off) |
| Frequency | Every 15–20 minutes (6:00 AM – 6:00 PM) |
| Travel time | 15–20 minutes (includes picking up/dropping off other passengers) |
📋 How to Ride a Songthaew
- Step 1: Walk to the songthaew stop on Phra Ong Dam Road (east of the temple, near the 7-Eleven).
- Step 2: Flag down a red songthaew heading east. The driver will stop if there is space.
- Step 3: Climb into the back bench. Tell the driver "สนามบิน" (sa-nam-bin) — "airport."
- Step 4: Pay the driver when you arrive: 30–50 THB. No exact change needed, but small bills help.
- Step 5: Ring the bell (or tap the roof) when you see the airport entrance — the driver will stop.
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
- ✅ Pros: Cheapest option by far, local experience, no negotiation, frequent daytime service.
- ❌ Cons: No luggage space (backpacks only), no fixed schedule, stops for other passengers, not available after 6:00 PM, requires a short walk from the temple.
Best for: Backpackers, solo travelers on a tight budget, and day-trippers with minimal luggage. Not suitable for airport departures before 7:00 AM or after 5:30 PM (last songthaew may pass earlier).
Authority: Tourism Authority of Thailand – Transport Guide
🏍️ Motorcycle Taxi – Fastest & Most Flexible
If you're traveling light and want the absolute fastest way to Phitsanulok Airport, a motorcycle taxi (win motosai) is your answer. Drivers in green or orange vests wait at the motorcycle taxi stand near the temple's side entrance (next to the market). The ride takes just 5–8 minutes and costs 60–100 THB (≈2–3 USD).
Motorcycle taxis can weave through traffic, which is particularly helpful during the morning rush (7:00–8:30 AM) when Phra Ong Dam Road gets congested. However, this option comes with inherent safety considerations — always wear the helmet provided and keep small bags secured.
💰 Price & Key Data
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Fare (1 person, light bag) | 60–80 THB (2–2.5 USD) |
| Fare (1 person + backpack) | 80–100 THB (2.5–3 USD) |
| Travel time | 5–8 minutes |
| Waiting time at stand | Usually immediate; max 2–3 minutes |
| Helmet provided | Yes (by law; insist if not offered) |
| Luggage capacity | Backpack or small duffel only (no hard suitcases) |
⚠️ Safety & Practical Tips
- Always wear the helmet — even for a 5-minute ride. Thai law requires it, and it significantly reduces injury risk.
- Keep your bag on your lap or between you and the driver. Do not wear a large backpack — it unbalances the ride.
- Agree on the fare before departure. Say: "ไปสนามบินเท่าไหร่?" (bpai sa-nam-bin tao-rai?) — "How much to the airport?"
- Hold on to the rear grab bar or the driver's shoulders if needed. Don't hold the seat — it's less stable.
- Avoid motorcycle taxis if you have a flight anxiety or are carrying fragile items (camera gear, souvenirs).
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
- ✅ Pros: Fastest mode, cheapest among "private" options, easy to find, no waiting, good for short notice.
- ❌ Cons: Safety risk in wet conditions, limited luggage, no weather protection, requires balance and confidence.
Best for: Solo travelers with a backpack, locals, and anyone running late for a flight. Not recommended for elderly travelers, families with children, or passengers with large suitcases.
Authority: Road Safety Thailand – Motorcycle Tips
🚗 Rental Car & Self-Drive – Full Flexibility
Renting a car in Phitsanulok gives you complete freedom to explore the city and its surroundings before heading to the airport. Several international and local rental agencies have offices on Borom Trailokanat Road and near the train station. For the short trip from Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat to the airport, a rental car is overkill — but if you're using it for a longer self-drive itinerary (e.g., Phitsanulok → Sukhothai → Chiang Mai), it becomes a practical choice.
The drive from the temple car park to the airport is straightforward: exit the temple onto Phra Ong Dam Road, turn right onto Highway 12 east, and follow the signs for "สนามบินพิษณุโลก" (Phitsanulok Airport) for about 4 km. The airport turn-off is well signposted.
💰 Rental Costs & Fuel
| Item | Estimated Cost (THB) | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Economy car rental (per day) | 800–1,200 THB | 25–40 USD |
| Mid-size car rental (per day) | 1,200–1,800 THB | 40–60 USD |
| Fuel for 6 km trip | ~20–30 THB | ~0.7–1 USD |
| Airport parking (per day) | Free (first 30 min) / 50 THB per day | Free / ~1.5 USD per day |
🏢 Rental Agencies in Phitsanulok
- Hertz Phitsanulok – Borom Trailokanat Road (near the railway station). hertz.co.th
- Budget Car Rental – Airport terminal (arrivals hall). budget.co.th
- Thai Rent a Car – 5 locations including the airport. thairentacar.com
- Local agencies – Several independent shops on Phra Ong Dam Road (prices negotiable).
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
- ✅ Pros: Total independence, comfortable, air-conditioned, can combine with other trips, luggage unlimited.
- ❌ Cons: High daily cost (if only for airport transfer), need to find parking at the temple, right-hand traffic may be unfamiliar, insurance paperwork.
Best for: Travelers on a multi-city road trip, families needing car seats, and those visiting attractions outside Phitsanulok city (e.g., Sukhothai Historical Park). Overkill for the temple-to-airport journey alone.
Authority: TAT – Driving in Thailand
🏨 Hotel Shuttle & Private Transfer – Hassle-Free
If you're staying at one of the hotels near Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat — such as Topland Hotel & Convention Center, The Imperial Hotel & Convention Centre Phitsanulok, or Pailyn Hotel — many offer a free or low-cost shuttle to Phitsanulok Airport. This is often the most relaxed option: the hotel handles the timing, and you don't need to negotiate or wait.
Private transfer services (booked via Klook, 12Go, or local tour operators) are also available for 250–400 THB (8–13 USD) and include a professional driver and a comfortable sedan. This is ideal for business travelers or anyone requiring a guaranteed departure time.
💰 Shuttle & Transfer Pricing
| Service | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel complimentary shuttle | Free (with booking) | Free | Ask at front desk 24 hours in advance; limited to certain hours (usually 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM). |
| Hotel paid shuttle | 100–200 THB | 3–7 USD | Available for early/late departures; confirm with concierge. |
| Private transfer (Klook/12Go) | 250–400 THB | 8–13 USD | Includes meet-and-greet at the temple; book online at least 4 hours ahead. |
| VIP limousine (airport counter) | 400–600 THB | 13–20 USD | Luxury sedan; book at the airport arrival hall if needed. |
📋 How to Book a Hotel Shuttle
- Step 1: At check-in, inform the receptionist of your flight details and desired departure time.
- Step 2: Confirm whether the shuttle is complimentary or paid. Ask about luggage space.
- Step 3: On the departure day, wait in the hotel lobby 5 minutes before the scheduled time.
- Step 4: The driver will take you directly to the airport departures curb — no stops.
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
- ✅ Pros: Zero stress, no negotiation, door-to-door, often free, reliable timing, suitable for early/late flights.
- ❌ Cons: Must be a hotel guest, limited availability (not all hotels offer it), may require advance booking, not flexible for impromptu changes.
Best for: Hotel guests who value convenience, business travelers, and anyone with an early morning flight (before taxi stands are active).
Authority: 12Go – Private Transfer Booking | Klook Thailand – Airport Transfers
📊 Complete Cost & Time Comparison Table
Use this table to compare all transport options side by side. Bold rows highlight the best value choices.
| Mode | Time (min) | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Luggage | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi / GrabCar | 5–10 | 150–250 | 5–8 | ✅ Large bags | ★★★★★ | Most travelers – BEST OVERALL |
| 🛺 Tuk-tuk | 10–15 | 100–200 | 3–7 | ⚠️ Small bags | ★★★☆☆ | Couples, solo with light luggage |
| 🚐 Songthaew | 15–20 | 30–50 | 1–2 | ❌ Backpack only | ★★☆☆☆ | Budget travelers – CHEAPEST |
| 🏍️ Motorcycle taxi | 5–8 | 60–100 | 2–3 | ❌ Backpack only | ★★☆☆☆ | Fastest solo option |
| 🚗 Rental car (per day) | 5–10 | 800–1,800 + fuel | 25–60 + fuel | ✅ Unlimited | ★★★★★ | Multi-day road trippers |
| 🏨 Hotel shuttle | 10–15 | Free – 200 | Free – 7 | ✅ Large bags | ★★★★☆ | Hotel guests, stress-free |
| 🚶 Walking | 70–80 | Free | Free | ❌ No luggage | ★☆☆☆☆ | Not recommended – safety risk |
🏆 Best overall: Taxi / GrabCar — balances speed, comfort, cost, and luggage capacity.
💰 Cheapest: Songthaew — unbeatable price for budget travelers.
⚡ Fastest: Motorcycle taxi — ideal if you're running late and traveling light.
💡 Traveler Tips & Local Advice for a Smooth Trip
🧳 Luggage Handling
- Large suitcases? Stick to a taxi, GrabCar, or hotel shuttle. Tuk-tuks and songthaews have very limited luggage space — drivers may refuse if your bag cannot fit on your lap or in the footwell.
- Backpackers: All options work fine. For songthaews, keep your backpack on your lap to avoid it sliding around on the metal bench.
- Takkyubin (luggage delivery) note: While popular in Japan, luggage forwarding is not commonly used in Phitsanulok. Travelers with heavy bags should use a taxi directly.
⏰ Best Times to Travel
- Morning flights (before 9:00 AM): Traffic is light on Phra Ong Dam Road. Taxis are available from 5:30 AM. Songthaews start running around 6:00 AM but may be infrequent before 6:30 AM. Pre-book a taxi or use Grab if your flight is before 7:00 AM.
- Midday (10:00 AM – 3:00 PM): All options are readily available. The temple is busiest between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM with tour groups — allow an extra 5 minutes to find a taxi.
- Evening (after 5:00 PM): Songthaews stop around 6:00 PM. Taxis and tuk-tuks remain available until at least 8:00 PM. If your flight departs after 8:00 PM, confirm your transport before the temple area quiets down.
- Late night (after 9:00 PM): Very few taxis wait near the temple. Use the Grab app — if no drivers are available, ask your hotel to arrange a transfer.
🙏 Temple Visit Tips Before Departure
- Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat opens daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. If you have a late afternoon flight, you can visit the temple in the morning and take a taxi to the airport afterward.
- Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered inside the temple. Remove shoes before entering the main hall. Plan to change clothes before heading to the airport if needed.
- The temple has a large parking lot — if you're driving yourself, parking is free for visitors. Don't leave valuables visible in the car.
🛫 Phitsanulok Airport (PHS) – What to Expect
- Size: Very small — one terminal, 4 check-in counters, 2 gates. Arriving 60 minutes before a domestic flight is usually sufficient.
- Facilities: A small café (coffee, snacks), a souvenir shop, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi. No VIP lounges.
- Flights: Primarily Air Asia (to DMK) and Nok Air (to DMK). Check in online to save time.
- Taxi from airport to city: If you're arriving in Phitsanulok, the official airport taxi stand charges a flat rate of 150–200 THB to the city center (including the temple area).
Pro tip from local travelers: "Phitsanulok Airport is tiny — don't arrive more than 1.5 hours early unless you want to drink coffee and watch planes. The real time-saver is using Grab to avoid negotiation." — Thai Travel Forum contributor
Authority: Phitsanulok Airport Official Information
❓ FAQs: Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat → Phitsanulok Airport
Is there a direct bus from Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat to Phitsanulok Airport?
No, there is no direct bus from the temple to the airport. The most practical options are taxi, tuk-tuk, or songthaew. Songthaews run on fixed routes but require a short walk to a main road stop on Phra Ong Dam Road.
How much does a taxi cost from the temple to the airport?
A standard metered taxi costs 150–250 THB (≈5–8 USD). Using Grab (ride-hailing), the fare is usually 180–220 THB (≈6–7 USD) depending on demand. Always confirm the price before starting the trip.
How long does it take to get from the temple to Phitsanulok Airport?
The distance is only 5–7 km (3–4 miles). By taxi or motorcycle taxi: 5–10 minutes; by tuk-tuk: 10–15 minutes; by songthaew: 15–20 minutes including waiting time. Walking is not recommended as there is no pedestrian-friendly route.
Can I walk from the temple to the airport?
Technically yes, but not recommended. The walking distance is about 6 km (3.7 miles), taking roughly 1 hour 15 minutes. The route lacks continuous sidewalks, has heavy traffic, and crosses several major intersections. Only consider walking if you have no luggage and plenty of time.
What is the cheapest way to get from the temple to the airport?
The cheapest motorized option is the songthaew (shared pickup truck), costing 30–50 THB (≈1–2 USD) per person. The motorcycle taxi at 60–100 THB (≈2–3 USD) is also very affordable. Both offer excellent value for budget travelers.
Are ride-hailing services like Grab available in Phitsanulok?
Yes, Grab operates in Phitsanulok and works well for airport transfers. You can book a GrabCar (≈180–220 THB / 6–7 USD) or GrabBike (≈60–90 THB / 2–3 USD). The app shows fixed pricing upfront, so you don't need to negotiate.
Do I need to book a taxi in advance for the airport transfer?
For daytime departures, taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available near the temple entrance — no advance booking needed. For early morning flights (before 6:00 AM), it's wise to pre-book via your hotel or the Grab app to ensure availability.
Is it safe to take a motorcycle taxi from the temple to the airport?
Motorcycle taxis are generally safe for short trips, but exercise caution. Always wear the helmet provided, keep small luggage on your lap, and agree on the fare (60–100 THB / 2–3 USD) before departing. Avoid motorcycle taxis if you have large suitcases or heavy bags.