Quick Answer: Best Way from Yasothon to Ubon Airport
Best overall: Private taxi — door-to-door, 1.5 hours, 1,200–1,500 THB (~35–45 USD). Ideal for speed and comfort.
Cheapest: Bus + airport shuttle — ~200 THB (~6 USD) total, but takes 2.5–3 hours with a transfer at Ubon Bus Terminal.
Mid-range: Shared minivan — 250–400 THB (~7–12 USD), 2–2.5 hours, drop-off at Ubon Bus Terminal (then taxi to airport).
Train (limited): Only if you have time and want a scenic ride — 50–100 THB, 2–3 hours, plus taxi to airport.
🚌 Bus + Airport Shuttle: The Budget-Friendly Route
Taking a local bus from Yasothon Bus Terminal to Ubon Ratchathani Bus Terminal is the most economical way to reach the airport — but it requires one transfer. This option is popular among local travelers and backpackers.
Step-by-Step Breakdown
- Yasothon → Ubon Bus Terminal: Buses depart every 30–60 minutes from 05:30 to 17:30. Journey time: 2 hours. Fare: 100–150 THB (~3–4 USD). Operators include The Transport Co., Ltd. (Bor Kor Sor).
- Ubon Bus Terminal → Ubon Airport (UBP): From the terminal, take the Airport Shuttle Bus (green/white, every 30 min) or a local songthaew. Time: 20–25 minutes. Fare: 60–80 THB (~2 USD).
Detailed Bus Schedule (Sample)
| Departure (Yasothon) | Arrival (Ubon Terminal) | Operator | Fare (THB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 05:30 | 07:30 | Bor Kor Sor | 120 |
| 07:00 | 09:00 | Bor Kor Sor | 120 |
| 09:00 | 11:00 | Private Coop. | 140 |
| 11:00 | 13:00 | Bor Kor Sor | 120 |
| 13:00 | 15:00 | Private Coop. | 140 |
| 15:00 | 17:00 | Bor Kor Sor | 120 |
| 17:00 | 19:00 | Bor Kor Sor | 120 |
Source: The Transport Co., Ltd. schedule (subject to change).
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Lowest cost (~200 THB total); frequent departures; no booking needed.
- ❌ Cons: Requires transfer; not ideal with heavy luggage; longer total time (2.5–3 hr).
Who Should Choose This?
Budget travelers, solo backpackers, and anyone with a flexible schedule. If your flight is early morning (before 08:00), consider arriving in Ubon the night before — the first shuttle runs at 06:00.
🚕 Taxi & Private Car: Fastest Door-to-Door Option
For maximum convenience and speed, a private taxi from Yasothon directly to Ubon Ratchathani Airport is the best choice. The route follows Highway 212 and Highway 23, taking you straight to the terminal.
Cost & Booking Details
- Fare range: 1,200–1,500 THB (~35–45 USD) for a standard sedan (up to 3 passengers).
- Larger vehicle (family/group): 1,600–2,000 THB (~47–58 USD) for an SUV or minibus.
- Booking platforms: Grab Thailand, local taxi hotline +66 88 222 3333, or your hotel front desk.
- Journey time: 1 hour 20 minutes – 1 hour 40 minutes (depending on traffic).
Route Details
From Yasothon city center, head south on Route 2169 to Route 23, then merge onto Route 212 toward Ubon Ratchathani. The final stretch passes through Mueang Ubon district directly to the airport. The total distance is 100 km (62 miles).
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Fastest door-to-door (1.5 hr); comfortable; available 24/7; good for heavy luggage and groups.
- ❌ Cons: Most expensive option; price may surge during holidays or late night.
When to Choose a Taxi
- Early morning flights (before 07:00) — no buses run that early.
- Late-night arrivals — after 20:00, public transport options are scarce.
- Traveling with children, elderly, or lots of luggage.
- Business travelers who value time over cost.
Tip: Always negotiate the price before departure, or book via Grab for a fixed fare. Metered taxis from Yasothon are rare — most drivers offer a flat rate.
🚐 Shared Minivan (Rot Yen): Mid-Range & Practical
Shared minivans (known locally as rot yen) operate between Yasothon and Ubon Ratchathani, offering a balance of cost and convenience. They depart from Yasothon Market and the old bus station near the town center.
Fare, Frequency & Duration
- Fare: 250–400 THB (~7–12 USD) per person.
- Frequency: Every 1–2 hours from 06:00 to 16:00 (less frequent on Sundays).
- Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes – 2 hours 15 minutes to Ubon Bus Terminal.
- From Ubon Terminal to airport: Add 20–25 minutes by shuttle or taxi (~60–100 THB).
Where to Catch a Minivan
Head to the Yasothon Market (Talad Yasothon) area, opposite Wat Maha That. Look for white vans with "Ubon Ratchathani" signs. No advance booking required — just show up and wait for the van to fill (typically 8–10 passengers).
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Cheaper than a private taxi; faster than the bus; no need to book.
- ❌ Cons: Can be cramped; luggage space limited; drop-off is at Ubon Terminal, not the airport; waits can be long if the van isn't full.
Who Should Choose a Minivan?
Solo travelers or duos who want to save money but don't want the long bus journey. It's also a good option if you're comfortable with local transport and have only a backpack or small suitcase.
Note: Some minivans may offer direct drop-off at Ubon Airport for an extra 100–150 THB — ask the driver when boarding.
🚆 Train (Limited Service): Scenic but Slow
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) operates a limited train service from Yasothon Railway Station to Ubon Ratchathani Railway Station. This is the most nostalgic and scenic option, but it's not recommended for time-sensitive travelers due to infrequent schedules and slow speeds.
Train Schedule & Fares
| Train # | Departure (Yasothon) | Arrival (Ubon) | Duration | Fare (THB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary 233 | 06:15 | 08:50 | 2h 35min | 50 |
| Ordinary 237 | 11:40 | 14:25 | 2h 45min | 50 |
| Rapid 135 | 15:20 | 17:55 | 2h 35min | 100 |
Source: State Railway of Thailand (schedule subject to change; check for updates).
Yasothon Station Location
Yasothon Railway Station is about 3 km west of the city center (Tambon Nai Mueang). A songthaew from town costs ~30 THB. The station is small — no ticketing counter, only a platform. Buy your ticket on the train.
From Ubon Station to Airport
Ubon Ratchathani Railway Station is on Thanon Sappasit, about 6 km from the airport. Take a taxi (~100 THB, 15 min) or a songthaew (~30 THB, 25 min).
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Extremely cheap (50–100 THB); scenic rural views; authentic Thai travel experience.
- ❌ Cons: Only 3 trains per day; slow; Yasothon station is inconvenient; still need taxi to airport.
Who Should Take the Train?
Rail enthusiasts, travelers with plenty of time, and those who want to experience Thailand's rural railway. Not suitable for catching a flight with a tight schedule.
📊 Cost & Time Comparison: All Options at a Glance
| Transport Mode | Total Time (door-to-door) | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD ~) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus + Shuttle | 2.5 – 3 hr | ~200 | ~6 | 1 (at Ubon Terminal) | Budget travelers, backpackers |
| Shared Minivan + Taxi | 2 – 2.5 hr | 350 – 500 | ~10 – 15 | 1 (at Ubon Terminal) | Solo/duo, moderate budget |
| Train + Taxi | 3 – 3.5 hr | 150 – 200 | ~4 – 6 | 1 (at Ubon Station) | Rail fans, scenic lovers |
| Private Taxi | 1.5 hr | 1,200 – 1,500 | ~35 – 45 | 0 (direct) | Families, business, speed |
Prices are estimates as of 2025. Actual fares may vary by season, demand, and operator.
💡 Travel Tips & Insider Advice for a Smooth Journey
1. Book Ahead for Early Flights
If your flight departs before 09:00, the bus and minivan options may not get you there in time. The first bus from Yasothon leaves at 05:30, arriving in Ubon around 07:30 — too tight for an 08:00 flight. In this case, book a private taxi the night before or stay overnight in Ubon.
2. Luggage Strategy
Local buses and minivans have limited luggage space. A large suitcase (over 28 inches) may not fit under the seats. Consider using Takkyubin (luggage delivery) service from Yasothon to Ubon Airport — available at most post offices for ~200–400 THB per bag. Your luggage arrives the next day, so plan accordingly.
3. Download Grab & Google Maps
Grab operates in Ubon Ratchathani and is reliable for airport transfers. From Yasothon, Grab cars are rare — better to call a local taxi. Download Google Maps offline for the Yasothon–Ubon route, as mobile signal can be patchy in rural areas.
4. Beware of Holiday Surges
During Songkran (April), Loy Krathong (November), and New Year, bus and taxi prices can rise by 20–50%. Book taxis at least 2 days in advance during peak seasons.
5. Yasothon Bun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival)
If you're traveling in May, the famous Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival brings huge crowds to Yasothon. Transport fills up quickly — book everything 1–2 weeks ahead. Local buses and minivans may run extra services, but expect delays.
6. Cash is King
Most local buses, minivans, and taxis in Yasothon operate on cash only. ATMs are available at the bus terminal and airport, but carry enough small bills (100 THB notes) for fares.
7. Stay Connected
Buy a Thai SIM card with data at Yasothon's 7-Eleven (TrueMove or AIS, ~100–200 THB). This allows you to use Grab, call taxis, and check live bus schedules.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions: Yasothon to Ubon Ratchathani Airport
Is there a direct bus from Yasothon to Ubon Ratchathani Airport?
No, there is no direct bus. You must take a bus from Yasothon Bus Terminal to Ubon Ratchathani Bus Terminal (2 hr, ~120 THB), then transfer to the Airport Shuttle Bus or a local taxi (20 min, ~80 THB). Total cost ≈ 200 THB (~6 USD).
How much does a taxi from Yasothon to Ubon Airport cost?
A private taxi costs between 1,200 and 1,500 THB (~35–45 USD) for a one-way trip. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. Prices may be higher during holidays or late-night hours. Book via Grab or your hotel.
What is the cheapest way to get from Yasothon to Ubon Airport?
The cheapest option is the bus + airport shuttle combination: local bus to Ubon Terminal (~120 THB) + Airport Shuttle Bus (~80 THB). Total ≈ 200 THB (~6 USD). Travel time is about 2.5–3 hours.
What is the fastest way to get from Yasothon to Ubon Airport?
A private taxi is the fastest door-to-door option, taking approximately 1.5 hours (100 km). Cost ranges from 1,200–1,500 THB (~35–45 USD). Pre-booking via Grab or a local taxi service ensures availability.
Is there a train from Yasothon to Ubon Ratchathani?
Yes, but service is very limited. The State Railway of Thailand operates a few daily trains from Yasothon Railway Station to Ubon Ratchathani Railway Station (2–3 hr, 50–100 THB). From there, you need a taxi or songthaew to reach the airport (15 min, ~100 THB). This option is slow and infrequent.
Can I book a shared minivan from Yasothon to Ubon Airport?
Yes, shared minivans depart from Yasothon's main market area to Ubon Ratchathani. The fare is around 250–400 THB (~7–12 USD). They drop you at Ubon Bus Terminal, not the airport, so you still need a local taxi to the airport. Total time ≈ 2–2.5 hours.
How far is it from Yasothon to Ubon Ratchathani Airport?
The driving distance from Yasothon city center to Ubon Ratchathani Airport (UBP) is approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles). Travel time by car or taxi is about 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes under normal traffic conditions.
What is the best way to travel from Yasothon to Ubon Airport for a family?
For families, a private taxi or pre-booked car is recommended. It costs 1,200–1,500 THB (~35–45 USD), takes 1.5 hours direct, and offers comfort with luggage space. The bus+shuttle combo (≈200 THB total) works but is less comfortable with children and luggage.