Quick Answer
The best way to get from Nakhon Ratchasima (Khorat) to Buri Ram Airport (BFV) is train + taxi: take a State Railway of Thailand (SRT) train from Nakhon Ratchasima Station to Buri Ram Station (3–4 hours, ฿120– 350 / $3.40– $10), then a taxi to the airport (30 minutes, ฿250– 300 / $7– $8.60). Total time: ~3.5–4.5 hours, total cost: ฿370– 650 / $10.60– $18.60. For maximum convenience, a direct private taxi costs ฿1,500– 2,500 / $43– $71 (2.5–3 hours). The cheapest option is bus + taxi (฿330– 550 / $9.40– $15.70, ~4–5 hours).
🚆 Train from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram + Taxi to Airport
The train + taxi combo is the most balanced option — comfortable, affordable, and reasonably fast. The journey uses the Northeastern Line (Ubon Ratchathani branch) operated by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT).
Step-by-Step Guide
- Board at Nakhon Ratchasima Station (also known as Khorat Station). Arrive 20–30 minutes early to purchase tickets.
- Ride to Buri Ram Station — all trains heading toward Ubon Ratchathani stop here. Travel time: 3–4 hours depending on train class.
- Take a taxi or tuk-tuk from Buri Ram Station to Buri Ram Airport (30 km, ~30 minutes). Metered taxi: ฿250–300 / $7–$8.60; tuk-tuk: ฿150–200 / $4.30–$5.70.
Train Types & Fare Comparison
| Train Class | Travel Time | Fare (฿) | Fare ($) | Seat Type | Air-Con? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary (ช.อ.) | ~4 h | ฿120–150 | $3.40–$4.30 | Hard seat / fan | ❌ No |
| Rapid (ร.) | ~3 h 30 min | ฿200–250 | $5.70–$7.10 | Soft seat / fan | ❌ No |
| Express (ด.) — ★ Recommended | ~3 h | ฿250–350 | $7.10–$10 | Soft seat / air-con | ✅ Yes |
| Special Express (ดพ.) | ~2 h 45 min | ฿320–420 | $9.10–$12 | Soft seat / air-con | ✅ Yes |
Sample Daily Train Schedule (Nakhon Ratchasima → Buri Ram)
Always verify at SRT official timetable.
- Train 71 (Express): Dep. 06:30 → Arr. 09:30 (3 h) — air-con, ฿300
- Train 75 (Rapid): Dep. 09:15 → Arr. 12:45 (3 h 30 min) — fan, ฿220
- Train 77 (Express): Dep. 13:00 → Arr. 16:00 (3 h) — air-con, ฿310
- Train 173 (Ordinary): Dep. 15:45 → Arr. 19:50 (4 h 05 min) — fan, ฿130
- Train 79 (Express): Dep. 18:20 → Arr. 21:15 (2 h 55 min) — air-con, ฿340
Onboard Experience
- Express & Special Express: Comfortable reclining seats, air-conditioning, snack/drink trolley, clean toilets. Good for working or resting.
- Rapid & Ordinary: Fan-cooled, open windows, basic seats — more local atmosphere but can be hot and noisy. Fine for short trips.
- Luggage: Overhead racks for small bags; larger suitcases can be stored at the end of the carriage. No luggage limit.
Buying Tickets
- Booking window: 60 days in advance online, 30 days at station.
- Online: SRT e-Ticket (credit card, ฿20 fee).
- Station: Pay cash at Nakhon Ratchasima Station counter. Arrive 20 min early for popular trains.
- Tip: Express trains sell out on weekends and Thai holidays — book ahead.
Why We Recommend This Option
✔ Best balance of cost (฿370–650 / $10.60–$18.60) and comfort.
✔ Reliable schedule with 5+ daily departures.
✔ No traffic jams (unlike road transport).
✔ Buri Ram Station is small and easy to navigate — the taxi stand is right outside.
🚌 Bus from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram + Taxi to Airport
The bus + taxi option is the most economical way to reach Buri Ram Airport. It’s slightly slower than the train but costs less.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Go to Nakhon Ratchasima Bus Terminal 1 (Bor Khor Sor 1) — located on Mittraphap Road, about 2 km from the city center. Buses to Buri Ram depart from Gate 12–15.
- Take a bus to Buri Ram Bus Station (also called Buri Ram Terminal). Both government (บขส.) and private operators serve this route.
- From Buri Ram Bus Station, take a taxi to the airport (25 km, ~25 minutes. Metered taxi: ฿200–250 / $5.70–$7.10; tuk-tuk: ฿150–180 / $4.30–$5.10).
Bus Types & Fare Comparison
| Bus Type | Travel Time | Fare (฿) | Fare ($) | Air-Con? | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Government (บขส.) Ordinary | ~4 h | ฿130–160 | $3.70–$4.60 | ❌ Fan | Every 60 min |
| Government (บขส.) Air-Con | ~3 h 30 min | ฿180–220 | $5.10–$6.30 | ✅ Yes | Every 30–60 min |
| Private (e.g. 999 VIP, Sombat Tour) — ★ Best value | ~3 h | ฿200–280 | $5.70–$8.00 | ✅ Yes + snack | Every 30 min |
Sample Bus Schedule (Nakhon Ratchasima → Buri Ram)
- First bus: 05:30 (Government air-con)
- Last bus: 19:00 (Private VIP)
- Peak frequency: Every 20–30 min between 06:00–16:00
- Note: No overnight (night) buses on this short route — all services are daytime.
Where to Buy Tickets
- At the terminal: Buy from the counter at Bus Terminal 1. Cash only for government buses; private operators accept credit card.
- Online: Book via BusOnlineTicket or 12Go (small booking fee).
- Tip: On weekends and Thai holidays, book at least 1 day in advance — private VIP buses sell out.
Luggage & Comfort
- Government buses: Limited legroom, no onboard toilet (rest stop after ~2 h).
- Private VIP buses: Reclining seats, air-con, snack/drink included, toilet onboard. Much more comfortable for the 3-hour ride.
- Luggage: Stored in underfloor compartment — max 2 bags per person. No extra charge.
Total Cost & Time Summary
Total time: 3.5–4.5 hours (bus 3–4 h + taxi 25 min + waiting).
Total cost: ฿330–550 / $9.40–$15.70 (bus ฿130–280 + taxi ฿200–250).
★ Cheapest overall option.
🚕 Taxi / Private Transfer (Direct to Airport)
A direct private taxi from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram Airport is the most convenient option — door-to-door, no transfers, no waiting. It’s also the most expensive, best reserved for groups, late-night arrivals, or travelers with heavy luggage.
Pricing & Options
| Vehicle Type | Passengers | Time | Price (฿) | Price ($) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metered taxi (saloon) | 1–3 | 2.5–3 h | ฿1,500–1,800 | $43–$51 | Negotiate flat rate |
| Private car (Grab / Bolt) | 1–4 | 2.5–3 h | ฿1,800–2,200 | $51–$63 | Book via app |
| SUV / MPV (recommended for groups) | 4–7 | 2.5–3 h | ฿2,200–2,800 | $63–$80 | More space for luggage |
| Minivan (8–12 seats) | 8–12 | 2.5–3 h | ฿2,800–3,500 | $80–$100 | Great for tours |
Where to Book
- Grab app (operates in Nakhon Ratchasima) — book a "GrabCar" to Buri Ram Airport. Prices are dynamic; expect ฿1,800–2,200.
- Local taxi stands: At Nakhon Ratchasima Station or Bus Terminal 1. Negotiate a flat rate before departure — insist on meter or agree price in advance.
- Private transfer companies: e.g. Transfer Thailand — pre-book online, driver meets you at your hotel.
- Hotel concierge: Most hotels in Khorat can arrange a private car for ฿1,800–2,500.
When to Choose a Taxi / Private Transfer
- ✔ Late-night or early-morning travel (no trains/buses between 22:00–05:00).
- ✔ Group of 3+ people — cost per person becomes competitive with train.
- ✔ Heavy luggage (more than 2 large suitcases per person).
- ✔ Mobility concerns (elderly passengers, small children).
- ✔ Tight schedule — no waiting, direct route, saves 1–2 hours vs. train+bus.
Important Tips
- Route: The driver will take Highway 24 (Chok Chai–Det Udom) then Highway 219 to Buri Ram. This is a well-paved, dual-carriageway road.
- Tolls: None on this route.
- Fuel surcharge: Not typically added for this distance — confirm when booking.
- Safety: All licensed taxis have GPS. Share your ride status with a friend via Grab's safety feature.
Cost-Benefit Verdict
For a solo traveler, a private taxi costs 4–5 times more than train + taxi. But for 3–4 people, the price per person drops to ฿500–700 / $14–$20 — comparable to an express train ticket. Best for groups or when time is critical.
🚗 Car Rental (Self-Drive)
Renting a car in Nakhon Ratchasima and driving to Buri Ram Airport gives you complete flexibility — you can stop anywhere, travel on your own schedule, and avoid waiting for taxis or trains.
Rental Basics
| Car Type | Daily Rate (฿) | Daily Rate ($) | Mileage | Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy (e.g. Toyota Vios) | ฿800–1,200 | $23–$34 | Unlimited | Basic CDW included |
| Compact SUV (e.g. Honda HR-V) | ฿1,200–1,800 | $34–$51 | Unlimited | CDW + theft protection |
| Pickup (e.g. Toyota Hilux) | ฿1,000–1,500 | $29–$43 | Unlimited | Basic CDW |
Drive Details
- Distance: ~240 km (Nakhon Ratchasima city center → Buri Ram Airport).
- Driving time: ~2.5 hours via Highway 24 and Highway 219.
- Fuel cost: ~฿600–800 / $17–$23 (gasoline ~฿35/liter).
- Tolls: None.
- Parking at airport: ฿50/day / $1.40 — free for the first hour.
Where to Rent
- International brands: Hertz, Budget, and Avis have desks at Nakhon Ratchasima Airport (if arriving by air) or deliver to your hotel.
- Local agencies: e.g. Thai Rent a Car — often cheaper, but check insurance coverage carefully.
- Requirements: Valid driver's license from your home country + International Driving Permit (IDP). Passport required as deposit.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Complete flexibility, no waiting, can explore Buri Ram province, cost-effective for 2+ days.
- ❌ Cons: Need IDP, right-hand traffic (if not used to it), parking and fuel add cost, insurance deductible can be high (฿5,000–10,000).
Verdict
Best for travelers who want to explore the region (e.g., visit Phanom Rung Historical Park) or need a car for multiple days. For a one-way trip to the airport, a taxi is simpler and often similar cost.
✈️ Flight — Why It’s Not a Viable Option
There are no direct commercial flights from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram. The straight-line distance is only ~190 km (120 miles), and the drive is 2.5–3 hours — far too short for air travel.
Theoretical "Flight" Scenario (Not Practical)
If you were to fly, the only possible route would be:
- Taxi from Nakhon Ratchasima to Don Mueang Airport (DMK) or Suvarnabhumi (BKK): 3–4 hours, ฿2,000–3,000 / $57–$86.
- Fly from Bangkok to Buri Ram Airport (BFV): ~1 hour flight time, but check-in + security add 2 hours. Airlines: Nok Air and Thai Smile (now part of Thai Airways). One-way fare: ฿1,500–4,000 / $43–$114.
- Total time: 6–8 hours (vs. 3–4.5 hours by ground).
- Total cost: ฿3,500–7,000+ / $100–$200 — 2–10 times more expensive than train or bus.
Comparison: Ground vs. Air "Door-to-Door"
| Mode | Total Time | Total Cost (฿) | Total Cost ($) | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train + Taxi ★ | 3.5–4.5 h | ฿370–650 | $10.60–$18.60 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Bus + Taxi ★ | 4–5 h | ฿330–550 | $9.40–$15.70 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Taxi direct | 2.5–3 h | ฿1,500–2,500 | $43–$71 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Flight via Bangkok | 6–8 h | ฿3,500–7,000+ | $100–$200+ | ⭐ |
Verdict: Flying is not recommended for this short route. Ground transport is faster, cheaper, and simpler. Only consider air if you are already in Bangkok and need to reach Buri Ram — then a direct flight from DMK or BKK to BFV makes sense (1 hour, ฿1,500–4,000).
📊 Complete Cost & Time Comparison
| Transport Mode | Total Time | Total Cost (฿) | Total Cost ($) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚆 Train + Taxi ★ Winner | 3.5–4.5 h | ฿370–650 | $10.60–$18.60 | 1 (train→taxi) | Comfort & value |
| 🚌 Bus + Taxi ★ Budget | 4–5 h | ฿330–550 | $9.40–$15.70 | 1 (bus→taxi) | Lowest cost |
| 🚕 Taxi direct | 2.5–3 h | ฿1,500–2,500 | $43–$71 | 0 | Speed & convenience |
| 🚗 Car rental (self-drive) | 2.5–3 h | ฿1,400–2,000* | $40–$57* | 0 | Flexibility / multi-day |
| ✈️ Flight via Bangkok | 6–8 h | ฿3,500–7,000+ | $100–$200+ | 3+ (taxi→check-in→fly→taxi) | Not recommended |
* Car rental cost includes fuel for one day rental. Does not include insurance deductible.
Quick Decision Guide
- ✅ Best overall: Train + taxi — balance of time, cost, comfort.
- 💰 Cheapest: Bus + taxi — save ฿40–100 / $1–$3 vs. train.
- ⚡ Fastest: Taxi direct — 2.5 h door-to-door.
- 🚐 Best for groups (3–5 pax): Taxi direct — cost per person comparable to train.
- 🗺️ Best for explorers: Car rental — visit Phanom Rung, Muang Tam, or Buri Ram city.
💡 Traveler Tips & Practical Experience
Based on firsthand traveler reports and local knowledge, here are essential tips to make your journey from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram Airport smoother.
🚉 Train Station Know-How
- Nakhon Ratchasima Station is well-signposted in Thai and English. There's a small convenience store and coffee shop on the platform.
- Buri Ram Station is a small provincial station — no escalators, but luggage ramps are available. Taxis wait outside; if none, call a Grab (app works in Buri Ram city).
- Luggage assistance: Porters ("กระเป๋า") are available at both stations for ~฿20–50 per bag.
🕒 Timing & Schedules
- Arrive at the station 20–30 minutes early — ticket queues can be slow during peak hours.
- Weekend trains fill up fast: Friday afternoon and Sunday evening trains are often sold out. Book online in advance.
- Thai holidays: Songkran (April 13–15) and Loi Krathong (November) cause heavy demand. Book at least 2 weeks ahead.
- Early morning departure (before 07:00) gives you the best chance of on-time arrival — later trains can accumulate delays.
🧳 Luggage Strategy
- Travel light: The train-to-taxi transfer is easier with a rolling suitcase or backpack. Avoid oversized boxes.
- Takkyubin (luggage forwarding): If you have heavy bags, consider using Yamato Transport (Takkyubin) from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram. Cost: ~฿400–800 per suitcase. Takes 1–2 days. Ask your hotel concierge to arrange.
- Carry-on essentials: Keep valuables, medications, and a change of clothes with you in case luggage is delayed.
🌧️ Weather & Comfort
- Hot season (March–May): Trains with air-con are strongly recommended. Ordinary trains can reach 38°C / 100°F inside.
- Rainy season (June–October): Train delays of 30–60 minutes are common due to flooding on tracks. Carry an umbrella and snacks.
- Cool season (November–February): Pleasant travel in any train class. Early morning trains can be chilly — bring a light jacket.
💵 Money & Payment
- Train tickets: Cash only at station counters. Online booking accepts Visa/Mastercard.
- Bus tickets: Government buses cash only; private VIP buses accept cards.
- Taxis: Negotiate in cash (Thai baht). Grab accepts credit card in the app.
- ATMs: Available at Nakhon Ratchasima Station and Buri Ram Station. Buri Ram Airport has a small ATM lobby.
📱 Useful Apps & Resources
- Grab — book taxis and private cars throughout Thailand.
- Google Maps — works well for driving and walking directions. Download offline maps for the route.
- SRT Timetable — official PDF schedule (updated monthly).
- 12Go — online booking for trains, buses, and transfers (small commission).
🗣️ Local Language Help
- Most station staff speak basic English. For complex questions, use the Google Translate app or write down your destination in Thai: "สถานีรถไฟบุรีรัมย์" (Buri Ram Station) or "สนามบินบุรีรัมย์" (Buri Ram Airport).
- Taxis drivers rarely speak English — show the driver the Thai address on your phone.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct train from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram Airport?
No, there is no direct train to the airport. You must take a train from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram Station, then a taxi/tuk-tuk for the remaining 30 km to Buri Ram Airport. The total journey takes 3.5–4.5 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram Airport?
The cheapest option is bus + taxi: a government bus from Nakhon Ratchasima Bus Terminal 1 to Buri Ram Bus Station (฿130–160 / $3.70–$4.60) followed by a taxi to the airport (฿200–250 / $5.70–$7.10). Total cost: ฿330–550 / $9.40–$15.70.
What is the fastest way to get from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram Airport?
A direct private taxi is the fastest: 2.5–3 hours door-to-door. Cost: ฿1,500–2,500 / $43–$71. Best for groups or travelers in a hurry.
Can I use a Grab taxi from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram Airport?
Yes, the Grab app works in Nakhon Ratchasima. Book a GrabCar to Buri Ram Airport. Prices start at ฿1,800 / $51 for a standard car. The driver will message you — confirm the route and price in the chat.
Is there an overnight bus from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram?
No, there is no overnight bus on this route — the distance is only ~240 km and the last bus departs around 19:00. For early-morning departures, consider a taxi or the first train (06:30).
How far is Buri Ram Airport from the city center?
Buri Ram Airport is located about 30 km south of Buri Ram city center. A taxi from the city to the airport takes 25–30 minutes and costs ฿200–300 / $5.70–$8.60.
Can I rent a car in Nakhon Ratchasima and drop it off at Buri Ram Airport?
Most rental companies (Hertz, Budget, Thai Rent a Car) allow one-way drops but charge a fee of ฿500–1,500 / $14–$43. Confirm with the rental agency when booking. Hertz Thailand offers this service.
Which is more reliable: train or bus from Nakhon Ratchasima to Buri Ram?
Both are reliable, but trains are less affected by traffic and have a fixed schedule. Buses can get stuck in traffic on Highway 24 near Muak Lek. For time certainty, choose an express train.