Quick Answer
There is no single direct public transport from Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (NST) to Songkhla. The best overall method for most travelers is a combined taxi/public bus route: a short taxi to the main bus terminal, then a direct intercity bus. This balances cost and convenience. The total journey takes 3-4 hours and costs ~250-800 THB per person. For the fastest (2 hours) but most expensive option, hire a direct taxi or private transfer (2,000-2,800 THB).
Train Travel from Nakhon Si Thammarat to Songkhla?
Short Answer: It's not a practical or recommended option. Unlike other Thai regions, Southern Thailand's rail network does not service Nakhon Si Thammarat city directly for passenger travel to Songkhla.
Why the Train Isn't Viable:
- No Station in Nakhon Si Thammarat City: The province lacks a functional passenger railway station connected to the main State Railway of Thailand line.
- Nearest Major Station is in Surat Thani: Located over 150 km north, reaching it requires a 2+ hour taxi ride from NST Airport, negating any time or cost savings.
- Complex Multi-Modal Journey: Even if you reached Surat Thani, you'd take a train to Hat Yai (the nearest major station to Songkhla), and then still need a 45-minute taxi/bus to Songkhla. Total travel time would exceed 8 hours.
Conclusion: For the route from Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport to Songkhla, all reliable and efficient options are road-based. Invest your planning time into understanding the bus and taxi systems below.
Domestic Flight Options: Can You Fly?
Direct Answer: No, there are no connecting flights. This is a crucial point to understand, as many travelers look for quick flight connections between regional airports.
Airport Analysis:
- Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (NST): Primarily serves flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang & Suvarnabhumi) with airlines like Nok Air and AirAsia. It is an arrival point, not a hub for transfers to other southern cities.
- Songkhla's Nearest Airport - Hat Yai International (HDY): This is a larger airport with both domestic and international flights. However, there are no commercial flight routes between NST and HDY.
Theoretical "Door-to-Door" Flight + Ground Transport Time:
Even if a flight existed, the total time would be excessive:
1. Taxi from NST Airport to NST town (30 min) + Wait & Check-in (90 min) + Hypothetical Flight (30 min) + Baggage/Deplane (30 min) + Taxi from HDY to Songkhla (45 min) = ~4+ hours minimum, rivaling the direct taxi time at a much higher cost.
Verdict: Flying is not an option for this transfer. Your decision is between road-based public transport (bus) or private road transport (taxi/transfer).
Bus Travel: The Most Economical Method (Step-by-Step)
This is the preferred method for budget-conscious and adventurous travelers. It involves two clear legs.
Leg 1: Airport to Nakhon Si Thammarat Bus Terminal (Bor Sor Bor 3)
- Options:
- Shared Songthaew (Pick-up Truck): The cheapest (40-60 THB). Wait outside the terminal; they leave when full. Drops you near the terminal or in the city center, from where a short tuk-tuk ride (30 THB) is needed.
- Taxi/Metered Car: More convenient. Use the official airport taxi desk. Fare: 150-250 THB. Takes 25-35 minutes. Insist on the meter ("meter, please") or agree on a firm price first.
Leg 2: Intercity Bus from Nakhon Si Thammarat to Songkhla
- At the Terminal: Go to the ticket counters. Look for signs to "Songkhla" or ask. Buses are operated by both government (Bor Kor Sor) and private companies (like Sombat Tour).
- Bus Types & Frequency:
- Standard/2nd Class Bus (Cheapest): Basic seating, frequent stops. Fare: ~150-200 THB. Departs every 60-90 minutes from ~6:00 AM to ~6:00 PM. Journey: ~2.5-3.5 hours.
- VIP/1st Class Minibus (Recommended): Air-con, more comfortable seating, fewer stops. Fare: ~250-350 THB. More comfortable for the winding roads. Journey: ~2-2.5 hours.
- Key Tip: For private minivans, you can sometimes book online in advance via platforms like 12Go.Asia, which may offer a slightly more direct routing from a different van station.
Arrival in Songkhla & Final Transfer:
You will arrive at Songkhla Bus Terminal. To reach hotels (e.g., near Samila Beach), take a local taxi (100-150 THB) or tuk-tuk (80-120 THB).
Pros & Cons Summary:
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Extremely low cost (Total: 200-600 THB/pax) | Multiple transfers (Airport->Terminal->Bus->Local Taxi) |
| Authentic local travel experience | Luggage can be cumbersome to manage |
| Frequent departures | Travel time can be variable due to stops/traffic |
| Chance to see the countryside | Less comfortable for very tall passengers or those with mobility issues |
Taxi & Private Transfers: Door-to-Door Convenience
This is the simplest and fastest, but most expensive, option. Ideal for families, groups, travelers with heavy luggage, or those arriving late at night.
Options at Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (NST):
- Official Airport Taxi Desk: Located in the arrivals hall. You pay a fixed fare at the counter, receive a slip, and are assigned a driver. This is the most transparent and recommended method for solo/couple travelers. Fare to Songkhla: 2,200 - 2,800 THB.
- Metered Taxis (Outside): Some taxis may wait outside. Always negotiate and agree on a total price before getting in. The meter is rarely used for such a long trip. Use the airport desk price as a benchmark.
- Pre-Booked Private Transfer (Highly Recommended): Book online via services like Klook, Viator, or local operators. Your driver will be waiting with a name sign.
- Benefits: Fixed price, guaranteed availability, often includes luggage help and English-speaking driver, can stop for breaks.
- Cost: Similar to airport taxis, around 2,000 - 2,600 THB for a standard sedan. Often cheaper than the airport counter. For groups, 7-seater vans cost ~3,000-3,500 THB, making it cost-effective.
Journey Details:
- Travel Time: 1 hour 45 min to 2 hours 15 min, depending on traffic on Route 408 and Route 4.
- Route: The driver will take the most direct highway route. You can request a short stop at a convenience store or gas station if needed.
When is a Taxi/Transfer the BEST Choice?
- Arriving on a late-night or very early morning flight.
- Traveling in a group of 3 or more (splitting the cost).
- Carrying surfboards, dive gear, or excessive luggage.
- If you value time, convenience, and a stress-free transfer above all else.
- For business travel or with elderly/young children.
Cost & Travel Time Comparison Table
Use this table to quickly compare all viable options based on your priority: Budget, Speed, or Convenience.
| Transport Method | Approx. Total Cost (per person)* | Total Travel Time (door-to-door)* | Number of Transfers | Best For | Booking Advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Songthaew + Standard Bus | 200 - 260 THB ($5.5-$7.2) | 3.5 - 4.5 hours | 3 (Songthaew, Bus, Local Taxi) | Solo backpackers, ultimate budget travel | Pay as you go at airport & bus terminal. |
| Taxi to Terminal + VIP Minibus | 400 - 800 THB ($11-$22) | 3 - 4 hours | 2 (Taxi, Bus, Local Taxi) | Best Value (Balanced cost/comfort) | Taxi at airport, bus ticket at terminal or online for minivan. |
| Pre-Booked Private Car (Sedan) | 2,000 - 2,600 THB ($55-$72) (~650 THB/pax if 4 people) |
1.75 - 2.25 hours | 0 (Direct) | Fastest & Most Convenient, Groups, Families, Late arrivals | Book online 1-3 days in advance for best rates. |
| Airport Taxi (Counter) | 2,200 - 2,800 THB ($61-$78) | 1.75 - 2.25 hours | 0 (Direct) | Urgent travel, last-minute decision | Arrange upon arrival at airport desk. |
* Costs and times are estimates. Traffic, wait times, and exact drop-off points can affect the total.
Traveler Tips & Local Insights
Beyond schedules and fares, here is practical wisdom from experienced travelers and locals to make your journey smoother.
Essential Pre-Trip Tips:
- Cash is King: Have sufficient Thai Baht in small denominations (20, 50, 100 notes). Taxis, songthaews, bus terminals, and local taxis in Songkhla primarily use cash. ATMs are available at NST Airport.
- Sim Card/Data: Purchase a local tourist SIM at NST Airport (AIS, TrueMove, dtac). Having Google Maps and translation apps (Google Translate) is invaluable for communication and verifying routes.
- Luggage Strategy: Pack light if using the bus. Large suitcases go in the bus compartment; keep a small daypack with essentials (water, phone, wallet, jacket for bus A/C) with you.
Navigating the Bus System Like a Pro:
- "Songkhla" vs "Hat Yai": Be clear. Songkhla city is distinct from the larger Hat Yai city. Ensure your bus ticket says "Songkhla" (สงขลา). Some buses to Hat Yai may pass near Songkhla, but the driver might not make your requested stop.
- Bus Terminal Confusion: Nakhon Si Thammarat has more than one terminal. You want "Bor Sor Bor 3" (ขนส่ง นครศรีธรรมราช 3), the main intercity terminal. Confirm this with your taxi driver.
- Comfort on the Bus: The A/C can be very cold. Wear long pants and carry a light sweater or scarf.
Upon Arrival in Songkhla:
- Local Transport: Songkhla is not a major tourist hub like Phuket. Tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis are the main mode. Always agree on the price before the ride starts. A typical trip within the city (e.g., bus terminal to Samila Beach) should be 80-150 THB.
- First Impressions: The bus terminal area is functional, not scenic. Don't be alarmed. The beachfront and old town areas are charming and only a short ride away.
FAQs: Your Nakhon Si Thammarat to Songkhla Questions Answered
Is there a direct bus from Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport to Songkhla?
No, there is no direct public bus service from Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (NST) to Songkhla city. You must first take a taxi or songthaew (shared pick-up truck) from the airport to Nakhon Si Thammarat's main bus terminal (Bor Sor Bor 3), which takes about 30 minutes. From there, you can catch a direct intercity bus to Songkhla. Private minivan transfers may offer a more direct route but require advance booking.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport to Songkhla?
The cheapest way is a combination of local transport and a public bus. Take a shared songthaew (approx. 40-60 THB) from the airport to Nakhon Si Thammarat Bus Terminal, then board a standard government (Bor Kor Sor) bus to Songkhla (approx. 150-200 THB). Total cost per person is around 200-260 THB ($5.50-$7.20 USD). This is significantly cheaper than taxis (2,000+ THB) or private transfers.
How long is the taxi ride from Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport to Songkhla?
A direct taxi or private car from Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport to central Songkhla (e.g., Samila Beach area) takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The distance is about 120-130 kilometers. This is the fastest door-to-door option but also the most expensive, with fares ranging from 2,000 to 2,800 THB ($55-$78 USD) for a one-way trip.
Can I take a train from near the airport to Songkhla?
Not directly. Nakhon Si Thammarat does not have a passenger train station. The nearest major railway station is in Surat Thani, over 150 km away, which is not practical for this route. Therefore, train travel is not a recommended or viable option for transport between Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport and Songkhla. Focus on road-based options like bus, taxi, or private transfer.
Are there flight options between Nakhon Si Thammarat and Songkhla?
No, there are no commercial flights between Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (NST) and Songkhla (Hat Yai International Airport - HDY). Both are regional airports without a connecting route. Flying is not an option for this specific transfer. All travel must be undertaken by road.
Is it easy to find a taxi at Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport upon arrival?
Yes, it is generally straightforward. Official airport taxis operate on a fixed-price or meter-plus-surcharge basis from a desk inside the arrivals hall. It's advisable to use these official services for fair pricing. While metered taxis might be waiting outside, negotiating a fare beforehand is crucial. For late-night arrivals, pre-booking a private transfer is a more reliable option.
What is the best way to get to Songkhla if I have a lot of luggage?
The most convenient way with heavy or multiple luggage is to pre-book a private car transfer. This provides door-to-door service and dedicated space for your bags. Public buses have limited luggage compartments and can be cumbersome. If on a budget, a taxi from the airport to the bus terminal, then a bus, is manageable, but you'll need to handle luggage transfers yourself.
Where does the bus from Nakhon Si Thammarat arrive in Songkhla?
Buses from Nakhon Si Thammarat typically terminate at Songkhla's main bus terminal, located on Kanjanavanich Road, slightly north of the city center. From this terminal, you will need to take a local taxi, tuk-tuk, or motorcycle taxi to your final hotel or destination within Songkhla, which may cost an additional 50-150 THB.