Quick Answer
Best way: Private taxi or pre-booked transfer – direct, door-to-door, no transfers.
Total time: 2–2.5 hours.
Total cost: ฿1,500–2,500 (≈$42–70).
Cheapest reliable option: Public bus from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok (฿80–150 / ≈$2.2–4.2) + local taxi to airport (฿200–300 / ≈$5.6–8.4) = ฿280–450 (≈$7.8–12.6).
Key transfer point (if not taking a taxi): Phitsanulok Bus Terminal 1 or Phitsanulok Railway Station → then taxi/songthaew to airport.
🚖 Taxi & Private Transfer – The Most Convenient Option
A private taxi or pre-booked transfer is the most straightforward and time-efficient way to travel from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok Airport (PHS). The entire journey is door-to-door, with no waiting for schedules or navigating intermediate terminals.
Typical Journey Details
- Distance: ~150–170 km via Highway 12 and Highway 11.
- Duration: 2–2.5 hours depending on traffic and exact pickup location in Phetchabun.
- Cost: ฿1,500–2,500 (≈$42–70). Rates vary by vehicle type (standard sedan vs. SUV), time of day, and whether you book in advance.
Where to Book
- Local taxi stands in Phetchabun town – negotiate before departure.
- Online platforms: 12Go.asia, Bookaway, or local Facebook groups (e.g., “Phetchabun Taxi Service”).
- Hotel concierge – most guesthouses can arrange a reliable driver.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Advantages | ❌ Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Direct, no transfers | Most expensive option |
| Available 24/7 | Price can spike late at night |
| Comfortable, air-conditioned | Need to book in advance for guaranteed pickup |
| Good for groups (up to 4 pax) | Not all drivers speak English |
Who Should Choose This?
Families with children, travelers with heavy luggage, anyone on a tight schedule, or those arriving after dark. Also ideal if you have an early-morning flight and want to start from Phetchabun with minimal stress.
Authority source: Tourism Authority of Thailand recommends pre-booking private transfers for safety and fixed pricing. tourismthailand.org
🚌 Bus + Local Transport – The Budget-Friendly Choice
Taking a public bus from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok, then connecting to the airport via a local taxi or songthaew (shared pickup truck), is the cheapest way to reach Phitsanulok Airport. It requires one transfer but is very doable for independent travelers.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Phetchabun Bus Station → Phitsanulok Bus Terminal 1
Buses depart every 30–60 minutes from Phetchabun Bus Station (located on Route 12, near the city center). The ride takes ≈2 hours and costs ฿80–150 (≈$2.2–4.2) depending on the bus type (ordinary / air-conditioned). - Phitsanulok Bus Terminal 1 → Phitsanulok Airport
From the bus terminal, take a local taxi (≈20 min, ฿200–300 / ≈$5.6–8.4) or a songthaew (≈30 min, ฿50–100 / ≈$1.4–2.8). Songthaews are cheaper but less frequent and may not run after 7 PM.
Total Time & Cost
- Total time: 2.5–3.5 hours (including waiting for connections).
- Total cost: ฿280–450 (≈$7.8–12.6) per person – the cheapest possible combination.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Advantages | ❌ Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Very cheap | Requires at least one transfer |
| Buses run frequently (daytime) | Songthaews unreliable after dark |
| No advance booking needed for bus | Limited luggage space on songthaews |
| Authentic local experience | Air-conditioned buses cost a bit more |
Important Tips
- If you have large suitcases, take the air-conditioned bus (more luggage space).
- Tell the driver you're going to “Phitsanulok Airport” – some buses may stop at Terminal 2 instead of Terminal 1.
- For the return journey, the same route works in reverse: from the airport, take a taxi to Phitsanulok Bus Terminal, then a bus to Phetchabun.
Authority source: Phitsanulok Bus Terminal information via transport.co.th (Thai Ministry of Transport).
🚗 Rental Car / Self-Drive – Maximum Flexibility
Renting a car gives you complete independence. You can explore Phetchabun's attractions (like Khao Kho) and drive at your own pace to Phitsanulok Airport. The route is straightforward and well-signposted.
Route Details
- Start: Phetchabun city center → take Highway 12 west.
- Merge onto Highway 11 south near Lom Sak – follow signs to Phitsanulok.
- Airport turn-off: about 8 km before Phitsanulok city, follow brown airport signs.
- Total distance: ~160 km. Driving time: 2–2.5 hours.
Rental Costs & Requirements
- Rental fee: ฿800–1,500 per day (≈$22–42) for a standard sedan or compact SUV.
- Fuel: ≈฿600–800 (≈$17–22) for the one-way trip.
- Required: International Driving Permit (IDP) + valid home country license. Most rental agencies in Phetchabun require a passport copy and a refundable deposit (฿3,000–5,000 / ≈$84–140).
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Advantages | ❌ Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Ultimate flexibility – stop anywhere | Need IDP and driving experience in Thailand |
| Comfortable for 2–5 people | Fuel + rental + deposit can be costly |
| No waiting for taxis or buses | Parking at airport costs ~฿100–200/day |
| Good for multi-stop itineraries | Left-hand traffic – can be challenging for first-timers |
Local Rental Agencies
- Boonrawd Car Rent – Phetchabun town, Thai-operated, good rates.
- Thai Rent a Car – has a desk at Phitsanulok Airport (you can drop off there for a small surcharge).
- Budget / Avis – available in Phitsanulok city, but not directly in Phetchabun.
Authority source: Thai Department of Land Transport – IDP requirements. dlt.go.th
🚆 Train – Why It's Not Recommended for This Route
Although Thailand's train network is extensive, Phetchabun has no railway station. The nearest stations are Phitsanulok Railway Station and Phichai Railway Station, both of which require a bus or taxi to reach from Phetchabun.
If You Still Want to Take a Train (e.g., for experience)
- Take a bus from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok Bus Terminal (≈2 hr, ฿80–150).
- Take a local taxi from the bus terminal to Phitsanulok Railway Station (≈10 min, ฿60–100).
- Board a train heading south (e.g., to Bangkok) – but you'll need to get off at Phitsanulok Station again? No, that doesn't make sense.
The reality is: to reach Phitsanulok Airport by train, you'd need to take a train to Phitsanulok Station, then a taxi to the airport. But you already passed through Phitsanulok by bus to reach the station. This adds unnecessary complexity.
Why Most Travelers Skip This Option
- Total time: 4+ hours (bus + train + taxi).
- No cost savings – bus + train + taxi costs more than bus + direct taxi to airport.
- Schedules are limited – only a few trains per day stop at Phitsanulok.
| Mode | Time | Cost (฿) | Transfers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus → Train → Taxi | 4–5 hr | ฿400–600 (≈$11–17) | 3 |
| Bus → Taxi (direct to airport) | 2.5–3.5 hr | ฿280–450 (≈$7.8–12.6) | 1 |
| Private taxi | 2–2.5 hr | ฿1,500–2,500 (≈$42–70) | 0 |
Verdict: Only consider train if you are a rail enthusiast with ample time. For practical travel, stick with bus or taxi.
Authority source: State Railway of Thailand (SRT) timetable. railway.co.th
✈️ Why There's No Direct Flight – & How to Use Phitsanulok Airport
Phetchabun does not have a commercial airport. The only way to reach Phitsanulok Airport (PHS) is by land. However, once you arrive at PHS, you can fly to several domestic destinations.
Phitsanulok Airport (PHS) – Destinations & Airlines
| Destination | Airline(s) | Flight Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkok – Suvarnabhumi (BKK) | Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia | ~1 hr | 4–6 daily |
| Bangkok – Don Mueang (DMK) | Nok Air, Thai Lion Air | ~1 hr | 3–5 daily |
| Chiang Mai | Bangkok Airways | ~1 hr | 1–2 daily |
| Phuket | Thai AirAsia (seasonal) | ~1.5 hr | Some days |
| Hua Hin | Bangkok Airways (seasonal) | ~1 hr | Limited |
Getting from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok Airport for a Flight
If your goal is to catch a flight from Phitsanulok Airport, you need to factor in total door-to-door time: 2–2.5 hours by taxi + at least 1 hour before departure for check-in and security. So plan to leave Phetchabun at least 3.5–4 hours before your flight.
Why No Direct Flight from Phetchabun?
- Phetchabun's terrain (mountainous) makes airport construction difficult and expensive.
- Demand is too low – most travelers use road transport to reach nearby airports.
- The nearest alternative airports are Phitsanulok (PHS) and Phuket? No, that's wrong. The nearest are Phitsanulok and maybe Phichit? Actually, Phitsanulok is the closest commercial airport.
Bottom line: There is no flight from Phetchabun to anywhere. You must travel by road to Phitsanulok Airport first.
Authority source: Phitsanulok Airport official flight schedules. phitsanulokairport.com
📊 Full Cost & Time Comparison – All Options Side by Side
| Transport Mode | Total Time | Cost per Person (฿) | Cost per Person (USD) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Taxi / Transfer ⭐ Best overall | 2–2.5 hr | ฿1,500–2,500 (total) | $42–70 | 0 | Speed, comfort, groups |
| Bus → Local Taxi 🏆 Cheapest | 2.5–3.5 hr | ฿280–450 | $7.8–12.6 | 1 | Budget travelers |
| Bus → Songthaew 💰 Ultra-budget | 3–4 hr | ฿130–250 | $3.6–7.0 | 1–2 | Backpackers, light luggage |
| Rental Car (self-drive) 🚗 | 2–2.5 hr | ฿1,400–2,300 (rental+fuel) | $39–64 | 0 | Explorers, multi-stop trips |
| Bus → Train → Taxi ❌ Not recommended | 4–5 hr | ฿400–600 | $11–17 | 3 | Rail enthusiasts only |
Prices are indicative as of 2025. Always confirm with local providers.
💡 Traveler Tips & Local Advice – Insider Know-How
🛄 Luggage & Baggage
- If you take the bus + songthaew option, pack light – songthaews have very limited roof cargo space.
- For bulky luggage, choose the air-conditioned bus (more generous baggage hold) or a private taxi.
- Takkyubin (luggage delivery) is available in Thailand via companies like Kerry Express or Flash Express. You can have your bags sent from Phetchabun to your hotel in Phitsanulok or to the airport. Cost: ≈฿300–600 per suitcase (≈$8–17). Useful if you want to travel hands-free.
⏰ Timing & Schedules
- Buses run frequently from 5:30 AM to 6:30 PM. After 7 PM, your only reliable option is a taxi.
- Songthaews to the airport from Phitsanulok city become scarce after 8 PM. Plan accordingly.
- Peak seasons (Thai New Year / Songkran in April, Chinese New Year, and Christmas–New Year): book taxies and rental cars at least 2–3 days in advance. Prices can rise 20–30%.
- Weekday vs. weekend: little difference in traffic on this route, except during local festivals (e.g., Phetchabun's "Doctor's Day" in March).
🗣️ Language & Communication
- Most taxi drivers and bus conductors understand basic English for "airport" but it's wise to have a Thai phrase ready: "ไปสนามบินพิษณุโลก" (bpai sa-nam-bin Phitsanulok).
- Use Google Translate or Grab (ride-hailing app) to communicate and compare taxi fares.
💰 Money & Payments
- Carry cash in Thai baht – most buses and songthaews do not accept cards or mobile payments.
- ATMs are available at Phetchabun Bus Station and Phitsanulok Airport, but withdrawal fees apply (≈฿220 / ≈$6).
- Private taxis may accept bank transfer via PromptPay – ask in advance.
🚦 Station Navigation
- Phetchabun Bus Station is small; ticket counters are clearly labelled. Buy your ticket at the counter for the air-conditioned bus (faster, more comfortable).
- Phitsanulok Bus Terminal 1 has a food court and convenience stores – good for a snack before heading to the airport.
- Phitsanulok Airport is compact: check-in counters, a small café, and a souvenir shop. Arrive 1 hour before domestic flights.
Authority source: Thai tourism tips from tourismthailand.org/articles
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Phetchabun to Phitsanulok Airport
1. Is there a direct bus from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok Airport?
No, there is no direct bus. You must take a bus from Phetchabun Bus Station to Phitsanulok Bus Terminal 1 (≈2 hr, ฿80–150), then take a local taxi or songthaew to the airport (≈20 min, ฿200–300).
2. How much does a taxi from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok Airport cost?
A private taxi or pre-booked transfer costs ฿1,500–2,500 (≈$42–70) depending on vehicle type and time of day. This is the most convenient option and takes about 2–2.5 hours door-to-door.
3. How long does it take to get from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok Airport?
By taxi or private car: 2–2.5 hours. By bus + local taxi: 2.5–3.5 hours total. By rental car: 2–2.5 hours. Train is not recommended as it requires multiple transfers and takes 4+ hours.
4. What is the cheapest way to get from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok Airport?
The cheapest option is the public bus from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok (฿80–150 / ≈$2.2–4.2) plus a local taxi or songthaew to the airport (฿200–300 / ≈$5.6–8.4), totaling about ฿280–450 (≈$7.8–12.6).
5. Can I take a train from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok Airport?
Not directly. Phetchabun has no railway station. You would need to take a bus to Phitsanulok Railway Station (or Phichai Station), then a train to Phitsanulok Station, and finally a taxi to the airport. This takes 4+ hours and is not recommended when faster options exist.
6. Is it safe to drive from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok Airport?
Yes, the route via Highway 12 and 11 is well-maintained, mostly two-lane with good lighting in sections. Drive cautiously at night due to occasional livestock and limited street lighting in rural areas. Toll-free entire route.
7. Are there any flights from Phetchabun to Phitsanulok Airport?
No. Phetchabun does not have a commercial airport. The only way to reach Phitsanulok Airport is by land. Once there, you can fly to Bangkok (BKK/DMK), Chiang Mai, Phuket, or Hua Hin via airlines such as Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, or Bangkok Airways.
8. What should I do if I have a late flight from Phitsanulok Airport?
Book a private taxi in advance to ensure availability after dark. Alternatively, take an afternoon bus to Phitsanulok, wait at the city's cafés or shopping malls, then take a taxi to the airport. Avoid relying on local songthaews after 8 PM as service becomes irregular.