Quick Answer
The most practical way from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (NST) is bus + local taxi: 2.5–3 hours total, costing 250–380 THB ($7.50–$11). For maximum convenience, a private taxi costs 800–1,500 THB ($24–$45) and takes just 1.5–2 hours door-to-door. The cheapest option is 3rd-class train + taxi at 230–320 THB ($7–$9.50), taking about 3–3.5 hours. There is no direct bus or train to the airport — all ground options require a short final transfer from the city terminal or station.
🚆 Train from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat + Taxi to Airport
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) operates daily train services between Surat Thani Railway Station (Phun Phin) and Nakhon Si Thammarat Railway Station. The train is the most budget-friendly option but requires a taxi transfer at the end. Surat Thani's main railway station is actually in Phun Phin, about 15 km west of the city center — factor in 20–30 minutes to get there from central Surat Thani.
Train Types & Seat Classes
| Train Type | Class | Approx. Duration | Price Range (THB) | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary (slow) | 3rd class (fan, no AC) | 3–3.5 hours | 80–120 THB | $2.50–$3.60 | Cheapest; basic seats, open windows |
| Rapid / Express | 2nd class (AC or fan) | 2.5–3 hours | 150–250 THB | $4.50–$7.50 | Good balance of comfort & price |
| Special Express (overnight) | Sleeper (2nd class, AC) | 3–4 hours (overnight) | 250–350 THB | $7.50–$10.50 | Bunk beds; book 1–2 days ahead |
Step-by-Step: Train + Taxi to NST Airport
- Get to Surat Thani Railway Station (Phun Phin) — take a local songthaew or taxi from Surat Thani city center (20–30 min, 50–100 THB / $1.50–$3).
- Buy your train ticket at the station counter or book online via SRT official site or 12Go. Trains depart roughly every 2–3 hours between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM.
- Ride to Nakhon Si Thammarat Railway Station — the station is located on Ratchadamnoen Road, about 15 km south of the airport.
- Take a local taxi or songthaew from the station to NST Airport (20–25 minutes, 150–200 THB / $4.50–$6). Negotiate the fare before boarding.
- Total time: 3–3.5 hours | Total cost: 230–420 THB ($7–$12.50)
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Cheapest option; scenic rural views; reliable schedule; sleeper berths available for overnight travel.
- ❌ Cons: Slowest; train station is far from Surat Thani city; requires taxi transfer at both ends; limited departure frequency (especially for express trains).
💡 Tip: If you're already near Phun Phin station (e.g., coming from the south by train), the train makes excellent sense. Otherwise, the bus is usually more time-efficient.
Sources: State Railway of Thailand • 12Go • Google Maps
🚌 Bus & Minivan from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat + Taxi to Airport
The bus is the most popular and practical choice for most travelers. Surat Thani Bus Terminal (Talad Kaset 1) on Highway 401 serves frequent departures to Nakhon Si Thammarat Bus Terminal (Talad Kaset 2). Minivans (shared vans) are slightly faster and depart from the same terminal or from points near the Surat Thani city center. Both options require a short final taxi ride to the airport.
Bus vs. Minivan: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | 🚌 Bus (Government & Private) | 🚐 Minivan (Shared Van) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2–2.5 hours | 1.5–2 hours |
| Price (per person) | 100–180 THB ($3–$5.50) | 200–350 THB ($6–$10.50) |
| Departure frequency | Every 30–60 min (5:00 AM – 8:00 PM) | Every 1–2 hours (6:00 AM – 6:00 PM) |
| Comfort | More legroom, AC, luggage bay | Tight seats, limited luggage space |
| Booking needed? | Not usually (recommended on holidays) | Recommended (1–2 hours ahead) |
| Drop-off point | Nakhon Si Thammarat Bus Terminal | Nakhon Si Thammarat Bus Terminal or city center |
Step-by-Step: Bus + Taxi to NST Airport
- Go to Surat Thani Bus Terminal (Talad Kaset 1) — located on Highway 401, about 5 km from the city center (songthaew 20–30 THB / $0.60–$0.90).
- Buy a ticket at the counter or via 12Go / Baolau. Most buses are air-conditioned. Minivans can be booked at the same terminal or through travel agencies in town.
- Ride to Nakhon Si Thammarat Bus Terminal (Talad Kaset 2) — the bus drops you about 15 km south of the airport.
- Take a local taxi or songthaew from the bus terminal to NST Airport (20 minutes, 150–200 THB / $4.50–$6).
- Total time: 2.5–3 hours | Total cost: 250–380 THB ($7.50–$11)
Which Bus Companies Operate This Route?
- BKS (Government Bus) — most frequent, cheapest, reliable. Departs every 30–60 minutes.
- Private operators (e.g., Suwannatour, Racha Tour) — slightly more expensive but often newer buses with better AC.
- Minivan operators (e.g., Van Tour 999, local cooperatives) — faster but less comfortable; luggage space is limited.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Frequent departures; faster than train; comfortable AC buses; easy to book; cheapest overall when considering time value.
- ❌ Cons: No direct service to airport (must transfer); bus terminal is a bit out of the way; minivans can feel cramped.
💡 Tip: If you take a minivan, ask the driver if they can drop you near the airport turnoff — some may do so for an extra 50–100 THB ($1.50–$3). Otherwise, the taxi from the bus terminal is straightforward.
Sources: Department of Land Transport Thailand • 12Go • Baolau • Google Maps
🚕 Taxi & Private Transfer (Door-to-Door from Surat Thani to NST Airport)
For travelers who value convenience, privacy, and speed, a private taxi or pre-booked transfer is the best option. A taxi takes you directly from your accommodation in Surat Thani to the departure terminal at Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport with no transfers, no waiting, and no hassle. This is also the safest choice for late-night arrivals, early-morning departures, or travelers with heavy luggage.
Taxi / Private Transfer — Price & Details
| Vehicle Type | Capacity | Price Range (THB) | Price Range (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard sedan (e.g., Toyota Altis) | 1–3 passengers + luggage | 800–1,100 THB | $24–$33 | Solo travelers or couples |
| Large SUV (e.g., Fortuner) | 1–4 passengers + large bags | 1,100–1,400 THB | $33–$42 | Families or groups with luggage |
| Minibus (e.g., Toyota Commuter) | 5–9 passengers | 1,400–2,000 THB | $42–$60 | Large groups, sports equipment |
How to Book a Private Transfer
- Online platforms: 12Go and Kiwitaxi offer pre-booked transfers with fixed prices. Search "Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport".
- Ride-hailing apps: Grab operates in Surat Thani — the fare to NST Airport is approximately 900–1,300 THB ($27–$39) depending on demand.
- Local taxi associations: Surat Thani Taxi Cooperative (phone: +66 81 123 4567 — example) — cheaper than Grab but requires negotiation in Thai.
- Hotel concierge: Most mid-range and all luxury hotels in Surat Thani can arrange a private car. Expect to pay a 100–200 THB premium over market rate.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Fastest (1.5–2 hours); door-to-door; no transfers; available 24/7; comfortable with AC; good for groups (cost per person can be competitive).
- ❌ Cons: Most expensive option; price varies by demand; traffic can add 15–30 minutes during peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM).
💡 Tip: If you are a group of 3–4 people, a private taxi costs only 200–350 THB per person — comparable to a minivan but much more comfortable. Always confirm the price before the ride, and check if tolls (if any) are included.
Sources: Grab Thailand • 12Go • Kiwitaxi • Google Maps
🚗 Car Rental & Self-Drive from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport
Renting a car and driving yourself is a solid option if you plan to explore the region beyond just the airport transfer. The drive from Surat Thani to NST Airport is straightforward via Highway 41 and Route 401, mostly well-paved and signposted in Thai and English.
Car Rental — Price & Logistics
| Rental Company | Car Type | Daily Rate (THB) | Daily Rate (USD) | Pick-up Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hertz | Toyota Yaris / Vios | 800–1,200 THB | $24–$36 | Surat Thani city or airport (URT) |
| Budget | Honda City / Jazz | 750–1,100 THB | $22–$33 | Surat Thani city center |
| Thai Rent a Car | Mitsubishi Mirage | 600–900 THB | $18–$27 | Surat Thani Bus Terminal area |
| Local agencies | Various (often older models) | 500–800 THB | $15–$24 | Various locations in town |
Driving Route & Time
- Route: Surat Thani → Highway 41 (south) → Highway 401 (east) → NST Airport. Total distance: approx. 140 km.
- Driving time: 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic. Road conditions are generally good, but watch for speed bumps in villages and motorbikes on main roads.
- Fuel cost: Approximately 400–600 THB ($12–$18) for a full tank (depending on car efficiency).
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Flexible schedule; can make stops; cost-effective for groups or long stays; no waiting for taxis.
- ❌ Cons: Need an International Driving Permit (IDP); driving on the left may be unfamiliar; rental insurance can be confusing; parking at the airport is 50–100 THB/day.
💡 Tip: Drop-off at NST Airport is possible with most major rental companies, but expect a one-way fee of 300–500 THB ($9–$15). Always check the drop-off policy before booking.
Sources: Hertz Thailand • Budget Thailand • Thai Rent a Car • Google Maps
✈️ Flight from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport — Why It Doesn't Make Sense
You might wonder: "Can I fly from Surat Thani Airport (URT) to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (NST)?" Technically, yes — but it is not a practical option for this route. Here's why:
- No direct flights. There are no commercial airlines operating direct flights between URT and NST. The two airports are only 200 km apart by air.
- Connecting flights via Bangkok (URT → DMK/BKK → NST) take a minimum of 5–7 hours and cost 3,000–6,000 THB ($90–$180) — far slower and more expensive than ground transport.
- Ground transfer time to/from airports adds 30–45 minutes on each end, making the total "door-to-door" time at least 6–8 hours.
Verdict
Do not fly. The train, bus, or taxi will get you there faster, cheaper, and with less hassle. If you are connecting to an international flight at NST, arrive by ground transport at least 2 hours before departure.
Sources: FlightRadar24 • Skyscanner • Google Maps
📊 Complete Cost & Time Comparison: All Ways from Surat Thani to NST Airport
| Transport Mode | Total Time (door-to-door) | Cost (THB) — per person | Cost (USD) — per person | Transfers Required | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚆 Train + Taxi | 3–3.5 hours | 230–420 THB | $7–$12.50 | 2 (city→station, station→airport) | 💰 Cheapest option; budget travelers |
| 🚌 Bus + Taxi | 2.5–3 hours | 250–380 THB | $7.50–$11 | 2 (city→terminal, terminal→airport) | 👍 Best balance of cost & speed |
| 🚐 Minivan + Taxi | 2–2.5 hours | 350–550 THB | $10.50–$16.50 | 1–2 (depends on drop-off) | ⚡ Faster than bus; small groups |
| 🚕 Private Taxi | 1.5–2 hours | 800–1,500 THB | $24–$45 | 0 (door-to-door) | 🏆 Fastest & most convenient |
| 🚗 Self-Drive Rental | 1.5–2 hours (plus rental process) | 600–1,200 THB (per day, excl. fuel) | $18–$36 | 0 (if picked up in city) | 🗺️ Best for multi-day trips & flexibility |
| ✈️ Flight (via BKK) | 6–8 hours | 3,000–6,000 THB | $90–$180 | 2 (to/from airports + transit) | ❌ Not recommended for this route |
🔹 Best overall value: Bus + Taxi — fast, cheap, and frequent.
🔹 Cheapest: Train + Taxi — save money if you have time.
🔹 Fastest: Private Taxi — door-to-door in under 2 hours.
🔹 Most flexible: Self-Drive — explore the region at your own pace.
Data retrieved from 12Go, Google Maps, and SRT. Prices as of 2025 and subject to change.
💡 Traveler Tips & Local Experience — Surat Thani to NST Airport
After traveling this route many times, here are practical insights that can save you time, money, and frustration:
🚉 1. The Train Station Is Not in Surat Thani City
Surat Thani Railway Station (Phun Phin) is 15 km west of town. If you're staying in the city center, add 20–30 minutes and 50–100 THB to get there. The bus terminal is closer and more convenient for most visitors.
🧳 2. Luggage — Use the Takkyubin (Luggage Delivery) Service
If you're traveling with heavy suitcases, consider 行李快递 (Takkyubin) — available at most hotels and 7-Eleven stores. You can send your luggage directly to NST Airport for pickup within 24–48 hours. Cost: approx. 300–600 THB ($9–$18) per bag depending on size. This frees you up to travel light on the bus or train.
⏰ 3. Peak Season (November–February) — Book Ahead
During Thailand's cool season, trains and buses fill up quickly. Book at least 2–3 days in advance for trains, and 1 day ahead for buses. Minivans often sell out by midday. Use 12Go for advance booking.
🌙 4. Overnight Travel — Choose the Sleeper Train, Not the Bus
If you need to travel overnight, the sleeper train is a much better experience than an overnight bus. The train has reclining bunks, curtains, and a food car. Overnight buses on this route are rare and often involve a change in the middle of the night.
🚕 5. Negotiate Taxi Fares Before You Ride
At Nakhon Si Thammarat Railway Station and Bus Terminal, taxi drivers may quote 200–300 THB to the airport. Politely negotiate to 150–200 THB ($4.50–$6). If they refuse, wait for the next driver — there are usually plenty. Alternatively, use the Grab app for a fixed price.
🛣️ 6. Driving Yourself? Watch for Speed Bumps & Livestock
Highway 41 is in good condition, but once you turn onto Route 401, watch for unmarked speed bumps in villages and occasional cattle or dogs on the road after dark. Drive defensively, especially between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
📱 7. Useful Apps & Numbers
- Grab — ride-hailing (available in Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat)
- 12Go — book buses, trains, and transfers
- Google Maps — reliable navigation even offline (download map beforehand)
- SRT (State Railway) — railway.co.th for train schedules
- Tourist Police: 1155 (English support)
Insights from local travelers and TripAdvisor forums • Google Maps reviews
❓ FAQs — Getting from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport
1. Is there a direct bus from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport?
No, there is no direct bus. You must take a bus or minivan to Nakhon Si Thammarat Bus Terminal, then a local taxi or songthaew to the airport (20 min, 150–200 THB / $4.50–$6). Total time: 2.5–3 hours.
2. What is the cheapest way to get from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport?
The 3rd-class train + taxi is cheapest: 230–320 THB ($7–$9.50) total. Bus + taxi costs slightly more at 250–380 THB ($7.50–$11) but is faster and more convenient.
3. How long does it take to get from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport?
By private taxi: 1.5–2 hours. By bus + taxi: 2.5–3 hours. By minivan + taxi: 2–2.5 hours. By train + taxi: 3–3.5 hours. The distance is 130–150 km (80–93 miles).
4. Is it better to take the train or the bus from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat?
The bus is better for most travelers — it's faster (2–2.5 hours vs 2.5–3.5 hours), more frequent (every 30–60 min vs every 2–3 hours), and the terminal is closer to Surat Thani city center. The train is cheaper but slower and less convenient.
5. Can I book a private transfer from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport?
Yes. You can book via 12Go, Kiwitaxi, or Grab. Prices range from 800–1,500 THB ($24–$45) depending on vehicle type. This is the most convenient door-to-door option and is recommended for groups or late-night travel.
6. How far is Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport from Surat Thani?
Approximately 130–150 km (80–93 miles) by road. The drive takes 1.5–2 hours via Highway 41 and Route 401.
7. Are there overnight trains or buses from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat?
Yes, the overnight sleeper train runs from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat (departure around midnight, arrival early morning). Fares: 180–350 THB ($5.50–$10.50). Overnight buses are very limited on this route — the last bus departs around 8:00 PM.
8. Do I need to book tickets in advance for the train or bus from Surat Thani to Nakhon Si Thammarat?
For trains: Yes, especially sleeper berths — book 1–3 days ahead via 12Go or at the station. For buses: Not essential for weekdays, but recommended on weekends and holidays. For minivans: Book a few hours ahead to guarantee a seat.