Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Khao Yai National Park is by taking a combination of train and taxi. First, take the Airport Rail Link to Makkasan or Phaya Thai, then a taxi to Mo Chit Bus Terminal, followed by a public bus to Pak Chong, and finally a taxi or songthaew into the park. The total journey takes 4.5 to 6 hours and costs between ฿350 to ฿600 (≈$10-$17 USD) per person. For convenience, a direct private transfer is fastest (2.5-3.5 hours) but costs ฿2,500-฿3,500 (≈$70-$100 USD).
By Train from Bangkok to Khao Yai (Pak Chong)
Traveling by train is a classic, scenic route to Khao Yai, though it requires multiple steps from the airport. There is no direct train from Suvarnabhumi Airport. You must first get to Bangkok's main train station, Hua Lamphong (soon to be Bang Sue Grand Station), and then take a train to Pak Chong, the gateway town to the national park.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Airport to City Center: Take the Airport Rail Link (ARL) from BKK Basement level to Makkasan Station (City Air Terminal) or Phaya Thai Station (22-26 minutes, ฿45). From there, take a taxi or MRT subway to Hua Lamphong Station.
- Train to Pak Chong: Trains depart from Hua Lamphong several times daily. The journey to Pak Chong takes 3.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on the service.
- Pak Chong to Khao Yai: From Pak Chong station, you'll need to take a taxi or songthaew (shared pick-up truck) for the final 30-45 minute ride to your hotel or the park entrance.
Train Types & Fares (Bangkok to Pak Chong):
| Train No./Type | Departure Times (Sample) | Duration | Fare (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Express (Sprinter) | 08:30, 14:45 | ~3.5 hrs | ฿300-฿400 | Fastest, air-conditioned, comfortable seats. Most recommended for tourists. |
| Rapid / Express | 06:40, 13:00, 22:50 | ~4-5 hrs | ฿150-฿250 | Older carriages, stops more frequently. 2nd class fan or AC available. |
| Ordinary | Various | 5.5+ hrs | ฿50-฿100 | Very basic, only fans, frequent stops. For budget backpackers. |
Booking Tip: For Special Express trains, booking in advance (1-3 days) is advised, especially on weekends. You can book online via DTicket or at the station.
By Bus from Bangkok to Khao Yai (Most Economical)
This is the most popular and cost-effective method for both locals and tourists. Buses depart from Bangkok's northern terminal, Mo Chit 2 (Bangkok Bus Terminal). Similar to the train, you need to get from the airport to the bus terminal first.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Airport to Mo Chit Bus Terminal:
- Best Option: Take the Airport Rail Link to Phaya Thai, then the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit Station. From Exit 3 or 4, take a short taxi ride to Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal (5 mins).
- Direct Taxi: A taxi from BKK to Mo Chit takes 30-60 mins and costs ฿300-฿500 (incl. tolls).
- Bus to Pak Chong / Khao Yai: From Mo Chit 2, look for buses bound for "Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat)". You need to get off at "Pak Chong". Buses run frequently from 04:00 to 23:00.
- First Class / VIP Bus: More comfortable, 24-32 seats, air-con, toilet. Journey: ~3 hours. Fare: ~฿180-฿220.
- Second Class Bus: Standard public bus. Journey: ~3.5 hours. Fare: ~฿130-฿160.
- Arrival in Pak Chong: Buses stop at the Pak Chong bus station on Mittraphap Road. From here, take a taxi or songthaew to your final destination in Khao Yai (30-45 mins, ฿300-฿600 per vehicle).
Direct Minibus (Alternative):
Some private companies operate direct minivans from Victory Monument or Mo Chit to Khao Yai towns. They are faster (~2.5 hrs) but have strict luggage limits and can be cramped. Not recommended for travelers with large suitcases.
By Private Car or Taxi (Door-to-Door Convenience)
For groups, families, or those arriving late at night, a private transfer is the most convenient (but expensive) option. You can pre-book a car online or hire a taxi at the airport.
Key Details:
- Travel Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Cost: ฿2,500 to ฿3,500 (≈$70-$100 USD) for a standard sedan. Larger vans cost ฿3,500-฿4,500.
- Where to Book:
- Airport Official Taxi Counters: Located on Level 1. You pay a fixed fee + tolls + potential airport surcharge. Ensure the meter is used or price is agreed upon upfront.
- Online Platforms: Reliable services like Klook or Booking.com offer pre-booked transfers with driver reviews.
- Best For: Groups of 3-4 sharing the cost, travelers with lots of luggage, late-night/early-morning arrivals, or those prioritizing comfort and time.
Warning: Avoid unlicensed touts inside the airport offering rides. Always use official counters or pre-booked services.
By Domestic Flight (Generally Not Practical)
While there is an airport in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), flying is not a recommended option for reaching Khao Yai National Park due to logistical complexity and hidden time costs.
Why Flying is Inefficient:
- No Direct Flight from BKK: You would need to fly from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) to Don Mueang Airport (DMK) first, or take a long taxi.
- Limited Flights: Only a few flights per day operate from DMK to Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) Airport (NAK) via airlines like Air Asia. Flight time: ~1 hour.
- Major Hidden Time Costs:
- Transfer from BKK to DMK: 45-90 mins by taxi/bus.
- Airport check-in & security: 1.5-2 hours before flight.
- From NAK Airport to Khao Yai: Another 60-90 minute taxi ride (costing ~฿1,500).
Total "Door-to-Door" Time: Often 5-7 hours or more—longer than the bus or train, and significantly more expensive when you add up all the legs.
Verdict: Only consider this if you are already in northern Thailand and connecting from Chiang Mai or elsewhere, not from Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Ticket & Cost Comparison Table
Below is a quick comparison to help you decide the best option based on your budget and priorities.
| Transport Method | Approx. Total Travel Time* | Approx. Cost Per Person* | Convenience / Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Car/Taxi | 2.5 - 3.5 hrs | ฿2,500 - ฿4,500 (for car) | ★★★★★ (Door-to-door) | Groups, families, luxury, late arrivals |
| Bus (Public + Taxi) | 4.5 - 5.5 hrs | ฿430 - ฿780 | ★★★☆☆ (Requires 1-2 changes) | Budget travelers, solo/duo travelers |
| Train (ARL + Train + Taxi) | 5 - 6.5 hrs | ฿400 - ฿950 | ★★★☆☆ (Requires 2-3 changes) | Scenery lovers, cultural experience, not in a rush |
| Domestic Flight + Taxi | 5 - 7+ hrs | ฿2,000 - ฿3,500+ | ★★☆☆☆ (Multiple transfers, airport hassle) | Generally not recommended for this route |
* Times and costs are estimates from Suvarnabhumi Airport to a hotel in Khao Yai, including all connections and waiting times. Costs vary by season and service level.
Winner for Value: Public Bus.
Winner for Convenience: Private Transfer.
Winner for Experience: Train.
Traveler Tips & Essential Advice
- Luggage Strategy: If taking bus or train, pack light. Overhead storage is limited. For private transfers, this is not an issue.
- Pak Chong is Your Hub: Whether by bus or train, you will arrive in Pak Chong. The town has markets, 7-Elevens, and ATMs—a good place to get last-minute supplies before entering the park.
- Negotiate Final Leg Transport: Taxis and songthaews at Pak Chong station/bus stop are not metered. Negotiate the price firmly before getting in. A fare to the park entrance or a main hotel area should be ฿300-฿600 for the whole vehicle.
- Weekend & Holiday Warning: Khao Yai is extremely popular with Bangkok residents on weekends and Thai holidays. Book buses and trains further in advance, and expect more traffic and higher prices for private cars.
- Park Entry: Remember, transport gets you to the gate of Khao Yai National Park. You still need to pay the foreigner entry fee (฿400 for adults, ฿200 for children) and may need separate transport inside the vast park if your hotel isn't near the gate.
- SIM Card/Internet: Highly recommended to get a local tourist SIM at Suvarnabhumi Airport (AIS, TrueMove, dtac). Reliable internet is crucial for maps and booking last-minute transport.
FAQs: Suvarnabhumi to Khao Yai Transport
Is there a direct bus from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Khao Yai?
No. There is no direct public bus. You must first travel from the airport to Mo Chit Bus Terminal in Bangkok (via train/taxi) and then catch a bus to Pak Chong.
What is the cheapest way to get from BKK to Khao Yai?
The absolute cheapest way is Airport Rail Link + Public Bus. Total cost can be as low as ฿350-฿450 per person. This involves ARL to Phaya Thai (฿45), BTS to Mo Chit (฿44), public bus to Pak Chong (฿130-฿160), and a shared songthaew (฿50-฿100 per person).
I arrive at midnight. How do I get to Khao Yai?
Options are very limited after ~11:00 PM. Your only practical choices are:
- Pre-book a private transfer (highly recommended for night arrivals).
- Take an airport taxi to a Bangkok hotel near Mo Chit, stay overnight, and take the first morning bus (around 4:00-5:00 AM).
Is it safe to take a taxi from the airport?
Yes, if you use the official airport taxi counters on Level 1. You get a ticket with a fixed fare or agreement to use the meter. Avoid drivers soliciting inside the terminal.
Which is better: train or bus?
It depends:
- Bus: Generally faster, more frequent departures, slightly cheaper. Less scenic.
- Train: More spacious, scenic rural views, a unique cultural experience. Slower and less frequent.
Can I use Grab (like Uber) from the airport to Khao Yai?
You can book a Grab taxi from the airport, but for a long-distance trip to Khao Yai (outside Bangkok), the driver may refuse or cancel. The fare will also be very high (similar to private transfer). It's more reliable to pre-book a dedicated intercity car service.
How do I get around inside Khao Yai National Park?
Public transport inside the park is minimal. Options are:
- Rent a car or motorbike in Pak Chong.
- Hire a taxi/songthaew for the day (negotiate a daily rate, ~฿1,500-฿2,500).
- Join a guided tour from your accommodation which includes transport.
Should I buy my bus/train ticket in advance?
- Weekdays: You can often buy bus tickets at Mo Chit shortly before departure.
- Weekends/Holidays: Yes, book in advance. Buses, especially VIP/first class, sell out.
- Train (Special Express): Always book 1-3 days in advance for a guaranteed seat.