Quick Answer
The best way to get from Udon Thani Bus Terminal to Udon Thani Airport (UTH) is by metered taxi: it takes 15–20 minutes and costs 120–150 THB (≈ 3.50–4.50 USD). For a more local experience at a lower price, a tuk-tuk costs 80–120 THB (≈ 2.50–3.50 USD) and takes 18–25 minutes. If you're on a tight budget, a songthaew (shared pickup truck) is the cheapest option at just 20–30 THB (≈ 0.60–0.90 USD) per person, though it takes 25–35 minutes and involves a short walk.
Taxi & Ride-hailing: The Most Convenient Option
For most travelers, a metered taxi or GrabCar is the best balance of speed, comfort, and cost. The distance from Udon Thani Bus Terminal to Udon Thani Airport is only 5.5 km, and the journey takes 15–20 minutes in normal traffic.
Metered Taxi — Fast & Reliable
- Cost: 120–150 THB (≈ 3.50–4.50 USD) — always insist on the meter.
- Time: 15–20 minutes door-to-door.
- Availability: Taxis queue at the bus terminal's main entrance. If none are waiting, staff at the terminal can call one.
- Luggage: Sedans easily accommodate 2–3 suitcases. For larger groups, request a taxi-VAN (200–250 THB).
GrabCar (Ride-hailing)
- Cost: 130–170 THB (≈ 3.80–5.00 USD) — prices vary slightly with demand.
- Time: Same as taxi, but you can track the driver via the app.
- Best for: Travelers who prefer cashless payment and fixed pricing (no meter disputes).
- Note: Grab operates reliably in Udon Thani, but pickup at the bus terminal may require walking to a nearby street if the driver cannot access the bus bay.
Fixed-price Airport Taxi
At Udon Thani Airport, there is a fixed-rate taxi stand for departures. However, from the bus terminal to the airport, you are better off hailing a passing metered taxi or using Grab. Fixed-price taxis from the terminal are rare; if offered, expect 150–200 THB.
Important Tip for Taxi Riders
Always confirm "meter, please" before the driver starts. If the driver refuses, negotiate a fixed price of 150 THB maximum. Udon Thani is not a high-tourism city, so taxi drivers are generally honest, but it pays to be clear.
| Vehicle Type | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Travel Time | Luggage Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metered Taxi | 120–150 | 3.50–4.50 | 15–20 min | 2–3 suitcases |
| GrabCar | 130–170 | 3.80–5.00 | 15–20 min | 2–3 suitcases |
| Taxi-VAN (large group) | 200–250 | 5.90–7.40 | 15–20 min | 4–6 suitcases |
Source: Udon Thani Airport official transfer rates & local driver surveys (2025). Udon Thani Airport Transport Guide
Tuk-tuk: The Authentic Local Ride
A tuk-tuk is a great middle-ground option: cheaper than a taxi, faster than a songthaew, and a genuine Thai experience. The three-wheeled vehicles are ubiquitous in Udon Thani and can weave through traffic easily.
Cost & Negotiation
- Typical fare: 80–120 THB (≈ 2.50–3.50 USD) for the 5.5 km trip.
- How to negotiate: Drivers at the bus terminal will quote 150 THB initially. Counter with "80 THB"; settle at 100 THB. If you have heavy luggage, expect to pay closer to 120 THB.
- No meter: Tuk-tuks never have meters — always agree on the price before boarding.
Travel Time
Tuk-tuks take 18–25 minutes depending on traffic. They are slightly slower than taxis because of their smaller engines and less aerodynamic design, but still efficient for this short route.
Luggage & Comfort
- Luggage limit: 1 medium suitcase + 1 backpack per person. The open sides mean bags are exposed to dust and rain.
- Comfort: The ride can be bumpy, and the open-air design means you'll feel the heat (or rain). Not ideal for travelers with mobility issues.
- Best for: Solo travelers or couples with light luggage who want a fun, cheap ride.
Where to Find Tuk-tuks at the Bus Terminal
They gather just outside the main passenger drop-off zone, near the ticket counters. Walk past the taxi queue and you'll see a row of colorful tuk-tuks. If none are there, wait 2–3 minutes — they arrive frequently.
Source: Udon Thani local transport authority & traveler community reports. Tourism Authority of Thailand — Local Transport
Songthaew (Shared Pickup Truck): The Cheapest Way
If you're traveling on a shoestring budget, the songthaew is your friend. These red or blue covered pickup trucks run fixed routes and charge a flat per-person fare. They are the cheapest motorized option from Udon Thani Bus Terminal to the airport.
Cost & Route
- Fare: 20–30 THB per person (≈ 0.60–0.90 USD).
- Route: Songthaews heading south on Route 2 (Mitraphap Road) pass the airport entrance. The bus terminal is on the northern edge of the city; the airport is south of the city center.
- Drop-off point: You'll be dropped at the airport road junction, about 400 m from the terminal building. A short 5-minute walk follows.
Travel Time
25–35 minutes — longer than a taxi because songthaews make stops along the way to pick up and drop off other passengers.
How to Ride a Songthaew from the Bus Terminal
- Walk to the main road (Mitraphap Road) in front of the bus terminal.
- Flag down a red or blue songthaew heading south (direction away from the city center).
- Tell the driver "Sanam Bin" (airport) or show them your phone with the airport name.
- Pay when you arrive: 20–30 THB per person.
Luggage & Comfort Considerations
- Luggage: You sit on benches in the covered bed. Large suitcases may be difficult to fit if the truck is crowded. Best for backpackers with soft bags.
- Comfort: Basic — open sides with a roof. You'll share space with locals, which is a great cultural experience.
- Safety: Hold onto the handrails; the ride can be bumpy.
Daytime vs. Late Afternoon
Songthaews run frequently from 05:30 to 19:00. After 19:00, frequency drops sharply. If you have a late evening flight, take a tuk-tuk or taxi instead.
Source: Udon Thani provincial transport office & route surveys. Udon Thani Transport Department
Motorcycle Taxi & Walking: Niche Options
Motorcycle taxis are a fast, ultra-cheap option for solo travelers with minimal luggage. Walking is not recommended, but we explain why.
Motorcycle Taxi (Win)
- Cost: 50–80 THB (≈ 1.50–2.50 USD) — negotiate at the terminal.
- Time: 10–15 minutes — fastest option because motorcycles weave through traffic.
- Where to find: Motorcycle taxi stands are common at the bus terminal's side exit. Look for drivers in orange or blue vests.
- Luggage: Only a backpack or small duffel bag. No suitcases.
- Best for: Solo travelers, digital nomads, or anyone with a single backpack.
Walking — Not Recommended
The distance from Udon Thani Bus Terminal to the airport is 5.5 km, which takes 1 hour 10 minutes on foot. The route follows Mitraphap Road (Route 2), a busy highway with:
- No continuous footpath
- Heavy truck traffic
- Extreme heat (35–40°C in hot season)
- Limited shade
Verdict: Walking is unsafe and impractical. Only consider it if you have no other option and plenty of time — but even then, hitchhiking or waiting for a songthaew is better.
Private Transfer / Hotel Shuttle
Some hotels near the bus terminal offer free shuttle drop-offs to the airport for guests. Ask at your hotel reception. If you book a private transfer online, prices start at 250 THB (≈ 7.40 USD) — more expensive than a taxi but with guaranteed pickup time.
Source: Local motorcycle taxi cooperative & hotel concierge feedback. Udon Map Community Forum
Cost & Time Comparison: All Options at a Glance
Use this table to quickly compare every transport mode from Udon Thani Bus Terminal to Udon Thani Airport. We've ranked them from most recommended to least.
| Mode | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Travel Time | Luggage | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metered Taxi | 120–150 | 3.50–4.50 | 15–20 min | ⭐⭐⭐ | Everyone (best overall) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| GrabCar | 130–170 | 3.80–5.00 | 15–20 min | ⭐⭐⭐ | Cashless / fixed-price fans | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Tuk-tuk | 80–120 | 2.50–3.50 | 18–25 min | ⭐⭐ | Solo / couples, local vibe | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Songthaew | 20–30 | 0.60–0.90 | 25–35 min | ⭐ | Budget backpackers | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Motorcycle Taxi | 50–80 | 1.50–2.50 | 10–15 min | ⭐ | Solo, light pack | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Walking | 0 | 0 | 70 min | — | Not recommended | ⭐ |
🏆 Best Overall: Metered Taxi — fastest, comfortable, and affordable for the distance.
💰 Cheapest: Songthaew — 20–30 THB per person.
⚡ Fastest: Motorcycle Taxi — 10–15 minutes, but luggage-limited.
Data collected March 2025. Prices may vary slightly with fuel costs and time of day. Numbeo Cost of Living — Udon Thani
Traveler Tips & Local Insights
Real-world advice from frequent travelers and Udon Thani locals to make your transfer smoother.
🚕 Taxi Meter Disputes
Some taxi drivers at the bus terminal may quote a fixed price of 200 THB instead of using the meter. Politely say "Meter, please" and if they refuse, simply step out and find another driver. There are usually 5–6 taxis waiting.
🕒 Early Morning & Late Evening Flights
- Before 06:00: Songthaews and most tuk-tuks are not running. Book a GrabCar the night before or ask your hotel to arrange a taxi.
- After 20:00: Taxis are still available at the bus terminal, but tuk-tuks become scarce. GrabCar is reliable.
🧳 Luggage Delivery Service (ฝากกระเป๋า)
If you're exploring Udon Thani before your flight, some shops near the bus terminal offer baggage storage for 30–50 THB per day. You can leave your large suitcase and pick it up later before heading to the airport.
🌧️ Rainy Season (May–October)
During heavy rain, tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis are uncomfortable and may not protect your luggage. Choose a taxi or GrabCar during downpours. Songthaews have roofs but no side panels — you may get wet.
🗺️ Navigating the Bus Terminal
The main bus terminal has two floors: ground floor for local routes and upper floor for intercity buses. Airport-bound taxis and tuk-tuks wait at the ground floor entrance facing Mitraphap Road.
📱 Useful Apps
- Grab — ride-hailing, works in Udon Thani.
- Google Maps — shows real-time songthaew routes.
- LINE Man — can also be used to book rides in some cases.
Source: Udon Thani expat community & frequent traveler interviews. Udon Map — Local Advice Forum
FAQs: Udon Thani Bus Terminal to Udon Thani Airport
Is there a direct bus from Udon Thani Bus Terminal to Udon Thani Airport?
There is no dedicated direct bus between the main bus terminal and the airport. The most practical options are taxi, tuk-tuk, or songthaew. The airport is not served by city bus routes from the terminal.
How much does a taxi from Udon Thani Bus Terminal to the airport cost?
A metered taxi costs 120–150 THB (≈ 3.50–4.50 USD). Fixed-rate taxis (rare at the terminal) may charge up to 200 THB. Always confirm the meter or negotiate a fixed price before starting.
How long does it take to get from Udon Thani Bus Terminal to Udon Thani Airport?
The drive is about 5.5 km and typically takes 15–20 minutes by car or taxi. Tuk-tuks take 18–25 minutes, songthaews take 25–35 minutes, and motorcycle taxis take 10–15 minutes.
Can I walk from Udon Thani Bus Terminal to Udon Thani Airport?
Walking is not recommended. The distance is 5.5 km along Mitraphap Road (Route 2), a busy highway with limited pedestrian paths, heavy traffic, and extreme heat. It would take over 1 hour and is unsafe.
Is tuk-tuk cheaper than taxi for this route?
Yes, a tuk-tuk costs 80–120 THB compared to a taxi's 120–150 THB. However, tuk-tuks are slower, less comfortable, and offer less luggage space. For the small price difference, a taxi is usually better value.
What is the cheapest way to get from Udon Thani Bus Terminal to the airport?
A songthaew (shared pickup truck) costs only 20–30 THB per person (≈ 0.60–0.90 USD), making it the cheapest option. Motorcycle taxis cost 50–80 THB if you prefer a faster solo ride.
Is Grab available in Udon Thani for airport transfers?
Yes, Grab operates in Udon Thani. A GrabCar from the bus terminal to the airport typically costs 130–170 THB (≈ 3.80–5.00 USD), similar to a metered taxi. It's a good alternative if you prefer fixed pricing and cashless payment.
Do I need to pre-book a transfer from Udon Thani Bus Terminal to the airport?
Pre-booking is not necessary during daytime hours (06:00–19:00) because taxis, tuk-tuks, and songthaews are readily available. For early morning flights (before 06:00) or late evening arrivals, pre-booking a GrabCar or hotel taxi is recommended.