Quick Answer
The best way from Wat Phra That Choeng Chum to Sakon Nakhon Airport (SNO) is by taxi or tuk-tuk. Total travel time is just 5–10 minutes, and the cost is 100–200 THB ($3–6). For budget travelers, a motorcycle taxi costs 50–80 THB ($1.50–2.50) and takes 5–7 minutes. There is no direct train or public bus between these two points. If you have a flight to catch, taxis are reliable and widely available near the temple entrance.
🚕 Taxi & Tuk-tuk: The Most Direct Option
Taxis and tuk-tuks are the most straightforward way to travel from Wat Phra That Choeng Chum to Sakon Nakhon Airport. The distance is only about 5 km (3.1 miles) via Route 213 and Route 22, making it a quick and hassle-free journey. This option is ideal for travelers with luggage, families, or anyone prioritizing speed and convenience.
Fare Breakdown
| Vehicle Type | Estimated Fare (THB) | Estimated Fare (USD) | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi (metered) | 100–150 THB | $3–4 | 5–10 min | Travelers with luggage, groups of 2–4 |
| Tuk-tuk | 100–200 THB | $3–6 | 5–10 min | Solo travelers, short trips, open-air experience |
| Grab (ride-hailing) | 120–180 THB | $3.40–5.10 | 5–10 min | Fixed price, no bargaining needed |
| Private car transfer (pre-booked) | 200–350 THB | $5.70–10 | 5–10 min | Business travelers, VIP service, airport pickups |
Where to Find Taxis at the Temple
Wat Phra That Choeng Chum is located in central Sakon Nakhon, and taxis and tuk-tuks are usually available near the main entrance (Phrathat Choeng Chum Road). If none are waiting, ask at the temple visitor center or use the Grab app (Thailand's most popular ride-hailing service). The temple is a well-known landmark, so drivers will know the location instantly.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Fastest door-to-door option; no transfers; drivers are familiar with the airport; available 24/7.
- ❌ Cons: More expensive than motorcycle taxis; need to negotiate fare for tuk-tuks; limited space for large groups (tuk-tuk seats 2–3).
🏍️ Motorcycle Taxi: The Cheapest Motorized Option
For solo travelers on a tight budget, a motorcycle taxi is the most affordable motorized way to reach Sakon Nakhon Airport. These are widely available near the temple and at major intersections in the city center. The ride is quick — just 5–7 minutes — and costs significantly less than a car taxi.
Cost & Time Details
- Fare: 50–80 THB ($1.50–2.50) — agree on the price before boarding.
- Travel time: 5–7 minutes (faster than a taxi during traffic).
- Distance: Approximately 5 km (3.1 miles).
Important Considerations
- Safety: Helmets are provided but not always worn by passengers. Insist on one if available.
- Luggage: Only suitable for a small backpack or duffel bag. Large suitcases are not practical.
- Finding one: Motorcycle taxi drivers often wait near the temple's main gate or at the intersection of Phrathat Choeng Chum Road and Route 213.
Tip: If you have a flight to catch, add 10 minutes to your schedule to allow for fare negotiation and helmet fitting.
🚆 Train: From Sakon Nakhon Railway Station to Other Destinations
Note: Trains do not run directly to Sakon Nakhon Airport. However, if you are planning to continue your journey beyond the airport — for example, to Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, or Bangkok — the railway station is a useful hub. From Wat Phra That Choeng Chum, the station is about 2 km (1.2 miles) away.
Getting from the Temple to the Railway Station
- Walking: 20–25 minutes (1.7 km via Phrathat Choeng Chum Road and Sathanee Rot Fai Road).
- Tuk-tuk: 40–60 THB ($1.10–1.70), 5 minutes.
- Motorcycle taxi: 30–40 THB ($0.85–1.10), 4 minutes.
Train Services from Sakon Nakhon
| Train Type | Destination | Duration | Fare (THB) | Fare (USD) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Express (rot duan) | Bangkok (Hua Lamphong) | 10–12 h | 650–1,200 THB | $18–34 | 1–2 daily |
| Express (rot rew) | Udon Thani | 2–2.5 h | 120–250 THB | $3.40–7.10 | 3–4 daily |
| Rapid (rot mai) | Khon Kaen | 3–4 h | 150–300 THB | $4.30–8.50 | 2–3 daily |
| Local (rot thammada) | Nong Khai | 3.5–5 h | 60–120 THB | $1.70–3.40 | 1–2 daily |
Train Types Explained
- Special Express: Fastest service with air-conditioned cars, reserved seats, and a dining car. Best for long-distance travel to Bangkok.
- Express: Air-conditioned or fan cars, fewer stops than Rapid. Good for medium distances.
- Rapid: Fan-cooled or air-conditioned, stops at more stations. Budget-friendly for regional travel.
- Local: Fan-only, stops at every station. Very cheap but slow — only recommended for short hops.
Source: State Railway of Thailand (SRT)
✈️ Flight: From Sakon Nakhon Airport to Bangkok & Beyond
Sakon Nakhon Airport (SNO, IATA: SNO) is a domestic airport located about 5 km east of the city center. It serves as the main aerial gateway for the province, with multiple daily flights to Bangkok. From Wat Phra That Choeng Chum, the airport is just a 5–10 minute drive.
Getting from the Temple to the Airport
- Taxi/tuk-tuk: 5–10 minutes, 100–200 THB ($3–6).
- Motorcycle taxi: 5–7 minutes, 50–80 THB ($1.50–2.50).
- Private car: 5–10 minutes, parking available at the airport (free for short stays).
Direct Flights from Sakon Nakhon Airport
| Airline | Destination | Flight Time | Frequency | Typical Fare (THB) | Typical Fare (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nok Air | Bangkok (DMK) | 1 h | 2–3 daily | 1,200–2,200 THB | $34–63 |
| Thai AirAsia | Bangkok (DMK) | 1 h | 1–2 daily | 1,100–2,000 THB | $31–57 |
| Thai Lion Air | Bangkok (DMK) | 1 h 5 min | 1–2 daily | 1,300–2,500 THB | $37–71 |
| Bangkok Airways | Bangkok (BKK) | 1 h 10 min | 1 daily (seasonal) | 1,800–3,000 THB | $51–86 |
Hidden Time to Consider
- Check-in: Arrive at least 60 minutes before departure for domestic flights.
- Security: The airport is small; security takes 5–15 minutes during peak hours.
- Total door-to-door time (temple → airport → boarding): Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes (including taxi ride + check-in + security).
🚌 Bus & Minivan: Long-Distance Travel from Sakon Nakhon Bus Terminal
Buses do not run directly from Wat Phra That Choeng Chum to Sakon Nakhon Airport. However, the Sakon Nakhon Bus Terminal (also called Sakon Nakhon 1 or Bor Khor Sor 1) is a major hub for intercity routes. If you are heading to Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Nong Khai, or Bangkok, this is the most economical option after trains.
Getting from the Temple to the Bus Terminal
- Distance: About 3 km (1.9 miles) from the temple.
- Tuk-tuk: 50–80 THB ($1.40–2.30), 6–8 minutes.
- Motorcycle taxi: 30–50 THB ($0.85–1.40), 5 minutes.
- Songthaew (shared pickup): 15–25 THB ($0.40–0.70) — look for route signs heading toward the bus terminal.
Key Bus Routes from Sakon Nakhon
| Route | Bus Type | Duration | Fare (THB) | Fare (USD) | Overnight Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sakon Nakhon → Udon Thani | Standard AC / Minivan | 2–2.5 h | 150–200 THB | $4.30–5.70 | No |
| Sakon Nakhon → Khon Kaen | Standard AC / VIP | 3–4 h | 180–280 THB | $5.10–8 | No |
| Sakon Nakhon → Bangkok (Mo Chit) | VIP 32-seat / 24-seat | 9–10 h | 650–1,000 THB | $18–28 | ✅ Yes (night bus, departs 20:00–22:00) |
| Sakon Nakhon → Nong Khai | Standard AC | 3.5–4.5 h | 160–220 THB | $4.60–6.30 | No |
| Sakon Nakhon → Chiang Mai (via Udon Thani) | VIP (transfer required) | 12–14 h total | 700–1,200 THB | $20–34 | ✅ Yes (via Udon Thani night bus) |
Night Bus Experience
The overnight VIP bus to Bangkok is comfortable, with reclining seats, air conditioning, and a snack box included. Buses depart from Sakon Nakhon Bus Terminal between 20:00 and 22:00 and arrive at Bangkok's Mo Chit Bus Terminal around 05:00–07:00. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during Thai holidays (Songkran, New Year).
Booking & Luggage Tips
- Book online: Use BusOnlineTicket.co.th or buy directly at the terminal at least 1 hour before departure.
- Luggage limit: Most buses allow 1 large suitcase (20 kg) + 1 carry-on. Oversized items may incur a small fee.
- Seat selection: Choose a front-row seat for more legroom, especially on overnight trips.
💰 Cost Comparison Table: All Options at a Glance
Compare every transport option from Wat Phra That Choeng Chum to Sakon Nakhon Airport (or onward connections). This table helps you decide based on time, budget, and convenience.
| Transport Mode | Route | Travel Time | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Best For | Rating ★ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi / Tuk-tuk | Temple → Airport | 5–10 min | 100–200 | $3–6 | Speed, convenience, luggage | ★★★★★ |
| 🏍️ Motorcycle Taxi | Temple → Airport | 5–7 min | 50–80 | $1.50–2.50 | Budget solo travel | ★★★★☆ |
| 🚆 Train (Special Express) | Station → Bangkok | 10–12 h | 650–1,200 | $18–34 | Scenic long-distance travel | ★★★☆☆ |
| ✈️ Flight (Nok Air / AirAsia) | Airport → Bangkok (DMK) | 1 h (+1.5 h ground) | 1,100–2,500 | $31–71 | Fastest long-distance option | ★★★★★ |
| 🚌 VIP Night Bus | Bus Terminal → Bangkok | 9–10 h | 650–1,000 | $18–28 | Overnight travel, saving hotel cost | ★★★★☆ |
| 🚐 Minivan | Bus Terminal → Udon Thani | 2–2.5 h | 150–200 | $4.30–5.70 | Regional hops | ★★★☆☆ |
| 🚶 Walking | Temple → Airport | 50–70 min | 0 | $0 | No budget, no luggage | ★☆☆☆☆ |
🏆 Best Overall: Taxi / Tuk-tuk — unbeatable speed and convenience for the short distance to the airport.
💰 Cheapest: Motorcycle taxi (50–80 THB / $1.50–2.50).
⏰ Fastest Long-Distance: Flight to Bangkok (1 hour air time).
🧳 Traveler Tips & Insights for a Smooth Journey
Real-world advice from experienced travelers to help you navigate the Sakon Nakhon area with confidence.
1. Luggage Strategy: Use Takkyubin (Baggage Delivery)
If you're traveling with heavy suitcases and plan to explore Sakon Nakhon before your flight, consider using Takkyubin ( luggage delivery service). Available at most hotels and convenience stores, they can forward your bags directly to Sakon Nakhon Airport (or to your next hotel) for around 200–400 THB ($5.70–11.40) per bag. This frees you up to visit Wat Phra That Choeng Chum without dragging luggage.
2. Timing Your Visit to the Temple
- Early morning (6:00–8:00 AM): Coolest time, fewer crowds, and monks receive alms. Perfect for a peaceful visit before a midday flight.
- Late afternoon (4:00–6:00 PM): Golden hour light for photos, but closer to evening flight times.
- Avoid midday (11:00 AM–2:00 PM): Intense heat and strong sun; the temple grounds are largely open and shade is limited.
3. Booking in Advance: When It Matters
- Flights: Book at least 2–3 weeks in advance for the best fares. During Thai holidays (Songkran in April, Loi Krathong in November), prices can double.
- Night buses: Reserve 3–5 days ahead for weekend travel; same-day purchase is possible on weekdays.
- Taxis: No reservation needed — they are always available near the temple.
4. Navigating Sakon Nakhon City
- The city is small and walkable in the central area. Wat Phra That Choeng Chum is the main landmark — most locals can direct you.
- Songthaews (shared pickups) run along major routes (Route 213, Route 22) and cost 10–25 THB ($0.30–0.70). They don't have fixed stops — just flag one down.
- Grab app works in Sakon Nakhon for both car and motorcycle taxis. Prices are fixed and transparent.
5. What to Do If You Miss Your Flight
Sakon Nakhon Airport is small, with limited same-day alternatives. If you miss your flight:
- Check the next flight with the same airline (you may need to pay a rebooking fee of 300–800 THB / $8.50–23).
- Consider a last-minute bus from the bus terminal to Udon Thani (2 hours), then fly from Udon Thani Airport (UTH) which has more frequent connections.
- Stay overnight in Sakon Nakhon (budget hotels start at 400 THB / $11.40) and catch the first flight the next morning.
❓ FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
1. Is there a direct train from Wat Phra That Choeng Chum to Sakon Nakhon Airport?
No, there is no direct train connection. The railway station is about 2 km from the temple, serving destinations like Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, and Bangkok — but not the airport. You would need a taxi or tuk-tuk for the final 5 km to the airport.
2. How much does a taxi from Wat Phra That Choeng Chum to Sakon Nakhon Airport cost?
A standard taxi or tuk-tuk costs 100–200 THB ($3–6). Motorcycle taxis are cheaper at 50–80 THB ($1.50–2.50). Always confirm the fare before starting the trip, or use the Grab app for a fixed price.
3. How long does it take to drive from Wat Phra That Choeng Chum to Sakon Nakhon Airport?
The drive takes 5–10 minutes by car or taxi, and 5–7 minutes by motorcycle. The distance is approximately 5 km (3.1 miles) via Route 213 and Route 22.
4. Are there direct flights from Sakon Nakhon Airport to Bangkok?
Yes, several airlines operate direct flights to Bangkok. Nok Air, Thai AirAsia, and Thai Lion Air fly to Don Mueang (DMK), while Bangkok Airways flies to Suvarnabhumi (BKK) seasonally. Flight time is about 1 hour, and advance fares start around 1,100 THB ($31).
5. What is the cheapest way to get from Wat Phra That Choeng Chum to Sakon Nakhon Airport?
The cheapest motorized option is a motorcycle taxi at 50–80 THB ($1.50–2.50). For a non-motorized option, walking is free but takes 50–70 minutes and is not recommended due to heat and lack of sidewalks.
6. Can I walk from Wat Phra That Choeng Chum to Sakon Nakhon Airport?
Technically yes, but it's not advisable. The 5 km route lacks continuous pedestrian paths, has moderate traffic, and the tropical heat can be debilitating. If you must walk, go early morning (before 8:00 AM) and bring at least 1 liter of water. Estimated walking time: 50–70 minutes.
7. Is there a bus from Sakon Nakhon to Chiang Mai or Phuket?
No direct buses exist. For Chiang Mai, take a bus to Udon Thani (2 hours, 150–200 THB) and transfer to a Chiang Mai-bound bus or train. For Phuket, fly from Sakon Nakhon to Bangkok and connect to a Phuket flight — this is the only practical approach.
8. What is the best time to visit Wat Phra That Choeng Chum before flying?
Early morning (6:00–8:00 AM) is ideal. The weather is cooler, the temple is serene, and you'll have plenty of time to reach the airport for midday flights. If your flight is in the afternoon, visiting between 10:00–11:00 AM also works. Allow at least 1 hour at the temple and 30 minutes to reach the airport.