How To Get To Koh Tao From Kanchanaburi – Plane, Bus, Train, Ferry

Summary

• Getting from Kanchanaburi to Koh Tao requires a combination of transport methods: plane, bus, train, and ferry.
• The quickest way is to fly from Bangkok to either Koh Samui or Surat Thani, then take a ferry to Koh Tao.
• Bus and ferry combo tickets are a popular and affordable option, but the entire journey can take up to 19 hours.
• Train trips provide an overnight option to Chumphon, followed by a ferry to Koh Tao.
• Ferries are the only way to get to Koh Tao, with services from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Chumphon, and Surat Thani.

How To Get To Koh Tao From Kanchanaburi: An Overview

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Imagine embarking on a trip from the historic city of Kanchanaburi to the tropics of Koh Tao. It’s a journey that offers adventure, relaxation, and the excitement of discovering new places. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or a novice explorer, knowing the best routes and options can make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from one place to the other is not as straightforward as it might seem, but the journey is well worth it. You’ll get to see some of the most stunning parts of Thailand.

Getting to Know Kanchanaburi and Koh Tao

Known for its historical landmarks like the Bridge over the River Kwai and the Death Railway, Kanchanaburi is a place that tells the stories of World War II. But beyond its history, Kanchanaburi also boasts breathtaking landscapes, such as waterfalls and national parks, amazing for outdoor enthusiasts.

Meanwhile, Koh Tao, a tiny island in the Gulf of Thailand, is a haven for divers. With plenty of marine life to see, it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves snorkeling or diving. But it’s not just about the water – Koh Tao also boasts stunning beaches, awesome nightlife, and a relaxed island atmosphere that draws visitors from around the globe.

Why You Should Visit Koh Tao

There’s no shortage of reasons why you should visit Koh Tao. The island is one of the top spots on the planet for learning how to scuba dive, with inexpensive classes and fantastic diving conditions. But diving isn’t all the island has to offer. It’s also home to beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and the chance to kick back and relax in a tropical paradise.

Various Ways to Travel

Getting from Kanchanaburi to Koh Tao can be quite the journey. There are many routes to take, each providing its own kind of adventure. You have the option to fly, ride a bus, take a train, or mix these methods with a ferry ride to get to the island. Let’s explore these choices to assist you in determining the most suitable route for your travel preferences and budget.

How To Get To Koh Tao From Kanchanaburi By Air

Taking a plane is the fastest method to travel from Kanchanaburi to Koh Tao, but it does require some planning because there aren’t any direct flights to the island. Usually, you’ll have to fly from Bangkok to either Koh Samui, Chumphon or Surat Thani, then take a ferry to Koh Tao.

Flying from Bangkok to Koh Samui

If you’re looking to cut down on travel time, Bangkok Airways has frequent flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui. These flights typically take an hour. Once you land in Koh Samui, you can hop on a ferry to Koh Tao. For more detailed information on this route, check out this guide on how to get to Koh Tao from Bangkok.

Flying from Bangkok to Surat Thani or Chumphon

If you’re looking for a more cost-effective option, you might want to consider flying from Bangkok to Surat Thani or Chumphon instead of Koh Samui. These routes are served by budget airlines such as AirAsia and Nok Air, and the flight usually takes about 1 hour. Once you arrive in Surat Thani or Chumphon, you can catch a bus or a taxi to the ferry terminal to get to Koh Tao.

Linking with Ferries to Koh Tao

After arriving at either Koh Samui, Chumphon or Surat Thani, you must take a ferry to Koh Tao. Several ferry companies service this route, including Lomprayah, and Songserm (Koh Samui only). The ferry ride from Koh Samui takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. From Chumphon, it takes about 2 hours while from Surat Thani, it can take around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the service and weather conditions.

, the first ferry is at 8:00 AM and the last one is at 4:00 PM – Prices start at 550 Thai Baht.

From Surat Thani, the first ferry leaves at 11:00 AM and the last one leaves at either 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM for the night boats – Prices start at 750 Thai Baht.

From Chumphon, the ferries leave at 7:00 AM, 1:30 PM and the night boat leaves at 9:00 PM – Prices start at 600 Thai Baht.

Check which pier you are leaving from before you start your journey as there may be more than 1 pier to leave from.

Price and Factors

Usually, it is more expensive to fly to Koh Samui than, Chumphon to Surat Thani, but it does offer a faster transfer to the ferry. If you’re looking to keep costs down, consider booking flights and ferries ahead of time to get early bird discounts. Also, be sure to check ferry schedules, as they can change based on the season and weather.

Don’t forget to factor in any additional costs, such as airport transfers and meals during your trip, in addition to the cost of the flight and ferry. Planning these details in advance can help you budget more effectively.

How To Get To Koh Tao From Kanchanaburi – Bus and Ferry

For those looking to save some money or take the scenic route, the bus and ferry combo is a common choice. This option allows you to see more of Thailand’s beautiful landscapes and coasts while also being cost-effective.

Bus and Ferry Services

Once you get to Bangkok from Kanchanaburi, there are many companies that provide bus and ferry services from Bangkok to Koh Tao. This usually includes a bus ride to Chumphon which takes around 10 hours and then a ferry to the island which usually takes about 2 to 3 hours. This option offers a good balance of cost and convenience, as you can often buy combo tickets to make the trip easier.

Bus Companies You Can Trust

There are a few well-known bus companies that you can rely on for this trip, such as Lomprayah. These companies have a reputation for being reliable and providing comfortable buses, which can make the long trip a bit more bearable. It’s a good idea to get your tickets ahead of time, especially if you’re traveling during the busy season, to make sure you have a seat and to avoid any last-minute problems.

How To Get To Koh Tao From Kanchanaburi by Train

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If you’re the type who likes the vintage feel of train rides, then you’ll love the trip from to Chumphon. This ride lets you see the beautiful rural scenes of Thailand from the comfort of a train seat, making it a great part of your trip to Koh Tao.

Travelling by Train from Kanchanaburi

If you prefer to travel by train, you’ll need to make your way to the main train station in Bangkok, Hua Lamphong. From Hua Lamphong, you can catch a train that’s heading south, in the direction of Chumphon. The train journey from Bangkok to Chumphon can take anywhere from 8 to 10 hours, depending on the train service and the time of day. It’s always a good idea to check the train schedules ahead of time, as they can change.

Trains leave from 7:30 AM and run throughout the day until 8:30 PM and ticket prices range from 242 – 1200 Thai Baht. The night trains leave at 8:30 PM and 10:50 PM and ticket prices start at around 242 Thai Baht. These prices depend on the class of your seat and time you leave.

When taking the train, you have a variety of seating options, from basic seats to more comfortable sleeping quarters. If you’re traveling overnight, choosing a sleeping berth can provide a good night’s sleep, allowing you to arrive in Chumphon refreshed and ready to continue your journey to Koh Tao.

Securing Train Tickets

You can secure your train tickets online or at the train station. It’s a good idea to secure your tickets ahead of time, especially if you want to secure a bed, because they can sell out quickly during peak travel times. Remember that train schedules and availability can change, so it’s a good idea to double-check your booking and travel plans ahead of time. For more information on train travel routes, you can check out how to get to Koh Tao from Bangkok.

Traveling to Koh Tao by Ferry

Ferries are the lifeblood of Koh Tao, linking the island to the mainland and neighboring islands. No matter if you’re coming from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Chumphon, or Surat Thani, the ferry trip is a key part of getting to the island.

Catching a Ferry from Chumphon

When you get to Chumphon, the next thing you need to do is to get a ferry to Koh Tao. The ferry terminal is handily located close to the train station, so it’s not too difficult to get from one to the other. There are a number of ferries each day, so you can pick the one that suits you best.

For instance, if you take the overnight train and get to Chumphon, you could then hop on the morning ferry to Koh Tao and have a whole day to spend on the island. For more detailed travel options, check out how to get to Koh Tao from Chumphon.

Just remember, the ferry schedule can be affected by the weather, especially during monsoon season. So, it’s a good idea to check the ferry times beforehand and be a little flexible with your travel plans.

Ferry Operators and Timetable

There are a few ferry operators that provide services to Koh Tao, such as Lomprayah. They have a few departures each day, giving you plenty of options for your travel plans. The ferry ride is more than just a way to get to Koh Tao, it’s a chance to take in the sights of the Gulf of Thailand.

The schedule can change depending on the time of year and the weather, so it’s a good idea to check the most recent schedule and buy your ticket ahead of time. During the busy season, the ferry can get full quickly, so it’s a good idea to book early to make sure you get a spot.

Length of Journey and Onboard Facilities

The length of the ferry journey to Koh Tao varies depending on where you’re coming from. It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours from Koh Samui, from Chumphon, it takes about 2 hours but leaving from Surat Thani can take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours. Most ferries have facilities like air-conditioned seating, snacks, and toilets to make your trip as comfortable as possible.

Securing Ferry Tickets

Whether you prefer to buy your ferry tickets online or at the ferry terminal, it’s always a good idea to secure them ahead of time. This is especially true during the peak travel season when tickets can sell out. If you want to simplify your travel plans, consider purchasing combo tickets that include bus or train transfers to the ferry terminal.

For instance, if you’re journeying from Bangkok, you might want to think about getting a combo ticket that comes with a bus or train trip to Chumphon and the ferry to Koh Tao. This could make your travel plans a lot easier and it’s usually a cheaper option.

Weather Factors for Your Journey

As you’ll be crossing open waters to reach Koh Tao, you’ll want to keep in mind the seasons and their weather patterns. The optimal time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, when the seas are calm and the weather is perfect for beach activities.

• March to September: This is the best time to visit because the seas are calm and the weather is sunny.
• November to January: This is the monsoon season, so you may encounter rough seas and rain.
• October: This is a transition period, so the weather can be unpredictable.

Keep in mind that during the monsoon season, rough seas may disrupt ferry services. Therefore, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and ferry schedule before your trip. You should also be ready for potential delays or changes to your travel plans.

Advice for Your Journey

While you’re planning your trip from Kanchanaburi to Koh Tao, here are a few extra tips to make your trip even better.

Planning Your Trip

When you’re getting ready to go to Koh Tao, the timing of your trip is crucial. Think about how long each part of your journey will take, including the time it takes to get from Kanchanaburi to Bangkok, and then from Bangkok to Koh Tao using whichever method of transport you’ve chosen. If you’re flying, don’t forget to factor in the time it takes to get to and from the airport, as well as any possible delays. If you’re taking a bus or a train, make sure you check the timetables so you can coordinate your journey properly.

Packing Guide

When packing for Koh Tao, you’ll want to bring a combination of beach necessities and practical travel items. Given the island’s tropical climate, lightweight clothing, swimwear, and a comfortable pair of sandals are essential. It’s also important to remember sun protection, as the sun can be quite strong. This includes sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

Given that the trip might require several changes, it’s a good idea to pack a small bag with travel necessities such as snacks, a reusable water bottle, and any required medications. A portable charger for your gadgets could be useful, particularly during extended delays or boat trips.

Travel Safety Advice

It’s crucial to prioritize safety when traveling. Always keep your possessions secure and be vigilant of your surroundings, particularly in congested areas such as bus terminals and ferry docks. It’s recommended to have a digital and physical copy of your important travel documents and contacts.

Always follow the safety instructions given by the crew while on a ferry. During the monsoon season, be more careful and keep yourself updated about the weather conditions that might affect your trip.

Discovering Koh Tao

Once you’ve made it to Koh Tao, you’ll find that the island has a wealth of attractions to keep you busy. Popular dive sites like Chumphon Pinnacle and Shark Bay give you the chance to explore the island’s colorful underwater world. If you’re not a diver, you can go snorkeling at Aow Leuk or kick back and relax on Sairee Beach.

Be sure to take in the sights at John-Suwan Viewpoint or take a trek to the lesser-known Laem Thian. The island’s nightlife, focused on Sairee Beach, provides a blend of beach bars and parties to enjoy after a day of sun and sea.

Commonly Asked Questions

Getting from Kanchanaburi to Koh Tao involves several stages, so here are some commonly asked questions to help you understand the trip:

What is the quickest way to get from Kanchanaburi to Koh Tao?

The quickest way to get from Kanchanaburi to Koh Tao is to travel to Bangkok from Kanchanaburi, take a flight to Koh Samui, and then take a ferry to Koh Tao. Although this is the fastest route, it may be more expensive than other alternatives.

What is the travel duration by bus and ferry?

Traveling by bus and ferry usually takes around 11 to 12 hours. This covers the bus trip from Kanchanaburi to Chumphon and the following ferry ride to Koh Tao. It’s a budget-friendly and favored option for many tourists.

Can I fly directly to Koh Tao?

Unfortunately, you can’t fly directly to Koh Tao because the island doesn’t have an airport. You’ll need to fly to either Koh Samui or Surat Thani and then catch a ferry to get to the island. For more details on this route, check out our guide on how to get to Koh Tao from Surat Thani.

What’s the most affordable way to get there?

Usually, the most affordable way to get to Koh Tao from Kanchanaburi is by purchasing a bus and ferry combo ticket. This will include a bus ride from Kanchanaburi to Chumphon, and then a ferry to Koh Tao, making it a cost-effective option.

For instance, a traveler on a budget might opt for an overnight bus ride and a morning ferry ride, taking advantage of the lower fares and saving on a night’s accommodation.

Is it possible to visit Koh Tao during the rainy season?

Indeed, you can visit Koh Tao during the rainy season, but you should be prepared for possible travel interruptions due to stormy seas. Ferries might be postponed or cancelled, so it’s vital to keep an eye on weather reports and ferry timetables.