How To Get To Koh Tao From Udon Thani – Plane, Train, Bus and Ferry

Summary

• The journey from Udon Thani to Koh Tao can take anywhere from 7 to 26 hours, depending on the chosen mode of transportation.
• Flights to nearby airports such as Koh Samui, followed by a ferry ride, offer the quickest travel time but are more expensive.
• The most budget-friendly option is a combination of bus and ferry travel but this method takes over 21 hours.
• A combination of train and ferry travel offers a scenic and comfortable journey.
• It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best rates and schedules.

How To Get To Koh Tao From Udon Thani: Your Options

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Traveling from Udon Thani to the beautiful island of Koh Tao can be an adventure in itself. With a variety of travel options available, it’s important to choose the one that best suits your schedule, budget, and travel preferences. Whether you’re looking for the fastest route or the most picturesque journey, understanding your options will help you plan the perfect trip.

Main Routes and Overview

There are numerous ways to get to Koh Tao from Udon Thani. The most popular methods are by plane, train, or a combination of bus and ferry. Each method has its own set of benefits, and the best one for you will depend on what you value most.

The Journey: What You Can Look Forward To

When you’re planning your trip, you have to think about what kind of journey you want to have. If you want to get there fast, flying is your best bet, but it could be pricier. If you take a train or bus, you’ll have the chance to take in the beautiful Thai countryside, and it could be easier on your wallet.

How To Get To Koh Tao From Udon Thani: Flying

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For those who value speed, flying part of the journey to Koh Tao is a great option. This involves catching a flight to a nearby airport, like Koh Samui, and then taking a ferry to the island. While this is the quickest way to get to Koh Tao, it is usually also the most costly.

Flying to Airports Near Koh Tao

There are no direct flights from Udon Thani to Koh Tao. Instead, you’ll have to fly to a nearby airport like Koh Samui Airport or Surat Thani Airport. From either of these airports, you can take a ferry to Koh Tao. Flights from Udon Thani to either of these airports are quite common, so you’ll have a lot of flexibility when planning your trip.

Getting to Koh Tao from Airports by Ferry

After landing at either Koh Samui or Surat Thani, the next step is to hop on a ferry to Koh Tao. There are several ferry departures throughout the day, and the journey itself provides beautiful views of the Gulf of Thailand. Songserm and Lomprayah are two of the most commonly used operators from Koh Samui; Songserm only operates from Koh Samui. The ferry ride from Koh Samui is around 2 hours, and from Surat Thani, it’s about 3 hours.

Ferries from Koh Samaui are regular, the first one leaves at 8:00 AM and the last one at 4:00 PM. Ticket prices are around 550 – 700 Thai Baht.

Day ferries leave from Surat Thani at 11:00 PM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM. These leave from different piers so make sure you know where you are leaving from. Night boats usually always leave at 9:00 PM but some of the night boats leave at 9:30 PM and 10:00 PM – Night boats do not always leave at these times so it’s best to check before booking. Cost – 750 – 1000 Thai Baht.

Flight Costs and Length

Flight prices can fluctuate significantly based on when you’re traveling and how early you book your flight. Typically, you can anticipate paying anywhere from 4000 to 8000 Thai Baht for a one-way trip depending on where you fly to (Koh Samui is more expensive). The entire journey, including transfer times, usually takes about 7 to 10 hours, making it the fastest travel option.

How To Get To Koh Tao From Udon Thani: Train

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If you are not in a rush and enjoy a relaxed trip, the train from Udon Thani is a comfortable and beautiful way to get there. This method combines a train ride with a ferry trip to reach Koh Tao.

Common Train Routes Leaving Udon Thani

Your train adventure starts at Udon Thani Railway Station, where you’ll travel south in the direction of Bangkok. From there, you can go on to Chumphon, the nearest station for getting a ferry to Koh Tao. Trains are a trustworthy and cost-effective choice, providing a peek at the rural areas of Thailand as you travel.

Traveling by Train and Ferry

Traveling by train and ferry is a wonderful way to get to Koh Tao from Udon Thani. This option lets you take in the beautiful scenery of Thailand while traveling in comfort. After getting to Chumphon by train, you can easily switch to a ferry going to Koh Tao. This trip provides a balance of price and comfort, making it a popular choice for many travelers.

Why You Should Travel by Train

Train travel in Thailand is more than just a means of getting from point A to point B; it’s an adventure in and of itself. Trains provide ample seating and the chance to stretch your legs, which is a major plus compared to other forms of transportation. The trip is typically less stressful, giving you the chance to take in the sights of verdant fields, quaint villages, and undulating hills.

Additionally, overnight trains equipped with sleeping compartments offer a comfortable place to sleep during your journey, sparing you the expense of a hotel room for the night. This mode of transportation is also kinder to the environment than air travel, which may be appealing to those who are environmentally aware.

Combo of Bus and Ferry

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For those who are traveling on a tight budget, the combo of bus and ferry is the most pocket-friendly way to get to Koh Tao from Udon Thani. Although it takes a bit longer, it gives you a chance to see more of the country and meet other travelers. You can also explore how to get to Koh Tao from Bangkok for more travel options.

Buses to Chumphon and Surat Thani

• There are daily buses from Udon Thani to Bangkok and then Chumphon that leave from the main bus terminal.
• Surat Thani is another option where buses leave multiple times a day.
• Both routes offer a comfortable ride with air-conditioned buses.

The bus ride to Chumphon or Surat Thani can take from 10 to 12 hours depending on traffic and the state of the roads. Even though it is a long ride, the buses are usually equipped with reclining seats and a bathroom on board which can make the journey more enjoyable.

When you get to either Chumphon or Surat Thani, you can hop on a ferry that will bring you straight to Koh Tao. This combo travel option is a good mix of price and time, making it a favorite for backpackers and travelers on a budget.

Day ferries leave from Chumphon at 7:00 AM and 1:30 PM with the night boats leaving at 9:00 PM. Price – 600 – 750 Thai Baht.

Getting to Koh Tao by Ferry

The last part of your trip to Koh Tao will be a ferry ride. The ride is scenic and relaxing, a great way to start your island vacation. There are several ferry companies that operate routes from Chumphon and Surat Thani, so you have flexibility in your travel schedule.

These ferries are designed to provide a comfortable journey, with amenities like snack bars and restrooms. The ferry ride from Chumphon to Koh Tao takes about 2 hours, and from Surat Thani, it takes around 3 hours.

It’s a good idea to look up the ferry schedules beforehand, since the departure times can change based on the time of year and weather. If you book your ferry tickets in advance, you might be able to get a better price and your choice of seats. For more detailed information, check out this guide on how to get to Koh Tao from Surat Thani.

Duration and Expenses

Combining a bus ride with a ferry trip is the most economical method of getting from Udon Thani to Koh Tao. The cost usually varies from 1200 to 1650 Thai Baht, depending on the season and how early you make your reservation. Even though the trip can last more than 21 hours, the money saved on travel expenses can be substantial, particularly for those on a shoestring budget.

In the end, the mode of transportation you choose depends on what’s most important to you, whether that’s saving time or money, or just enjoying the ride. Each choice provides a different experience, so you can customize your trip to suit your individual tastes.

Selecting the Most Suitable Mode of Transport

Choosing the most suitable mode of transport from Udon Thani to Koh Tao involves considering several factors. Think about your budget, how much time you have, and what kind of travel experience you want. Each mode of transport has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your travel needs.

What To Keep In Mind: Time and Cost

Time and cost are usually the two biggest factors when planning a journey. If you’re in a hurry and don’t mind spending a bit more, the fastest option is to fly to a nearby airport and then take a ferry to Koh Tao. But if you’re on a tight budget and have more time, the bus and ferry combo can save you a lot of money.

It’s also worth considering the convenience of travel schedules, as some methods may require overnight travel or multiple transfers, which can affect your overall travel experience.

When to Visit

You can travel to Koh Tao all year, but the best time to go is from March to September. The weather is nice and dry, and it’s sunny. During this time, there are more ferry services, and the sea is usually calm, so the trip is smoother.

That said, it is also the high season for tourists, so it is recommended that you book your transport and accommodation in advance to avoid higher prices and limited availability. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider traveling during the months of October to January when there are fewer tourists and prices are generally lower. Although the weather during this time may be unpredictable with potentially heavy rains and strong winds.

Why You Should Book in Advance

We strongly suggest making your travel plans well in advance, particularly during high travel periods. Not only will this help you get the best rates, but it will also guarantee your spot on your chosen mode of transportation.

When it comes to flights, it’s best to secure your booking at least a month ahead of time, as prices often rise as the departure date approaches. For buses and ferries, booking a few weeks in advance is generally enough, but the earlier you can book, the better, especially if your travel schedule is set in stone.

Plan in advance and consider all your travel choices to create a memorable trip from Udon Thani to Koh Tao that fits your preferences and budget.

Welcome to Koh Tao

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As soon as you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by the friendly locals and the stunning scenery. Despite its small size, there’s plenty to see and do on the island. You’ll find everything from beautiful white beaches to the greenery of the trees, offering plenty of opportunities to appreciate the great outdoors.

Getting Around

Despite its small size, Koh Tao is relatively easy to get around. The island is well-serviced by roads and the most common ways to get around are by scooter, bicycle, or taxi. Hiring a scooter is a popular and cost-effective way to see the island. It gives you the freedom to go where you want, when you want, and allows you to visit out of the way beaches and viewpoints.

For those who aren’t comfortable riding a scooter, taxis are a great option as they can take you to most places on the island. Renting a bicycle is another great option, especially for those who want to enjoy the journey and take in the sights and sounds at a leisurely pace.

Getting Around Koh Tao

When you’re not taking a scooter or taxi, you can explore Koh Tao on foot. Many of the island’s attractions are close to each other, especially in the main town areas. Walking is a great way to get a feel for the local culture and find cute cafes, shops, and places to eat.

Places and Activities You Shouldn’t Miss

Known for its world-class diving spots, Koh Tao is a destination that diving enthusiasts should not miss. Whether you’re new to diving or already an expert, there are plenty of dive schools that offer courses and guided dives. This way, you can explore the island’s colorful coral reefs and marine life.

If the sea isn’t your thing, Koh Tao has some amazing hiking trails that take you to some truly spectacular viewpoints. Mango Viewpoint and John-Suwan Viewpoint are two favorites that give you a bird’s eye view of the island and the sea around it.

Don’t forget to check out Sairee Beach, the most popular beach on the island, renowned for its vibrant ambiance and breathtaking sunsets. It’s an ideal spot to relax after a day of sightseeing and have a cool beverage at a beachside bar.

Common Queries

As you get ready for your trip to Koh Tao, you might have some queries about the most suitable travel options and what to anticipate when you get there. Here are some common queries to assist you in getting ready for your trip.

What is the quickest route to Koh Tao from Udon Thani?

The quickest route to Koh Tao from Udon Thani is to catch a flight to a close airport, like Koh Samui, then take a ferry to the island. This option usually takes between 7 to 10 hours, including transfers.

What are the best routes to Koh Tao with great views?

If you’re looking for a journey that’s as beautiful as the destination, consider taking the train from Udon Thani to Chumphon, and then a ferry to Koh Tao. This route offers stunning views of Thailand’s countryside and coastline.

What is the price to get from Udon Thani to Koh Tao?

The price of the trip depends on how you choose to travel. A flight with a ferry connection can be anywhere from 4000 – 8000 Thai Baht, but if you’re looking to save money, a bus and ferry combo only costs between 1200 and 1650 Thai Baht.

Is it possible to reserve ferry tickets ahead of time?

Absolutely, it’s a good idea to reserve your ferry tickets early, particularly during busy travel periods. Early booking helps you to lock in your preferred travel times and can frequently lead to lower prices.

When is the ideal time to travel to Koh Tao?

When the weather is sunny and the sea is calm, from March to September, is the best time to visit Koh Tao. However, traveling during the shoulder seasons can provide fewer crowds and lower prices.