How to Get to Khao Lak. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports

Phuket International Airport (HKT): The closest and most common major international airport for travelers to The Gateway to the similan islands. It is approximately 80-90 kilometers (50-56 miles) south of Khao Lak.

Airport Details

HKT is a busy hub with numerous international airlines (Thai Airways, AirAsia, Emirates).
Direct flights from major Asian, Middle Eastern, and European hubs.
Extensive domestic connections to other parts of Thailand.

Krabi Airport & Seasonality

Krabi International Airport (KBV): About 120 kilometers (75 miles) southeast of Khao Lak. An alternative, mainly for domestic flights and some regional routes to other countries (Kl, Singapore).

Flight Information

Flight prices peak during high season (Nov-Feb) and holidays.
Low season (May-Sep) often offers better deals.
Some direct international routes may reduce frequency or suspend during low season.

Cost-Effective Flights

Look for deals during the low season (May-September) for the best prices on flights. Check Dollar Flight Club for alerts.

Flight Search

Use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner to find the most suitable routes and prices to Phuket (HKT).

Airport Services HKT

HKT offers duty-free shops, restaurants, currency exchange, ATMs, car rentals, and SIM card vendors.

Transfers from Airports

From Phuket International Airport HKT

Private Taxi/Minivan: Most convenient, 1-1.5 hrs, 1,500-2,000 THB. Pre-booking through hotel or online service.
Shared Minivan/Shuttle: Budget-friendly, 1.5-2 hrs (multiple stops), 200-300 THB. Facilities at airport exit.
Public Bus: Cheapest, less direct. Bus to Phuket Bus Terminal 2, then bus towards Takua Pa/Surat Thani (passes Khao Lak). 2.5-3 hrs, 150-250 THB.
Pre-book your airport transfer, especially for after-dark arrivals or peak season.

From Krabi International Airport KBV

Private Taxi/Minivan: 2-2.5 hrs, 2,000-2,500 THB.
Public Bus/Van: Shuttle to Krabi Bus Terminal, then public bus north towards Takua Pa/Phuket, exit in Khao Lak.
Arrange transfers in advance for a smoother journey.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Khao Lak does not have direct train service. The closest major train station is in Gateway To the gulf islands, approximately 3-4 hours drive inland. Link through bus or minivan.

Long-Distance Buses

Regular bus services connect Khao Lak with major cities: Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani, Bangkok. Bangkok to Takua Pa takes 10-12 hours.

Self-Driving

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a legal requirement. Thailand drives on the left. Main highways are generally well-maintained. Carry all necessary documents.

Sea/River Arrivals & Departures

Ferry & River Transport

Khao Lak does not have a major ferry port for long-distance inter-island travel. Piers like Tab Lamu and Baan Nam Khem serve as departure points for day trips to the Similan and Surin Islands.

Water Travel Focus

For islands like Koh Phi Phi, transfer to Phuket (Rassada Pier) or Krabi (Klong Jilad Pier).
River transportation is limited to local longtail boat tours for mangroves or short riverboat tours.
Immigration procedures are not applicable at Khao Lak's local piers (domestic traffic).

Departure Information

Thailand does not levy a specific departure tax on international flights that is paid separately at the airport; this tax is included in your airline ticket price. Verify any applicable border crossing fees directly at land or sea borders.

Departure Logistics

Airport Check-in (HKT): Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights; 1.5-2 hours for domestic.
Transport from Khao Lak: Give 1.5-2 hours for the journey to Phuket Airport.
Reconfirm flight details and transfer arrangements 24-48 hours before departure.

Road Safety in Thailand

Main roads are generally well-maintained. Local roads can be narrower and might not have proper lighting at night. Traffic can be unpredictable. Motorbike accidents are common, especially involving tourists.

Driving Tips

Always wear a Helmet when on a motorbike.
Drive cautiously and defensively.
Road signs appear in both Thai and English on main routes.

Connections to Land Transport

Piers serving island tours (e.g., Tab Lamu) typically have minivans or taxis readily available to transfer passengers to Khao Lak resorts and hotels. These transfers are often part of the tour package.

Pier Transfers

Minivans and taxis wait at piers for passenger transfer.
Transfers are commonly part of booked tour packages.
Local transport options exist if arriving independently at a pier.

Car Rental Information

Requirements

International Driving Permit (IDP) and valid home country driver's license. Passport. Driving on the left-hand side of the road.

Companies & Costs

Major companies like Avis, Budget, Hertz at Phuket Airport. Local agencies in A Tranquil beach destination. Costs 800-1500 THB/day. DiscoverCars.com to make bookings.

Insurance & Safety

Ensure comprehensive insurance. Understand coverage. Police checkpoints are common, carry documents.

How to Get to Khao Lak