Andaman Coast, Thailand
KBV is the main gateway to Krabi. Several airlines operate routes to KBV. For domestic travel, Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air provide frequent connections between Krabi and Bangkok's two airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK).
HKT serves as a larger international hub, located about 2-3 hours away from Krabi by road or ferry. Travelers often choose HKT if their desired international flight route does not offer a direct connection to Krabi, or if they plan to visit Phuket as part of their itinerary.
Flight prices tend to peak during Krabi's high season (November-February) and around major holidays like Christmas, New Year, and Chinese New Year. Off-season travel often yields lower prices.
Krabi International Airport (KBV) offers basic but useful facilities and services. You will find ATMs and currency exchange booths upon arrival. Airalo eSIMs and SIM card kiosks from major Thai mobile providers are available. Car rental desks (DiscoverCars.com) for international and local agencies are present, along with various restaurants and a duty-free shop.
Consider services like Dollar Flight Club for flight deals or use aggregators like Skyscanner to compare prices across different airlines and dates. Booking in advance generally yields better rates.
Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air connect Krabi with Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang).
AirAsia, Scoot, Malindo Air (from regional cities), and seasonal Qatar Airways (from Doha).
For global travelers, connecting flights typically happen via Bangkok (BKK or DMK), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), or Singapore (SIN).
There is no direct train service to Krabi. The nearest train stations are Surat Thani or Trang, both serving routes from Bangkok. From these stations, you take an onward bus or minivan connection to reach Krabi. This can be a multi-leg journey but presents a different travel experience.
Regular bus services operate from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) to Krabi Bus Terminal. Overnight sleeper buses are available, offering a comfortable option for the 10-12 hour journey. Operators include Transport Co. Ltd., Lignite Tour, and Jolly Travel.
Car rental companies, including international chains like Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Sixt, operate at Krabi Airport and in major tourist areas. Local agencies also offer rentals, often at competitive rates.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are widely available in Krabi Town and Ao Nang. A scooter typically costs around 200-300 THB per day.
Krabi's coastal location means sea travel is a popular and scenic way to arrive, especially from nearby islands. The main piers serving Krabi are Ao Nang Pier (Nopparat Thara Pier), Railay East Pier, and Krabi Town Pier (Klong Jilad Pier).
Longtail boats are the main mode of transportation for accessing islands like Railay Beach (which is not accessible by road) and for local river tours, like exploring mangrove forests or visiting Khao Khanab Nam Mountains in Krabi Town.
Ao Nang Pier (Nopparat Thara Pier), Railay East Pier, and Krabi Town Pier (Klong Jilad Pier) serve as hubs for ferries and longtail boats connecting to islands and coastal areas.
These traditional boats are the dominant form of water transport for island hopping and accessing Railay Beach, offering an authentic Thai experience. They function as shared taxis or private charters.
For ferry departures, plan to arrive at the pier 30-60 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This allows for ticket checks and boarding without rush.
For air travel from Thailand, there are typically no direct exit fees that you pay separately at the airport. These fees are usually included in your airline ticket price.
For air travel from Krabi International Airport (KBV), arrive at least 2 hours before your domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. This allows sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and immigration procedures (for international departures).
Ensure you have all necessary documents, including your passport, visa (if applicable), and flight confirmation. Online check-in can save time.
Confirm your airline's baggage allowance to avoid unexpected fees. Weigh your luggage before heading to the airport.
Be prepared for standard security checks. Follow instructions regarding liquids and electronics.
Consider flying into KBV directly if possible for convenience. If you cannot, Phuket (HKT) is a viable alternative with good onward connections to Krabi.
