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How to Get to Sukhothai

How to Get to Sukhothai

Sukhothai Province Thailand Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports Near Sukhothai

Flying has the fastest way to Sukhothai, with two main airports serving the area.

Airport Overview

  • Sukhothai Airport (TDX): Small, privately-owned, closer to landmarks (30km north).
  • Phitsanulok Airport (PHS): Larger regional airport, 60km east of The Modern part of the city, often budget-friendly.
  • No direct international flights to TDX or PHS; all require domestic connection from Bangkok.

Airlines & Routes

TDX is mainly served by Bangkok Airways from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), often with increased fares.

Airline Details

  • PHS serves Thai Lion Air, Nok Air, and Thai AirAsia from Bangkok Don Mueang Airport (DMK).
  • Flight rates vary with season; peak season (Nov-Feb) and holidays see higher fares.
  • TDX has limited facilities; PHS has more amenities like car rental, ATMs, food.

Transfers from TDX

Shared minivan service (often by Bangkok Airways) or private taxis directly to hotels in Old or The New town.

Transfers from PHS

Regular shared minivan services connect PHS to Sukhothai The Modern part of the city's bus terminal (approx. 1 hr).

Rental Car Options

Several car rental agencies have counters at PHS for self-drive travel.

Find Your Flight

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Car Rental for Your Journey

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Requirements

International Driving Permit (IDP) and home country license needed.

Driving Side

Traffic in Thailand drives on the left side of the road.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Sukhothai does not have its own train station. The nearest major train station is in Phitsanulok, approximately SIXTY kilometers east.

Train Details

  • Trains operate daily from Bangkok's Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Phitsanulok.
  • The train journey is a relaxing way of exploring the landscape.
  • From Phitsanulok train station, take a tuk-tuk/taxi to bus terminal, then bus/minivan to Sukhothai.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Buses give a convenient and popular way to reach Sukhothai from big cities.

Bus Routes

  • Direct buses daily from Bangkok's Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal to Sukhothai (6-7 hours).
  • Buses also run from The Rose of the north Arcade Bus Terminal 2/3 to Sukhothai (5-6 hours).
  • Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

Self-Driving Considerations

Driving inside Thailand needs an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid home country's driving license.

Driving Requirements

  • IDP and valid home license needed.
  • Minimum rental age usually 21.
  • Traffic drives on the left side of the road.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main highways connecting Sukhothai to other major cities are generally well-maintained and in good condition.

Safety Notes

  • Be aware of varying driving standards among area drivers.
  • Motorcycles are numerous and often weave through traffic.
  • Night driving can be hazardous due to poor lighting.

Road Safety Warnings

  • Be a defensive driver; expect aggressive driving and sudden stops.
  • Accidents involving tourists on motorized scooters are common; exercise caution.
  • Driving without the right license voids insurance and is illegal.
  • Occasional livestock may appear on roads in rural areas.
  • Poor lighting plus surprising obstacles at night.
  • Always wear a helmet on motorcycles/scooters.

Sea/River & Departure

Sea/River Travel

Sea and river arrivals are not relevant for Sukhothai. The city is an inland destination, distant from any coastline or major navigable rivers that serve passenger transportation routes.

No Water Connections

  • No ferry services connect directly to Sukhothai.
  • No cruise ports or river transit choices.
  • Sukhothai is a city not on the coast.

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes are levied upon departure from Thailand by air; these charges are typically included in your international airline ticket.

Departure Timing

  • For domestic flights (TDX/PHS), arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure.
  • For long-distance bus departures, arrive at least 30 minutes before.
  • This allows for ample time for check-in, security, and boarding.

Sukhothai Airport TDX

Limited facilities, small terminal, few basic shops or cafes.

Phitsanulok Airport PHS

Larger, has more comprehensive facilities including eateries and shops.

Sukhothai Bus Terminal

Basic facilities, including local food stalls and waiting areas.

Important Travel Note

While main highways are generally good, secondary and rural roads can be narrower and less well-lit. Drive defensively and exercise caution, especially for motorcycles and unexpected obstacles.