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How to Get to Prachuap Khiri Khan

How to Get to Prachuap Khiri Khan

Prachuap Khiri Khan Upper Southern Gulf, Thailand Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Flights

While Prachuap Khiri Khan has a regional airport, most international journeys involve flying into Bangkok first. Direct international flights to Hua Hin Airport (HHQ) from major global hubs do not exist.

Airports and Routes

  • Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Bangkok: Thailand's main international gateway.
  • Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), Bangkok: Hub for low-cost carriers (e.g., AirAsia, Nok Air).
  • Hua Hin Airport (HHQ): Small regional airport with very limited domestic commercial flights from Bangkok (Thai AirAsia from DMK, Bangkok Airways from BKK).

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Both BKK and DMK offer comprehensive facilities. Flight prices to Bangkok fluctuate based on travel season; higher during peak season (Nov-Feb) and holidays.

Transfer Options to Prachuap Khiri Khan

  • Bus: Services without transfers from BKK to Hua Hin (Airport Hua Hin Bus, Bell Travel Service). From DMK, may connect via BKK or Southern Bus Terminal. (3-4 hours)
  • Train: From Bangkok's Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (or Hua Lamphong for elderly people services) to Hua Hin/Prachuap Khiri Khan city. (3.5-5 hours)
  • Private Taxi/Minivan: Pre-book or arrange at airport counters for direct, quicker transfer (2.5-3 hours to A Royal seaside resort).

Airport Financials

ATMs are numerous. Currency exchange booths are abundant, though rates are often slightly less favorable than in the city. Exchange a small amount for immediate needs. SIM card vendors are also available.

Shopping & Dining

Both Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) offer extensive duty-free shopping options. A wide variety of restaurants and cafes provide diverse dining choices for travelers.

Comfort & Convenience

Car rental offices for foreign and local companies are available. Various airline and independent lounges cater to travelers looking for comfort ahead of their flights.

Affiliate Resources for Flights

Flight Deal Services

  • Dollar Flight Club: Alerts for cheap flights from your home airport.
  • Skyscanner: Comprehensive flight comparison means for global routes.
  • Book international flights well in advance, especially for peak season, for better rates.
  • Domestic flights to HHQ might be pricier per mile than ground transport.

Travel Insurance & Essentials

  • World Nomads: Travel insurance for adventurous travelers.
  • SafetyWing: Insurance for digital nomads and remote teams.
  • Insubuy: Medical and travel coverage for foreigners in the US.
  • AirHelp: Compensation for delayed/canceled flights.

Arrival Tips

Pre-Book Transfers

For a hassle-free arrival, think about pre-booking-booking a private transfer from Bangkok airport to your Hua Hin accommodation, specifically after a long flight or late-night arrival.

Cash for Immediate Needs

Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for immediate needs upon arrival, as city rates are frequently more favorable.

SIM Card Purchase

Purchase a local SIM card from main providers immediately upon arrival at the airport to stay connected.

Land Transportation

Train Travel

Land travel forms the backbone of transportation within Thailand and connecting to Prachuap Khiri Khan. Train travel offers a scenic and authentic experience.

Train Services

  • Southern Line: State Railway of Thailand (SRT) connects Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal) to Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan city, and more to the south.
  • Classes: Choose from rapid, express, special express. Sleeper berths are available for staying the night journeys.
  • Journey Time: Bangkok to A Royal seaside resort 3.5-5 hours. Prachuap Khiri Khan city a bit longer.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Frequent governmental and non-governmental coach services connect Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) to towns within the province. Bus travel has an affordable option.

Bus Services

  • Frequency: Buses run regularly throughout the day.
  • Comfort: Varies from standard public buses to VIP buses with more spacious seating and amenities.
  • Journey Time: Bangkok to Hua Hin typically 3-4 hours.

Self-Driving Considerations

Renting a car has the ability to explore freely the province at your own pace.

Requirements & Rentals

  • Requirements: Valid driver's license from home country plus International Driving Permit (IDP). Minimum age typically 21-23.
  • Companies: Major international companies (Hertz, Avis, Budget) and local agencies in Hua Hin.
  • Cost: 800-1,500 THB per day for a compact car. Longer rentals may offer lower daily rates.

Road Conditions & Safety

Driving Information

  • Driving Side: Thailand drives on the left side of the road.
  • Conditions: Major highways (Highway 4/Phetkasem Road) are generally well-maintained. Neighborhood streets vary. Traffic can be heavy in urban areas.
  • Safety: Exercise caution with motorcycles and scooters. Night driving can be difficult because of varying lighting.

Border Crossing & Insurance

  • Border Crossing: No official tourist land border crossings into Myanmar from Prachuap Khiri Khan.
  • Insurance: Always check what insurance is included with car rentals. Consider purchasing additional coverage.
  • Without an IDP, your car rental insurance could be voided in case of an accident.
  • Booking Trains: Book train tickets in advance for popular routes, specific classes, or sleeper trains.
  • Bus Tickets: Purchase bus tickets straight at the terminal, from travel agents, or online.
  • Always wear a helmet if you choose to ride a scooter or motorcycle.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services

While Prachuap Khiri Khan is a coastal province, sea arrival options are limited, mainly serving inter-regional travel rather than international entry.

Pattaya-Hua Hin Ferry

  • A car ferry service operates between Pattaya (Chonburi province) and Hua Hin.
  • This service is for passengers and vehicles, avoiding driving around the Gulf.
  • It is an inter-regional service, not an international arrival point. No immigration procedures are performed.

Water Transportation Limitations

Prachuap Khiri Khan's waterways mainly consist of small rivers or canals. These don't support extensive passenger transport services or major international cruise ship activity.

Specific Water Travel

  • Water transportation is limited to specific areas and purposes.
  • In Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, longtail boats connect Bang Pu beach to Laem Sala beach for Phraya Nakhon Cave access.
  • Not common water taxi system or river transport network comparable to Bangkok. Some resorts might offer water tours for guests.

No International Cruise Port

Prachuap Khiri Khan does not feature a key global cruise port. Large cruise ships typically dock in other Thai ports like Laem Chabang or Phuket.

Connections to Land Transport

At the Hua Hin ferry terminal, local songthaews and regular taxis can be used by connect to accommodation or other town destinations.

Ferry Booking Advice

If considering the Pattaya-Hua Hin ferry, book tickets in advance, specifically during peak season, as capacity can be limited. Check the ferry schedule, as it varies.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Timing

No specific departure taxes or exit fees are paid directly by tourists when leaving Thailand from airports or land borders. These fees are usually included in your airfare.

Departure Recommendations

  • Airport (BKK/DMK): Arrive at least 2-3 hours before scheduled international flight departure for check-in, security, immigration.
  • Hua Hin Airport (HHQ) Domestic: 1.5-2 hours is usually enough for domestic flights.
  • Train/Bus Station: Arrive at least 30-60 minutes prior to the planned departure time for platform access and boarding.

Airport/Station Facilities

Both Bangkok airports offer comprehensive facilities for departing travelers, while local stations are more fundamental.

Departure Services

  • Bangkok Airports (BKK/DMK): Numerous check-in counters, self-service kiosks, bag check, security, immigration. Extensive duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, clear boarding gate signage.
  • Public transport By train and bus Stations (Prachuap Khiri Khan): More basic facilities with waiting areas, ticketing counters, public restrooms, and small food stalls or convenience stores.
  • Confirm your flight or train/bus departure times 24-48 hours before you leave. Account for travel time to the departure point.

Affiliate Resources for Travel

Flight Booking

Use Dollar Flight Club for deal alerts and Skyscanner for comparing routes.

Car Rentals

Find competitive rates for car hire at DiscoverCars.com.

Visa Services

Make your... more efficient visa application with IVisa or VisaHQ.

Confirm Departures

Confirm your flight or train/bus departure times 24-48 hours before you leave. Schedules can change, and confirming helps prevent surprises. Also, consider travel time from your lodging to the departure point, specifically if traveling from Prachuap Khiri Khan to Bangkok's airports.

How to Get to Prachuap Khiri Khan. Flights, Transportation, Airlines