Train from Bangkok to Phuket: Schedules & Routes
Travel from Bangkok to Phuket by train and bus, taking 15-18 hours from Thailand’s bustling capital to its tropical beaches.
Start with an overnight train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, then hop on a connecting bus to Phuket—no direct train exists, but the combo offers a budget-friendly adventure.
Prefer a simpler ride? The VIP Bus from Bangkok to Phuket delivers direct, overnight comfort with reclining seats and no transfers.
Note: Book your train tickets to Surat Thani first, then secure separate bus tickets from Surat Thani to Phuket—combined tickets aren’t available.
Contents
Best Train & Bus Combinations
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station
| Option | Train & Bus | Why Choose This |
|---|---|---|
| ⭐ RECOMMENDED | Train #85 (19:30 → 07:06) + Bus 08:00 | Perfect timing, minimal wait |
| ⏱️ FASTEST | Train #39 (22:50 → 08:05) + Bus 09:10 | Late departure from Bangkok |
| 💰 BUDGET | Train #173 (17:35 → 05:48) + Bus 06:30 | Lowest combined fare |
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station
Train Schedule to Surat Thani
Trains are listed below by recommendation priority rather than departure time, with our top picks for most travelers appearing first.
| Departure → Arrival | Train Info | Best Bus Connection |
|---|---|---|
| 19:30 → 07:06 (+1) | #85, 1st/2nd class sleeper | 08:00 → Phuket 14:00 |
| 22:50 → 08:05 (+1) | #39, 1st/2nd class sleeper | 09:10 → Phuket 15:10 |
| 18:30 → 06:23 (+1) | #167, 2nd/3rd class sleeper | 07:20 → Phuket 13:20 |
| 17:35 → 05:48 (+1) | #173, 2nd/3rd class sleeper | 06:30 → Phuket 12:30 |
| 17:05 → 04:24 (+1) | #83, 1st/2nd/3rd class | 06:30 → Phuket 12:30 |
Trains to Avoid
| Train | Why Avoid |
|---|---|
| #43 (08:05 → 16:45) | Too late for same-day buses |
| #171, #31 (night arrivals) | Middle-of-night arrival, long wait |
Sleeper Classes & Fares
First Class AC Sleeper
Special Express (#39) and Express trains (#83, #85)
- Private 2-berth cabin with lock
- AC control, washbasin
- Full dining service available
Second Class AC Sleeper
All overnight trains to Surat Thani
- Open berths
- Bedding, AC
- Privacy curtains, reading light
Fan/3rd Class
Rapid trains (#167, #173) only
- Fan-cooled or basic seating
- Budget-friendly option
- Basic bedding on fan sleepers
Bus Connections: Surat Thani to Phuket
All buses cost between THB 370-400 per person and arrive at Phuket Bus Terminal 2. The Phantip 1970 Express (08:00) is fastest at 4 hours vs standard 6-hour journey. Morning buses (06:30-08:00) align perfectly with overnight train arrivals.
| Departure | Operator | Arrival in Phuket |
|---|---|---|
| 06:30 | 465 Transport | 12:30 |
| 07:20 | 465 Transport | 13:20 |
| 08:00 | Phantip 1970 Express | 12:00 (fastest option) |
| 09:10 | 465 Transport | 15:10 |
| 10:20 | 465 Transport | 16:20 |
| 12:10 | 465 Transport | 18:10 |
| 14:20 | 465 Transport | 20:20 |
Food & Onboard Services
Onboard Services
- At-seat meals (THB 120-250)
- Thai and Western options
- Dining car on Express trains
- Hua Hin: Seafood snacks
- Chumphon: Fresh coffee
- 5-10 minute stops
- Mid-journey rest stop
- Complimentary water
- Onboard toilets
Surat Thani Station to Bus Connection
Bus tickets available at station counters (THB 370-400). Skip lines by booking combined train+bus tickets in advance. Station has waiting areas, snack shops, and toilets.
Phuket Destinations
Popular Phuket Beach Areas
- Vibrant nightlife, shopping
- Songthaew: THB 50-100
- Widest selection of hotels
- Family-friendly beaches
- Taxi: THB 600-700
- More relaxed atmosphere
- Cultural center, markets
- Songthaew: THB 30-50
- Sino-Portuguese architecture
FAQs
No. Take train to Surat Thani, then bus (240 km) to Phuket.
15-18 hours total (890 km): 8.5-12 hours train + 4-6 hours bus.
Express #85 (19:30 departure) connects perfectly with 8:00 bus to Phuket.
Yes. Train+bus: THB 900-1,200 total vs flights: THB 1,500-3,000.
Phuket Bus Terminal 2, with connections to all beach areas.
Traveling from Bangkok to Phuket by train and bus offers a scenic, affordable alternative to flying. While the journey is longer, spanning 890 km and 15-18 hours, it provides unique opportunities to experience Thailand’s diverse landscapes and enjoy comfortable overnight accommodations.
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