Sukhothai Transport Guide: How to Get There and Travel Around Easily
All you need to know to get to Sukhothai, the ancient capital of the Siamese Kingdom. This guide covers all transport options — bus, train, plane, and private car — with prices, schedules, and practical tips to plan your trip easily.
Good to Know Before Traveling
Sukhothai is divided into two distinct areas:
- Old Sukhothai, home to the historical park;
- New Sukhothai, the modern city where most buses arrive.
They’re about 12 km apart and well connected by local transport.
Tip:
Most long-distance buses stop at New Sukhothai Bus Terminal.
Sukhothai Bus Terminal (New City)
The Sukhothai Bus Terminal is located on the outskirts of the city.
It serves as the main hub for long-distance routes to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phitsanulok.
Old Sukhothai Bus Stop
Old Sukhothai doesn’t have an actual bus terminal but a small stop with a ticket booth and waiting room.
Buses occasionally pick up or drop off passengers there before heading to the main terminal.
Getting Between Old and New Sukhothai
Local buses run every 30 minutes from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m..
The trip takes about 30 minutes and costs around 30 baht.
Other transport options:
- Tuk-tuks (price to negotiate)
- Songthaews (shared pickup trucks, 10 baht)
- Bicycle via Ban Kluai route
Buses, Vans, and Minibuses
From Chiang Mai
Two companies — Win Tour and Esan Tour — operate daily buses from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The trip takes 5–6 hours, and tickets cost around 250 baht.
Travel tip:
Buses from Chiang Mai pass through Lampang and may drop passengers directly at Old Sukhothai.
From Phitsanulok
Hourly departures from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The 57 km route takes just over one hour.
Other Bus Destinations
- Kamphaeng Phet – hourly buses (1.5 h ride, 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.)
- Khon Kaen – daily routes
- Mukdahan – limited connections to the Lao border
Private Car or Van with Driver
A private transfer is ideal for families or small groups who prefer comfort and flexibility.
- Bangkok – Sukhothai: around 6 hours
- Chiang Mai – Sukhothai: around 5 hours
- Phitsanulok – Sukhothai: around 1 hour
By Train via Phitsanulok
Sukhothai doesn’t have a train station.
The nearest one is in Phitsanulok, about 60 km away.
From there, hourly buses and vans reach Sukhothai for about 50 baht.
Train + Bus Combination
From Bangkok or Chiang Mai, you can take the train to Phitsanulok, then continue to Sukhothai by bus or minivan.
By Plane: Fastest but Pricier Option
The Sukhothai Airport, about 40 km from the historical park, is operated by Bangkok Airways.
There’s no competition, so ticket prices are often higher — but the trip is quick and smooth.
The airport offers free bicycles for short rides around the area and even has a small airport zoo featuring live animals and dinosaur statues!
Airport Shuttle Schedule
| Sukhothai Airport → Historical Park | Historical Park → Airport | Airport → Phitsanulok Train Station | Phitsanulok Train Station → Airport |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10:00 / 10:40 / 11:20 | 16:00 / 16:45 / 17:20 | 16:00 / 16:50 / 17:00 | 18:00 / 18:15 / 19:20 |
Alternative via Phitsanulok
You can also fly from Bangkok to Phitsanulok and continue to Sukhothai by bus or van.
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FAQ – Transport in Sukhothai
How do I get to Sukhothai from Bangkok?
By bus (6–7 hours), by plane with Bangkok Airways, or by train + bus via Phitsanulok.
Is there a train station in Sukhothai?
No. The closest station is in Phitsanulok, 60 km away.
What’s the fastest way to reach Sukhothai?
The flight from Bangkok to Sukhothai operated by Bangkok Airways.
How can I travel between Old and New Sukhothai?
By local bus, songthaew, tuk-tuk, or bicycle — all available daily.
Is it easy to explore Sukhothai with family?
Yes, renting a private car or van with a driver is the most convenient way.