Anyone have any recommendations as to what is the best way to get from Bangkok to Khao Lak?? Would renting a car be a good idea to make this trip? If so, approximately how long is the drive?

Thanks!

The easiest way would be to fly to Phuket, then either get the bus or take a taxi, it's about 2hrs if I remember correctly.

The other way is to get the overnight train to Surat Thani, then get on the bus to Khao Lak (via Takua Pa, terminates in Phuket), which takes about 5 hrs, BUT.. the journey will take you right through the Khao Sok National Park, and features some stunning views.

Of course you can drive the same route, drive from Bangkok to Surat Thani, then get on the 401 which takes you through the park to Takua Pa,then down the coast to Khao Lak. Doing it this way you'll be able to stop and take pictures if thats what you like.

Totster

Anyone have any recommendations as to what is the best way to get from Bangkok to Khao Lak?? Would renting a car be a good idea to make this trip? If so, approximately how long is the drive?

Thanks!

Another possibility is to rent a car or minibus with driver the you can relax and also stop where and wen you want.

Cheers

onzestan

The easiest way would be to fly to Phuket, then either get the bus or take a taxi, it's about 2hrs if I remember correctly.

The other way is to get the overnight train to Surat Thani, then get on the bus to Khao Lak (via Takua Pa, terminates in Phuket), which takes about 5 hrs, BUT.. the journey will take you right through the Khao Sok National Park, and features some stunning views.

Of course you can drive the same route, drive from Bangkok to Surat Thani, then get on the 401 which takes you through the park to Takua Pa,then down the coast to Khao Lak. Doing it this way you'll be able to stop and take pictures if thats what you like.

Totster

We've done the drive a few times - its a long way but the views through Khao Sok are stunning and make it worthwhile. Driving should take you around 9 - 10 hours given a good run.

Anyone have any recommendations as to what is the best way to get from Bangkok to Khao Lak?? Would renting a car be a good idea to make this trip? If so, approximately how long is the drive?

Thanks!

in my humble opinion, the easiest and most relaxing way to get there is taking a flight (Airasia has 899++ Tickets to Phuket available almost everyday at the moment) and then rent a car (a decent Suzuki Carribean in Phuket can be had for 500-600 Baht during low season, if that kind of car is not too small for you - fun to drive, though).... that gives u all independence to xplore the KhaoLak area as u please....

Thanks everyone for your advice... Are there any buses that go straight from Bangkok to Khao Lak? If so, would these be recommended?