1map logoGo to main page

Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai Province to Koh Samui, Surat Thani from $17: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chiang Mai, Thailand
to
Koh Samui, Thailand

How to Get from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$17 - Train, bus and ferryBest price
1039 kmDistance
3h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$121-402
Recommended
Company
State Railway of Thailand, Sombat Tour, Lomprayah
Train
Bus
Average Duration
25h  30m
Estimated price
$17-64
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1039 km
Duration: 3h 25m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
32h  7m
Estimated price
$28-61
Company
State Railway of Thailand
Train
Bus
Average Duration
24h  18m
Estimated price
$36-142
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
23h  7m
Estimated price
$65-102
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chiang Mai to Koh Samui

Traveling from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui offers a fascinating journey between the mountainous landscapes and rich culture of northern Thailand and the vibrant beaches and tropical vibe of the southern islands.

Best Neighbourhoods in Koh Samui

Koh Samui is home to diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Chaweng
• Lively nightlife and beach clubs
• Great shopping and dining options
Lamai
• Stunning beaches with a relaxed atmosphere
• Close to local markets and attractions
Bophut
• Charming Fisherman’s Village with boutique shops
• Peaceful beachfront dining and sunset views

Best Times To Visit Koh Samui's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience of Koh Samui's attractions.

Big Buddha
Early mornings are ideal to enjoy serene surroundings and fewer tourists.
Ang Thong National Marine Park
Visit during the weekdays for a less crowded, tranquil experience.
Fisherman’s Village in Bophut
Evenings, especially on Thursdays, bring local markets and vibrant energy.

Koh Samui Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Koh Samui enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, though the best times to visit are typically between December and April when rainfall is minimal. Understanding the weather can shape your activities, as sunny days are perfect for beach outings while the rainy season provides lush landscapes and fewer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Koh Samui

Savor the fresh seafood at Fisherman's Village in Bophut, where you can enjoy dishes like grilled tiger prawns amid a charming beachfront atmosphere. This culinary experience contrasts with Chiang Mai's northern fare by emphasizing vibrant flavors and local ingredients from the surrounding waters, providing a delightful taste of Thai coastal cuisine.

Chiang Mai - Koh Samui operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chiang Mai and Koh Samui, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
thaiairways.com

Plane from Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) to Koh Samui Airport (USM)

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$100-440

Plane from Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) to Koh Samui Airport (USM) via Suvarnabhumi

Average Duration
3h 51m
Estimated price
$85-310

Plane from Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) to Koh Samui Airport (USM) via Phuket

Average Duration
3h 50m
Estimated price
$100-440
Website
bangkokair.com

Plane from Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) to Koh Samui Airport (USM)

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$100-440

Plane from Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) to Koh Samui Airport (USM) via Suvarnabhumi

Average Duration
3h 47m
Estimated price
$100-440

Plane from Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) to Koh Samui Airport (USM) via Phuket

Average Duration
3h 50m
Estimated price
$100-440
Train
Contact phone
1690
Website
railway.co.th

Train from Chiang Mai to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal

Average Duration
10h 5m
Estimated price
$6-45

Train from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Surat Thani Train Station

Average Duration
9h 30m
Estimated price
$5-45
Bus
Contact phone
+66 2 936 3256
Website
sombattour.com

Bus from Chiang Mai to Hua Hin

Average Duration
13h
Estimated price
$18-35

Bus from Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal to Koh Samui

Average Duration
12h 50m
Estimated price
$10-20
Contact phone
1624
Website
nakhonchaiair.com

Bus from Chiang Mai to Rayong

Average Duration
14h 37m
Estimated price
$20-35
Contact phone
+66 89 873 0008
Website
lomprayah.com

Bus from Hua Hin to Koh Tao

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$28-40

Bus from Ko Tao to Ko Samui

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$19-29

Bus from Lomprayah Tapee Pier to Na Thon Koh Samui

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
$18-29
Contact phone
+66 33019033
Website
iloveyellowbus.com

Bus from Rayong to Koh Samui - Nathon

Average Duration
16h 30m
Estimated price
$8-27

Chiang Mai to Koh Samui: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chiang Mai and Koh Samui offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🛫 Flying from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui offers a convenient and quick way to travel between these two beautiful destinations. The direct flight takes just 1 hour and 45 minutes, allowing you to maximize your time exploring both cities. ✈️ Thai Airways International and Bangkok Airways are the major airlines that operate flights from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui. With a flight duration of 3 hours and 25 minutes, you can relax and enjoy the journey as you make your way to the stunning island of Koh Samui. 🏝️ Travelers can find a range of prices for flights between Chiang Mai and Koh Samui, typically ranging from $121 to $402.
Departure Point
Chiang Mai Airport
Arrival Point
Koh Samui Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Check the baggage policies of Thai Airways International and Bangkok Airways before your flight, as they may differ significantly and fees can add up; PTY Check-in extends only 30 minutes prior to departure, so arrive early.
• Upon arriving at Koh Samui Airport, you'll find a charming open-air terminal; expect a relaxed atmosphere but be prepared for potential queue delays at customs, as it's a smaller facility for international travelers.
• Taxi fares from Koh Samui Airport to the city center typically range from 400 to 600 THB ($12 - $18); consider negotiating a flat fare before getting in, and always confirm the driver uses a metered taxi service to avoid surprises.
🚌 There is no direct bus from Chiang Mai to Ko Samui, but you can take a bus with services departing from Chiang Mai and arriving at Ko Samui via Hua Hin and Ko Tao. 🌴 The journey by bus, including transfers, takes approximately 23 hours and 7 minutes, offering a scenic route through different parts of Thailand. 💸 Prices for a bus ticket between Koh Samui and Chiang Mai typically range from $65 to $102, providing budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore both cities.
Departure Point
Chiang Mai station
Arrival Point
Ko Samui station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Chiang Mai and Koh Samui is 646 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 25 hours and 49 minutes to reach Koh Samui from Chiang Mai by taking a train, bus, and ferry via Tha Kham. The quickest option is by plane, with a travel time of 3 hours and 25 minutes. Taking a bus is another option, but it takes longer, at approximately 23 hours and 7 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui is by taking a combination of bus and ferry, which typically costs between $25 and $50 and takes about 24 hours and 30 minutes. While this option may take longer, it offers a more budget-friendly option for travelers. Alternatively, the quickest way to get to Koh Samui is by flying, which takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $120 and $390. This option is ideal for those seeking a shorter travel time but are willing to spend more on transportation.
The prices for a bus between Chiang Mai and Koh Samui vary from $70 to $94. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure the best price and availability. Additionally, prices may vary depending on the time of year and operator. It is best to check with multiple sources and compare prices to find the most suitable option for your budget.
The best way to travel from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui without a car is by taking a bus and bus and ferry combination route via Hua Hin. This journey lasts approximately 23 hours and 7 minutes and costs between $65 and $95. It is a scenic route that allows you to enjoy the views along the way. Alternatively, you can also consider taking a plane, which is a faster option and takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes.
No, there is no direct link between Chiang Mai and Koh Samui. The journey usually involves multiple transfers and takes approximately 23 hours and 7 minutes by bus. The buses typically depart from Chiang Mai station and arrive at Koh Samui station, operated by Sombat Tour and Lomprayah respectively. Passengers generally have to transfer at Hua Hin and Ko Tao during the journey.
The flight between Chiang Mai and Koh Samui takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. The cost of a flight between these two destinations typically ranges from $121 to $382. It is important to check with different airlines and book in advance to secure the best price.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Koh Samui. With over 1754 hotels to choose from, you can find a variety of options to suit your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels start at $23 per night, making it affordable for all types of travelers. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, beachside bungalows, or budget-friendly guesthouses, there is something for everyone in Koh Samui.

Trips from Chiang Mai