What is the best way to get to Koh Lipe from Bangkok?
Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Lipe involves multiple modes of transportation as Koh Lipe is an island in the Andaman Sea. Here are a few options:
1. Flight + Ferry:
This is the fastest, most common, and convenient way.
- Flight from Bangkok to Hat Yai or Trang: First, take a domestic flight from either Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK) in Bangkok to Hat Yai International Airport (HDY) or Trang Airport (TST). Several airlines operate this route, including Thai Airways, AirAsia, and Nok Air. The flight takes around 1.5 – 2 hours.
- Transfer to Pak Bara Pier: Once at the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a minibus to Pak Bara Pier. This can take around 2 hours from Hat Yai and 1.5 hours from Trang.
- Ferry from Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe: The ferry or speedboat from Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe generally takes around 1.5 – 2 hours. During the high season, there are several trips per day. But in the low season, there might be just one or two, so it’s best to check the ferry schedule in advance.
2. Train + Minibus + Ferry:
- Train from Bangkok to Hat Yai or Trang: Take an overnight train from Bangkok to Hat Yai or Trang. The journey can take 12-15 hours.
- Minibus to Pak Bara Pier: From the train station, take a minibus to Pak Bara Pier.
- Ferry from Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe: Take a ferry or speedboat from Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe.
3. Bus + Ferry:
- Bus from Bangkok to Hat Yai or Trang: Buses from Bangkok to Hat Yai or Trang take about 12 hours.
- Minibus to Pak Bara Pier: From the bus station, take a minibus to Pak Bara Pier.
- Ferry from Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe: Take a ferry or speedboat from Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe.
Remember, travel times can vary based on specific schedules, delays, and other factors, so it’s always good to allow plenty of time for connections. Also, keep in mind that the ferry service is dependent on the sea conditions, and may not operate during the monsoon season.