Bangkok is well-connected by road, with buses arriving daily from cities like Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, and Surat Thani. The Transport Company (Bor Kor Sor) operates government-run buses, while private operators like Nakhonchai Air and Sombat Tour offer comfortable services, including VIP sleeper buses. Most long-distance buses arrive early in the morning or late at night, ensuring flexible travel options.
The Suvarnabhumi Airport also has dedicated shuttle buses connecting it to the main terminals. Other key bus hubs include Ekkamai Bus Terminal, serving destinations in eastern Thailand, and Sai Tai Mai (Southern Bus Terminal), catering to southern provinces like Krabi and Phuket. Those coming from the north may find Mo Chit Bus Terminal the most convenient drop-off point.
Upon arrival, various transport options help travelers reach their destinations. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab and Bolt provide direct and comfortable rides, while BTS Skytrain and MRT offer efficient public transport. City buses and tuk-tuks are budget-friendly alternatives for short trips.
For late-night arrivals, taxis and ride-hailing apps are recommended, as buses and the metro system operate only until midnight. With excellent connectivity, arriving in Bangkok by bus is a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Major Bus Stations in Bangkok
When arriving in Bangkok, you’ll likely be dropped off at one of the following key bus terminals:
Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Northern Bus Terminal)
Located in the Chatuchak district, this is Bangkok’s largest bus terminal, serving destinations in northern and northeastern Thailand, including Chiang Mai and Udon Thani. It offers food stalls, waiting areas, and direct access to the BTS Mo Chit station and MRT Chatuchak station.
Ekkamai Bus Terminal (Eastern Bus Terminal)
Situated in downtown Bangkok, this terminal primarily handles buses from Pattaya, Rayong, and Trat. It's conveniently located next to the BTS Ekkamai station for easy onward travel.
Sai Tai Mai (Southern Bus Terminal)
Catering to routes from southern Thailand such as Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui, Sai Tai Mai is well-equipped with rest areas, ticket counters, and food stalls. It is located west of the Chao Phraya River and requires a taxi or bus connection to central Bangkok.
How to Book Bus Tickets
Booking a bus ticket to Bangkok is simple and can be done online or in person.
1. Online Booking
You can book bus tickets in advance through various platforms that allow you to compare operators, timings, and seat availability. Some popular booking websites and apps include:
- 12Go Asia (for domestic and international routes)
- ThaiTicketMajor
- BusOnlineTicket
- Nakhonchai Air
Most platforms accept credit/debit cards and digital wallets for payment, with e-tickets sent via email.
2. Booking at Bus Terminals
For last-minute travel, you can purchase tickets directly at bus terminals like Mo Chit, Ekkamai, and Sai Tai Mai. Government and private operators have ticket counters where you can check seat availability and fares.
3. Travel Agents & Local Booking Offices
Many travel agencies and booking offices in Thailand provide bus ticket reservations. This option is useful for those who prefer cash payments or need assistance in choosing the best bus service.
Getting Around After Arrival
Once you step off the bus, there are multiple ways to travel within Bangkok.
1. Taxis & Ride-Hailing
- Available outside all major bus stations.
- Grab, Bolt, and traditional metered taxis provide app-based bookings.
- taxis cost around ฿40 for the base fare, plus ฿9–฿6.50 per kilometer.Waiting time costs ฿180 per hour.
- The average price for a taxi from the airport to Bangkok is about ฿350–500 for the metered fare, plus ฿50 for the airport fee, and ฿100 for highway tolls.
2. BTS Skytrain
- Best for avoiding traffic congestion.
- Connects key areas like Siam, Sukhumvit, and Silom.
- The cost of a trip on the Bangkok Skytrain (BTS) ranges from 15–59 baht, depending on the distance traveled. You can also purchase a one-day pass for unlimited travel.
- A one-day pass costs 140 baht
3. MRT Metro
- Covers additional areas beyond the BTS network.
- Connects directly to Mo Chit and Hua Lamphong Railway Station.
- The cost of an MRT ride in Bangkok, Thailand depends on the distance traveled and ranges from 16–65 baht (about US$0.50–$2.00).
4. City Bus
- Cheapest transport option.
- Frequent services from Mo Chit, Ekkamai, and Sai Tai Mai.
- Fares start from ฿8 for non-air-conditioned buses.
Late-Night Arrivals
If you arrive after midnight, taxis and ride-hailing services are the best options, as public transport services reduce after this time. Grab and Bolt offer safer alternatives.
International Bus Arrivals
If you're coming from Cambodia, Laos, or Malaysia, your bus will likely arrive at Mo Chit Bus Terminal or specific border bus stations.
Siem Reap & Phnom Penh (Cambodia) → Mo Chit Vientiane (Laos) → Mo Chit Penang & Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Southern Terminal
Tip: Double-check visa requirements and border crossing procedures for a smooth journey.
Nearby Amenities & Services
** Each terminal has basic facilities for travelers: ** ATMs & Currency Exchange – Available inside terminals. ** Food & Convenience Stores – 7-Eleven, food courts, and coffee shops. ** Luggage Storage – Available at Mo Chit & Ekkamai. ** Toilets & Waiting Areas – Clean and well-maintained at major terminals.
Final Travel Tips
** Book your bus tickets in advance during peak seasons. ** Avoid touts and buy tickets only from official counters. ** Keep small change for taxi/bus fare after arrival. ** If taking a taxi, insist on using the meter. ** If you're unsure, ask for help—Bangkok locals are friendly!
Arriving in Bangkok by bus is convenient, with major terminals offering seamless connections to Taxis & Ride-Hailing, BTS, MRT, and City Bus. Book tickets online or at terminals, plan ahead during peak seasons, and enjoy a smooth journey with Bangkok’s well-connected transport network.
