How to Reach Koh Samui

Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and luxurious resorts. Wondering how to reach Koh Samui? Located in the Gulf of Thailand, the island is accessible through various routes, including flights, ferries, and overland travel. Whether you’re coming from Bangkok, Phuket, or an international destination, here’s everything you need to know about reaching Koh Samui.

Flying to Koh Samui

Direct Flights to Koh Samui Airport (USM)

Koh Samui International Airport is privately owned and operated by Bangkok Airways. The airport is small yet beautifully designed, with an open-air terminal and tropical landscaping. It serves direct flights from various domestic and international locations:

• From Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport – BKK & Don Mueang Airport – DMK):
  • Bangkok Airways operates more than 20 daily flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), taking approximately 1 hour.
  • Thai Smile and Nok Air operate flights from Don Mueang (DMK) to Surat Thani (URT), where you can take a bus and ferry to Koh Samui.
• From Major Indian Cities:
  • Flights to Koh Samui via Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport are available from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore.
  • Chennai offers one of the shortest routes, with a 5-hour 40-minute journey (including transit via Bangkok).
  • Flights from Delhi and Bangalore take just over 6 hours.
  • These routes are typically operated by Thai Airways (to Bangkok) and Bangkok Airways (from Bangkok to Koh Samui).
  • A convenient option is Bangkok Airways’ 7-hour flight from India, which stops in Bangkok but does not require a change of airline.
• From Phuket (HKT):
  • Bangkok Airways operates direct flights taking about 55 minutes.
  • Flight frequency: 3-4 flights per day.
• From International Destinations:
  • Singapore (SIN): Direct flights available via Bangkok Airways (~2 hours 15 minutes).
  • Hong Kong (HKG): Seasonal direct flights.
  • Kuala Lumpur (KUL): Some flights connect via Bangkok.

Alternative Flight Routes to Koh Samui

Since direct flights to Koh Samui can be expensive, many budget travelers opt for flying to Surat Thani Airport (URT) or Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (NST), followed by a bus and ferry journey.

• Budget Airlines to Surat Thani:
  • AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air, and VietJet Air operate multiple daily flights from Bangkok.
  • Flight duration: 1 hour 10 minutes.
• Bus/Ferry Transfer from Surat Thani Airport to Koh Samui:
  • Bus ride from Surat Thani Airport to Donsak Pier: 1.5 hours.
  • Ferry from Donsak Pier to Koh Samui: 1.5-2 hours.
  • Total travel time: 4-5 hours.
  • Cost: THB 400-600 per person.

Also Read: How to Reach Ayutthaya

Traveling to Koh Samui by Ferry

If you prefer a scenic route or are traveling on a budget, ferries are the best option. Here are the key ferry routes:

• Ferry from Bangkok: While there is no direct ferry from Bangkok to Koh Samui, you can take an overnight train or bus to Surat Thani and then transfer to the ferry.
• Ferry from Surat Thani to Koh Samui:
  • Departure Point: Donsak Pier (60 km from Surat Thani city).
  • Operators: Seatran Ferry, Raja Ferry, Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran.
  • Travel Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours.
  • Cost: Starts at THB 200-500 per person.
• Ferry from Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, or Chumphon:
  • From Koh Tao: 1.5 – 2 hours.
  • From Koh Phangan: 30 – 45 minutes.
  • From Chumphon: 6-7 hours (ideal for those traveling from northern Thailand).

By Road Travel to Koh Samui

Traveling by road from India to Thailand is an adventure but feasible, thanks to the newly inaugurated India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway.

• Route: Moreh (Manipur, India) → Tamu → Mandalay → Myawaddy (Myanmar) → Mae Sot → Bangkok → Surat Thani → Koh Samui.
• Distance: Approx. 4,305 km.
• Total Duration: Around 1 week by road.
• From Bangkok: Take a bus to Surat Thani and then a ferry to Koh Samui.

By Bus + Ferry

• Direct VIP and standard buses run from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal.
• Overnight bus service available.
• Travel Duration: 10-12 hours.
• Cost: THB 600 – 1,200.
• Tip: Book a combined bus+ferry ticket for hassle-free travel.

Also Read: How to Reach Hua Hin

Getting Around Koh Samui

Once on the island, getting around is easy with various local transport options:

• Songthaews: Shared open-air minibuses, an affordable mode of transport.
• Motorbike Taxis: Ideal for solo travelers who want to move quickly.
• Local Taxis: More expensive but comfortable for longer distances.
• Bicycle & Motorbike Rentals: Available across the island, great for exploring at your own pace.

Best Travel Option for Different Travelers

Traveler Type	Recommended Route
Luxury & Time-Saving	Direct flight to Koh Samui
Budget Traveler	Flight to Surat Thani + bus + ferry
Backpacker / Scenic Route	Train from Bangkok + ferry
Island Hopping	Koh Tao/Koh Phangan to Koh Samui

Conclusion

Reaching Koh Samui is convenient, whether you opt for a direct flight or take a ferry from Surat Thani or nearby islands. If you’re short on time, flights are the best option, while budget-conscious travelers can explore train and ferry options. Regardless of your route, Koh Samui’s palm-fringed beaches and vibrant nightlife make the journey worth it!

Also Read: How To Reach Chiang Rai

---

Frequently Asked Questions