Nakhon Ratchasima, commonly known as Korat, is one of Thailand’s largest provinces and serves as the gateway to the Isan region. Whether you’re a tourist planning to explore its historical sites or a business traveler heading to this industrial hub, understanding how to reach Nakhon Ratchasima is crucial. This guide provides all the essential travel information you need, covering various transportation options from different parts of Thailand and beyond.
Table of Contents
Reaching Nakhon Ratchasima by Air
Flying to Thailand
Since Nakhon Ratchasima does not have a commercial airport, international travelers must first reach Bangkok and then continue their journey to Korat.
Step 1: Booking a Flight to Bangkok
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – The main international gateway to Thailand, serving flights from across the globe.
- Don Mueang Airport (DMK) – Primarily handles budget and regional flights within Asia.
- Major airlines operating flights to Bangkok include Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and AirAsia.
| Departure Country | Approximate Flight Duration | Estimated Ticket Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| India (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata) | 4-5 hours | ₹6,268 – ₹13,319 |
| USA (New York, Los Angeles) | 18-22 hours | ₹50,000 – ₹90,000 |
| UK (London) | 12-14 hours | ₹40,000 – ₹80,000 |
| Australia (Sydney, Melbourne) | 9-11 hours | ₹35,000 – ₹70,000 |
| UAE (Dubai) | 6-7 hours | ₹25,000 – ₹50,000 |
Also Read: How to Reach phuket
Step 2: Arriving in Bangkok and Immigration Process
- After landing, passengers need to go through immigration and customs.
- The Airport Rail Link connects Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city center, while taxis and shuttle buses are available for easy transfers.
- If arriving at Don Mueang Airport, passengers can take a taxi, bus, or shuttle to Mo Chit Bus Terminal or Hua Lamphong Railway Station for further travel.
Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima
Nakhon Ratchasima is about 260 km northeast of Bangkok, and there are several ways to reach the city:
Choose Your Mode of Transport from Bangkok
Option 1: By Bus (Most Convenient Option)
- After arriving in Bangkok, head to Mo Chit Bus Terminal (reachable by taxi, BTS Skytrain, or MRT subway).
- Purchase a bus ticket from one of the operators such as Transport Co. Ltd, Air Korat Pattana, or Ratchasima Tour.
- Buses run frequently and take about 3.5 to 4.5 hours.
- Ticket prices range from 120 to 400 THB, depending on the class (economy, VIP, first class).
- Upon arrival in Nakhon Ratchasima Bus Terminal 2, take a local taxi, tuk-tuk, or songthaew to your final destination.
Option 2: By Train (Scenic but Slower Option)
- Go to Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok (reachable by MRT subway or taxi).
- Buy a train ticket for the Northeastern Railway Line to Nakhon Ratchasima Station or Thanon Chira Junction.
- Trains take 4 to 6 hours, with tickets costing between 50 to 300 THB, depending on the service type.
- Upon arrival, use local transport (taxis, tuk-tuks, or songthaews) to reach your accommodation.
Option 3: By Car (Best for Flexibility)
- Rent a car from Suvarnabhumi Airport, Don Mueang Airport, or major rental agencies in Bangkok.
- Drive via Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) and Highway 2 (Mittraphap Road) towards Nakhon Ratchasima.
- Travel time is 3 to 4 hours, with fuel stations and rest stops available along the way.
- Parking and car rental services are available in Korat for easy exploration.
Also Read: How to Reach Pattaya
Reaching Nakhon Ratchasima from Other Thai Cities
| From | By | Details | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chiang Mai | Bus | Takes 10 to 12 hours. | 600 to 1,000 THB | 10–12 hours |
| Air | No direct flights; must fly to Bangkok first. | Varies (to Bangkok) | Varies (via Bangkok) | |
| Phuket | Air | Fly to Bangkok (1.5 hours), then take a bus or train. | Varies | 1.5 hours (to Bangkok) + onward travel |
| Bus | Takes 16 to 18 hours. | 1,000 to 1,500 THB | 16–18 hours | |
| Pattaya | Bus | Direct buses available. | 300 to 500 THB | 5–6 hours |
| Car | Driving option. | Fuel costs vary | 4–5 hours |
Local Transportation in Nakhon Ratchasima
- Tuk-tuks and Songthaews – Budget-friendly, starting at 10 THB.
- Metered Taxis – Not as common as in Bangkok but available.
- Motorbike Taxis – Good for short distances.
- Car Rentals – Ideal for exploring nearby attractions.
Conclusion
For international travelers, the best route to Nakhon Ratchasima is by flying to Bangkok first, then taking a bus, train, or rental car. For those wondering how to reach Nakhon Ratchasima domestically, there are a variety of options, including direct buses and train services. With convenient transport options, reaching Korat is hassle-free, allowing you to explore its rich heritage and modern attractions with ease.
Also Read: How to Reach Bangkok
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Nakhon Ratchasima from Bangkok?
Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) is about 260 kilometers (160 miles) northeast of Bangkok. Travel time varies from 3–6 hours depending on the mode of transport.
How much is a taxi from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Nakhon Ratchasima?
A taxi ride from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Nakhon Ratchasima costs approximately THB 3,000–5,000, depending on traffic, time of day, and vehicle size.
How to get around in Korat?
Getting around in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) is easy:
Songthaews: Shared pick-up trucks serving as local buses.
Motorcycle taxis: Quick and affordable for short trips.
Tuk-tuks: Common for short distances within the city.
Grab or taxis: Available but less common than in Bangkok.
Car or motorcycle rental: A good option for exploring beyond the city.
How cheap are taxis in Bangkok?
Taxis in Bangkok are affordable, with the base fare starting at THB 35. Rates increase by distance, but most short rides within the city cost THB 100–200.
What is the closest airport to Nakhon Ratchasima?
While Nakhon Ratchasima has an airport, it is not operational for commercial flights. The nearest airports are:
Buriram Airport (approx. 120 km away)
Don Mueang Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok (approx. 3–4 hours by road).