How to Reach Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands, famous for their crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant marine life, are a must-visit destination for travelers to Thailand. Whether you’re interested in exploring the underwater world or just relaxing on the beach, the journey to Phi Phi is well worth the effort. But how do you get there? Let’s break down how you can travel to the Phi Phi Islands, starting from your home country and through the main travel hubs like Bangkok, Phuket, and Krabi.

How to Reach Phi Phi Islands

Most international visitors will first fly into Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital, which serves as a major hub for flights from all around the world. Here’s how you can plan your journey:

Flights to Bangkok

• International Flights to Bangkok: Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) are both major gateways for international flights. Depending on where you’re traveling from, you can find direct flights or connecting flights to Bangkok.
• Flight Options: Airlines like Thai Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and budget airlines such as AirAsia and Nok Air operate regular flights to Bangkok from cities worldwide.
• Average Flight Duration: From Europe (about 12–14 hours), North America (around 20–22 hours), Australia (around 9 hours), and most Asian countries (3–7 hours).
• Flight Costs: A round-trip ticket from Europe or North America to Bangkok generally ranges between 600–1,200 USD, while flights from neighboring countries in Asia may cost as little as 100–300 USD.

Also Read: How to Reach Nakhon Ratchasima

Arriving in Bangkok: Next Steps to Phi Phi Islands

Once you’re in Bangkok, your next step is to head to one of the coastal cities (Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Lanta) where you can board a ferry or speedboat to Phi Phi. The most common routes are via Phuket and Krabi.

From Bangkok to Phi Phi Islands

After landing in Bangkok, you have several options for reaching the Phi Phi Islands. You’ll need to either take a domestic flight, bus, or train to a coastal city, and then board a ferry or speedboat to the Phi Phi Islands.

Flying from Bangkok to Phuket or Krabi

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the Phi Phi Islands from Bangkok is by flying to Phuket or Krabi.

• Flight to Phuket:
  • Airlines: Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air, and Thai Airways offer daily flights from Bangkok to Phuket.
  • Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.
  • Cost: One-way tickets range from 1,000–2,500 THB, depending on the time of booking and season.
• Flight to Krabi:
  • Airlines: AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air provide flights from Bangkok to Krabi.
  • Flight Duration: About 1 hour and 20 minutes.
  • Cost: One-way tickets typically cost 900–2,000 THB.

Once you arrive in either Phuket or Krabi, you’ll need to take a ferry or speedboat to Phi Phi Islands.

By Ferry or Speedboat from Phuket or Krabi

After reaching Phuket or Krabi, the most popular and scenic way to get to Phi Phi is by ferry or speedboat.

• From Phuket to Phi Phi:
  • Departure Point: Ferries depart from Rassada Pier in Phuket.
  • Ferry Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
  • Cost: A one-way ticket generally costs between 400–600 THB.
  • Speedboat Option: If you prefer a quicker and more private experience, speedboats can take you to Phi Phi in around 45 minutes. Expect to pay around 1,500–2,500 THB per person.
• From Krabi to Phi Phi:
  • Departure Point: Ferries leave from Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi.
  • Ferry Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.
  • Cost: One-way tickets range from 350–500 THB.

Other Routes to Phi Phi Islands

From Koh Lanta to Phi Phi

If you’re already on Koh Lanta, reaching Phi Phi is a breeze. Ferries depart from Saladan Pier on Koh Lanta, taking around 1 to 1.5 hours.

• Cost: Tickets generally cost between 300–500 THB for a one-way trip.

From Surat Thani (via Bus or Train)

For those coming from Surat Thani (a major transport hub in southern Thailand), you can take a bus or train to Donsak Pier, then catch a ferry to Phi Phi.

• Bus/Train + Ferry: This combined journey takes about 10–12 hours.
• Cost: The entire trip typically costs between 500–1,000 THB, depending on the mode of transportation.

Also Read: How to Reach Hua Hin

Best Time to Visit Phi Phi Islands

The best time to visit the Phi Phi Islands is during the dry season (November to April), when you can expect sunny skies, calm seas, and perfect weather for exploring. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.

If you prefer a quieter experience, visit during the low season (May to October). While there may be occasional rain, you’ll find fewer tourists and lower prices.

Summary: Key Routes and Costs

Route	Mode of Transport	Time	Cost (INR)
International Flights to Bangkok	Flights (from various countries)	–	49,200–123,000 INR (600–1,500 USD)
From Bangkok to Phuket (BKK to HKT)	Domestic Flight	1 hour 25 minutes	2,350–5,875 INR (1,000–2,500 THB)
From Bangkok to Krabi (BKK to KBV)	Domestic Flight	1 hour 20 minutes	2,115–4,700 INR (900–2,000 THB)
From Phuket or Krabi to Phi Phi	Ferry	1.5–2 hours	940–1,410 INR (400–600 THB)
From Phuket or Krabi to Phi Phi	Speedboat	45 minutes	3,525–5,875 INR (1,500–2,500 THB)
From Koh Lanta to Phi Phi	Ferry	1–1.5 hours	705–1,175 INR (300–500 THB)

Conclusion

Reaching the Phi Phi Islands is simple and straightforward, with multiple transport options available from Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, and other nearby locations. Whether you’re flying into Thailand from abroad or traveling within the country, the journey to Phi Phi is well worth the adventure. With pristine beaches, stunning viewpoints, and incredible diving opportunities, Phi Phi Islands are an unforgettable destination in Thailand.

Also Read: How to Reach Sukhothai

---

Frequently Asked Questions