Premium account Joined: Jun 02 Points: 12835 Posts: 215
Posted: 2005-01-12 03:21:00
Hi all,
This is on behalf of a friend of mine who is visiting Thailand in April this year.
She needs to travel from Phuket to Bangkok. Rather than flying she thought she may travel overland to see something on the way. Is there anything to see on the way?
Is there a ferry from Phuket to the mainland. What is the landing point and approx time & cost?
Would it possible to travel by bus or train from that point to Bangkok and if so which would be the best option?
The journey from Phuket to Bangkok can be made into a scenic one. Firstly there is a bridge connecting Phuket from the mainland so no need for a ferry. There is a ferry route from Phuket to Krabi on the mainland. The route I would have suggested would be on Highway 402 out of Phuket to join Highway 4 just north of Phuket. Highway 4 goes all the way to Bangkok. Following this highway north to Ranong then across to Chumphon on the east coast, Pratchuap Khirikhan <worth a stop> and Hua Hin to Bangkok. Clearly this route between Phuket and Ranong needs checking because of the tsunami damage? <Budget do reasonable car hire with a one way drop off - ideal if there is a group of you>
Buses travel frequently between Phuket and Bangkok and return. Fairs are inexpensive but I would recommend the few extra baht to get a little more comfort by using the VIP bus. Numerous travel agents in both Phuket and Bangkok sell all tickets.
I cannot advise you regarding the train. As far as I am aware the railway from Malaysia to Bangkok runs up the east coast. Phuket has no railway station . I suppose another option is to travel by bus, or indeed self drive from Phuket to Hua Hin and then catch the train from Hua Hin to Bangkok.
Your friend can consult www.sawadee.com this website covers all her queries - I thoroughly recommend it.
