Exploring Southern Thailand by Train: A Journey from Surat Thani to Sungai Kolok and Beyond

Traveling by train in Thailand offers a unique perspective of the country, showcasing its stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich history. Embarking on a train journey along the southern Thailand line, starting from Phunphin Station in Surat Thani to Sungai Kolok and back to Chumphon, allows travelers to experience a picturesque adventure that includes stops in charming towns like Yala, Pattani, and Hat Yai. Here’s a glimpse into this unforgettable journey.

Phunphin Station, located just outside Surat Thani, is more than just a starting point; it’s a gateway to the diverse beauty of southern Thailand. Before boarding, take a moment to explore Surat Thani, known for its natural beauty and proximity to national parks and islands. Here, you can enjoy local delicacies such as coconut curries and desserts. Visit attractions like the Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine, Monkey School, and street food markets.

Hotel Tip: Phunphin Station Hotel – Low budget with only a 5-minute walk to the station and evening street food markets.

Map: Click here to locate Phunphin Station Hotel

After leaving Phunphin, the train winds through lush countryside before reaching Sungai Kolok, a town located on the border with Malaysia. Known for its multicultural atmosphere, Sungai Kolok is an intriguing blend of Thai and Malay cultures. Don’t miss the chance to visit local markets where you can sample delicious street food and buy traditional handicrafts. The town also offers beautiful mosques and vibrant nightlife, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.
Sungai Kolok has the happiest people, who just keep smiling. I voted it the happiest town in Thailand!

Hotel Tip: Inter Tower Hotel – Low budget with only a 10-minute walk to the station and evening street food markets, restaurants, and shops.
Map: Click here to locate Inter Tower Hotel

Continuing your journey, the train arrives in Yala, a town rich in history and cultural diversity. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, Yala is an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Check out the national parks perfect for hiking and wildlife observation. The local markets are bustling with activity, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade souvenirs.
Unique Experience: Have some lunch at the local restaurant literally on the train tracks!
Highly Recommended – Hotel Tip: Minimal@yala – Low budget with only a 10-minute walk to the station and evening street food markets, restaurants, and shops.
Map: Click here to locate Minimal@Yala Hotel

The train then makes its way to Pattani, known for its Islamic heritage and stunning architecture. Explore the renowned Pattani Central Mosque, a masterpiece sitting proudly in the heart of the city. The local cuisine here is a must-try, featuring dishes that reflect the town’s cultural mix. Additionally, the nearby beaches, like Pattani Beach, offer relaxation and serenity after your travels.
Hotel Tip: Highly recommend River Hotel Pattani – Low budget with only a 10-minute walk to the old town and evening street food markets, restaurants, and shops. The train station is a 30-minute drive away, but you can take a tuk-tuk there for 50 THB each from this location.
Map: Click here to locate the RIVER HOTEL PATTANI

Next on the itinerary is Hat Yai, a bustling city and commercial hub in southern Thailand. Hat Yai is famous for its vibrant shopping scene, with markets offering everything from electronics to delicious street food. Don’t miss the chance to visit Kim Yong Market and enjoy the local delicacies. Hat Yai is also known for its lively nightlife, making it an exciting stop on your journey.
Bus Service to Songkhla: Minibuses depart for Songkhla from Hat Yai’s main bus terminal and the clock tower off Phet Kasem Road from 06:00 to 19:00.
Book Your Journey: From Hat Yai Train Station to Songkhla
To Koh Mook: Bus from Hat Yai Station to Trang (Read our blog about Trang; recommend staying in Trang overnight before taking the boat over to Koh Mook, Trang City, Trang Province).
Book Your Journey: From Hat Yai Train Station to Koh Muk
To Koh Lipe: Bus/minivan to Pak Bara Pier, then the speedboat to Koh Lipe. Recommend getting to Hat Yai train before 8:30 to make the morning boat to Koh Lipe.
Book Your Journey: From Hat Yai Train Station to Koh Lipe

The train then heads to Chumphon, a town that serves as the gateway to the southern islands, including Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Phayam. Chumphon itself is a quaint town, but it boasts beautiful beaches and excellent diving spots. Explore Chumphon’s cultural sites, such as the Chumphon National Museum, which provides insight into the region’s history. As a transport hub, Chumphon is the perfect place to unwind before your next adventure. Pak Nam is a great place to explore, close by where the boats depart for diving and snorkeling trips.

Ferry Services to the Islands:

• Koh Tao: Regular ferries operate from Chumphon to Koh Tao, famous for its vibrant coral reefs, snorkeling, and diving opportunities. The ferry ride typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
  Book Your Journey: From Chumphon Train Station to Koh Tao
• Koh Phangan: Ferries also connect Chumphon to Koh Phangan, renowned for its Full Moon Party and beautiful beaches. The journey usually lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the service.
  Book Your Journey: From Chumphon Train Station to Koh Phangan
• Koh Samui: While Koh Samui is less directly serviced, you can reach it via connecting ferries from Koh Phangan or by taking a ferry from Chumphon to Surat Thani and then a bus or shuttle to the island.
  Book Your Journey: From Chumphon Train Station to Koh Samui

In addition to ferry services, Chumphon Train Station is linked to several bus services that can take you to various destinations:

• Bus to Surat Thani and Krabi: Frequent bus services connect Chumphon to Surat Thani, which is another critical transit hub for travelers heading to southern islands. Additionally, buses operate towards Krabi, allowing access to areas like Ao Nang and Railay Beach.
• Local Buses and Minivans: Within Chumphon, local buses and minivans make it easy to get around town and reach nearby attractions and beaches.
  Travel Smarter NOT Harder: One Stop Booking Platform: 12GO Asia is a booking platform serving travel around Thailand by bus, minivans, train journeys, ferries, and by air.

Start your adventure today and click the 12GO Asia link here to start your journey around Thailand to and from any city, town, or island.

Traveling by train allows for various accommodations depending on your budget and comfort preference. Here’s a brief overview of the train types available on this route:

• 3rd Class Local Carriage: The most economical option, providing a basic and authentic traveling experience. Although it might be less comfortable, it’s great for mingling with locals. Bookings can only be made at the station.
• 2nd Class Seat: Offers more comfort than third class, with air-conditioning available on some trains. These seats provide a good balance between cost and comfort, making them ideal for longer journeys. Bookings can only be made at the train station.
• 1st & 2nd Class Sleeper Trains: Perfect for overnight trips. These carriages feature comfortable beds and can provide a more restful experience during long journeys.
• Private Train Cabins: For those seeking privacy and luxury, private cabins are available. They offer a cozy and intimate atmosphere, ideal for couples or those looking for a special experience.

At each station and throughout the train journey, train food sellers walk up and down selling drinks, ice cream, hot food and cold towels wipes. No need to take food on the journey as the pricing is very low Thai pricing and it adds to the experience.

Travel Tips: For journeys less than 2 hours, I recommend going 3rd class, especially if traveling on a budget, but for me, it was more about the experience. The last carriages are fantastic for taking photos or videos from the rear door of the train.

If flying into Bangkok onward to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, or Koh Tao, and you want to explore Bangkok first, why not book the overnight sleeper from Bangkok’s new station Bang Sue to Surat Thani in a first-class cabin or second-class sleeper? It’s a brilliant
experience and provides a good night’s sleep. I have done this route many times and highly recommend it.

Arriving at Sungai Kolok, Yala and Pattani there are no motorbike rentals or Taxis, only Motorbike Taxis or Tuk-tuks.

Book Your Journey to Koh Samui: From Bangkok to Koh Samui
Book Your Journey to Koh Phangan: From Bangkok to Koh Phangan
Book Your Journey to Koh Tao: From Bangkok to Koh Tao

A train journey from Surat Thani to Sungai Kolok and back to Chumphon is more than just travel; it’s an adventure through Southern Thailand’s culture, cuisine, and landscapes. Whether you’re marveling at the beauty of the countryside, indulging in local dishes, or exploring the rich history of the towns along the way, this journey offers unforgettable experiences. So, pack your bags, hop on a train, and prepare to explore the vibrant heart of Southern Thailand’s deep south!