Getting There and Away

The City Pillar Shrine, Udon Thani, Thailand
Stefan Fussan, Wikimedia Commons

Udon Thani is serviced by Udon Thani International Airport, Udon Thani Railway Station, and two main bus terminals: Udon Thani Bus Terminal 1 (city center) and Udon Thani Bus Terminal 2 (outskirts).

By Air:

Flights from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or Don Mueang (DMK) airports to Udon Thani International Airport (UTH) typically take about 1 hour and 10 to 15 minutes. Airlines such as Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai VietJet Air, and Thai Airways operate this route. Fares can range from approximately $9 to $17 for a one-way trip, with round-trip options from $17 to $26.

By Train:

Direct train services connect Bangkok's Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Udon Thani Railway Station, with journey times ranging from about 8 hours 10 minutes to 10 hours 31 minutes. Ticket prices vary by class, from approximately ฿204-฿244 for a 3rd Class fan seat to ฿1,313-฿1,547 for a 1st Class AC sleeper. Sleeper trains are available for overnight travel.

By Bus:

Buses depart from Bangkok's Mochit Bus Terminal, with travel times to Udon Thani ranging from approximately 7 hours 45 minutes to 9.5 hours. Operators include Nakhonchai Air, Esan Tour, and Budsarakam Tour. Fares typically range from ฿550 to ฿950. VIP bus services offer a more comfortable journey.

By Car/Taxi:

Renting a car is recommended for exploring areas outside of Udon Thani city due to the limited public transportation routes and schedules. Taxis are available at Udon Thani Airport, with a ride to the city center costing around ฿120-฿150. A private car or taxi from Bangkok to Udon Thani can cost between $230-$400 and takes approximately 8 hours.