Planning a journey from Bangkok to Siem Reap but can’t choose the best way suits you best? Look no further! This comprehensive travel guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to make your journey smooth and hassle-free. Whether you’re looking for convenience, affordability, or adventure, we’ve got you covered. Let’s begin with Indochina Voyages!
Flights from Bangkok to Siem Reap – The most convenient way
When it comes to convenience and saving time, flying from Bangkok to Siem Reap is the preferred option for many travelers. You can find that getting flights at about $220 each round-trip on one of the low-cost carriers of Asia, Air Asia is certainly possible which is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Moreover, you will be able to arrive early and leave late from Siem Reap and then get yourself to and from Bangkok.
From Bangkok Center City to BKK Airport
The main airport in Bangkok is Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) which offers numerous international flights. If you’re staying in the center of Bangkok and need to reach the airport, you have several options available.
- Taxi: Taxis are a convenient way to travel from the city center to the airport. The journey takes approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost ranges from 300 to 500 Thai Baht ($10-$16).
- Airport Rail Link: The Airport Rail Link is a fast and affordable option. Take the City Line from stations like Phaya Thai or Makkasan to Suvarnabhumi Airport. The journey takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately 45 Thai Baht ($1.50).
- Public Buses: Public buses are the most economical option, but they can be crowded and slower due to traffic. Buses like the S1 and S4 operate between the city center and the airport. The fare is around 35 Thai Baht ($1).
From Siem Reap International Airport to Center City
After arrival at Siem Reap International Airport (REP), you’ll have several transportation choices to reach the city center:
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. Make sure to negotiate the fare or use a metered taxi. The journey to the city center takes approximately 15-20 minutes and costs around $7 to $10.
- Tuk-tuks: Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Siem Reap. Negotiate the price before getting in, and the journey to the city center takes about the same time as a taxi.
Train to Siem Reap from Bangkok: The Fascinating Way
While there is no direct train service from Bangkok to Siem Reap, you can take a train to the border town of Aranyaprathet, and then continue the journey by bus or taxi to Siem Reap. The train ride itself offers a unique experience, showcasing the picturesque countryside of Thailand. Moreover, local food is also often bought on board.
There will be 2 journeys you need to pay attention to when taking the train:
Train to Aranyaprathet
Trains depart from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station to Aranyaprathet. The journey takes around 5-6 hours, and the ticket prices range from 48 to 290 Thai Baht ($1.50-$9.50), depending on the class of travel.
From Aranyaprathet to Siem Reap
Upon reaching Aranyaprathet, you can take a shared taxi or a bus to the Thai-Cambodia border at Poipet. From there, you can arrange transportation to Siem Reap, which is approximately a 2-3 hour journey.
Taking a Bus to Cross the Border – The Cheapest Way
Traveling by bus is the most economical option for those on a budget. The bus journey from Bangkok to Siem Reap takes approximately 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing times. The ticket prices range from $15 to $25, depending on the bus company and the level of comfort.
Buses usually depart from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) or the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai). It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Several bus companies operate direct services between Bangkok and Siem Reap such as Giant Ibis and Nattakan, offering varying levels of comfort and price ranges. The direct buses eliminate the need to switch buses at the border, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Your luggage remains onboard while you handle the necessary visa formalities.
Visa Requirements at the Thailand – Cambodia Border
Before crossing the border from Thailand to Cambodia, it’s essential to check the visa requirements to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s what you need to know:
- Most nationalities require a visa to enter Cambodia.
- Typically, a passport photo is required during the application process. However, if you don’t have a passport photo, there may be an additional fee of $5.
- The tourist visa is priced at $30, while the business visa costs $35. Both visa types are valid for one month without multiple re-entries.
- For added convenience, it is also possible to purchase visas in advance online.
Extra Tips at Thai-Cam Border
When crossing the border from Thailand to Cambodia, follow these tips to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience:
- Do not change anything in the border (especially currency)
- The most common and popular border crossing between Thailand and Cambodia is the Aranyaprathet-Poipet border. It’s advisable to choose this border crossing for a smoother journey.
- Make sure to have enough cash in USD or Thai Baht to pay for the visa fee and any additional fees at the border.
- Do not take anything at the border from locals, be cautious of individuals offering assistance or claiming to expedite the visa process for an additional fee.
- Border crossings can sometimes be time-consuming, especially during peak travel periods. Be patient, plan for delays, and allocate sufficient time for the border crossing process.
- Have all the necessary documents, including your passport, visa, and any supporting documents, ready for inspection. Fill out any required forms accurately and completely.
Traveling from Bangkok to Siem Reap offers various options to suit different preferences and budgets. Flights provide convenience, while trains offer a unique experience. Buses are the most economical choice, and the visa requirements at the Thailand-Cambodia border should be carefully understood. Hope after this travel guide, you will choose the best way that suits you best to cross the border between two countries.
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From Indochina Voyages Team
