Driving from Bangkok to Khao Yai
Bangkok is a no-brainer for many Singaporeans when it comes to a Thailand getaway. But if you’re looking for something other than the usual themed cafes, go on a road trip to Khao Yai instead.
This idyllic town has cool weather, laid-back vibes, and a surprisingly atas European aesthetic. And don’t worry if it’s gonna be your first time driving from Bangkok to Khao Yai – here’s everything you need to know, from renting a car to toll fees and must-visit attractions.
The current exchange rate is ฿10 = ~S$0.40 as of 28th March 2025.
How to get to Khao Yai from Bangkok?
Image credit: Wei Yin
The best way to get to Khao Yai is by renting a car and driving straight from Suvarnabhumi Airport. This way, you get to siam Bangkok’s notorious traffic and hit the highway immediately. The drive will take around 3 hours.
But first, swing by 7-Eleven at the airport to stock up on snacks like the iconic grilled toasties – a road trip is 10 times more shiok with some munchies on hand.
For those who aren’t fans of driving overseas, book a private car charter for ~S$193 and leave the navigating to someone else while you sit back and relax.
When is the best time to visit Khao Yai?
Image credit: Wei Yin
Plan your trip between November and February – AKA the dry season. Temperatures hover around 18°C to 28°C, so you get that cool, crisp air without sweating buckets like in BKK.
I went in late January, and the weather was chef’s kiss – sunny but not the kind that makes you feel like you’re melting. It’s super comfortable for exploring in the day, though it does get a little chilly at night and early mornings, so bring a light jacket just in case.
How to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Singapore?
You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive overseas in most countries, and the same goes for driving in Thailand.
Simply apply online or visit any of the 3 Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS) locations. The permit costs S$20 and is valid for 1 year from the date of issue.
- Online application: Costs an extra S$7 for courier and takes about 10 working days to arrive.
- Walk-in application: Just bring your driver’s licence and IC. The staff will snap your photo for free, and you’ll get your permit within an hour – perfect for last-minute planners.
How to rent a car in Bangkok?
Image credit: Wei Yin
Renting a car in Bangkok is pretty straightforward, with options like Drive Car Rental and Hertz Thailand, allowing you to book directly online before your trip. These companies let you pick up and return your car at the airport, which is highly recommended – it means you can avoid driving on BKK’s jam-packed roads altogether.
If you just need a simple and fuel-efficient car for a road trip, choose from brands like Toyota, Nissan, and Honda for reliable sedans and compact SUVs. But if you’re looking to cruise in style, there are luxury options like BMW or Mercedes-Benz. For those who want to try out an EV, rental companies also offer choices like BYD and Tesla.
For a fuss-free option, book a rental car via Klook.
Just remember to bring along your IDP, reservation confirmation, and the credit card used for booking to collect your car.
Tips for renting a car in Bangkok
Take pictures of the car’s exterior from every angle for peace of mind.
Image adapted from: Wei Yin
First things first, book your car in advance. You don’t want to show up and find out the model you were eyeing is already taken, or worse, be left without a car to drive and mess up your plans.
Always add on insurance coverage – it’s one of those “better safe than sorry” things. If possible, opt for the highest coverage – it’s only about ฿600 more than the standard package.
And as much as the idea of renting an EV might sound great for the environment, it’s best to avoid them for this trip. Charging stations on the way to Khao Yai are still pretty limited compared to petrol stations, and you don’t want to end up stuck with a dead battery halfway through the drive.
Make sure to check the condition of the car – take photos from every angle and don’t be shy to point out any scratches or dents. Also, check that the fuel tank is full when you pick up the car. Most of the time, it should be, but it’s always worth double-checking, especially since you’ll be driving for about 3 hours.
Image credit: Worawit Laosatirawong via Google Maps
Pro tip: when you return the car, remember to top up the tank so it’s full again. There’s a petrol station near the airport where you can fill up before dropping off your ride – type “PTT Station (Suvarnabhumi Airport)” into Google Maps to locate it.
Tips for driving from Bangkok to Khao Yai
Try to arrive in Bangkok in the morning so you can head straight to Khao Yai while it’s still bright. You’ll have the whole day to explore and won’t be driving in an unfamiliar place at night – it’s just safer overall.
Image credit: Wei Yin
Thailand follows the left-hand driving system just like Singapore, so there’s no need to worry about getting used to the roads. The traffic rules are pretty much the same too – just remember to stick to the speed limits. If you want to go faster, stick to lane 1 on the far right, and use the other lanes for slower speeds.
It’s a good idea to have internet access for emergencies or to help with navigating. Purchase a Thailand eSIM or a SIM card beforehand to stay connected.
Google Maps works great for navigation, but note that the cars usually don’t come with a phone stand, so it’s worth asking the rental company if they have one, or just bring your own.
Do I have to pay tolls when driving from Bangkok to Khao Yai?
Yes, there are 2 tolls on the way from Bangkok to Khao Yai. Each toll costs ฿30, so best to keep some spare cash handy.
And don’t forget, you’ll need to pay the tolls again when heading back to Bangkok.
Tips for driving in Khao Yai
Image credit: Wei Yin
Unlike Bangkok, the roads in Khao Yai can get pretty dark, especially at night. There are lamp posts, but they’re spaced out, so don’t expect the same level of brightness. The skies in Khao Yai tend to get dark around 6pm – be mindful of the time if you’re planning to drive after that.
And there’s no need to feel paiseh about switching on your high-beam headlights when driving at night. No worries about blinding anyone – that’s just how it is over there. But also, don’t stay out too late since most of the attractions close in the evening anyway.
The roads can be narrow, often with just 1 lane in each direction, so stay alert. Google Maps works fine in Khao Yai too, so you won’t get lost.
Where to stay in Khao Yai?
1. InterContinental Khao Yai Resort
Luxurious train-themed rooms, if you don’t mind splurging
Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort
If you’re up for a little luxury, the InterContinental Khao Yai Resort is a great choice. It’s located near Khao Yai National Park – a prime location for nature lovers.
Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort
Here’s the best part: the rooms are inspired by train carriages. You’ll be staying in upcycled train cars that have been transformed into comfy, stylish suites.
The resort is designed by award-winning architect Bill Bensley, and it’s full of cool details that pay homage to Thailand’s old-school train travel.
Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort
For the ultimate experience, go for one of the executive suites, which have lake-view balconies and private plunge pools.
Prices start from S$403.30, but vary depending on your room type and the dates.
Book a room at InterContinental Khao Yai Resort.
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2. dusitD2 Khao Yai
Affordable 4-star hotel with in-room bathtubs
Image credit: Klook
dusitD2 Khao Yai is a 4-star hotel with a lovely resort vibe and is a bit off the beaten path, so you can truly unwind and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
What’s even better is that every room comes with a bathtub for you to soak in the relaxation after a day of exploring.
View from the hotel room at dusitD2 Khao Yai.
Image credit: Wei Yin
And let’s not forget about the views – you’ll get to enjoy stunning sights from your room.
Image credit: Wei Yin
There’s even a little animal farm in the hotel where you can spot adorable rabbits hopping around.
Prices start from just S$100.15, depending on your room and the dates, making it a wallet-friendly option.
Book a stay at dusitD2 Khao Yai.
3. Thames Valley Khao Yai
English-style hotel with countryside vibes
Image adapted from: @thamesvalleykhaoyai via Instagram
Thames Valley Khao Yai is an English-style hotel with all the cosy countryside feels – it’s inspired by a rustic country bakery and complemented by the charm of an English manor. Seriously, you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the UK, not Thailand.
And if you’re all about that extra level of service, they offer an exclusive butler service to make your stay even more special.
Image credit: @thamesvalleykhaoyai via Instagram
The room rates start from S$120.38, depending on your dates and room type.
Book a stay at Thames Valley Khao Yai.
What to do in Khao Yai
1. Trot Cafe Khaoyai
Drive vintage mini cars & pet animals
Image adapted from: @zipporahlaurachristy via Instagram, Lim Yun Ling
Visit Trot Cafe Khaoyai, where you’ll get to rent these adorable vintage mini cars for just ฿600/2 pax for 30 minutes. But heads up – get there early because these mini cars are popular and you might end up on a waitlist if you’re not quick enough.
Image credit: Wei Yin
Drive around the pristine golf course and take your time to stop for some IG-worthy shots along the way. There’s this charming farmhouse-like structure that makes for the perfect backdrop, especially when you’ve got a vintage mini car in the frame.
Image credit: @hicloudlyl via Instagram
For something even more adventurous, choose to hop on a horse ride for ฿500 per person.
Image adapted from: Wei Yin
There are plenty of cute animals to pet and snap pictures with. Don’t forget to grab a bite at the cafe too, because after all that exploring, you’ll defo work up an appetite.
2. Hokkaido Flower Park Khaoyai
Pretty & colourful blooms with Japanese-inspired decor
Image credit: Hokkaido Flower Park Khaoyai via Google Maps
True to its theme of transporting you to another country, Hokkaido Flower Park Khaoyai feels just like a slice of Japan in Thailand. With vibrant blooms all around, it’s a floral wonderland that’s best visited between December and January, when the flowers are in full bloom.
Image adapted from: Wei Yin
The park is filled with Japanese-themed elements, from a giant Totoro to a torii gate, so you won’t even feel like you’re in Thailand. And if you really want to commit to the aesthetic, rent a kimono for the full experience.
Image credit: Wei Yin
Entry is ฿120 per pax and ฿50 for kids aged 6-12, but you’ll also get vouchers to score drinks and snacks at the park at discounted prices.
3. Pak Chong Night Market
Wide variety of street food at affordable prices
Image credit: Adren Sim via Google Maps
For those craving Thai street food without the inflated tourist prices, Pak Chong Night Market is worth the 30-minute drive from Khao Yai. It’s smaller than the night markets in Bangkok, but don’t let that fool you – you’ll still find plenty of delicious eats to fill your tummy.
Image adapted from: Wei Yin
While it may not have the trendy bites you’d find at places like Jodd Fairs, what it lacks in hype, it makes up for in authenticity. You’ll find classic dishes at wallet-friendly prices, like a packet of Thai chicken rice for just ฿50 – that’s less than S$2, if you’re doing the math.
Image credit: Wei Yin
There aren’t any tables and chairs to sit down and eat, so you can either stand and munch on your buys for the true night market experience or dabao everything back to your hotel, like I did. I couldn’t stop raving about how everything tasted so good. The best part is, this entire feast you see in the photo probably set me back less than S$15.
4. Toscana Valley
European-inspired “town”
Image credit: @toscanavalley via Instagram
Toscana Valley is the closest you’ll get to a European holiday without having to endure a long-haul flight in economy. This “town” has hotels, a golf course, and tons of IG-worthy spots that’ll have your friends thinking you’ve jetted off to Italy.
Image adapted from: @wassi.pp & @neddypan_ via Instagram
For the full experience, indulge in authentic Italian food – grab a scoop of homemade gelato at Dolce Papa Mama, or dine alfresco to soak in the Tuscan vibes.
5. Midwinter Khaoyai
Dine like royalty in a “castle”
Image credit: Midwinter
Most people opt for alfresco dining when they visit Midwinter – thanks to Khao Yai’s cooling weather, you won’t have to worry about sweating through your meal. This grand “castle” serves up Thai-Western fusion cuisine, with both indoor and outdoor seating. Drop by in the evening when the live music kicks in for romantic vibes.
Image credit: @ppskwithher6f via Instagram
A must-try here is the Midwinter Pizza – creamy sauce, parma ham, and arugula sandwiched between two crispy flatbreads complement each other to create a burst of flavour.
Image adapted from: @jellyjey via Instagram
Before you leave, swing by the shop inside the restaurant for souvenirs like macarons and snacks. The entire Midwinter area is pretty massive too – you might even find booths selling knick-knacks and crafts outside. There’s also an After You dessert cafe here if you’re looking to end your meal on a sweet note.
Your Bangkok to Khao Yai road trip checklist
And there you have it – everything you need to know for a smooth road trip driving from Bangkok to Khao Yai. Just remember to drive safely, enjoy the journey, and make the most of all the awesome spots Khao Yai has to offer.
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Cover image adapted from: Hokkaido Flower Park Khaoyai via Google Maps, @neddypan_ & @hicloudlyl via Instagram
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