The Phuket Smart Bus is a safe, affordable and fairly efficient way of getting around Phuket Island for the budget-savvy traveller.
Operating from Phuket Airport to Rawai, and vice-versa, here’s what you need to know planning your trip using the Phuket Smart Bus.
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Phuket Smart Bus Route
The Phuket Smart Bus operates on a route that covers many popular tourist areas and attractions on the island, such as
- Phuket Town
- Patong Beach
- Karon Beach
- Kata Beach
- Big Buddha
The route also includes stops at shopping malls, night markets, and other points of interest.
Where to Find the Phuket Smart Bus at HKT
From Phuket International Airport (HKT), note you need to go to International Departures (not arrivals!) on the 3rd floor, and walk to Exit 3, which is outside the main terminal building at the DOMESTIC AIRPORT!
Arriving at the domestic airport at HKT, simple go straight to Exit 3 (opposite Amazon cafe) at the scheduled departure time.
Phuket Smart Bus Schedule
The Phuket Smart Bus operates on a fixed schedule, with buses running every hour. The first bus leaves from HKT at 9:00 am, with the last service departing at 10:30 pm.
Departing Rawai, the first service leaves at 8:00 am and the last through service leaves 7:00 pm. The 8:00 pm service terminates in Patong, whilst an earlier morning service starts in Kata at 6:20 am heading north.
Traffic can significantly impact services – it’s a good idea to leave yourself at least 10 minutes either side of the scheduled time for early or late arrival.
Note, only three services a day stop at Laguna – check the current timetable here.
(Last updated 14 February 2023)
Phuket Smart Bus Fare
There is now one flat fee to use the Phuket Smart Bus per journey of 100 THB.
You can pay in cash to the driver or use the QR code scanner.
Note for families: You do not pay for under 7’s!
Smart Cards for the Phuket Smart Bus
For those staying for multiple days and who may be using the bus service frequently (it’s not just for airport transfers, you can make short hops), you may want to consider getting a Smart Card.
Smart Cards can be purchased from designated shops and restaurants, or longer cards can be purchased online. The Smart Cards come in the following formats:
- 3 days – 499 THB (also available with driver)
- 10 days – 1,000 THB
- 15 days – 1,500 THB
- 30 days – 2,600 THB
Considering that a taxi from Phuket Airport to Rawai will set you back about 900-1600 THB, this is a bargain!
It will take you much longer, but you’ll also get a scenic tour of the island’s entire west coast, so for saving a few baht, it’s definitely worth sitting back and enjoying the ride.
What Facilities Are on Board the Phuket Smart Bus?
The Phuket Smart Bus is equipped with modern facilities such as
- Air conditioning
- Free Wi-Fi
- USB charging ports
- Comfortable seating
- Luggage compartment to store larger bags
- The bus is wheelchair accessible
Overall, the Phuket Smart Bus is a convenient and reliable transportation option for travellers who want to explore Phuket Island without the hassle of renting a car or dealing with taxis.
Learn more about the alternative local Songthaew buses in Phuket
More information on the Phuket Smart Bus
The information we have is as updated as possible from publicly available information. Should you wish to check anything for yourself before you travel, email: info@phuketsmartbus.com
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