Pattaya, Thailand is famed for its lively nightlife, beaches, nearby islands, and a vast array of attractions and convenience. However, navigating this bustling town can sometimes be a challenge for visitors.
Enter the Baht Bus, one of the most iconic and convenient ways to get around. For those new to the city or even returning visitors looking for a refresher, here’s everything you need to know about the Pattaya baht bus routes.
What is a Baht Bus?
The Baht Bus, or ‘Songthaew’ in Thai, is essentially a blue pick-up truck modified to accommodate passengers on two bench-style seats at the back. Named for its historically low cost (only 10 Baht per ride), the Baht Bus has become synonymous with Pattaya transportation.
If you would like more information on traveling within Pattaya, please check out this blog post.
Main Routes
Although routes have changed slightly over time, the main routes to be aware of when traveling on the Pattaya baht bus routes are:
- Pattaya Beach Road / Pattaya 2nd Road Loop (Orange): This route is likely the most popular route on the list as it goes all the way down Pattaya Beach Road, and back around to Terminal 21 and the dolphin roundabout.
- Jomtien to Pattaya (Blue): Among the most popular routes, this route will take you all the way along Jomtien Beach Road, down Thappraya Road to Walking Street, and sometimes they will keep going along the standard Pattaya Beach Road loop above.
- South Pattaya Road (Gray): This route goes along South Pattaya Road from the Sukhumvit end to the Pattaya Beach Road / 2nd Road junction at Walking Street.
- Thepprasit Road(Black): This route goes from the Thappraya Rd. end of Thepprasit to Sukhumvit Road at the other end. You can find Baht buses waiting for passengers on either end.
⠀How to Ride a Baht Bus
- Flagging Down: Stand by the roadside and wave or stick your hand out to signal that you want to be picked up.
- Boarding: Wait for them to come to a complete stop, and then sit on either bench or stand on the back and hold on tight.
- Stopping: When you’re near your destination, simply press the buzzer (usually located on the ceiling above the benches.
- Payment: At the end of your journey, simply deboard and walk up the passenger side window and hand them the fare.
⠀Tips for the Baht Bus Ride
- Travel Light: While Baht Buses are spacious, it’s best to avoid carrying large luggage or bulky items.
- Have Small Change: You should have exact change for you and/or your companions as they most likely will not have small money to give back to you.
- Stay Alert: Since there are mostly no formal stops, always be aware of your surroundings to ensure you don’t miss your intended destination.
In conclusion, the Pattaya Baht Bus is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s an experience in itself. Affordable, convenient, and deeply intertwined with local culture, the Baht Bus route is your key to truly unlocking all the wonders Pattaya has to offer. Whether you’re beach-hopping or diving into the city’s dynamic nightlife, make sure to hop on a Baht Bus and embark on an authentic Pattaya journey!