A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bangkok vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangkok and Mount Aspiring National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a cultural, alluring, and spirited capital city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a undeveloped, remote, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

Bangkok and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bangkok. Although Bangkok and Mount Aspiring National Park are popular destinations, Bangkok has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bangkok is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Aspiring National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Bangkok is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. It is also well known for The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Mount Aspiring National Park is famous for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Bangkok different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park and Bangkok. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Bangkok
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bangkok is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Bangkok are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bangkok
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bangkok is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bangkok is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bangkok is very popular for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

Bangkok is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

Mount Aspiring National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

Is Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Bangkok
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Around Mount Aspiring National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Bangkok
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bangkok is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Bangkok make it a world-class shopping destination. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Bangkok
Mount Aspiring National Park

Both Bangkok and Mount Aspiring National Park are high quality to visit with kids.

Bangkok is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Mount Aspiring National Park is very family-friendly. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

Is Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Bangkok
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bangkok is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for couples.

Bangkok has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.

Mount Aspiring National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.


Is Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bangkok and Mount Aspiring National Park are first-rate places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bangkok is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Mount Aspiring National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Is Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bangkok
Mount Aspiring National Park

Bangkok is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Bangkok can get you to some places easily. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Bangkok
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a national park with good options for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Mount Aspiring National Park is somewhat walkable. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

Bangkok is generally not a very walkable capital city. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.


For even more information, also check out Is Bangkok Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than Mount Aspiring National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

Families should spend more time in Bangkok than Mount Aspiring National Park . Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bangkok, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bangkok than Mount Aspiring National Park . You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bangkok that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bangkok than Mount Aspiring National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bangkok.


  • How many days in Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangkok 2-7 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Bangkok is a big city with plenty to do. This capital city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangkok. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangkok has to offer.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Bangkok is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangkok has to offer.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Bangkok is a big city with plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Mount Aspiring National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Bangkok?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $86, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $116. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bangkok and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangkok $47
    Mount Aspiring National Park $63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangkok $94
    Mount Aspiring National Park $126
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bangkok


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bangkok Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangkok $6.53
    Mount Aspiring National Park $53
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Tuk Tuk to bus station
    $2.47
  • Skytrain Ticket
    $4.94
  • Chao Phraya River Express Ticket
    $0.99
  • Ferry Ride
    $0.80
  • Taxi From Airport
    $7.72
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $2.78
  • Boat Taxi
    $1.54
  • Trains to airport
    $4.94

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:

  • Bus transfer from/to Bangkok Don Mueang Airport: $7.68
  • Suvarnabhumi Airport Bus transfer to/from Bangkok: $8.78
  • Ayothaya Floating Market Admission Ticket with Transfer(Optional): $9.19
  • Bangkok Private Airport (BKK And DMK) Transfer: $14
  • Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) Departure Transfer (Shared or Private): $15
  • Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) Arrival Transfer (Shared or Private): $15
  • BANGKOK TRANSFER: Bangkok Airport to Bangkok Hotel + FREE WIFI: $15
  • Arrival Transfer from BKK Airport to Bangkok Hotel: $17
  • Bangkok DonMueang Airport Private Transfer To City Or To Airport: $17
  • Transfer Bangkok City Center to Suvarnabhumi Airport(BKK): $18
  • Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Shared Arrival Transfer : $18
  • Private Bangkok Airport Transfer: $18

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Bangkok change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bangkok $21
    Mount Aspiring National Park $20
Typical Food Prices in Bangkok

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bangkok:


  • Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe (for Two)
    $28
  • Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)
    $6.18
  • 2 Rotis (Bread)
    $1.39
  • Mango & Sticky Rice
    $0.93
  • Lunch at KFC (for Two)
    $6.18
  • Pad Thai
    $2.16
  • Airport Lunch for 2
    $17
  • Lunch for 2
    $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bangkok

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bangkok.

  • White Orchid Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $21
  • Meridian Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $21
  • Baiyoke Sky Observation Deck With Dinner or Lunch & Thai Massage: $23
  • Baiyoke Observation Deck with Lunch/Dinner Buffet: $23
  • Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Ticket: $26
  • River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $26
  • Meridian Sunset Dinner Cruise - Floating Paradise From ICONSIAM Bangkok: $26
  • 2-Hour Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $27
  • Calypso Cabaret Show with Thai Set Dinner: $27
  • Chao Phraya Buffet Dinner Viva Alangka Cruise: $30
  • Alangka Luxury Buffet Dinner Cruise With Live Music: $30
  • Viva Alangka Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangkok $18
    Mount Aspiring National Park $31
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangkok

Here are a few typical costs in Bangkok for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Movie Ticket
    $4.94
  • Grand Palace Entrance Ticket
    $11
  • Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket
    $1.54
  • Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)
    $6.18
  • Club Cover Charge
    $12
  • Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)
    $74
  • Fish Pedicure
    $4.63
  • Wat Pho entrance ticket
    $3.09
  • Siriraj Museum (2)
    $12

Tours and Activities in Bangkok

Here are a few actual costs in Bangkok for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bangkok Chinatown Eats: A Self-guided Audio Tour: $5.13
  • Skip the Line: Ayutthaya Floating Market Admission Ticket: $5.89
  • Skip the Line Admission Ticket: Ayutthaya Floating Market: $5.90
  • Chinatown by Night Walking Tour in Bangkok: $6.42
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Bangkok's Most Picturesque Sights: $6.99
  • Bangkok's Old Town: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Chinatown Mystery Quest Experience in Bangkok: $7.24
  • Chinatown & Golden Buddha Self-Guided Audio Tour (entry not incl): $10
  • Three Head Giant Elephant & Erawan Museum in Bangkok Admission Ticket: $11
  • Nakhon Pathom Ancient Capital Classic Day Tour: $12
  • Discover a Taste of Chinatown – 2 Hr Walking Tour: $12
  • Erawan Museum in Bangkok Admission Ticket: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangkok $6.76
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.44
Typical Alcohol Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Beer
    $1.24

Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:

  • Bangkok After Dark: Pub Crawl Adventure: $23
  • Pub Crawl: $27


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park is more expensive. And not only is Bangkok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bangkok is in Asia and Mount Aspiring National Park is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Bangkok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bangkok and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Mount Aspiring National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mount Aspiring National Park than you might in Bangkok.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bangkok Expensive? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.