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

Should you visit Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai 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.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a colorful, cultural, and lively city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a rugged, breathtaking, and undeveloped national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Hat Yai and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hat Yai. Although Hat Yai and Mount Aspiring National Park are both popular with visitors, Hat Yai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hat Yai is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Aspiring National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Hat Yai is popular for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples. It is also home to Wat Hat Yai Nai. Mount Aspiring National Park is popular for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Hat Yai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hat Yai is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Hat Yai offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Hat Yai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hat Yai 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, Hat Yai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

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 Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Hat Yai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hat Yai is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hat Yai. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Hat Yai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Hat Yai 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.

Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Hat Yai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hat Yai is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Hat Yai is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Hat Yai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Mount Aspiring National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Hat Yai is not always a place people visit with their families. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Is Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Hat Yai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is notable for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.


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

Hat Yai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

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

Hat Yai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Both Hat Yai and Mount Aspiring National Park offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

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 Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Hat Yai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a national park with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its walkability.

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

Hat Yai is generally not a very walkable city. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.


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

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

How long in Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Hat Yai because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hat Yai, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Hat Yai 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 Mount Aspiring National Park .


  • How many days in Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hat Yai 1-3 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The cultural destination of Hat Yai offers shopping and museums. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hat Yai. 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 Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Hat Yai is a fun place to experience. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Hat Yai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find food and shopping around the lively city of Hat Yai. It offers something for everyone. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

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 Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best G Adventures 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 Hat Yai?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hat Yai is $16, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $109. 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 Hat Yai and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hat Yai $5.11
    Mount Aspiring National Park $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hat Yai $10
    Mount Aspiring National Park $118
Compare Hotels in Hat Yai and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai


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: Hat Yai Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hat Yai $0.63
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hat Yai

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hat Yai:

  • Transfer from Hatyai Airport to Koh Lipe: $25
  • private van transfer from Hatyai Airport to Pabara Pier: $68
  • Private Hatyai Airport Transfer to Pak Bara Pier by Van: $69
  • Private Van transfer from Hatyai Airport to Pak Bara Pier: $73
  • Private Van transfer from Hatyai City to Pak Bara Pier: $73

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

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Hat Yai 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
    Hat Yai $10
    Mount Aspiring National Park $18
Typical Food Prices in Hat Yai

Some typical examples of dining costs in Hat Yai are as follows:


  • Roti Snack
    $0.55

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hat Yai -
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29

Tours and Activities in Hat Yai

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Hat Yai are as follows:

  • One Way Speedboat and Van Ticket Koh Lipe to Hat Yai Airport: $30
  • One Way Van and Speedboat Ticket Hat Yai Airport to Koh Lipe: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hat Yai $2.52
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.09
Typical Alcohol Prices in Hat Yai

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Hat Yai:


  • Beer
    $1.64


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hat Yai and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park is more expensive. And not only is Hat Yai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai.

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