Thailand Train guide: A journey through the kingdom by rail
Explore the country by the railway with routes that bring you through the path less taken
The Thaiger key takeaway
- Thailand’s rail network spans over 4,800 kilometres with major lines to Northern, Northeastern, Southern, and Western regions, offering both scenic journeys and cross-border connections.
- Train classes range from third-class benches to first-class sleepers, accommodating all budgets and comfort levels, while local food vendors add unique travel experiences.
- Upcoming projects like double-tracking and high-speed rail will improve efficiency, but classic train rides still provide an immersive view of Thailand’s landscapes and daily life.
There are faster ways to get around Thailand. Flights are cheap, and buses are frequent. But if you want to see rice paddies, ridgelines, and small stations you’d miss otherwise, taking the train is a great choice.
This guide is for travellers who want to experience Thailand through its carriages. Whether you’re riding from Bangkok to Chiang Mai in a private sleeper, hopping a third-class bench to Kanchanaburi, or crossing into Laos at Nong Khai, here’s what you need to know before you board.
On this page
| SECTION (CLICK TO JUMP) | SUMMARY |
|---|---|
| Why train travel in Thailand is worth it | Trains offer immersive experiences, slow-paced views of the Thai countryside, local life, and vibrant stations, which make the journey as rewarding as the destination. |
| Major routes: how to see Thailand by train | Four main lines—Northern, Northeastern, Southern, Western—cover Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Nong Khai, Ubon Ratchathani, Kanchanaburi, plus the iconic Mae Klong Railway Market. |
| Classes and comfort: what to expect on board | Options range from First Class Sleeper with private rooms to Third Class hard benches; ladies-only carriages and air-conditioned or fan-cooled choices accommodate all budgets. |
| Booking your journey: where and how | Tickets can be booked online (e.g., 12Go Asia), at stations, or through SRT (sometimes unreliable). Printed tickets may be required for boarding certain trains. |
| Stations in Bangkok to begin | Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal is the modern hub for long-distance trains; Hua Lamphong remains for some local and tourist services, rich in history and charm. |
| Food, sleep, and staying sane | Meals from station vendors are preferable to overpriced dining cars. Bring toiletries, snacks, water, power banks, warm layers, and earplugs for a comfortable journey. |
| The future of Thai trains | Projects like Double-Tracking and High-Speed Rail will reduce delays, connect Bangkok to Nong Khai, and link Southeast Asia with China, offering speed and efficiency while classic trains preserve the charm. |
Why train travel in Thailand is worth it
Travelling by train in Thailand, the ride matters just as much as your arrival. Trains move slowly, often behind schedule, but they pass through places you’d never see from the sky or highway: farmers tending fields, children racing along tracks, vendors passing steaming dishes through open windows.
There is a tactile richness to rail travel here. You feel the shift from Bangkok’s chaos to the countryside’s stillness. You smell grilled meats wafting from station vendors and you share space with strangers, hear languages you don’t recognise, and see moments of Thai life unfold in real time.
Major routes: how to see Thailand by train
Thailand’s rail network spans over 4,800 kilometres and reaches 47 of its provinces. Trains travel on four major lines: Northern, Northeastern, Southern, and Western. Each has its own pace, character, and windows into Thai geography and culture.
Northern Line: Bangkok to Chiang Mai
This 700-kilometre journey is a classic. Whether you go by day or night, it’s one of the most visually and emotionally rewarding routes. Day travellers often choose Train #7, which departs Bangkok at 09:05 and allows full appreciation of the landscape with the teak-clad hills, rice paddies, and the monkey-filled ruins of Lopburi. Overnight riders prefer Train #9, which uses newer carriages, electric engines, and softer lighting.
Arriving in Chiang Mai in the early morning feels like stepping into a different pace of life. The mountains greet you with mist, and your body adjusts to the slower rhythm.
Northeastern Line: Bangkok to Nong Khai or Ubon Ratchathani
Heading into the Isaan region is like going back in time. The journey is less touristy and more authentic, full of quiet villages and endless rice fields. One branch takes you to Ubon Ratchathani, near the Cambodian border. The other continues to Nong Khai, gateway to Laos. The Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge connects directly to Vientiane, making this a practical choice for cross-border travellers.
Take Train #75 during the day to catch stunning views over the Pasak Chonlasit reservoir, especially beautiful in the late afternoon.
Southern Line: Bangkok to Hat Yai and Malaysia
This line leads to Thailand’s deep south, brushing past fishing villages, mosques, and lush coastal plains. A short trip to Hua Hin makes for a charming seaside escape. Its candy-striped station is one of the most photographed in Thailand. The longer route to Hat Yai, typically overnight, gives you access to southern islands and even connects you to Penang and Kuala Lumpur via onward buses or minivans.
It’s a journey through diverse landscapes and communities, perfect for those seeking both rest and adventure.
Western Line: Bangkok to Kanchanaburi
Short but powerful, this journey retraces part of the infamous Death Railway. Built during World War II with forced labour, the railway is now a peaceful, poignant ride through jungle-clad cliffs and over the iconic River Kwai Bridge. At only about 130 km, it’s doable in a day and resonates long after.
A unique rail experience on the Mae Klong Line
Running separately from the Southern line, the Maeklong Line will also end at Samut Sakhon. The difference is that this line will pass by the Mae Klong Station, which is near one of the most interesting sights near Bangkok.
Don’t miss the Mae Klong Railway Market, where trains run through an actual fresh market. Often called “Siang Tai Market,” or “life-risking market,” the vendors here have become experts at dodging the trains that pass by, pulling back their stalls and umbrellas, clearing the tracks in seconds.
The train arrives at the Mae Klong station around the times of 8.30am, 11.10am, 2.30pm, and 5.40pm, and depart at 6.20am, 9.00am, 11.30am, and 3.30pm but expect the train to pass by 10 to 15 minutes later since trains in Thailand tend to run late.
You have the choice to hop off the station and go to the market, which is a literal 1-minute walk away, to then wait for the train to pass by the market and interrupt your shopping spree.
Also: Transportation guide in Thailand
Classes and comfort: what to expect on board
Thailand’s train classes cater to all types of travellers with various styles of seating or sleeping arrangements, with options for A/C or fan. Your choice depends on comfort level, budget, and curiosity.
First Class Sleeper
This is the top-tier experience, only available on long-distance routes like the overnight trains to Chiang Mai or Hat Yai. You get a private, lockable room for one or two people, with air-conditioning, a small sink, a power outlet, and bedding. Attendants convert your seat into a bed at night, and it genuinely feels like a hotel on rails. Expect to pay around 1,400 to 1,800 Thai baht per berth.
It’s perfect for couples or solo travellers who want privacy, security, and a solid sleep.
Second Class A/C Sleeper
The most popular choice for foreign travellers. Berths are in open-plan carriages, separated by curtains. Lower bunks have windows and are slightly wider; upper bunks are cheaper and have reading lights. You’ll get bedding and a power socket in most newer trains.
It’s sociable, comfortable, and a favourite for backpackers.
Second Class Fan Sleeper
Identical to the A/C version, but cooled by ceiling fans. With open windows and no sealed environment, the carriage can get hot—but it also feels more old-school. It’s about 30% cheaper, making it great for budget-conscious adventurers.
Second Class Seated
These are reclining seats, either air-conditioned or fan-cooled. Best for short-to-medium daytime routes, they feel like budget airline seats with more legroom. They’re not ideal for overnight journeys unless you sleep sitting up well.
Ladies-Only Carriage
A thoughtful addition, particularly for solo female travellers. Physically identical to the Second Class A/C Sleeper, but limited to women and children. It’s often quieter, safer, and more relaxed.
Third Class
No A/C. No cushions. Just hard bench seats, ceiling fans, and open windows. But also: the sound of street vendors shouting, children playing, and monks offering blessings.
It’s the most affordable option, usually under 300 Thai baht, and arguably the most grounded. Locals take these trains every day. If you want the real thing, start here.
Booking your journey: Where and how
Booking Thai train tickets can be easy, especially if you know your options.
1. Online via third-party agencies
Websites like 12Go Asia are ideal for international travellers. You can book in English, choose seats, and pay by card. Most offer email confirmations and ticket delivery for a small fee (50 to 300 Thai baht). It’s user-friendly, fast, and especially useful for reserving First and Second Class sleepers.
2. Official SRT website (Not working)
You can also book directly through the State Railway of Thailand website. It requires registering with your passport and sometimes it can be clunky to navigate. Actually, if anything, the website and the application do not seem to be working at the moment, so it might be best to consider the other options.
3. In-person at stations
This is the cheapest method, but a gamble for popular routes. Show up, present your passport, and choose your train. If you’re riding Third Class or being spontaneous, this method works just fine.
Key tip: For some trains, especially older ones, an e-ticket isn’t enough. You’ll need a printed version to board. Always check in advance.
Stations in Bangkok to begin
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (also called Bang Sue Grand Station) is now Thailand’s main long-distance hub. It’s sleek, modern, and connected to the MRT and commuter rail. This is a more modern station that was opened in 2021 and will be the hub of the High-Speed Rail Project as well.
It operates a lot of the long-distance intercity trains in Thailand and has even replaced a lot of the routes that the Hua Lamphong Station had. This is the more modern station of the two in Bangkok and is quickly undergoing expansion and upgrades as it is relatively young.
On the other hand, Hua Lamphong Station, while mostly retired from major routes, still operates some local and tourist services. It’s worth visiting for its history and charm alone. This station was opened up in 1916 and still remains as a hub where countless travellers go to begin their journey by rail.
It was initially designed with an Italian Neo-Renaissance style and has a long history from the 20th to the 21st century in Thailand, with many modernisations. One such upgrade includes the MRT passage that connects to MRT Hua Lamphong.
Food, sleep, and staying sane
Food on board
Special Express and Express trains often have dining cars. Attendants come by with menus offering simple Thai dishes and drinks. But be warned: meals are overpriced and underwhelming.
A better alternative is buying food from station vendors who rush to the train with baskets of grilled chicken, som tam, rice boxes, and fruit. It’s more affordable, tastier, and far more memorable.
No alcohol is allowed on board anymore. The once-popular “party cars” are gone. Today, the atmosphere is more subdued—which, for some, is a plus.
Facilities
Expect shared toilets (both Western and squat style) at the end of each carriage. Showers are not available. Bring your own supplies, especially:
- Toilet paper
- Hand sanitiser
- Wet wipes
- Face mask if you’re in an older, dusty carriage
Some sleeper berths have power sockets, but not all. Charging before you board is wise, and packing a power bank is even wiser.
Essential packing list: what makes or breaks your trip
To turn a long journey into an enjoyable one, pack smart:
- Warm layers: The air-con can be arctic
- Eye mask & earplugs: For sleeping in bright, noisy cabins
- Snacks: Something you actually want to eat
- Large bottle of water: One isn’t enough
- Toiletries: Wet wipes, sanitiser, toilet roll
- Power bank: Critical for long-haul journeys
Lock for your luggage and a smaller daypack for quick-access essentials
Trains are safe but caution never hurts. Keep your passport, phone, and wallet close at all times.
The future of Thai trains
Thailand’s railway began humbly in 1897, with a line to Ayutthaya. For decades and until now, it is a slow journey but that’s changing.
The Double-Tracking Project is upgrading single-track lines across the country. This will reduce delays, increase train frequency, and allow two-way traffic on busy routes.
The High-Speed Rail Project is even more ambitious. It’s connecting Bangkok to Nong Khai with ultra-fast trains, part of a broader push to link Southeast Asia with China. The first phase to Nakhon Ratchasima is under construction, and the full connection to Laos is expected by 2032.
For travellers, this means options: speed for efficiency, and classic trains for experience.
Even with bullet trains on the horizon, there is magic in the slower journey. In the clink of iced coffee in a plastic bag. In the smile of a vendor offering grilled meat at a dusty station. In the quiet joy of moving slowly enough to notice.
So when you’re in Thailand, take the train. Not just to get somewhere, but to feel something.
Because here, the tracks don’t just lead across land. They lead into stories.
And stories, like good journeys, are always better when unhurried.
Also: Thailand travel guide for your trip
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