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The New Bangkok To Chiang Mai Overnight Sleeper Train

Jul 1, 2024 | Go Places

Taking the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, or the train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, has always been a popular way of travelling between these two cities in Thailand.

Since November 2016, The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) had introduced new train carriages running on the express line between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. It is the Train No.9 and Train No.10 overnight sleeper train. These trains are powered by electricity so it is more quiet and calm compared to the old ones.

Note that the SRT hadn’t really completely replace all of their old carriages. The current Express Line and Rapid Line are still using the older trains, so travellers should choose carefully when buying the train tickets. This article will explain the features and facilities of the new trains.

The train is ideal transportation for the trip between Chiang Mai and Bangkok. This line has a scenic view along the way.

The Train Times and Timetables

If you are taking the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Train No.9 leaves Bangkok Train Station (Hua Lamphung Station) at 6.10pm and arrives in Chiang Mai at 7.15am. And for the train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, Train No.10 leaves Chiang Mai Train Station at 6.00pm and arrives in Bangkok at 6.50am. Both trains are available daily.

Please arrive at the train station 30 minutes before departure time to find the train platform. Aside from trains no.9 and no.10, there are other trains going between Bangkok and Chiang Mai but those were the older and slower (therefore cheaper) trains. So remember to quote the correct train number when buying your train tickets.

See below the Bangkok to Chiang Mai train schedule. When going from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, other than train no.9, there are also trains no.7, no.109, no13 and no.51 plying the same route:

And for the Chiang Mai to Bangkok train schedule, other than no.10, there are also trains no.102, no.8, no.52, and no.14 :

The FIRST CLASS Train Cabin

If you prefer a little more privacy and don’t mind paying extra, consider travel First Class , which is a private room good for 2 passengers . Each train has 12 private rooms, with shared shower rooms (equipped with hot water!) and toilet.

If you are travelling in a group of 4 people and want to stay together for the night (or maybe a family with 2 kids), there is an inter-connecting door which can be unlocked.

Each train has 12 first class private rooms.

Facilities inside the room include wifi, socket plug point, a washbasin, bench seat that converts into beds (lower & upper berth), mirror and a 14 inches personal LCD touch screen displaying the route and satellite information (in English).

The LCD display is also a multimedia system for entertainment, an alarm clock, and where you can order food to be served in your room.

The control panel and USB plug for the LCD display.

The view inside the private room.

Hot shower inside the shared bathroom.

The first class train ticket costs 1,453 baht for an upper bed and 1,653 baht for the lower bed. If you travel alone but wish to occupy the entire room, the entire compartment is yours at 2,453 baht.

The SECOND CLASS Train Cabin

Travelling Second Class is cheaper but offers less privacy. The seats in the second class sleeper are lower and upper berths facing each other on both sides of the train’s windows.

The lower berth, which is the window seat, is the primary seating for passengers and converts into sleeper berth at night (the staffs will start the conversion at 8.00pm).

The look inside the second class train cabin.

Second Class Passenger Seats

Convertible into Sleeping Berth

A curtain is installed at every berth which can offer privacy and more importantly, block the light that interferes with sleep because the central lights are kept on through the night. Plug socket and reading light are available for every berth so passengers can charge their phone and laptop, or read throughout their train ride.

The lower berth.

The upper berth.

The train is equipped with CCTV cameras and LCD screens showing the route information eg. GPS location and the estimated time of arrival (in Thai & English). Each carriage has its own LCD display.

There is two luggage compartment, at the top and bottom. Inside the shared washroom are the vacuum toilet and washing basin with mirror.

LCD Display and CCTV Camera

Washing Basin

The second class train ticket costs 941 baht for an upper bed and 1,041 baht for the lower bed.

Facilities In The Train

The train has a diner where passengers can buy snacks, food, and drinks. The food sold here is frozen, like those served in a 7-11 convenient store (even the price are almost the same as 7-11).

The diner is also a nice place to chill out and meet the other travellers. Here is where passengers travelling on a second class ticket can get free onboard Wifi. However, the wifi speed is rather weak even when the mobile phone signal (3G/4G) is strong.

Passengers travelling on the first-class ticket can place their order through the LCD touch screen in their room for in-train delivery service. The diner closes at 10.00pm and re-open at 5.00am for breakfast service.

Chillax at the diner and grab a cup of coffee.

Snacks, food and drinks at the diner.

Food menu at the diner.

A bottle of water, a wide mattress, a blanket, and a pillowcase are provided during the train ride. During the night it might get a bit chilly from the A/C (not adjustable), so consider long sleeve, trousers and maybe socks.

Due to the curvature of the carriage, the lower sleeping berth is a bit wider than the upper. One drawback about the train ride is that the bed is rather short (even for the First Class cabin). People taller than 180cm might need to bend their knee slightly (or sleep diagonally) to get a comfortable position.

WHEN IN CHIANG MAI, YOU MAY NEED A RIDE:

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Where To Buy Train Ticket

The easiest way (and the cheapest way) to buy the train ticket is through SRT official website here or through the ticketing agent here (1st App booking get 5% off, use code BetterOnApp ) . The ticket can be purchased in advanced up to 60 days before the date of departure (or until 2 hours before departure time). Payment is by credit card and you will be issued an e-ticket (in pdf format) upon payment accepted. You can read their online booking manual here .

If by cash is your preferred mode of payment, you may proceed to buy at the train station. In Bangkok, head to Hua Lamphong Railway Station which is just 10 minutes walking distance from Hua Lamphong MRT Station.

If you are in Chiang Mai, go to Chiang Mai Railway Station which is just 2km away from downtown by riding a songthaew or by the public bus . Or you may also take GRAB, Southeast Asia’s own version of UBER .

Remember to ask for train no.9 or train no.10 when buying your train tickets.

Running out of train ticket on your travelling date? Don’t worry, try the overnight sleeper bus. It’s cheaper and faster than taking the train:

Chiang Mai Railway Station

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Thailand has one of the best metre-gauge rail systems in the world, taking the train is easily the best way to get around & see the country. It's comfortable, safe, cheap, environmentally friendly, and unlike flying it's a genuine Thai experience. Ride the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or take train+ferry or train+bus from Bangkok to Ko Samui , Phuket or Krabi . You can travel Bangkok-Vientiane , Bangkok-Cambodia or Bangkok-Penang-Kuala Lumpur-Singapore by train, too. The 1,200-mile journey to Singapore takes 48 hours & costs only $80/£55. This page has schedules & fares for key train routes in Thailand and explains how to buy tickets.

Bangkok Krung Thep Aphiwat Central station now open! The new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Station (KTW) opened on 19 January 2023 and all long-distance trains now start/terminate there instead of Bangkok's original Hualamphong station .

Timetable & fares for popular routes

Bus & ferry links, international trains & buses, other useful information, useful country information, general train travel information, how to check train times & fares.

You can check train times in Thailand at the official State Railways of Thailand website, www.railway.co.th . Click Enter website to enter the English version and click Timetables . Or use any of the booking systems explained here .

It can help to know that the Northern Line means the line to Chiang Mai, the Southern Line means the line south to Hua Hin, Surat Thani & Hat Yai, also the line to Kanchanaburi & the River Kwai.

To buy tickets online see here .

Map of the Thai train network

Are the trains on time.

You'll need to use buses for some routes where there are no trains, for example Phuket to Koh Samui. There are many bus operators in Thailand, you can check times & buy tickets online for many bus, train & ferry routes throughout Thailand using 12Go.Asia or www.baolau.com .

Bangkok Airport rail link

Suvarnabhumi airport: A modern rail link between Suvarnabhumi airport and central Bangkok opened in August 2010, see www.srtet.co.th or www.bangkokairporttrain.com . Fast trains run about every 15 minutes 06:00-24:00 from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the City Air terminal at Makkasan (22 minutes, 35 baht) and Phaya Thai Skytrain station in the city centre (26 minutes, 45 baht). There is interchange with the MRT (metro) at Phetchaburi station and with the Skytrain at Phaya Thai station. It does not directly serve Bangkok's main Hualamphong station.

Don Muang airport: State Railways of Thailand trains between Bangkok and Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai & Nong Khai (for Vientiane in Laos) call at Don Muang station, right next to the old Bangkok Airport, about 50 minutes (22 km) from central Bangkok. However, most long-haul flights were transferred from the original Dong Muang Bangkok Airport to the new Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport in 2006.

How to buy train tickets online

Do you need to buy tickets in advance .

No , if all you want is a 3rd class local ticket such as Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Hua Hin or Aranyaprathet as these are only sold at the station on the day. They cannot sell out!

No , even for longer distance trains if you want to stay flexible and are prepared to risk the specific train or class you want being fully-booked. There are often places available even on the day or a few days before, at least outside peak periods, as long as you're prepared to take an alternative train, class or date if your first choice is full.

However, sleepers on the best trains can sell out weeks ahead in the peak Thai holiday periods such as New Year (30 December to 3 January) & Songkran (Thai New Year, usually 11-16 April). To be sure of a place, book ahead if you can. 1st class sleepers usually sell out first, as there is only one 1st class sleeping-car on those few trains which have them. The trains with the newer Chinese-built sleeping-cars are the most popular, especially on the Bangkok-Chiang Mai route, those should ideally be booked several weeks ahead.

Yes, always book ahead if you want to be sure of a ticket in a specific class on a specific train & date for a long distance journey as Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Booking in advance is essential at peak periods. To buy tickets online, read the section below.

If you want tickets all the way to Kuala Lumpur & Singapore, see the advice in the Bangkok to Singapore section .

When does booking open?

Booking horizons changed again in mid-2024:

Booking for most long distance journeys (for example, Bangkok to Chiang Mai or Hat Yai) opens up to 6 months ahead .

Booking for trips of between 25% & 59% of a long-distance train's journey opens 30 days ahead .

Booking for trips of less than 25% of a long-distance train's journey only opens 1 day ahead .

Option 1, buy online at 12Go.Asia

You can easily order Thai train tickets online from reliable agency 12go.asia .

When to book

You must book at least 3 days ahead. Their system shows current seat & berth availability, although they don't offer real-time online booking, their staff procure the ticket for you manually.

12go.asia will take bookings more than 30 days ahead but remember they can only buy your tickets when State Railways of Thailand open reservations, 30 days before departure.

Ticket delivery

If 12go.asia can source your tickets from SRT's online system, this produces an e-ticket which they can email you and you can board the train with it.

However, only a % of places are loaded in the online system. When these sell out 12go use the regular SRT booking system and hard-copy tickets then need to be collected. You can choose to collect from one of several possible collection points, at least 60 minutes before your train leaves:

(1) Bangkok: 12go.asia 's collection counter is in Metro Mall, a shopping centre at MRT Chatuchak station, which is two stops from Bang Sue station on the MRT Blue Line. Open 09:00-20:00 every day. There's no added fee for collecting here.

(2) Chiang Mai: You can collect tickets from the 24h Bossotel hotel reception across the road from Chiang Mai station, 70 baht fee, or from the station baggage room for 150 baht fee.

(3) Surat Thani: You can collect tickets from the station parcels office, open 24h.

(4) Don Muang airport: You can collect here if heading north, open 09:00-20:30.

(5) Nong Khai: You can collect from the station baggage office, for a 150 baht fee.

(6) Ayutthaya: You can collect from the parcels office.

(7) Bang Sue: You can collect from the parcels office for 100 baht fee, open daily 08:00-17:00. Bang Sue junction station is adjacent to the new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central station.

Alternatively, you can choose to have tickets sent by express post to an address in Thailand (although they won't send to Thai islands after many lost tickets). This option costs an extra 100 baht ($3).

Payment & booking fee

12go.asia charge the regular Thai Railways fare plus a pretty reasonable 250 baht ($7.50) booking fee and a small PayPal payment fee (3.4% + 11 baht). The price they show for each train includes the 250 baht fee but not the PayPal fee. You pay securely via PayPal, either using a credit card or your own PayPal account, or you can choose their Visa or MasterCard payment channel provided by Omise which is a bit cheaper. There's no additional delivery fee if you collect tickets in Bangkok or Chiang Mai, and just a small ($4) fee for collection at Surat Thani.

Which trains & routes can 12go.asia sell?

Most State Railways of Thailand routes, trains & classes are loaded on the 12go.asia system, but not every class on every route between every station, so bear that in mind. It won't sell tickets for local trains such as Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, Hua Hin or Aranyaprathet as you need to buy these on the day at the station. But the most popular longer-distance trains, routes & classes are bookable online. They can even sell the combined train+bus/ferry tickets from Bangkok to Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan & Koh Tao (although only in the outward direction in the case of Phuket & Krabi), and they can book the International Express between Bangkok and Butterworth in either direction. 12go.asia can also book buses & ferries around Thailand, and now it can also book Malaysian KTM trains too.

Tip: If you want one whole 1st class 2-berth compartment for two people, buy two 1st class tickets, selecting one upper and one lower berth, they will then book you together in one compartment. Make sure you select the option to book 2nd class if 1st class sleepers are full, see my advice on this here !

Feedback is always appreciated . So far, seat61 correspondents report good & helpful service.

Option 2, buy at www.baolau.com

Option 3, order from a thai travel agency.

Alternatively, you can arrange Thai train tickets with various Thai travel agencies including www.travelconnecxion.com . They can have tickets waiting for you at your hotel in Bangkok for a small fee. Remember that you can't book before reservations open.

Option 4, buy from State Railways of Thailand

State Railways of Thailand has its own online booking system. It's had a chequered history, but the current system can be found at www.dticket.railway.co.th . It's slow to open, but it has an English version and it will accept most overseas credit cards, so you can use it to book tickets if you like.

For Bangkok, you should enter Krung Thep Aphiwat Central as your origin or destination rather than plain Bangkok if your train starts/terminates there (as most long-distance trains now do). Trains with the latest Chinese-built sleepers are shown as Special Express CNR .

If you have any problems using SRT's D-ticket system, or if it won't accept your credit card, use www.baolau.com or 12go.asia instead. These are quicker and easier to use, being designed for western visitors.

How to buy tickets at the station

It's easy to buy tickets yourself at the station when you get to Thailand, but remember to take your passport, as it may now be required to buy a ticket. All long-distance express trains require a reservation, which can be made on the day of travel or up to 30 days in advance. Reservations are computerised, and the booking office at any main station can reserve seats or berths for any journey in Thailand. Your ticket will have the train time and your seat or berth number printed on it. 3rd class local trains such as Bangkok-Ayutthaya or Bangkok-Kanchanaburi don't require a reservation, you just turn up, buy a ticket from the ticket office and hop on.

Buying tickets at Hualamphong

Even though all long-distance trains now leave from the new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central (KTW) station 11km out of town, you can still buy tickets at the more centrally-located Hualamphong station, worth a visit in its own right.

The main ticket office are on the concourse and well organised. TV screens above each window show what tickets each window sells.

Ticket scalping by agencies? I've had at least one report that trains to Chiang Mai were 'full' when the traveller asked at the official booking office for a train in two days' time, but they were later directed to a travel agency on one of the upper levels inside Hualamphong station who sold them first class sleeper tickets on the train they wanted for an extra 700 baht each. Agencies sometimes buy up blocks of tickets to re-sell, a practice known as scalping. SRT should stop this, but in the meantime, if you find a train full it's worth asking a travel agency inside the station, if you're willing to pay the extra! Feedback appreciated .

Busy periods

New Year (30 December to 3 January) & Songkran (Thai New Year, usually 11-16 April). Normally there's no problem buying tickets when you get to Thailand, if you are flexible as to the exact day, train and class, although obviously if it's mission-critical that you travel on a particular train in a particular class on a particular date, you should pre-book online . However, there are a few holiday periods when booking ahead is strongly recommended under all circumstances. The two biggest are New Year (30 December to 3 January) and Songkran (Thai New Year, usually 11-16 April). If you want to travel at these periods you should definitely pre-book, preferably on the very day booking opens.

Buy by phone on 1690

When in Thailand you can call State Railways of Thailand by dialling 1690 - there now seems to be no 'proper' phone number accessible from outside Thailand. It's reported that they are very helpful and are comfortable speaking English. You'll need to give your name, passport number and contact number. They'll give you a 10-digit reference number to collect your ticket at the ticket office, so have pen & paper handy. However, you must book by phone at least 5 days before travel and you have to pick up and pay for the tickets at the station within 24 hours . Feedback appreciated .

Which station in Bangkok? See map

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central station : From 19 January 2023, all long distance trains leave from (& arrive at) the impressive new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central station, located some 7 km north of Bangkok Hualamphong. Normally abbreviated as KTW, this modern out-of-town airport terminal for trains can be reached from downtown Bangkok by free shuttle bus, metro or local train. More information .

Bangkok Hualamphong station : This is Bangkok's original station opened in 1916, located in the city centre. Even after 19 January, some 13 local trains will continue to leave Hualamphong station. This includes some local trains to Ayutthaya, the two daily trains to the Cambodian border at Ban Klong Luk, the trains to Pattaya and the weekend excursion train to the Bridge on the River Kwai and Nam Tok waterfall.

Thonburi station : The two daily local trains to Kanchanaburi, the Bridge on the River Kwai & Nam Tok use the much smaller Thonburi station on the far bank of the river, also known as Bangkok Noi. Map of Bangkok showing Hualamphong station & Thonburi (Noi) station . Thonburi station is a 9-minute 750m walk from Bang Khun Non station on the MRT metro blue line, see walking map . Thonburi station was formerly known as Bangkok Noi, it was the original terminus for trains to Hat Yai & Malaysia until the Rama VI Bridge opened in 1926, allowing express trains into Bangkok Hualamphong.

Wong Wian Yai station: This is the station for local trains to Samut Sakhon, better known as the Mae Khlong Market Train .

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central station (KTW)

The new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central station opened on 19 January 2023 and all long-distance expresses now use it instead of Hualamphong . Officially abbreviated as KTW , this vast new transport hub is located alongside Bang Sue junction station on the old line, 7 km north of Hualamphong station , see location map . Krung Thep is simply Bangkok in Thai.

Overview & platforms: The street entrance is at ground level (Level 1), use entrance gate 4 for State Railways of Thailand long-distance trains. The trains leave from the 1st floor (Level 2), follow signs to Long distance trains . Access to the platforms is only allowed when the train becomes ready for boarding, around 20 minutes before departure. You'll need to listen for announcements, the departure screens show scheduled departures, but not platform numbers.

Northern & Northeastern line trains to Chiang Mai & Nong Khai leave from platforms 1 & 2 and arrive on platforms 5 & 6. Southern line trains to Hua Hin, Surat Thani, Hat Yai & Padang Besar leave from platforms 7 & 8 and arrive on platforms 11 & 12. The trains exit the station on a new section of elevated railway with views over the city.

Ticket office: The station has plenty of ticket counters for State Railways of Thailand ticket sales. You can still buy tickets at the more centrally-located Hualamphong station if you find that more convenient.

Luggage lockers: There are left luggage lockers near the ticket office, operated using a touch screen with English language facility. You can pay per hour or per 24 hours, reckon on around 230 baht per 24h.

Food & drink: There are various food outlets, including burger outlets.

Toilets & showers: There are toilets which are free to use, with baby-changing facilities. There are also several showers which are also free to use, but you need to ask the toilet attendant to unlock one for you, you'll also need your own soap & towel.

Metro (MRT): The red line & blue line metro (MRT) platforms are in the basement.

How to reach KTW

By free shuttle bus: This ran for a year but has now been discontinued. Local bus 49 links KTW with Hualamphong every 15-20 minutes 05:00-21:00, taking between 30 & 60 minutes. The cheapest but slowest option.

By metro (MRT): Metro trains run from Hualamphong & various other downtown MRT station to Bang Sue MRT station. From Hualamphong, take the Blue Line to Tha Phra and change onto another Blue Line train to Bang Sue. Trains run every few minutes, metro journey time 31 minutes, so around 50 minutes in total including walking and waiting. Fare 43 baht. The metro accept contactless MasterCard & Visa cards, just touch in and out at the ticket gates with a contactless card.

For Bangkok metro information see metro.bemplc.co.th

By local train from Hualamphong: You may still want to experience a departure (or arrival) in Bangkok's classic central Hualamphong station . Some 13 trains per day will still run the 7 km from Hualamphong to Bang Sue junction station on the original line, even after KTW opens. The line takes you over many busy level crossings (a key reason the long-distance trains were moved out to KTW) and through the station serving Bangkok's royal palace.

Check train times from Bangkok to Bang Sue Junction at www.railway.co.th/Station/StationList . Fare 2 baht, buy at the station on the day, no reservation necessary.

Bang Sue junction station is across the road from the new KTW station. On arrival at Bang Sue, walk towards the rear of the train and over the crossing at the southern end of the platform, cross the road on the nearby pedestrian crossing and you're there. Just don't cut it fine if catching a long-distance train, these local trains can be delayed.

By taxi : From downtown Bangkok it takes about 25 minutes and costs around 130 baht. Ask to be dropped at Gate 4, which is the main entrance for the long distance ticket office, waiting area and food court. Taxi fare calulator: www.worldtaximeter.com/bangkok .

Bangkok Hualamphong station

Bangkok Hualamphong is Bangkok's original central station, opened in 1916 in downtown Bangkok. It still handles local trains to Ayutthaya, the trains to Aranyaprathet and Ban Klong Luk on the Cambodian border, and the weekend excursion train to Kanchanaburi, Bridge on the River Kwai and Nam Tok waterfall. There are regular (roughly hourly) departures to Ban Sue junction station, adjacent to the new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central station.

Train information counter : In the photo above, it's on the far right-hand side of the concourse, with the white lightbox visible above it. They can give you a simple pocket timetable in English for any of the main Thai rail lines.

Tickets for travel today: To buy tickets for immediate travel, go to any of the ticket windows to the left of the King's picture in the concourse photo below. In theory, the TV screens above each window say for which trains that window is selling tickets, but most screens merely say 'All trains'.

Left luggage office: This closed during the pandemic and has not yet reopened. Feedback appreciated .

Food & drink: There are several food outlets and a cafe on the station, but much fewer than there were now the new KTW station has opened. To buy supplies of drinks and snacks for the journey, there's a 'Tiffy Mart' in the far left-hand corner of the concourse towards the taxi rank.

Taxis: The taxi rank is on the left-hand side of the station. In the photo above, you'd head towards the King's picture then turn left. Expect a taxi to any city centre hotel to cost around 50 baht (£1 or $1.50). Taxi fare calculator for Bangkok .

Toilets : The toilets are beyond the information counter in the far right-hand corner of the concourse. They are of a reasonable standard, now free.

Luggage on Thai trains

Luggage arrangements are really simple. You take your own luggage onto the train with you, and put it on any suitable luggage rack next to your seat or berth or inside your 1st class sleeper compartment. It will be quite safe, although some travellers take a bike lock with them to padlock it to the rack at night, just for peace of mind. You can put your daypack with camera, passport, and so on, in the berth alongside you at night. A very large suitcase would simply go on the floor alongside your seat.

Luggage limits: Officially, every passenger is allowed one big suitcase and one smaller item although this is not rigorously enforced. Your bags won't be weighed, but in principle baggage limits are a generous 60 Kg (110 lbs) for 1st class passengers, 40 Kg (88 lbs) for 2nd class passengers and 30 Kg (66 lbs) for 3rd class passengers.

Excess baggage: Large items in excess of the allowance such as golf clubs or additional suitcases can be carried in the baggage car if you buy a cargo ticket. You follow exactly the same procedure as for taking a bike, see the paragraph below.

Left luggage at stations

There are left luggage offices at Bangkok Hualamphong station ( see above ), Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, Ayutthaya and most other major Thai stations where you can leave your luggage for a small fee whilst you explore the town. The new Krung Thep Aphiwat station has left luggage lockers, see above .

Taking a bicycle or motorbike

You can take a bicycle or motorbike on most Thai trains for a small fee. The new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central station handles bicycles, but not motorbikes.

You can't take bikes on the diesel railcar (DRC) trains, or the Chinese-built (CNR) sleeper trains which have no baggage car, or the sleeper to/from Padang Besar in Malaysia which also has no baggage car. Nor on the on the Bangkok airport rail link. But other Thai express trains usually have a baggage car.

First, buy your passenger ticket, either in advance or at the station on the day. You cannot pre-book your bike, even if you pre-book your passenger ticket.

On the day of travel, go to the station with your passenger ticket, find the cargo desk and buy a cargo ticket for your bike. The cargo desk will be a chair, a desk and a set of scales on or near the platform, the location varies and some smaller stations don't have a cargo desk. A cargo ticket costs around 90 to 130 baht (£2.00-£2.70 or $3-$5) for a bike, but can be up to 1230 baht for a motorbike. It's a flat fee based on where the train is going, not on where you're going, so on a train going from Bangkok to Hat Yai, the cargo price is the same to Hua Hin as to Hat Yai. Part of the cargo ticket will be attached to your bike, the other part to your passenger ticket. If you arrive immediately before the train departs or if there isn't a cargo desk at that station, you may be told to pay on the train.

When the train is ready for boarding, you take you bike to the baggage car for loading. It's a good idea to provide something to secure your bike, a couple of luggage elastics or even just some plastic string picked up from one of the vendors on the platform, don't rely on this being provided. Ask if you can secure your bike to the inside of the baggage car yourself, which they usually allow, as otherwise they may just lean it against other cargo and it could be damaged when the train is in motion. Some 3rd class trains don't have a baggage car, so on these you'll have to manhandle your bike into a passenger carriage and stash it in the corridor next to one of the washrooms. Now take your seat in the train. At your destination, go to the baggage car, show your cargo ticket and collect your bike. There is nothing further to pay when you arrive.

Traveller David Mitchell reports on taking a bike on a train in Thailand: "I can confirm that it is indeed possible to take bicycles on Thai trains, or at least the Bangkok to Chiang Mai route, though I’m sure it is similar for the others. You have to send the bike as cargo and it travels in the cargo/guards van. The procedure is to buy your ticket, then locate the cargo office where they will fill out a cargo ticket. They will attach part of the cargo ticket to the bike and part to your passenger ticket – the cost for a bike was 90 baht each way. You then have to drop off the bike in the cargo car yourself before taking your seat. At your destination you go to the cargo car and collect the bike – you will have to show your ticket & cargo ticket before they will release it. The cargo car sometimes gets full so it is worth turning up early to make sure that there is enough space in it to accommodate your bike."

Traveller Saibal Chatterjee took a bike from Thailand to Singapore by train: "In April 2012 I set out to ride my bike from Chang Mai to Singapore. I managed to bike as far as Surat Thani but then fell sick due to heat & exhaustion. So I carried on my journey towards Singapore by train. I took the overnight Thai Railways train to Hat Yai with my bike safe in the luggage compartment. From Hat Yai I took the Malaysian Railway train to Padang Besar and on to Kuala Lumpur (same train). I was allowed to take my bike on the Malaysian Railway train (at no extra charge). Initially I parked the bike between the space between the two toilets but the train conductor asked me to put it in the lockable luggage space on the other side of the compartment. I arrived at Kuala Lumpur station no problems. At Kuala Lumpur station I had to talk with the station manager to be able to take my bike on the train to Singapore. After a bit of sweet talk he allowed me to take my bike on the day (chair car) train to Singapore only if I bought a first class ticket (no extra charge for bike). I boarded the train and placed my bike between the last and the second last chairs. Later the ticket checker asked me to place the bike in the generator car so that it did not cause problems for other passengers. I did place my bike in the generator car and chained it with the door handle and reached Singapore without problems.

What are Thai trains like?

Which class.

Thai trains have 3 classes, 1st, 2nd & 3rd. 1st class only exists as modern air-conditioned sleeping-cars on overnight trains. 2nd class comes in seat and sleeper versions, in air-conditioned and non-air-con varieties, and is very comfortable especially on sleeper trains and the air-conditioned express railcars. Indeed, many experienced travellers including myself actually prefer a cosy & sociable 2nd class sleeper to a 1st class one. Even 3rd class is surprisingly clean and acceptable by European standards, and is an enjoyable way to travel on local trains for shorter trips. The photos below will help you decide which is best for you. The sitting and sleeper areas of all trains are non-smoking.

Quick links: 1st class sleepers 2nd class sleepers Restaurant cars 2nd class express railcars (DRC) 2nd class seats 3rd class seats

1st class sleepers

1st class sleeping-cars are air-conditioned with 9 lockable 2-berth compartments with washbasin opening off a side-corridor. Clean sheets, blankets, soap & towels are provided. There's a western-style toilet at the end of the corridor and even a shower, with hot water in the new Chinese-built cars but luke warm water in the older cars.

Berths are sold individually, so one ticket buys one bed. Solo travellers will share with another passenger of the same gender unless they pay for two tickets. The berths convert to a sofa for evening & morning use. If there are 3 or 4 of you, you can book two adjacent 2-berth sleepers with an inter-connecting door (berths 1 & 2 connect with berths 3 & 4, berths 5 & 6 connect with 7 & 8, and so on).

On key routes such as Bangkok-Chiang Mai, Bangkok-Nong Khai or Bangkok-Surat Thani-Hat Yai, a steward or stewardess from the restaurant car may come round and take your food & drink order, offering you a set menu with several choices, around 180 baht for dinner and 100 baht for breakfast. The meal will be delivered to your sleeper and if that suits you that's great, but it can be more fun and more social to go along to the restaurant car , where you'll get a wider choice - just be warned that as the attendants get commission, they have been known to deny that there's a restaurant car on the train when there is and you're free to go there if you want!

The Man in Seat 61 says : "There's usually just one 1st class sleeping-car per train, so book early as the 1st class car often gets fully-booked several weeks ahead. If there are two of you, select one upper berth & one lower berth when booking online to get a whole compartment to yourselves. First-time visitors often obsess about 1st class, perhaps if I were on my honeymoon I'd go 1st class for the privacy - and the new Chinese 1st class looks very nice. But like many experienced travellers I actually prefer the more sociable open-plan 2nd class sleepers to rattling round in a 1st class compartment, especially if I'm solo. The 2nd class bunks have curtains for privacy at night and are fine for most travellers, even families with children. So don't feel you have to go 1st class. You really don't!"

High-quality 1st class sleepers on trains 9, 10, 23, 24, 25, 26, 31, 32

High-quality 1st class sleeping-cars built in China entered service in November 2016 between Bangkok & Chiang Mai on trains 9 & 10 and Bangkok & Ubon Ratchathani on trains 23 & 24. These were joined in December by trains 25 & 25 between Bangkok & Nong Khai (for Vientiane) and trains 31 & 32 between Bangkok & Hat Yai. Their layout is similar to the regular Thai type, with nine 2-berth compartments with washbasin opening off a side corridor. They feature TV information screens and power sockets for laptops & mobiles. There are toilets and a hot shower at the end of the corridor. A slightly higher fare is charged for travel in these new cars. See the video here or this article here .

1st class sleepers other trains

If your train has a 1st class sleeper, it will be of this regular Thai type, unless it one of the trains which have been equipped with new Chinese-built sleepers (trains 9, 10, 23, 24, 25, 26, 31, 32), or trains 51 & 52 which use a second-hand Japanese sleeping-car as shown in the next section. These cars have nine lockable 2-berth compartments opening off a side corridor. There are toilets are at the end of the corridor, along with a cold but still very welcome shower.

Japanese 1st class sleeper on trains 51, 52.

Train 51/52 between Bangkok & Chiang Mai is an exception. It has an ex-Japanese 1st class sleeper, which uniquely for Thailand has single-berth compartments, see the photos below. There are no 2-berth compartments on this train, but pairs of adjacent single-berth compartments have a connecting door, so berth 1 can be connected to berth 2, berth 3 to berth 4, and so on. Incidentally, until 10 November 2016, these cars were used on train 13/14, but from 11 November 2016 they are reassigned to train 51/52.

2nd class sleepers

Most western visitors use 2nd class sleepers, which are comfortable, safe and great fun. Berths are not in compartments, but are arranged 'open plan' either side of a central aisle. During the evening and morning part of the journey, seats are arranged in cosy face-to-face pairs on each side of the aisle, see the photos below. At night, the attendant makes up the sleeping berths by pulling together each pair of seats to form a lower berth, and folding an upper berth out from the wall above. He then arranges a mattress, pillow and fresh clean bedding on each berth, and hooks up the curtains on each bunk for privacy - see him do this in the video below !

Luggage goes on the overhead racks or under the seats, or on the floor next to your seats. Some people bring a bike lock to chain it up for peace of mind, but you'd normally take daypacks with any valuables into the berth with you.

2nd class sleepers come in both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned varieties, the air-con ones are usually cleaner and more modern, but the non-a/c ones have windows which open, better for taking photographs of the scenery. The fare for an upper berth is a fraction cheaper, but the upper bunks tend to be narrower. There's plenty of luggage room, take a bike lock if you want to chain up your luggage for peace of mind. Security is not a problem, it's a great way to travel which saves time even compared to flying, and saves a hotel bill too. Upper berths are fine for anyone up to 6' 2" tall, if you're taller than that you should choose a lower berth as these are significantly wider, allowing tall people to sleep comfortably on the diagonal. On key routes such as Bangkok-Chiang Mai, Bangkok-Nong Khai or Bangkok-Surat Thani-Hat Yai, a steward or stewardess from the restaurant car may come round and take your food or drink order, offering you a set menu with several choices, around 180 baht for dinner and 100 baht for breakfast. The meal will be delivered to your seat, and if that suits you that's great, but it can be more fun and more social to go along to the restaurant car , where you'll get a wider choice - just be warned that as the attendants get commission, they have been known to deny that there's a restaurant car on the train when there is and you're free to go there if you want!

The Man in Seat 61 says : "The 2nd class sleepers are the best choice for most western travellers, and in fact I actually prefer them to the first class variety, especially if I'm travelling solo, and I'm not the only one who does! The air-conditioned sleepers are more comfortable and usually newer and cleaner, but the non-air-con ones have windows which open, better for viewing the countryside and taking photographs on the daylight parts of the trip."

High-quality 2nd class sleepers on trains 9, 10, 23, 24, 25, 26, 31, 32

New high-quality Chinese-built sleepers came into service on trains 9 & 10 between Bangkok & Chiang Mai, and trains 23 & 24 between Bangkok & Ubon Ratchathani starting 11 November 2016. These were joined on 2 December by trains 25 & 26 between Bangkok & Nong Khai (for Vientiane) and trains 31 & 32 between Bangkok & Hat Yai. The layout of these cars is essentially the same as the previous most-modern type shown below. See the video here . The trains that use these modern sleepers are popular, so if you want one you should book several weeks ahead, especially on the Bangkok-Chiang Mai route.

Modern air-con 2nd class sleepers

These modern air-conditioned sleepers now operate on trains 13/14 between Bangkok & Chiang Mai and trains 45/46 between Bangkok & Padang Besar, amongst others. There is a washing area with two sinks and western & squat toilets at the end of the coach. Soap & toilet paper are provided. At night, upper & lower berths fold out, each with curtains for privacy.

Watch the video: Making up the beds

Older air-con sleepers.

These older air-conditioned sleepers operate on train 69/70 between Bangkok & Nong Khai, and on many other overnight express trains in Thailand. The layout is the same as the newer type shown above.

Non-air-con 2nd class sleepers

These are older and a bit grubbier, but the fare is a fraction cheaper and some people prefer the ability to open a window, for example to take photographs. There are fans on the ceiling, and window shutters to keep out the sun as well as glass panes. Not sure about that green, though.

Restaurant cars

All the most important trains have a restaurant car, including trains 9, 10, 13, 14 Bangkok-Chiang Mai, trains 35 & 36 Bangkok-Hat Yai, trains 84 & 85 Bangkok-Surat Thani, trains 69 & 70 Bangkok-Nong Khai. Some restaurant cars are air-conditioned like the one shown below, including those on all the Chinese-built sleeper trains. Others are non-air-con, with opening windows such as the restaurant car on Bangkok-Chiang Mai sleeper train 13/14.

The food is remarkably cheap and good, a set meal costs around 150-200 baht (£3-£4 or $5-$6) and you choose from a leaflet with pictures & English captions. Beer is unfortunately no longer available since 2014.

A restaurant car attendant usually walks through the train with a menu card showing pictures & English captions. They will take meal orders and serve you at you seat if you prefer. You may find this more convenient, but its more fun & sociable to go to the restaurant car. Click here for sample menu & food photos .

One traveller reports "We particularly enjoyed the restaurant car, the food was better than expected and they switched on the disco lights and 70's bogie music after the sun went down!"

Food & drink vendors : On almost all Thai trains, even 3rd class ones, you'll find vendors selling fruit & soft drinks. Obviously, you can bring your own food and drink if you like, bought at the station or nearby supermarket.

Alcohol: Sipping a beer on a Thai train has always been one of the pleasures of train travel, but sale and consumption of alcohol has been banned from July 2014 as a knee-jerk reaction to a specific incident. Restaurant cars therefore no longer sell beer.

2nd class seats

Special express drc (diesel rail car ).

The air-conditioned express diesel railcars (DRC) are an excellent option for daytime travel on routes such as Bangkok to Chiang Mai and Bangkok to Hua Hin, Chumphon & Surat Thani. These air-conditioned trains were built by Daewoo in the mid 1990s and have comfortable 2nd class reclining seats, half of the seats in a car facing forwards and the other half backwards. There used to be a hostess service of a light meal, coffee & soft drinks included in the fare, however in 2024 the end of SRT's supplier contract means that you have to buy food & drink until a new contractor can be found. The pre-packed rice-based lunch isn't hugely substantial, so feel free to take some other supplies with you if you're hungry. Relax and enjoy the journey as the scenery rolls by.

2nd class seats on express trains

A pleasant and comfortable way to travel for long-distance daytime journeys, although slower than the express railcars. There are both air-conditioned and non-air-con varieties. The advantage of the non-air-con coaches is the open windows and unrestricted views, a breeze wafting in as the train clickety-clacks through the Thai countryside. Each pair of seats can be rotated, seats are normally turned to face forwards. Photos courtesy of Graeme Thorley .

3rd class seats

In spite of its name, 3rd class is a perfectly good option for short trips such as Bangkok to Kanchanaburi or Ayutthaya, as it's generally clean, not usually crowded outside the commuter peaks, unbelievably cheap, and sitting next to an open window as the train clickety-clacks through the countryside is a very pleasant experience. Although, 2nd class would be better for long trips such as Bangkok to Nong Khai or Chiang Mai. 3rd class usually has padded seats, but some older carriages have wooden seats. It's normally non-air-con, but air-con 3rd class exists on a few long distance routes.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai

It's Thailand's most popular train route. Travelling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by sleeper is effectively faster than flying, far less stressful, far more fun, better for the environment and it saves you a hotel bill, too. Think you don't see much from a night train? The scenery on the last third of the trip up into the mountains approaching Chiang Mai is particularly good, and even on the sleeper, watching the sunrise from the train in the morning is wonderful. The new Chinese-built high-quality sleepers on trains 9 & 10 are excellent, and of course, the sleeper train itself is the scenery, a real Thai train with a chance to meet Thai people.

* Train 9/10 is the best train to take as it uses new high-quality Chinese-built sleeping-cars & restaurant car introduced in 2016 .

** Train 13/14 is the next-best sleeper train using the next most modern cars, northbound it passes the best scenery near Chiang Mai in daylight. It also has a non-air-conditioned restaurant car with opening windows, ideal for photography.

*** Train 7/8 is the best daytime option, the air-conditioned express railcar .

Train classes:

1 = 1st class sleepers . S = 2nd class sleepers (air-conditioned) . s = 2nd class sleepers (non-air-con) . 2 = 2nd class seats . R = Restaurant car .

3 = 3rd class seats . DRC = Diesel Railcar express with 2nd class air-con seats , but no sleepers so not recommended for overnight journeys).

How to buy tickets What are Thai trains like? Map of train routes in SE Asia Luggage & bikes Recommended hotels in Chiang Mai & Bangkok

Fares are in Thai baht. £1 = 44 baht. €1 = 35 baht. $1 = 33 baht.

Children aged 0 to 3 and less than 100cm in height travel free, children aged 4 to 11 and under 150cm travel at reduced fare, children 12 years old and upwards (or over 150cm high) pay full fare.

Bangkok to Nong Khai for Laos

Here are trains between Bangkok & Nong Khai, near the border with Laos. If you're travelling into Laos, see the Laos page for information on the new Bangkok-Vientiane train service & on local transport across the Friendship Bridge between Nong Khai & Vientiane.

1 = 1st class sleepers . S = 2nd class sleepers (air-con) . s = 2nd class sleepers (non-air-con) . 2 = 2nd class seats . 3 = 3rd class seats . R = Restaurant car . DRC = Diesel Railcar express with 2nd class air-conditioned seats (no sleepers).

* Recommended daytime train, air-con express diesel railcar.

** Recommended train, high-quality sleeper train with modern Chinese-built sleeping-cars introduced in December 2016 .

A train connection to Vientiane in Laos opened in 2009: The railway was extended across the Friendship Bridge to a new station at Thanaleng on the Laos side of the Friendship Bridge some 13 km from downtown Vientiane. Two daily local shuttle trains link Nong Khai with Thanaleng in each direction, one of them providing a connection with train 69/70 to/from Bangkok. See the Laos page for travel between Bangkok & Vientiane .

How to buy train tickets online Buying tickets at the station What are Thai trains like? Map of train routes in SE Asia Luggage & bikes Hotels in Thailand

Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani

1 = 1st class sleepers . S = 2nd class air-con sleepers . s = 2nd class sleepers (non-air-con) . 2 = 2nd class seats .

3 = 3rd class seats . R = Restaurant car . DRC = Diesel Railcar express with 2nd class air-conditioned seats (no sleepers).

* Recommended train for daytime travel, air-con express diesel railcar. Train 71/71 is an older railcar which also has 3rd class non-a/c seats.

** Recommended overnight train, train 23/24 uses new high-quality Chinese-built 1st & 2nd class air-con sleepers , introduced November 2016.

How to buy train tickets online Buying tickets at the station What are Thai trains like? Map of train routes in SE Asia Luggage & bikes Hotels in Thailand

Fares are in Thai baht. £1 = 44 baht. €1 = 35 baht. $1 = 33 baht.

Traveller Ian Craven from Sydney reports : I recently travelled on the State Railways of Thailand on the Bangkok-Ubon run. We took daytime train 21, the express diesel rail car, in 2nd class air conditioned seats. We easily bought tickets the day before from a Bangkok travel agent for a very reasonable commission, about 50 baht. The train consisted of only three cars, and predictably we were the only farang on board. Train left just 5 minutes late, at 0550, and took at least an hour to get out of the suburbs of Bangkok, with the country eventually giving way to rice paddies as far as the eye can see; the train then climbs through some low hilly country with mainly teak plantations and orchards, and eventually gives way to a vast plain, again with rice predominate, along with sugar and banana’s, and all kinds of towns and villages, large and small. The seating was very comfortable, the air con just right (not too cold which is often the case), and the service impeccable. Despite a rather gruff visage, the conductor was in fact a very amiable fat controller, turned out in an immaculately pressed uniform. The train even features a 'trolley dolly', who serves breakfast (croissant & sweet bun), water, orange juice, tea and coffee (why is railway coffee uniformly bad everywhere in the world?!) and lunch (like an airline pack featuring a small chicken curry and rice, and some kind of putrid fish that even the locals were poking at with disdain!). All this comes included in the price of the ticket. Train arrived in Ubon dead on time at 1410, despite some unscheduled stops along the way to let off passengers. While it is certainly not one of the great train journeys of the world, it is not overly long and provides some excellent views of Thai rural life, and is a cheap, efficient and very effective way to get to the southern Lao PDR frontier. I would highly recommend it to anyone. The international bus from Ubon-Pakse runs twice daily, about 3 hours, 200 baht.

Bangkok to the Cambodian border

Ban Klong Luk is located at the Cambodian border, just metres from the border post. Trains only used to run as far as Aranyaprathet, 255 km from Bangkok and 6 km from the Cambodian border, but were extended to Ban Klong Luk in July 2019, just 200m from the Thai border post. You can now walk through the Thai & Cambodian border posts into Poiphet on the Cambodian side from where buses run to Siem Reap & Phnom Penh. See the Cambodia page for information about the journey from Bangkok to Siem Reap (for the Angkor Wat temples) & Phnom Penh, and about onwards bus transport to Saigon in Vietnam. Trains 275-280 have 3rd class seats , but Thai 3rd class is clean and comfortable, a very pleasant way to travel with vendors selling food & soft drinks. Train 279/280 is a diesel railcar. Train 275/276 is a locomotive & coaches. These trains continue to use Bangkok Hualamphong station.

Children aged 0 to 3 and less than 100cm in height travel free, children aged 4 to 11 and under 150cm travel at half fare, children 12 years old and upwards (or over 150cm high) pay full fare.

Bangkok to Kanchanaburi

The best way to reach Kanchanaburi & the Bridge on the River Kwai is by train, using the infamous Death Railway itself, for just 100 baht (£2 or $3), see the Bridge on the River Kwai page for details .

There is also a special railcar (2nd & 3rd class air-conditioned) for tourists at weekends, leaving Hualamphong station at 06:30 for Kanchanaburi at 09:25, Nam Tok 11:30, returning from Nam Tok at 14:40 and Kan'buri at 16:55 arriving Bangkok 19:30. Special fares apply, reservation required, see the Bridge on the River Kwai page for details .

Bangkok to Sukhothai

Sukhothai has no rail station, but you can take a comfortable train from Bangkok to Phitsanulok on the Bangkok-Chiang Mai main line, which is about 59 km from Sukhothai by bus. This train/bus combo avoids a nightmare 7 hours on a bus from Bangkok. The 08:30 or 11:50 DRC express railcars from Bangkok would be a good choice to reach Phitsanulok, see here for train times . On arrival by train at Phitsanulok, simply ask one of the tuk-tuk taxis waiting outside the station to take you to the nearby bus station.

Buses leave Phitsanulok for Sukhothai frequently between 07:00 and 19:00, fare around 40 baht or so, journey time 1 hour.

One-time capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom, the UNESCO-designated ruins are 12 km outside Sukhothai town, easily reached by local transport.

Bangkok to Chiang Rai

To reach Chiang Rai, first take a train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, see above for train times .

Ordinary (non-air-con) buses leave Chiang Mai Arcade bus station every hour or two from 06:00 to 17:30, journey time 3 hours 50 minutes, fare around 60 baht.

Air-conditioned buses also leave from Chiang Mai Arcade bus station every hour or so from 07:00 to 17:00, journey time 3 hours 10 minutes, fare 102 baht.

Bangkok to Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is the UNESCO-listed ancient capital of Siam, with impressive ruins and temples. It's a great day trip from Bangkok, or you can stop off on your way between Bangkok & Chiang Mai. The start of the UNESCO-listed area is some 3.5 km from Ayutthaya station, a 44-minute walk or short hop by tuk-tuk, see map .

Option 1, by local train

There are a range of local trains from the conveniently-located Bangkok Hualamphong station to Ayutthaya with basic but clean 3rd class seats, taking a leisurely 1h45 for the 71 km (44 miles). No reservation is necessary, just turn up, buy a ticket at the station and hop on. 3rd class isn't crowded outside peak times, as a day tripper from Bangkok you'll be going in the opposite direction from commuter crowds in any case. It's a pleasant way to get there, sitting next to an open window with a cool breeze blowing in, as the train clickety-clacks along.

To check these train times, go to See www.railway.co.th and look for Timetables .

Option 2, by express train

You can also travel between Bangkok & Ayutthaya by express train. These are faster (typically 1 hour), more comfortable and you get a reserved seat. On the downside, all express trains now leave from the less-convenient Krung Thep Aphiwat Central station 7 km north of Hualamphong, and tickets need to be pre-booked.

Book online at www.baolau.com with instant confirmation, You print your own ticket and can board the train with the printout.

You must book at least the day before. On the day of travel, tickets aren't sold online, only at stations.

Booking for most trains opens 30 days ahead, but there are a few long-distance express trains (including express air-con railcar SP7 on its way to Chiang Mai) for which short-hop tickets such as Bangkok to Ayutthaya are only sold the day before, to avoid short-hop passengers using up long-distance places.

Using www.baolau.com you'll see that each train number is preceded by RP (rapid), EX (express) or SP (special express). The Bangkok-Ayutthaya fare on a rapid (RP) train is 20 baht in non-a/c 3rd class, 61 baht in non-a/c 2nd class.

Fares for EX & SP trains are significantly higher because they carry an express surcharge and they may have air-con cars or sleepers with higher fares. A non-a/c 2nd class seat on a rapid (RP) train is a good choice if the timings suit you, the cars have opening windows making it a pleasant option.

Incidentally, if you're returning from Ayutthaya to Bangkok in the afternoon, the long gap in 3rd class local trains between lunchtime and early evening may make a seat on an express train look a good option - and it might well be! Just remember that whilst the 18:48 local train might be more or less on time, a late afternoon express train coming from way up country could be an hour late by the time it reaches Ayutthaya. Not a reason not to book it, but bear that in mind when deciding between the 18:48 3rd class local train or the 16:37 Rapid - though I reckon the 16:37 rapid still usually gets to Bangkok first!

Stopping off on the way to Chiang Mai

All trains between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Nong Khai & Ubon Ratchathai stop at Ayutthaya. It's easiest to use the 3rd class local trains for the Bangkok-Ayutthaya section rather than booking a seat on an express, the local trains are cheaper, more frequent and no reservation is necessary. Then see the Chiang Mai or Nong Khai timetable above for express train times Ayutthaya-Chiang Mai or Ayutthaya-Nong Khai. Ayutthaya has a left luggage office (on the platform, marked 'Cloak Room') where you can stash your bags for a 10 baht fee between trains.

Bangkok to Samut Songkhram

The Market Train: You may have heard of a little train near Bangkok that runs right through the middle of a market. This is the Bangkok - Mahachai - Mae Khlong Line, which runs within inches of the market stalls approaching its terminus at Samut Songkhram, some 70 km (45 miles) from Bangkok and known locally as Mae Khlong after the river on which it is situated. In fact, it's not one rail line but two, separated by a ferry across the Tha Chin river in the middle. These two lines are part of the State Railways of Thailand, but were originally built in 1905 as private lines and they are not physically linked to the rest of the network. A trip to Mae Khlong makes an interesting trip from Bangkok if you've a day spare. Watch this video to see the train pass through a busy market, when the train passes the market traders replace their canopies and you'd never know a train track was there.

Bangkok ► Mae Khlong Market

Step1, first take a little silver diesel railcar from Bangkok's Wong Wian Yai station to Samut Sakhon, known locally as Mahachai.

Bangkok's Wong Wian Yai station is located on the west side of the Bangkok river, a 20 minute walk from the BTS Skytrain station at Wangwan Yai, see map of Bangkok showing stations .

Trains run from Bangkok Wong Wian Yai to Mahachai roughly every hour from 05:30 until 20:10, journey time around 59 minutes, usually 3rd class only, fare 10 baht, distance 31.2 km (19 miles).

Most trains are non-air-conditioned with opening windows (better for photography), but you'll also find some 2nd class air-con cars on the 07:00 & 10:40 departures from Bangkok, plus a couple of later trains, with fare 25 baht.

Step 2, you then cross the Tha Chin river by ferry to Ban Laem, 3 baht. The ferry takes just a few minutes.

Step 3, on the other side, four trains a day run from Ban Laem to Mae Khlong (Samut Songkhram), departing 07:30, 10:10, 13:30, 16:40, journey time 1 hour, fare 10 baht, distance 33.6 km.

Mae Khlong Market ► Bangkok

Step 1, trains leave Mae Khlong (Samut Songkhram) at 06:20, 09:00, 11:30, 15:30 taking 1 hour to Ban Laem, 10 baht.

Step 2, cross the river by ferry from Ban Laem to Samut Sakhon (Mahachai), 3 baht, the crossing takes just a few minutes.

Step 3, trains return from Samut Sakhon (Mahachai) to Bangkok every hour from 04:30 to 19:00, journey time 59 minutes, fare 10 baht.

For more information, photos and a video, see www.nomadicnotes.comk . The trip makes an interesting excursion from Bangkok.

Bangkok to Southern Thailand

There are plenty of good air-conditioned trains from Bangkok to Hua Hin, Chumphon, Surat Thani & Hat Yai, with connections by ferry or bus to Thailand's popular beaches and islands such as Phuket , Krabi or Ko Samui .

You can also travel to Malaysia & Singapore this way, by train from Bangkok to Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, see the Bangkok to Malaysia & Singapore page . This takes you along the west coast main line route.

Alternatively, you can take a train to Sungai Kolok on the eastern end of the frontier with Malaysia. You can walk across the frontier and get a bus a few miles on to Kota Bharu. The railway station for Kota Bharu is Wakaf Bahru (3 miles or so from Kota Bharu), from where there are daily trains to Singapore and Kuala Lumpur via the scenic Jungle Line , see the Malaysia page . This route forms an interesting alternative to the usual mainline route via Padang Besar, although you need to be aware of the security concerns around Sungai Kolok at the eastern end of the Thai/Malay border.

Bus/ferry connections to: Phuket Krabi Ko Samui & Ko Phangan Ko Tao

The timetable below starts 15 December 2023, many trains are speeded up thanks to completion of the double-tracking project.

* Malaysian time is one hour ahead of Thai time, times shown here for Padang Besar & Butterworth are Malaysian time. Be warned that State Railways of Thailand timetables usually show Padang Besar times in Thai time!

To/from Butterworth, you change trains at Padang Besar, hence the Butterworth time is in italics & (brackets).

1 = 1st class sleepers . S = 2nd class sleepers (air-conditioned) . s = 2nd class sleepers (non-air-con) .

2 = 2nd class seats . 3 = 3rd class seats . R = Restaurant car .

DRC = Diesel Railcar express with 2nd class air-conditioned seats , but no sleepers so not recommended for overnight journeys.

* Recommended trains - express railcar by day, air-con sleepers by night. Train 31/32 uses high-quality Chinese-built sleeping-cars introduced December 2016

** Useful 3rd class train between Bangkok Hualamphong & Hua Hin. No reservation needed, cannot sell out, buy a ticket on the day and hop on!

*** Only two 2nd class sleeping-cars run all the way to/from Butterworth, the rest of the train only runs Bangkok-Hat Yai.

How to buy train tickets online Buying tickets at the station What are Thai trains like? Map of train routes in SE Asia Luggage & bikes Hotels in Thailand

Fares are in Thai baht. £1 = 44 baht. €1 = 39 baht. $1 = 33 baht.

Security warnings in Southern Thailand: You may be aware of the security warnings for southern Thailand. These primarily apply to the eastern end of the Malaysia-Thailand border around Yala & Sungai Kolok, where there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time if you were to hang around. Bombs have gone off outside bars and police stations in Yala and Sungai Kolok, and the eastern Sungai Kolok-Yala-Hat Yai rail line has been affected on a number of occasions, so use this route with extreme care if at all. However, the Bangkok-Hat Yai-Penang-Kuala Lumpur-Singapore main line passes through the border at the western end which isn't as badly affected. Although I must make it clear that I'm no security expert, there are unlikely to be any problems simply passing through a small part of the less-affected area non-stop on board a train via the Singapore-KL-Penang-Hat Yai-Bangkok main rail line via Padang Besar. Although travellers should always take advice and be aware of the current situation. I certainly don't claim to provide current security advice!

Bangkok to Ko Tao

Option 1, via lomprayah ferry.

Book a comfy train from Bangkok to Chumphon, stay overnight - Chumphon station is in the town centre. Next day, a Lomprayah minivan leaves from outside the station for the 26 km drive to the Lomprayah pier for the Lomprayah's fast catamaran to Ko Tao.

1 = 1st class sleepers . S = 2nd class sleepers (air-conditioned) . s = 2nd class sleepers (non-air-con) . 2 = 2nd class seats . 3 = 3rd class seats .

R = Restaurant car . DRC = Diesel Railcar express with 2nd class air-conditioned seats .

The train can run an hour or two late, these schedules allow for that. The minivan+ferry is run by www.lomprayah.com .

How much does it cost?

How to buy tickets, option 2, via surat thani.

The train-ferry connections actually work just as well via Surat Thani & Ko Samui, though it's a long way round. See the section below .

Bangkok to Ko Samui & Ko Phangan

It's easy to travel from Bangkok to Ko Samui, Ko Phangan or Ko Tao, using a train to Surat Thani then a combined minivan+ferry service operated by Lomprayah. It's the safe, comfortable & environmentally-friendly way to travel, much better than cramped buses or short-haul flights. The overnight sleeper option takes no more time out of your holiday than flying and is a lot more fun, and far more of an experience. Simply take a train from Bangkok to Surat Thani. On arrival at Surat Thani railway station (located at Phun Phin, 14 km from Surat Thani town centre), shuttle buses meet the train and take you to the Don Sak ferry terminal 60 km east of Surat Thani. You then take the fast ferry from Don Sak to Ko Samui, Ko Phangan & Ko Tao. Here is the recommended timetable.

The train can run an hour or two late, these schedules allow for that. Have breakfast in Surat Thani! The minivan+ferry is run by www.lomprayah.com .

Option 2, via Seatrans Ferry

The train can run an hour or two late, these schedules allow for that. Have breakfast in Surat Thani! The minivan+ferry is run by www.seatranferry.com .

Bangkok to Phuket

Taking train+bus from Bangkok to Phuket is the comfortable & environmentally-friendly way to go, avoiding a gruelling 14-16 hour overnight bus journey in a cramped bus seat or an unnecessary short-haul flight. You simply take the comfy overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, and next morning hop on an air-conditioned bus from Surat Thani to Phuket taking around 4h30.

Bangkok ► Phuket

Step 1, travel from Bangkok to Surat Thani by air-conditioned sleeper train.

Book any train you like, for example train 85 leaving Bangkok KTW at 19:50 & arriving Surat Thani at 05:34, with comfortable 1st & 2nd class air-conditioned sleepers, see the train timetable above .

Step 2, travel from Surat Thani to Phuket by an air-conditioned minivan.

On arrival in Surat Thani, walk out of the station, turn left and look for the Phantip Travel office across the road, see map showing office .

They will arrange for you to be picked up from the station and taken to their main office in Surat Thani Town some 14 km away.

A Phantip Travel minivan leaves from outside their Surat Thani Town office every hour from 09:00 to 17:00, journey time 4h30. It arrives at Phuket bus terminal 1, but they may be able to arrange drop-off at major hotels, feedback appreciated . The Phantip Travel website is www.phantiptravel.com .

Phuket ► Bangkok

Step 1, travel from Phuket to Surat Thani by an air-conditioned minivan.

A Phantip Travel minivan leaves from Phuket bus terminal 1 every hour from 07:00 to 15:00, journey time 4h30.

The minivan arrives at the main Phantip office in Surat Thani town, they should be able to arrange the transfer from Surat Thani town to Surat Thani station, about 14 km, or take a local taxi or tuk-tuk.

Allow plenty of time to catch your train, for example I'd leave Phuket on the 11:00 or 12:00 minivan departure to connect with train 86, or the 13:00 or 14:00 minivan departure to connect with train 84. The Phantip Travel website is www.phantiptravel.com .

Step 2, travel from Surat Thani to Bangkok by air-conditioned sleeper train.

Book any train that suits you, for example train 86 leaving Surat Thani at 19:40 & arriving Bangkok KTW at 05:30, or train 84 leaving Surat Thani at 20:45 & arriving Bangkok KTW at 06:30, both with comfortable 1st & 2nd class air-conditioned sleepers, see the train timetable above .

Bangkok to Krabi

Krabi hasn't got a railway station, but it's easy to get there using a comfortable train to Surat Thani then an air-conditioned bus for the last leg. Using the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok, the train+bus to Krabi takes no more time out of your holiday than flying, but is a lot more interesting, cheaper, and far more environmentally friendly. You're likely to find a number of buses to Krabi waiting at Surat Thani station after the arrival of your train.

Bangkok ► Krabi

Step 2, travel from Surat Thani to Krabi by an air-conditioned minivan.

A Phantip Travel minivan leaves from outside their Surat Thani Town office at 09:00, 10:30, 12:00, 13:30, 15:00 & 16:30, journey time 3 hours.

It arrives at Krabi bus terminal, but they may be able to arrange drop-off at major hotels, feedback appreciated . The Phantip Travel website is www.phantiptravel.com .

Krabi ► Bangkok

Step 1, travel from Krabi to Surat Thani by an air-conditioned minivan.

A Phantip Travel minivan leaves from Krabi bus terminal at 09:00, 10:30, 12:00, 13:30, 15:00, 16:30 journey time 3 hours.

Allow plenty of time to catch your train, for example I'd leave Krabi on the 12:00 or 13:30 minivan departure to connect with train 86, or the 13:30 or 15:00 minivan departure to connect with train 84. The Phantip Travel website is www.phantiptravel.com .

Bangkok to Phi Phi islands

The Phi Phi islands can be reached by ferry from either Phuket or Krabi.

Phuket to Phi Phi by speedboat takes an hour. Several companies operate the route, including the Andaman Wavemaster ( www.andamanwavemaster.com ), Satun Pakbara Speedboat Club ( www.spcthailand.com ) & Bundhaya Speed Boat ( www.bundhayaspeedboat.com ).

You can check times, fares & buy tickets for all of these operators at 12go.asia .

Phuket to Phi Phi by regular boat takes 2 hours with a morning & afternoon sailing by Phi Phi Cruisers ( www.phiphi-cruisers.com ). You can check times, fares & buy tickets at 12go.asia .

Bangkok to Pattaya

A train line links Bangkok with the popular resort of Pattaya. A 3rd class train runs every day, comfortable enough, cheap, no reservation is necessary, just turn up, buy a ticket and hop on, see the 3rd class photos here . At weekends State Railways of Thailand run an air-conditioned Special Express diesel railcar, with 2nd class reserved seats. Both trains are a good and pleasant way to reach Pattaya, and they continue to use Bangkok's original Hualamphong station. You can check these times at www.baolau.com .

Train 283/284 = local train, 3rd class only, no reservation needed, you sit where you like.

Trains SP997/998 = special express diesel railcar, 2nd class air-conditioned seats, all reserved.

On train 283/284, 3rd class = 31 baht.

On train SP 997/998, 2nd class air-con reserved seat = 170 baht.

Children aged 0 to 3 and less than 100cm in height travel free, children aged 4 to 11 and under 150cm travel at reduced fare, children 12 years old and upwards (or over 150cm high) pay full fare. £1 = 44 Baht. €1 = 35 Baht. $1 = 33 Baht.

Tickets for Special Express 997 /998 can be booked online in advance at www.baolau.com .

Tickets for ordinary train 283/284 are only sold at the station an hour or less before departure, they cannot be bought in advance.

Bangkok - Kuala Lumpur - Singapore

It's easy, safe and comfortable to travel from Bangkok to Malaysia & Singapore by train, over 1,200 miles for around £50 or $80 one-way, including sleepers, a real bargain. It's the environmentally sound way to travel, too. Trains run daily, and if done all in one go, the complete journey from Bangkok to Singapore takes two nights, though you can stop off wherever you like for as long as you like. I'd suggest stopping off at least in Penang and Kuala Lumpur. Map of train routes in Southeast Asia .

Bangkok to Phnom Penh, Saigon

It's easy to travel between Bangkok, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, & Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) by train & bus, see the Train travel in Cambodia page .

Bangkok to Yangon & Burma

It's possible to travel overland between Bangkok, Moulmein & Yangon in Burma (Myanmar) by train & bus, see the Train travel in Burma page .

Singapore, KL & Penang to Ko Samui

Singapore & malaysia ► ko samui, ko samui ► malaysia & singapore.

Step 1, take an afternoon or evening ferry & from Ko Samui to Surat Thani, see the ferry timetable below. You can book integrated ferry+minivan tickets from Ko Samui to Surat Thani Train Station via Lomprayah catamarans or Seatran conventional ferries at 12go.asia .

Stay overnight in Surat Thani.

Step 2, travel from Surat Thani to Butterworth (Penang), Kuala Lumpur & Singapore by comfortable train, see the Malaysia page for full details of times & fares .

Ko Samui - Phuket

Several operators offer integrated ferry+bus options between the two holiday centres, Ko Samui & Phuket.

Journey time is between 6h15 & 7h30, fares from $18, book at 12go.asia .

Singapore, KL & Penang to Phuket

Singapore & malaysia ► phuket.

The 07:28 from Butterworth (Penang), change at Padang Besar, will get you to Hat Yai at 09:50.

Phuket ► Malaysia & Singapore

Step 1, travel from Phuket to Hat Yai by bus or minibus, you can check bus times and buy tickets online for various bus operators using 12Go.Asia . Minibuses run regularly and take 6 hours, fare around 350 baht. 1st class air-con buses take 7½ hours, fare around 344 baht.

For example, 1st class air-conditioned buses run by Sritrang Tour leave Phuket for Hat Yai at 07:30, 08:30, 09:30, 11:30, 12:30, 19:30 & 21:30 (check bus times locally). On arrival at the bus terminal in Hat Yai, take a tuk-tuk to the railway station.

Step 2, travel from Hat Yai to Butterworth (Penang), Kuala Lumpur & Singapore by comfortable train, see the Malaysia page for full details of times & fares . For example, as you can see on the timetable :

The 07:30 from Hat Yai, change at Padang Besar, will get you to Butterworth (Penang) at 12:30, change there for Kuala Lumpur arriving 18:47.

Singapore, KL & Penang to Krabi

Singapore & malaysia ► krabi, krabi ► malaysia & singapore.

Minibuses run regularly from Krabi to Hat Yai, journey time 4 hours, fare around 300 baht. No need to pre-book, arrange locally.

Then travel by train from Hat Yai to Butterworth (Penang), KL or Singapore, see train times & info Singapore-Malaysia-Surat Thani .

London to Thailand by Trans-Siberian Railway

If you have the time (we're talking a minimum of 3 weeks one-way), you can travel from London to Bangkok overland, see the route map here . The links below cover travel in either direction, eastbound from London to Bangkok or westbound from Bangkok to London.

Step 1, London to Moscow by train . There are daily departures via Brussels, Berlin & Warsaw. Trains to Russia are suspended due to Covid-19 and now sanctions . Spend at least 1 night in Moscow.

Step 2, Moscow to Beijing by Trans-Siberian Railway . Two direct trains every week all year round, 6 nights. Fares from around £500 one-way with a bed in a 4-bed sleeper. Spend at least 1 night in Beijing. Trains to China are suspended due to Covid-19 .

Step 3, Beijing to Hanoi by train . There are two direct trains a week, 2 nights, about $320 or £220 one-way in soft sleeper. Alternatively, there are daily trains with a change in Nanning. Spend at least 1 night in Hanoi.

Step 4, Hanoi to Saigon by train . There are several comfortable air-conditioned trains every day over the Reunification Railway taking 2 nights. Why not stop off to see Hue or Hoi An? About $90 or £50 one-way in soft sleeper.

Step 5, Saigon-Phnom Penh by bus . There are lots of buses every day, journey time 6 hours, $12. Spend at least 1 night in Phnom Penh.

Step 6, Phnom Penh to Poiphet by bus or train, train to Bangkok . Takes a day.

How to arrange this trip

There aren't any travel agencies who can arrange the whole trip, so you will need to plan it out and arrange each stage of the journey yourself. It's an exercise in project management! Unless time is absolutely no object, you should book the key sections in advance through various travel agencies.

Book London-Moscow as shown on the London to Russia page .

Book Moscow-Beijing & Beijing-Hanoi through a local Russian agency such as Real Russia, as shown on the Trans-Siberian page & Vietnam page .

Tickets for other parts of the trip, for example, Hanoi-Saigon-Phnom Penh-Bangkok can all be bought locally, as you go along. You'll need to pre-arrange visas for Belarus, Russia, possibly Mongolia, China & Vietnam, and in many ways complying with the various visa requirements (which sometimes require confirmed onward tickets to be held) is actually the biggest challenge, not buying the tickets, so check this out carefully using the relevant embassy websites.

Where do you start? First, read through the seat61 pages linked above. Then sketch out your itinerary using a simple spreadsheet like this , deciding where and for how long you want to stop off. Next, check out the visa situation for each country. Finally, follow the advice on each seat61 page to buy tickets for each train journey that you want to pre-book.

Some inspiration

You won't be the first to travel between Europe and Southeast Asia overland this way, far from it. Check out this excellent blog from Tom Woods, "Woodlands to Woking", woodlandstowoking.wordpress.com , and Matthew Woodward's equally excellent blog from Edinburgh to Singapore www.matthew-woodward.com/edinburgh-to-singapore .

Take a good guidebook, a sound investment even in the age of free info on the internet. Easily the best guidebooks for the independent traveller are the Lonely Planets and Rough Guides, they'll zero you in on the most important sights, with stacks of practical information plus historical and cultural background. You won't regret buying either of these guides.

Buy at Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com

Alternatively, you can download just the chapters or areas you need in .PDF format from the Lonely Planet Website , from around £2.99 or US$4.95 a chapter.

Hotels in Thailand

Suggested hotels in bangkok.

Consider the Shanghai Mansion (close to Hualamphong station, excellent reviews), the Centre Point Sillom (excellent reviews, river views), the Chillax Resort (free wifi, swimming pool, great reviews in spite of the name!), Inn a Day (rave reviews, close to palace & river, balconies to all rooms, free WiFi), Shangri-La Hotel (on the river, pool, rave reviews).

Suggested hotels in Chiang Mai

Try the Sila Boutique B&B (rave reviews, free WiFi, inside old city), La Pillow (great reviews, free WiFi, inside the old city), Villa Thapae (free WiFi, swimming pool, all rooms with balcony, rave reviews), Tamarind Village (spa, pool, poolside restaurant, tour desk, free WiFi, inside the old city and great reviews), De Naga Hotel (inside the old city, free WiFi, swimming pool, spa, great reviews), Rachamankha Hotel (pool, spa, free WiFi, great reviews).

The classic choice in Bangkok : Mandarin Oriental Hotel

Known by locals (and taxi drivers) by its original name, plain Oriental Hotel, the Mandarin Oriental is Bangkok's oldest and grandest hotel. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, its outdoor restaurant tables line the riverbank, where they do a great evening buffet. Most of the rooms are now housed in two huge modern tower blocks, but hidden behind palm trees in the courtyard is the diminutive original block, today restored to within an inch of its life and housing just a few of the more expensive suites.

Other hotels in Bangkok or Chiang Mai

Click for hotels in Bangkok - Click for hotels in Chiang Mai

Backpacker hostels

www.hostelworld.com : If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels. Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in Paris and most other European cities at rock-bottom prices.

Flights to Bangkok

Overland travel by train & bus around Southeast Asia is an essential part of the experience, so once there, don't cheat and fly, stay on the ground! But a long-haul flight might be unavoidable to reach Thailand in the first place.

1) Check flight prices at www.opodo.com

2) use skyscanner to compare flight prices & routes worldwide across 600 airlines....

3) Lounge passes

Make the airport experience a little more bearable with a VIP lounge pass, it's not as expensive as you think, see www.loungepass.com

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

Never travel overseas without travel insurance from a reliable insurer, with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover. It should also cover cancellation and loss of cash and belongings, up to a sensible limit. An annual multi-trip policy is usually cheaper than several single-trip policies even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself. Here are some suggested insurers. Seat61 gets a small commission if you buy through these links.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a mobile data package for the country you're visiting and stay connected. Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM card so you don't need to buy a physical SIM, including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list . Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate, then add a foreign transaction fee on top. A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month at time of writing. The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.

How it works: 1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android . 2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses. 3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card. 4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app. You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader. The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than digging a card out). I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great. See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing. W hy you need a VPN

When you're travelling you often use free WiFi in public places which may not be secure. A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi. It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply. See VPNs & why you need one explained . ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using the links on this page, you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription. I get a small commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, vaccination records and Interrail or Eurail passes are often held digitally on your mobile phone, so it's vital to keep it charged. I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over if I can't get to a power outlet. Buy from Amazon.co.uk or from buy from Amazon.com .

Back to home page

3 Ways to Buy Tickets for the Chiang Mai Train From Bangkok

Taking the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a fun option to travel from the south of Thailand to the North. The ride can last anywhere from 10 – 13 hours and there are multiple trains to choose from.

There are a few ways to book your tickets . I will detail the three that either myself or friends have used, so you can decide which works best for you.

The train ride offers a unique perspective on Thailand that you can’t get from an airplane. It’s also a great way to meet fellow travelers and locals!

Here are three ways to buy tickets for the Chiang Mai Train to Bangkok .

What Stations Are the Train to Bangkok from Chiang Mai?

From bangkok:.

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station (Bang Sue Grand Station ) | Google Map

To Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Train Station | Google Map

The journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai via railway is 435 miles. The newer sleeper train (#9) takes 12-13 hours . The fastest train (#7) travels during the day and only takes 10.5 hours.

As a reference, a flight takes a little over an hour and I have paid around $30 USD every time I have flown to Chiang Mai over the last eight years .

3 Options to Book Tickets

You can choose between online or in-person to book your Chiang Mai train from Bangkok.

Option #1: Use the Thailand Railway Official Website

Go to www.dticket.railway.co.th
Use a VPN to book , especially if you are not in Thailand.
Switch to the English site, if needed.
The site loads slowly, however you can print your ticket immediately after purchase.
Enter Krung Thep Aphiwat Central as your origin or destination rather than just “Bangkok”.

Option # 2: Use a Third Party Website

Purchase online at 12GoAsia or BaoLao.
More expensive than the Thailand Railway.
Before 2024, we had to go to an office to pick up our 12GoAsia tickets in person which was very time-consuming and they did not give us the seats we originally booked. The website says they do offer E-tickets now , however.

Option 3: Buy in Person at the Train Station

Must be in Bangkok (or Chiang Mai) to purchase.
Can be booked last minute.
Take your passport with you to the railway station to purchase the tickets.
They take most international credit cards on-site.

How Much is the Bangkok to Chiang Mai Train?

The cost of your Chiang Mai Train From Bangkok ticket will depend on the time of year, time of day, seat choice, and class that you choose to purchase.

Prices for the Bangkok Chiang Mai train (as of 2024) range from 580 Thai Baht to 1900 Thai Baht ($16 USD to $52 USD).

It can cost 250 Thai Baht ($7 USD) more to buy your tickets online versus buying at the train station.

The five different train types offer four ticket prices that tourists commonly purchase:

1st Class Sleeper Bed with Air Conditioning
2nd Class Sleeper Bed with Air Conditioning
2nd Class Seat only with Air Conditioning
2nd Class Seat with a Fan only (no AC)

BKK to Chiang Mai Map

What is the chiang mai train from bangkok schedule.

Below are the train numbers and corresponding departure and arrival times found on ThailandTrains.com , which are subject to change.

Choosing the Right Train and Class

Five trains depart from Bangkok to Chiang Mai every day and three of those are overnight sleeper trains.

The popular trains to Chiang Mai are sleeper trains #9 and #13 as they arrive early the next day. However, #9 is a newer model, which makes it the most popular with tourists.

There are first-class and second-class sleeper options in the overnight trains. First-class cabins offer more privacy with individual compartments , while second-class sleepers are more social, with comfortable bunks in a shared space.

If you prefer traveling by day, the #7 train provides an opportunity to see the stunning scenery during daylight hours. You can still choose between different classes, including air-conditioned and fan-cooled carriages on this train.

Chiang Mai Accommodation Options:

Hostel in the Old City: Revolution Chiang Mai
Boutique Hotel: Pran @ Kumuang House
Hotel with Pool: Yantarasri Resort
Apartment in Nimman Area: Palm Springs Fountain Nimman

Do I Need to Buy the Night Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai Ticket in Advance?

I suggest buying the night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai tickets in advance if you want to travel on a newer train (#9) or prefer to sleep on the lower bunk, as it is wider than a top bunk.

You do not need to buy in advance if you are traveling during the low season (June – October) or if you do not want a specific day, time, or class.

Booking for most long-distance journeys opens 30 days ahead. However, booking the newer Chinese-built sleeper train (#9) opens 90 days ahead . 1st Class sleepers sell out first so be prepared to accept 2nd class sleepers.

Can I Bring My Bike On the Train?

Bikes can only be brought on the train if there is a freight car. Trains 13, 51, and 109 DO have a freight car . Trains #7 and #9 do NOT have a freight car .

What Time Should I Arrive at the Train Station?

Check-in starts 20 minutes before your departure time. I would arrive 30 minutes before to pick up any last-minute snacks or water.

Can I also take the train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok?

Of course! The directions are similar, just use the Thailand Trains site to get an idea of what the current schedule is like leaving from Chiang Mai.

When I Arrive in Chiang Mai – How Do I Get Around?

At the Chiang Mai train station, there will be taxis and tuk-tuks waiting for travelers . However most of the time they do not speak English or understand how to read Google Maps in your native language.

My suggestion is to use the Grab Taxi app for your first ride to your hotel to make sure you get where you need to be. The cost depends on where in the city you are staying but it is usually around $5-$10 USD at most.

Final Thoughts

I hope my guide helps you decide how you will purchase your train to Bangkok from Chiang Mai tickets.

From the excitement of booking your tickets to the serene journey through Thailand’s picturesque landscapes, traveling by train to Chiang Mai is an unforgettable experience.

Next time you’re in Thailand , skip the flight, embrace the adventure, and enjoy the ride.

Safe travels, and see you in Chiang Mai !

Chiang Mai Food Tour + Cooking Class

My favorite tour is a Food Tour with 15+ tastings. They take you around in a Songthaew to try Northern Thai food. We watched someone drink pig’s blood during it!

My favorite cooking class is run by Thai Farm Cooking. They take you to a market and then show you how to cook several Thai dishes. I have been twice!

Visiting Thailand? Here are my Guides:

Northern thailand.

Why You Should Visit Chiang Mai Thailand
10 Waterfalls in Chiang Mai Not to Miss
13 Beautiful Temples Not to Miss in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Night Market – Sundays
8 Reasons to Live in Chiang Mai
The Best and Worst of Chiang Mai
Where to Workout in Chiang Mai

How to Read a Nutrition Label in Thailand

How to Lose Weight Eating Thai Food Everyday
How to Rent a Scooter in Chiang Mai
Where to Spend a Rainy Day in Chiang Mai – Maya Mall
Exploring the Nimman Area of Chiang Mai
Muay Thai in Chiang Mai – Where to Watch & Practice
How to Get a Muay Thai ED Visa
3-Week Thailand Travel Itinerary – See the Highlights!
Ultimate 4-day Bangkok Itinerary
Where to go on Khao San Road to Avoid the Crowds
10 Things to Do in Bangkok in 24 Hours

Southern Thailand/ Islands

4 Ways to Get from Phuket to Krabi
Krabi Airport – 3 Ways to Get There
21 Things to Do in Krabi Town
What to Do in Koh Phi Phi to Avoid the Crowds

3 Ways to Buy Tickets for the Chiang Mai Train From Bangkok

This post may contain some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through that link, I may receive a commission. You will never pay extra for using these links, it will be purely to support the blog . I will only suggest items that I use myself, to enhance your travel experience. Thank you in advance for any support you may give me!

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Bangkok to chiang mai by train.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai It is the most popular train route. Chiang Mai is one of the top attractions that tourists visit. From Bangkok to Chiang Mai, the distance is 693 kilometers. It takes about 11-14 hours by train. Tickets for this route are booked quickly. we recommend booking your train ticket in advance. Ticket booking is available 30 days in advance.

When you travel to Thailand, we recommend you travel to Chiang Mai by train. Because it is a safe and inexpensive trip.

From Bangkok You can start your journey from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal This is the starting point of a train journey in Thailand.

Click hear : How to go Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal

Train timetable from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

We Updated the Train Timetable on 7/11/2023. You can check the Train Timetable update in real-time from Online Booking.

There are 5 direct train services a day from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Book train tickets online

E-Tickets train ticket booking system in Thailand. You can choose your seat online.

After booking and Payment are completed. You receive an E-ticket pdf file. via email confirming your seats, train number, and travel time. if you did not receive your e-ticket? Please check your Spam folder
Save the E-Ticket on your Mobile or Print the E-Ticket on Paper. The E-Ticket is a valid boarding pass and can be used to board the train at the station of departure.

How to use the train e-ticket for Travel.

Arrive at the station 30-60 minutes before the scheduled departure time, locate the platform, and wait for the boarding call.
Present your E-Ticket from your Mobile or Paper to the conductor before boarding the train. You may be required to show your passport and verify your ID.

Popular train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Sleeper Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

The recommended train for traveling to Chiang Mai is Train number 9 . is the most popular sleeper train running from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, offering Air-Conditioned First class and Second class. You can sleep comfortably throughout the journey.

Chiang Mai Train Station Map

Plan your trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and Book Train Ticket in advance.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai Train Timetable (2024)
Direct train from Bangkok to Padang Besar, Malaysia
Direct train from Bangkok to Vientiane, Laos
SRT Train tickets will be sold 90 days in advance on eight trains
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal
Bangkok to Padang Besar by Train
Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai by Train
Bangkok to Phitsanulok by Train
Bangkok to Hua Hin By Train
How to go Bang Sue Grand Station

Select Seat Online

How do I get my train tickets?

When your payment is successful. You will receive a Thai train E-Ticket by email.

Example of train ticket

Thailand Train Ticket ( .pdf File) sent to E-Mail

We provide information on train travel in Thailand. And there is a reservation service for Thailand train tickets in advance Through the online system .You can book train tickets 24 hours a day.

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Bangkok to chiang mai: bus, train, or fly.

Find out all you need to know about traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, a common route for most backpackers in Thailand. I will let you know about the best transport options, timetables, how to book tickets, what to expect and more!

Being the capital of Thailand, Bangkok is the main departure point for people arriving and traveling around the country and caters to many international flights.

A must-do is making the overnight journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, it is a right of passage into backpacking Southeast Asia.

Though, getting there can take quite a lot of time unless you are willing to fork out money for a flight, something which we backpackers often can’t afford.

I have been lucky, or unlucky, enough to travel this route plenty of different times allowing me to test out each transport method. My personal favorite is the overnight train since you can still get a pretty good night’s sleep.

Apart from the popular train journey, there is also an overnight bus. However, this option can take a long time. So let’s break these down into different transport types to figure out what is best for you.

How To Get From Bangkok To Chiang Mai: All Transport Options Explained

TAKE YOUR TRIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL …

🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia

people walking down khao san road in bangkok

Need A Quick Answer?

If you perhaps don’t have time to read this entire guide on getting to Chiang Mai, no worries, here are my top tips:

The easiest & best way is taking a train: I recommend booking in advance for a seamless experience. Book now with 12Go Asia.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai: Top hostel choices for backpackers in Chiang Mai include The Common Hostel (dorms start from $13.00) and Stay With A Hug Poshtel (dorms start from $6.50)

For Foodies: Take a Chiang Mai cooking class with a market tour. Book now with GetYourGuide which has over 900 positive reviews!

Best Chiang Mai Day Trip: A day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park is a must-do. Book here via GetYourGuide .

Book A Flight

So, taking a flight is probably the easiest and quickest option. There are plenty of daily flights departing from both Don Mueang Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport .

Unfortunately, both these airports are quite far away from the popular backpacker hangout of Khao San Road , and when adding the cost to get to the airport, plus the cost of the flight itself, this can become a very expensive option.

Saying that, if you are short on time flying is your best option.

Don Mueang Airport

You will first need to get from the city to Don Mueang Airport which is approximately 30 kilometers from the backpacker’s paradise of Khao San Road. Luckily this is easy enough by taking the bus.

Alternatively, you can also get a taxi or even use the Grab mobile app (make sure to get a sim card for travel in Thailand so you can use Grab, as it is a lifesaver for booking taxis!).

Don Mueang Airport is generally known as the budget airport in Bangkok. Therefore, as expected budget airlines fly from here. This is perfect if you are traveling with minimal luggage and don’t mind a no-frills service.

Air Asia, Thai Lion Air, and Nok Air are the main airline carriers that depart from Don Mueang Airport.

Flights can be found starting at around $50.00. Also, Thai Lion Air makes as many as 10 return flights each day between Bangkok and Chiang Mai alone!

Suvarnabhumi Airport

You will first need to get from where you are staying in Bangkok to Suvarnabhumi Airport . This again is approximately 30 kilometers from Khao San Road, though in a different direction.

It’s easy enough to get either a taxi, the rail link, or a grab car to the airport from Khao San Road to Suvarnabhumi Airport.

The well-equipped Suvarnabhumi Airport is frankly the nicer out of the two. The national carrier Thai Airways, as well as Bangkok Air, flies from here to Chiang Mai daily.

It costs considerably more to fly from Suvarnabhumi Airport as the airlines here are a lot nicer by including snacks and baggage.

Prices for flights to Chiang Mai Airport departing Suvarnabhumi start at around $100.00.

Chiang Mai International Airport

Once you arrive at the main gateway to beautiful Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai International Airport, you will need to get to your accommodation in the city center which is just 2 kilometers away.

Many accommodation providers in the city include a free hotel transfer. It is best to email them prior to confirming your collection.

Alternatively, it is extremely easy to get a tuk-tuk from the airport to the center for about $4.80 / 150 baht.

If you are happy enough to take a tuk-tuk there is no need to prebook. Once you step foot outside of the airport you will see plenty lined up waiting for passengers.

Take A Train

It seems like taking the overnight train to Chiang Mai is a right of passage when backpacking Southeast Asia.

This notorious route will take somewhere between 13-14 hours, though they have been upgrading the services and getting new trains for this route (at the moment this seems to just be trains 9 & 10).

The trains depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station which is 9 kilometers from Khao San Road .

The easiest option here is to take a taxi, which I recommend splitting with other travelers to make the fare more affordable.

Though, if you want to save the effort just download the Grab App for your phone and book a driver through that. Oftentimes using Grab can be a cheaper and easier option.

You will want to book your train tickets in advance, especially if you are booking first class. This is an extremely popular route and oftentimes can be sold out.

I recommend using 12.Go Asia to book your ticket for a hassle-free and trustworthy experience. You can even check out certain train reviews before deciding which to book!

The main options for the overnight train between Bangkok and Chiang Mai consist of either a first-class ticket or a second-class ticket.

The difference is, that the first class shares a two-berth cabin (so you will be with a stranger if traveling alone), and the second class has rows of bunks along the train carriage with privacy curtains.

The latter of the two is definitely the most popular for budget travelers.

Also be aware that even though the top bunk is cheaper, it also means less space, which will be a problem if you’re tall.

For the second class, there is the option of an air-conditioned carriage or a fan carriage. Prices start from $25.00 when booked through 12.Go Asia ,

Once in Chiang Mai, the railway station is on Charoen Mueang Road, just across the river. It is cheap enough to hire a songthaew or tuk-tuk here which will take you to your accommodation.

train driving through market on railway tracks bangkok to chiang mai

My Experience Taking The Overnight Train To Chiang Mai

On my most recent trip to Thailand, I got a little out of my comfort zone and decided to try the Chiang Mai overnight sleeper train. We booked a second-class air-conditioned ticket which is an excellent option for travelers on a budget.

Arriving at the station our train came exactly on time. It is a little squishy walking down the pathway with our luggage. Though, soon enough we find our spot on the right-hand side of the train.

My partner has the upper berth and I have the lower. The beds are not set up yet as it is still quite early in the night. Instead, we both sit on the lower berth which is currently made into two seats that face each other with a table in the middle.

We have an easy dinner of snacks from 7/11 while we watch lights zip past our window and the bustle each time the train stops at the stations. Soon enough we notice the train attendant making their way down the carriage converting the seats into beds.

We head to the toilet to brush our teeth and get ready for bed. Surprisingly the bathroom is extremely clean, even after a few hours into the journey (it is still good in the morning). It is obvious the train attendants work hard.

There is always toilet paper and soap available and the ground is even fairly dry (a rarity in public transport bathrooms on this side of the world).

I do not mind the rocking of the train as I fall asleep. Though I am someone who likes to sleep in complete darkness, having the hallway lights on the whole night does not make for a peaceful sleep.

There is a curtain that provides a lot of privacy, but it is not thick enough to block out the light. My partner on the top bunk also says it was quite hot up there with the curtain shut.

We actually arrived in Chiang Mai one hour earlier than planned. This does not often happen I have read and it is more common to be delayed.

Nevertheless, it was not the best alarm clock being woken up by the carriage attendant wanting to make up your bed back into a chair.

I would definitely do this journey again. Though, if I were to want a decent night’s sleep I would book a private first-class cabin.

Overnight Train From Bangkok To Chiang Mai... 13 Hour Journey!

Overnight Bus

Another comfortable option is the bus. There are essentially two different bus options, either the government bus or the ‘VIP’ / deluxe bus.

Tickets will range from $15.00 – $25.00 / 500 – 800 baht depending on the type booked and the travel agency it is brought through.

The government bus is the cheaper option, though will make stops in every township for passengers. It will also take longer with at least 12 hours for the journey.

The so-called ‘VIP’ buses are a more comfortable direct journey with a couple of food/toilet breaks along the way. They may provide snacks and water for the journey, as well as being more spacious.

Just be aware of the fake ‘VIP’ bus tickets sold on Khao San Road by many travel agencies. Book through a reliable website such as 12.Go Asia where you can check reviews and find out what is included.

These buses often depart from the Mo Chit Bus Terminal, otherwise known as the Northern Terminal. To get here from Khao San Road it is best to use a taxi which should cost around $8.00, though be aware that traffic in Bangkok can be horrible.

If you are wanting to get a more exact estimate on the fare or cannot be bothered haggling with the driver I recommend using the Grab mobile app.

When you arrive in Chiang Mai at the Arcade Bus Station there will be plenty of public songthaews waiting near terminal 3.

The fare should be 20 baht per person, though as a foreigner you will likely be charged more. For example, I managed to barter them down to 50 baht for the journey to my hostel.

Important tip : Be careful with your luggage on night buses all over South East Asia. It is an area notorious for theft where the bus assistant climbs into the luggage area during the night and goes through all the bags.

Just make sure to put all important items such as cash, electronics, passports, etc in your carry-on bag. Also, it always helps to use a padlock just as a deterrent in such a situation.

double decker sleeper bus bangkok to chiang mai

My Experience Taking The Bus To Chiang Mai

I booked my bus ticket through 12.Go Asia and it was easy enough to collect the ticket from the bus station an hour before the bus was set to depart.

I had been searching the web and found this ticket about a week prior for $16.75 / 558 baht.

This did mean a little bit of a wait-around. However, I hung out with a couple of friends who were catching a different bus to kill time.

At the departure time, a friendly attendant greeted me as I put my main bag underneath the bus. I have an aisle seat on the second story, next to a local Thai gentleman.

The chairs are fairly roomy and there is plenty of extra space so I do not feel like I am being squished into a stranger.

The seats recline quite a lot which makes for a comfortable sleeping position.

Luckily for me, there was not any noisy music playing or television showing local movies. This is a common occurrence on buses in Asia.

The bus stops a couple of times during the night for a toilet break and a middle-of-the-night ‘dinner’ break. There is a toilet on board and we were given a drink and snacks at the beginning of the journey.

I think for the price the bus is excellent value for money, especially considering all the little extras.

inside a double decker sleeper bus in bangkok

Splash Out On A Taxi

If you are looking for a bit of freedom and have some cash to burn a private car or taxi might be the option for you. This allows you to leave your hotel at any time of the day and arrive whenever you desire.

You will even be able to stop wherever you would like to appreciate the gorgeous scenery. There are plenty of gas stations and convenience stores along the way with clean toilets.

The journey generally takes about 9 hours. A 9-seater Toyota Commuter taxi will cost about $400.00 to hire a driver. If you want something smaller, a 4 seater will set you back around $300.00.

If you are traveling in a group in Southeast Asia this could be the perfect option and a unique way of traveling between these two cities.

birds eye view of taxi driving in bangkok traffic

Where To Stay In Chiang Mai?

When choosing where to stay in Chiang Mai you will be spoilt for choice. No matter your budget or the type of traveler you are there is something to fit all needs.

I mainly stay within the confines of the Old City since this way I will be among all the action. This is definitely the best location for a short period or this is your first time visiting.

On my most recent visit, I stayed at De Lanna Hotel . This is a mid-range hotel located in the heart of Old City. It was an excellent location and even had a pool to cool off in during the midday heat.

The Old City is within walking distance of many beautiful temples, excellent shopping, delicious restaurants, and of course the famous Sunday Night Market .

If you are planning on visiting I recommend checking out my 3 days in Chiang Mai itinerary for the top things you cannot miss!

Things To Do In Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is full of excellent activities and attractions to keep you busy during your stay.

Elephant Sanctuary: No doubt one of the most popular things to do in Chaing Mai is to visit one of the many elephant sanctuaries located in the region. There are so many to choose from, but you will want to make sure you book somewhere ethical. I recommend checking out my post on the best elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai for an ethical experience .

Cooking Class: Chiang Mai is just one of those cities where you need to do a cooking class while there. I had such an amazing time doing my cooking class with Arom Dii. It was just myself, my partner and another couple so was a lovely relaxed experience.

Night Market: I absolutely love the night markets in Chiang Mai . It is a delicious foodie experience with great souvenir shopping. There are so many stalls here! I literally work my Chiang Mai itinerary around making sure I am there on a Sunday night.

Temple Hopping: The Old Town in Chiang Mai is covered in incredible temples. A quick map search will show you just how many. My personal favorites include Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Chiang Man, and Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan.

FAQs About How To Travel From Bangkok To Chiang Mai

What is the best way to get from bangkok to chiang mai.

If you are short on time the best way to get to Chiang Mai would be flying. This will allow you to make the most out of your day. However, if you are not in a rush I recommend taking the overnight sleeper train for an interesting experience.

Is it worth taking train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

I love taking the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. It is a great way to experience public transport in Thailand and still have a comfortable sleep. Plus a bonus as a budget traveler is you will save on a night’s accommodation.

How do I get from Bangkok airport to Chiang Mai?

There are several ways to get from Bangkok airport to Chiang Mai, depending on your budget, time, and preference. However, I recommend flying from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) which takes about an hour.

How much is sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

The price of the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai depends on the type of train and the class of seat you choose. The first class berth is 1,753 to 1,903 THB per person, and the second class air-conditioned sleeper berth is 1,011 to 1,291 THB per person.

Can you buy food on the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Yes, you can buy food on the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. There are different options depending on the type of train and the class of your seat. Some have a restaurant car, and others have a food cart.

Round Up: What Is The Best Way To Travel?

There are plenty of good and easy options to travel to Chiang Mai from Bangkok. No matter if you are in Bangkok on a honeymoon , backpacking towards the beaches in Khao Sam Roi Yot , or simply sightseeing. A must-do is making the overnight journey.

Whether you prefer the bus, train, plane, or perhaps the convenience of having a private taxi. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences you will now be able to decide the best choice for you.

Though, whatever you choose, remember to bring snacks!

partying on khao san road in bangkok during sunset

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Traveling between Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a common route for most backpackers in Thailand. The north of Thailand is completely different from the rest of the country and is a 'must do' when exploring this beautiful place.

Want more Thailand Inspiration? Check out….

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ALL WAYS TO TRAVEL BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI EXPLAINED
BACKPACKING BANGKOK TRAVEL TIPS
BANGKOK TO KOH TAO TRANSPORT GUIDE
DAY TRIP TO AYUTTHAYA FROM BANGKOK
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TRANSPORT GUIDE: KHAO SAN ROAD TO SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT
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CAMBODIA TO THAILAND: HOW TO TRAVEL SIEM REAP TO BANGKOK
THAILAND TO LAOS BORDER CROSSING
BEST HOSTELS IN CHIANG MAI
CHIANG MAI TO LUANG PRABANG TRANSPORT GUIDE
ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE WITH ELEPHANT NATURE PARK IN CHIANG MAI, THAILAND
A NIGHT AT THE CHIANG MAI SUNDAY MARKETS, THAILAND
CHIANG MAI AIRPORT TO OLD TOWN
BEST AND MOST ETHICAL ELEPHANT SANCTUARIES IN CHIANG MAI
BACKPACKING CHIANG MAI TRAVEL TIPS
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BEST CHEAP EATS IN CHIANG MAI
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TAKING THE FERRY FROM KOH PHANGAN TO KOH TAO
KRABI TO KOH PHI PHI TRANSPORT GUIDE
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BACKPACKING KOH PHI PHI TRAVEL TIPS
KOH PHI PHI VIEWPOINT HIKE TIPS
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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

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Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

24 thoughts on “ Bangkok To Chiang Mai: Bus, Train, Or Fly? ”

Interesting post, last time when i travelled from Chiang Mai to Bangkok I also booked it on 12go.

I did this train journey in 2013 and I’m so glad I did it that way! I did my research beforehand and decided that overland was the best way. The sunrise from the back of the train was to die for… most definitely go 1st class!

Heaps of options!!! I have been to Suvarnabhumi airport and I don’t think I’m ever going to be able to pronounce it haha. The buses look nice! Good tip about padlocks!!

Super comprehensive list! I have only taken the plane but thought the train would be nice to do one day to see more of the scenery. Taxi is something I wouldn’t have thought of! Thanks!

I wish I had seen this last year, before our trip! We initially considered the night train for the experience, but I found the information about taking it so intransparent… We ended up splurging on a flight, which was super comfy and by far the quickest way to do it! We only had a short time in Thailand, so it was time over cost efficiency ;)

I just discussed a trip to Chiang Mai with some friends yesterday and this guide comes in really handy. Thank you so much!

Great overview! I think that with trains, it can always be a gamble not knowing who you share a cabin with, maybe they’ll be your new friend or just plain creeps or no bother at all. I definitely prefer flying anywhere longer than 5 hours by car/bus. Can’t wait to visit Chiang Mai one day!

Good tip about the night thieves. We’ll be in SEA later this year.

I wish I had taken a plane instead of the overnight train! I am not a budget traveler, but I thought sleeping on a train would be fun. (I should note I have a bug phobia) Before we even left the station, a cockroach came crawling into my cabin. I didn’t sleep a wink. On the bright side, I was traveling solo and had the whole sleeping cabin to myself. Although, I wanted to sleep in the top bunk, away from the cockroaches, haha, and the attendant wouldn’t make up the top bed for me, insisting that I use the bottom bunk. It was a loooong night!

I had no idea it was so easy to book buses, tuktuks etc. with an app now! It sounds like that would make your journey much less stressful

Your photos are always so beautiful Tasha! I love the way you can make the madness in front of the train, and the inside of a bus look so good! :)

You have such skills.

This type of post is so helpful! It’s what I look for every time I’m about to travel somewhere new, because I’m the type of person who likes to plan my entire route in advance (then I wing it once I arrive at my destination).Thank you for being so detailed! I love the idea of the train and would probably pick that as my option. :)

SUCH a useful post – we’re currently in Australia but keen to backpack Asia next and find the info quite overwhelming but this is so factual yet not bombarding with info! Your photography is stunning, making me want to go to Thailand even more now!

I did not know trains were that cheap! $25 for a sleeper coach is a great deal. I am certainly gonna look up this option the next time I am in Bangkok. Very informative post.

Yes I think it’s the best way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Wow, train prices can be just $25?! I had no idea though I wouldn’t want to spend 13-14 hours on a train. Thanks for doing the research on the various options for us.

Yeah it’s super cheap especially for such a long journey. Though it’s super comfortable so time flies

When we were traveling from Chiang Mai to Bangkok we took a night bus because train tickets were sold out. I wish we took a day train instead, perhaps could see a lit bit of a scenery. Great post! I had no idea how much taxi cost. $300 for that long drive is not bad at all.

Yeah I’ve done the overnight bus as well. Though next time I’ll definitely be doing the train!

I did the flight but probably because I was lazy and didn’t research the other options. I think the bus and train both are doable and would have saved me money.

When I took the sleeper train just 6 years ago, we had to physically get to the station to buy tickets (first come first serve) – we didn’t have the luxury of buying tickets online! I’m glad it’s become more convenient these days ;-) Oh, the good ol’ days! I miss Thailand so much!!

So many options! Who knew?! Love this post and your site in general. I’m a big fan of a girl chasing her dreams. Thanks for all the transport tips – I’m now hungry to get back to Thailand! :)

This was a fun read. In 1999 I tried to take a tuk-tuk from Khao San Road to the airport. That didn’t work well at all! I also took the train to Chiang Mai and back. Fun to remember my adventures.

I had no idea there were so many options! Lots of great tips and advice here.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train – best train times to see some of the highlights of Thailand

February 5, 2019 By James Clark 4 Comments

The train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a great way to see more of Thailand, but depending on your travels it’s not always the best way. With some planning by picking the right trains, you can save money and see some of the highlights of Thailand.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai – train, bus, or plane?

If you’re not familiar with railways in Southeast Asia then you would naturally guess that the train would be faster than a bus. In this case, the bus is the cheapest and fastest land option. The bus takes about 10-11 hours, while the train takes anywhere from 10 to 14 hours.

[ Compare Bangkok – Chiang Mai train and bus tickets here .]

Trains in Thailand run on old metre-gauge tracks (compared to the wider standard gauge of Europe and China). Many of the routes are also single-tracked, so trains from opposing directions share the same line, waiting at designated passing loops.

Before the age of low-cost airlines, the bus was always the cheapest option. These days there are so many flights between Chiang Mai and Bangkok that you can often find a flight almost as cheap as a bus. For example, I booked a flight from Chiang Mai to Bangkok for $37 , which was booked 5 days before flying.

Getting the overnight train works out cheaper than a bus when you consider that you are saving a night of accommodation expenses. The day train is best if you stop at destinations along the way, rather than going straight through.

If you just want the absolute cheapest way then get the bus. If you want the most convenient way, get a flight. And if you are visiting Thailand and want to see some of the highlights of central and northern Thailand then get the train.

Best itineraries from trains between Bangkok and Chiang Mai

The first time I went to Chiang Mai I got day trains over multiple days, then got a night train back. The day train allows you to travel in comfort while being able to see some of the most important historical sites in Thailand. The night train is a fun experience in itself, and it will save you a night in a hotel/hostel.

If you’re also planning to visit the south of Thailand, then get the train north and fly from Chiang Mai to your southern destination (saving you a back-track to Bangkok).

These are the itineraries I recommend for the day train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai Train Itineraries

This breaks the trip up into a minimum of four travel days, taking in the historical ruins of Ayutthaya, Lopburi (the city of monkeys), and Phitsanulok for the Sukhothai Historical Park (capital of the first kingdom of Siam).

For Bangkok – Ayutthaya and Ayutthaya – Lopburi there are numerous commuter trains throughout the day where you can just turn up and ride. The cheapest seats are third class, which may be a standing room only. Consider it part of the Thai travel experience.

For Lopburi – Phitsanulok and Phitsanulok – Chiang Mai I would book the seats in advance to make sure you get a seat. You will need a full day in Phitsanulok to see the ruins of Sukhothai.

Chiang Mai to Bangkok train trip review

I’m a frequent visitor to Chiang Mai so these days I usually fly to or from Bangkok. It had been a few years since I took the train so I thought I should ride the train again for review purposes as part of my project on Southeast Asia railways .

I booked Train 14, leaving Chiang Mai at 17:00 and arriving in Bangkok at 6:15 (a 13h 15m trip).

I booked a second class sleeper seat with a lower berth. Get a lower berth if you are tall or have problems climbing a bunk.

The seats are a bit weird to sit on as they don’t recline. You’ll only be sitting on them for a short while before they are converted into beds.

Thai Railways have been upgrading carriages, so the days of the old carriages might be over soon. I got one of the new trains from Bangkok to Nong Khai . While the modern trains have better amenities, old trains are comfortable and a link to a soon-to-be bygone era. You will not see modern trains with ceiling fans like this.

Being an older train they aren’t built for modern times where everyone has devices that need daily charging. I got lucky as there was a power outlet next to my bed. The new trains have a power outlet for each bed.

This traveller had come prepared with a power board.

The toilets are like the old trains in Europe that flush onto the tracks.

There’s also the squat toilet option, if that’s your style.

There is a dinner service where a waiter comes through and takes orders.

Dinner is served at your seat with an extendable table, otherwise you can eat in the dining carriage.

About an hour after departing attendants work their way through the carriages converting the seats into beds. The two seats fold out to form a bed, and a bunk bed is then folded down.

The beds are comfortable, though if you are tall you won’t be able to lie straight. I’m 6’1” and I had to lie at an angle.

I can’t sleep on flights, and I’m not much better on trains. I was looking forward to this trip knowing it would be like a reading holiday. I might have got a couple of hours sleep.

About an hour out of Bangkok, the attendants come through and start folding up the beds. The train stops at Don Muang for the airport, so this is a good option if your flight is mid-morning. I probably wouldn’t risk it if my flight was early, given that the trains are known to run late.

Buy train tickets online

For train tickets in Thailand I use 12go.asia for tickets that need to be booked in advance. 12go.asia are Southeast Asia travel specialists, and the site compares trains, buses, and flights.

To pick up your tickets in Chiang Mai there is a pick-up point at the Bossotel, opposite the railway station. Tickets can be picked up on the day of departure. Bring your booking conformation and passport.

My Chiang Mai – Bangkok ticket.

Future Bangkok – Chiang Mai railway plans

There have been different plans over the years to improve the railway service that connects northern Thailand. With such a large volume of travel between Bangkok and Chiang Mai there needs to be a faster service. The distance between the two cites is 754.4 KM, and depending on the train you get the journey time varies from 10h 35m to 14h 40m. That makes an average speed of 51 to 71 km/h. By comparison a regional or intercity train in Europe is around 160kn/h, which would make the journey in 4h 42m.

There has been a proposal to built a Shinkansen-style bullet train . Japan had offered to build it, though it would be prohibitively expensive to do so. A more sensible option would be for a medium-speed railway that runs at 180-200 kilometres per hour. Trains at that speed would have to be built on a standard gauge, which would mean a completely new railway line over the current metre-gauge line.

Read more about the proposed Bangkok – Chiang Mai high-speed railway .

This is part of Nomadic Notes train travel series .

About James Clark

James Clark is the founder of Nomadic Notes. He has been a digital nomad since 2003, and Nomadic Notes features trip reports, train travel articles , and where to stay guides . He writes about transport and urban development at Future Southeast Asia . Subscribe to the weekly travel newsletter .

February 6, 2019 at 9:14 am

Wow! looks like an amazing journey. Loved it.

February 8, 2019 at 12:23 pm

I love traveling by train from childhood. Thanks for sharing this information.

February 8, 2019 at 10:23 pm

Reminds me of our 3 pax trip recently. We caught the day trains from Lampang to Phitsanulok for 5 nights then on to Ayuttaya for another 3 – buses bookended the trains. A fantastic way to travel when time allows.

September 21, 2019 at 6:18 am

Do you think is too crazy to do this trip with a 1 year old?

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All times are subject to change. Please check with the station master where you bought your ticket or call 1690.

TICKET PRICES AND HOW TO BUY THEM

Lower bunks are always more expensive as they are slightly bigger and give more privacy. It also has a window with curtains and so you can enjoy the view in the morning while you lie in bed. The upper bunk doesn’t have a window and is nearer to the light which is on all night. It is also nearer to the air-conditioning and so it can be colder. In 1st Class, there are two berths per cabin. If you only book one berth then you could find yourself in a cabin with a stranger. The only way to solve this problem is to book the entire room.

Tickets can be bought 90 days in advance from the official D-Ticket website . However, they don’t sell all the seats online. Even if it says full, you might want to call 1690 or check at your local railway station. Some people have reported trouble using their credit cards on the official website and have told me they prefer the agency website such as 12GO which also have a better interface. This also has the advantage that they are queuing up at the ticket office at the railway station the second tickets go on sale. For more information, please visit my How to Buy Train Tickets page.

Search for tickets for train, bus and plane to Chiang Mai >>>

RETURN TO Train Schedules for Thailand | How to Buy Train Tickets Online

12 thoughts on “ Special Express No. 9: Bangkok to Chiang Mai ”

I am interested in this . I will be visiting Thailand in January. Is it 2453 baht for the entire cabin ? Is food and drink available for purchase?

Yes, that is the cost for single occupancy. There is a dining car on this train.

how do i book one upper berth and one lower berth? All the options shown are either upper or lower berth

You need to change number of passengers to TWO and then proceed from there.

Hello Is there no sleeper with only fan?

Only on a few southern routes

Hallo, If I go with my wife with train no9 first class must I book a room by you or one beth up and one beth below.

If you are two people then one must book upper berth and one lower berth. Booking the room is for single occupancy.

Hello! If I am travelling with my husband, can you book two seats that are one on top of the other? Thank you!

Yes, just get one upper and one lower berth. So, 1 + 2, 3 + 4 etc.

Do they allow a cat on the train? Would it be allowed in the first class sleeper cabin? How can we check?

Pet animals are only allowed in carriages with fans and open windows. They are not allowed in air-conditioned carriages.

How to Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai: Best Ways, Tips & Booking Guide

To travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, choose from these options: 1. Train (11-15 hours) – Best for comfort. 2. Bus (9-11 hours) – Cost-effective. 3. Flight (1 hour) – Quickest choice. 4. Ferry (time varies) – Scenic route. 5. Itinerary (plan ahead) – Ensure smooth travel. Consider cost, comfort, and duration when selecting your method.

When planning your trip, consider booking your travel in advance. This approach secures better prices and availability, particularly during peak seasons. Check online platforms for promotions, and read reviews to select reputable transport providers. Each method offers unique experiences, so choose according to your preferences.

Understanding these travel options lays the foundation for a rewarding journey. Next, we will explore the essential tips for a smooth transition between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. These tips will enhance your travel experience, ensuring you arrive ready to explore the wonders of northern Thailand.

Table of Contents

What Are the Main Transportation Options for Traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

The main transportation options for traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai include flights, trains, buses, and private car rentals.

Private Car Rentals

Choosing the best mode of transportation depends on factors like budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. Each option offers distinct advantages and disadvantages that can influence travel experiences.

Flights : Flights offer the fastest way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. A direct flight typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Major airlines, including Thai Airways and AirAsia, operate several flights daily. Booking in advance can yield lower fares, while last-minute prices may be significantly higher. The Don Mueang International Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok serve as the departure points. Travelers often prefer flights for convenience, especially those with tight schedules.

Trains : Trains provide a scenic and comfortable journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. The train ride can last between 10 to 14 hours, depending on the type of service. Options range from air-conditioned sleeper trains to more basic seating arrangements. The State Railway of Thailand offers both night and daytime trains. Train travel allows passengers to enjoy picturesque landscapes and socialize with fellow travelers. However, it requires more time compared to a flight, which may not be suitable for every traveler.

Buses : Buses are an economical choice for traveling to Chiang Mai. The journey usually takes about 10 to 12 hours. Several bus companies operate from various terminals in Bangkok, with options ranging from standard to luxury coaches. Buses provide an affordable way to reach Chiang Mai, appealing to budget travelers. However, the longer travel time may be a downside for some. Passengers can also enjoy amenities like Wi-Fi in luxury buses, making the trip more comfortable.

Private Car Rentals : Renting a car allows travelers to explore Thailand at their own pace. Driving from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes about 9 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Renting a car can be ideal for those looking to visit attractions along the route, such as Ayutthaya or Sukhothai. However, the cost of rental and fuel, along with the need for driving in unfamiliar conditions, may deter some travelers. Additionally, parking and navigating city traffic can add stress to the journey.

Overall, each transportation option presents different characteristics and practicalities tailored to the passenger’s needs.

How Can You Travel by Air from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

You can travel by air from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by taking a direct flight with several airlines offering this route, resulting in a short travel time of about one hour and fifteen minutes.

Several key points highlight how to accomplish this travel efficiently:

Direct Flights: Numerous airlines provide direct flights between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Airlines such as Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, and AirAsia offer regular service. Many flights operate daily, ensuring travelers have ample options for scheduling and affordability.

Flight Duration: The flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. This time is significantly shorter when compared to road travel, making flying a convenient choice for many travelers.

Departure and Arrival Airports: The departure airport in Bangkok is Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), while the arrival airport in Chiang Mai is Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX). Both airports provide modern facilities and services for travelers.

Ticket Pricing: Prices for flights can vary based on the airline and the time of booking. For example, budget airlines may offer tickets starting at approximately 1,000 THB ($30 USD) if booked in advance. Prices may increase closer to travel dates, especially during peak seasons.

Check-In Requirements: Travelers are recommended to arrive at the airport at least one hour before departure. This timeframe allows for check-in and security screening processes, ensuring passengers board their flights without stress.

Online Booking: Most airlines offer online booking options, providing convenience for users. Websites and mobile applications allow travelers to compare prices and schedules easily. Conducting a search on sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights can help find the best deals.

By following these points, travelers can efficiently plan their air travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, making the most of their journey with minimal hassle.

What Are the Key Advantages of Flying from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Flying from Bangkok to Chiang Mai offers several key advantages that cater to various traveler needs.

Time Efficiency
Frequent Flight Availability
Cost-Effectiveness
Scenic Views
Comfort and Convenience

The benefits of flying from Bangkok to Chiang Mai position air travel as an appealing option for many.

Time Efficiency: Time efficiency plays a crucial role in choosing flights. The flight duration from Bangkok to Chiang Mai averages just over one hour. This is significantly faster compared to alternative travel methods, such as bus or train, which can take 10 to 15 hours. This quick travel time allows travelers to maximize their time exploring Chiang Mai. For example, instead of spending an entire day on the road, travelers can arrive early and engage in activities like visiting temples or enjoying local cuisine.

Frequent Flight Availability: Frequent flight availability is an important factor for travelers. Many airlines operate multiple flights daily between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Major carriers, such as Thai Airways and AirAsia, provide flexibility in scheduling. Passengers can choose flights that suit their timetables without needing to plan extensively. Availability on varying times allows last-minute bookings as travelers adapt to changing plans.

Cost-Effectiveness: Cost-effectiveness enhances the attractiveness of flying. Although ticket prices can fluctuate based on demand, discounts and promotions are common for flights between these two cities. Booking in advance can yield substantial savings, making air travel an attractive option compared to the costs associated with long-distance bus or train travel. A study from the Airports of Thailand (AOT) in 2022 showed that budget airlines often offer fares starting as low as $20, which is competitive compared to ground transportation.

Scenic Views: Scenic views during flights are an added bonus. Passengers flying over Thailand’s landscapes can enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, rivers, and cityscapes from the air. These views become a memorable part of the journey, enhancing the travel experience. For many, this aerial perspective adds value beyond mere transportation.

Comfort and Convenience: Comfort and convenience greatly elevate the flying experience. Air travel typically offers more amenities than ground transportation, such as air conditioning, onboard refreshments, and comfortable seating. These factors can make the journey more enjoyable, especially for families or travelers with limited mobility. Airports often provide easy access to services and facilities, such as lounges or dining options, which improve overall travel comfort.

In summary, flying from Bangkok to Chiang Mai provides significant advantages concerning time, frequency, cost, scenic appreciation, and comfort.

How Can You Travel by Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

You can travel by train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by purchasing tickets through the State Railway of Thailand, boarding the train at Hua Lamphong Station, and enjoying a scenic route that takes approximately 12 to 15 hours.

To elaborate on this travel method, consider the following details:

Ticket Purchase : Tickets can be purchased online through the State Railway of Thailand’s website or at Hua Lamphong Station. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Prices vary depending on class and availability.

Departure Station : The main train station in Bangkok is Hua Lamphong Station. This station is well connected to the city’s public transportation system, making it easy to reach.

Train Options : There are several train services available. These include:

Special Express Trains : These trains offer faster travel times and more comfortable seating with air conditioning.

Rapid and Ordinary Trains : These are more budget-friendly options. The travel time is longer due to more stops along the way.

Travel Duration : The journey takes between 12 to 15 hours. This duration varies based on the type of train selected and the specific schedule. Night trains are popular as they save on accommodation costs and provide a unique experience.

Onboard Amenities : Many trains offer various amenities such as dining cars, Wi-Fi connections, and sleeper carriages. Sleeper options allow passengers to rest comfortably during the long journey.

Scenic Views : The trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes you through beautiful landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rural areas, providing a rich visual experience.

Arrival Station : The journey concludes at Chiang Mai Railway Station, which is conveniently located near the city center. Public taxis and tuk-tuks are available for connection to accommodation and attractions.

By following these steps, traveling by train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience while taking in the scenic beauty of Thailand.

What Are the Benefits of Train Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

The benefits of train travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai are numerous. Travelers enjoy comfort, scenic views, and affordability, making it an appealing option for various types of travelers.

Cost-effectiveness
Eco-friendliness
Cultural Experience
Connectivity

Train travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai offers several advantages.

Comfort : Train travel provides spacious seating and sleeping options. Passengers can stretch out and move around, unlike cramped bus or airplane seats. Many trains offer sleeper cars with beds for overnight journeys, enhancing the travel experience.

Scenic Views : Train routes through Thailand showcase breathtaking landscapes. Travelers witness lush greenery, mountains, and rural villages along the way. This visual experience contributes to the journey’s enjoyment, setting it apart from air travel.

Cost-effectiveness : Train tickets are generally more affordable than flights, especially when booked in advance. This benefit is significant for budget-conscious travelers. For example, tickets can start as low as 800 Thai Baht (about $24 USD) for second-class seats.

Eco-friendliness : Train travel is recognized for its lower environmental impact compared to cars and planes. Trains produce less carbon dioxide per passenger, contributing to greener travel options. This attribute appeals to eco-conscious travelers aiming to reduce their carbon footprint.

Cultural Experience : Traveling by train allows for a closer interaction with local culture. Passengers can meet fellow travelers and locals, share experiences, and enjoy traditional meals from onboard vendors. This aspect deepens the understanding of Thai culture.

Connectivity : The train system in Thailand offers excellent connectivity. Trains frequently depart from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, providing flexibility for travel schedules. Many travelers appreciate this convenience as it allows easier planning and spontaneity in their journeys.

Traveling by train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai combines various benefits, making it a preferred choice for many.

How Can You Travel by Bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

You can travel by bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by choosing a reputable bus company, purchasing a ticket, and enjoying a scenic journey that typically lasts 10 to 12 hours.

To break this down into more detailed steps:

Choose a Bus Company : Various companies operate this route. Notable options include: – Green Bus : Known for comfort, with reclining seats and onboard snacks. – Nakhonchai Air : Offers luxury services, including spacious seats and refreshments. – Sombat Tour : A popular choice that provides meals and blankets.

Purchase a Ticket : You have several options for buying tickets: – Online : Use official websites or travel booking platforms like 12Go or BusOn. This method is convenient and allows for seat selection. – Bus Terminals : You can buy tickets at major terminals like Mo Chit Bus Station in Bangkok. It’s advisable to arrive early to secure your preferred departure time.

Departure Points : Buses from Bangkok typically depart from Mo Chit Bus Terminal, located in the northern part of the city. Ensure you know how to reach this terminal in advance.

Travel Duration : The journey usually takes between 10 to 12 hours. This duration allows for one or two stops for rest breaks, meals, and bathroom breaks. Prepare for nighttime travel which is common on this route.

Onboard Experience : Buses often provide comfortable seating, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and sometimes meals or snacks. Bring entertainment, such as books or downloaded movies, to pass the time.

Arrival in Chiang Mai : Most buses arrive at Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station, located a few kilometers from the city center. You can use local taxis or ride-hailing apps like Grab to reach your accommodation.

Traveling by bus is an affordable and efficient way to experience the journey between these two popular Thai destinations.

What Should You Consider About Bus Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

When considering bus travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, several important factors come into play.

Travel Time
Comfort Level
Bus Services
Departure and Arrival Locations
Travel Experience
Safety and Security
Luggage Policies
Environmental Impact

Understanding these factors is essential for making an informed decision about your bus travel options.

Travel Time : Travel time from Bangkok to Chiang Mai typically ranges from 10 to 15 hours. This duration can vary based on traffic conditions, the specific route taken, and the type of bus service chosen. Overnight buses are popular, allowing travelers to sleep during the journey and save on accommodation costs.

Comfort Level : Comfort levels can differ significantly between bus companies. Many offer VIP services with larger seats, more legroom, and additional amenities such as blankets and refreshments. Standard buses may have less space and fewer conveniences, making it crucial to choose one that best suits your comfort preferences.

Cost : The cost of bus tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai varies based on the bus type and service. Typical prices range from 500 to 1,500 Thai Baht (approximately $15 to $45 USD). Factors like booking in advance or choosing luxury services can influence the final price.

Bus Services : A range of bus companies service the route, including government-operated and private operators. Popular companies include Green Bus, Nakhonchai Air, and Sombat Tour. Researching and comparing options can help find the best service for your needs.

Departure and Arrival Locations : Buses depart from various locations in Bangkok, such as Mo Chit Bus Terminal and Ekkamai Eastern Bus Terminal. Arrival locations in Chiang Mai can also vary. Familiarizing yourself with these terminals is important for effective travel planning.

Travel Experience : Travel experiences can significantly impact the overall journey. Some travelers appreciate the scenic views along the route, while others may find long hours uncomfortable. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can provide insight into different experiences on specific services.

Safety and Security : Safety concerns, such as bus accidents or theft, should be at the forefront of your mind. Choosing reputable bus companies with safety measures can help mitigate risks. It is also advisable to keep personal belongings secure during travel.

Luggage Policies : Luggage policies often differ among bus operators. Most allow a standard amount of luggage but may charge extra fees for additional bags or larger items. Always review the policies beforehand to avoid unexpected charges.

Environmental Impact : Bus travel is generally considered more environmentally friendly than flying or driving alone. However, the overall carbon footprint may vary depending on the type and occupancy of the bus. Choosing buses with higher occupancy can further reduce individual environmental impact.

By considering these aspects, you can make informed decisions to enhance your bus travel experience from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

How Can You Choose the Best Travel Method from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

To choose the best travel method from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, consider factors such as cost, travel time, comfort, and convenience. Each mode of transport offers different advantages based on these factors.

Air Travel : Flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai are quick, typically lasting about 1.5 hours. They are often more expensive than other options. However, airlines like Thai Airways and AirAsia frequently offer competitive prices and sales. Booking in advance can yield savings. According to data from the Airports of Thailand, approximately 50 flights operate daily on this route.

Train : Train travel offers a scenic journey. Trains depart several times a day from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station. Travel time can range from 12 to 15 hours, depending on the train type, with sleeper options available for added comfort. The State Railway of Thailand provides different classes to match various budgets. Prices start around 800 baht for a second-class sleeper ticket.

Bus : Buses provide a cost-effective option. They take about 10 to 12 hours to reach Chiang Mai from Bangkok. Multiple bus companies operate this route with varying levels of comfort. Prices generally range from 500 to 1,000 baht. Travelers should check for VIP buses for a more comfortable experience.

Car Rental : Renting a car allows for personal flexibility. The drive covers about 700 kilometers and takes roughly 10 hours. This option is ideal for those who wish to explore along the way. However, consider fuel costs, tolls, and the potential for traffic, particularly near cities.

Personal Preferences : Match your travel choice to your personal preferences. If you prioritize speed, flying is best. For a low-budget option, buses or trains may be preferable. If comfort and scenic views are essential, consider train travel or renting a car.

Overall, evaluating these factors—cost, travel time, comfort, and personal preferences—will help in selecting the most appropriate travel method from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

What Factors Should Influence Your Decision Between Air, Train, and Bus?

Choosing between air, train, and bus travel requires careful consideration of various factors. Each mode of transportation offers unique benefits and drawbacks that can affect your travel experience.

Factors to consider in your decision between air, train, and bus include:

Convenience
Scenic Value
Frequency of Service
Accessibility

Considering these factors can help clarify what best meets your needs and preferences. Each travel mode has distinct features and consequences that influence your overall experience.

Travel Time : Travel time varies significantly across air, train, and bus. Air travel is typically the fastest method over long distances. According to a study by the U.S. Department of Transportation (2020), flights can reduce travel time by up to 70% compared to buses for distances over 300 miles. Train travel can be competitive on certain routes, allowing access to city centers without lengthy airport transfers. Buses usually take the longest time, especially for long-haul trips.

Cost : Cost is a critical factor for many travelers. Bus travel usually offers the most economical fares, frequently undercutting both air and train tickets. A report by the American Bus Association (2019) indicated that intercity bus tickets are often 40-60% cheaper than comparable train or flight tickets. Airfares can be influenced by demand and advanced booking, while train prices can vary based on class and peak travel times.

Comfort : Comfort levels differ across travel modes. Airlines generally provide limited legroom and less personal space, especially in economy class. On the other hand, trains often offer more spacious seating and the ability to move around, according to a Eurostar consumer survey (2021). Buses can vary widely in comfort based on the operator but typically offer less room than trains.

Convenience : Convenience includes factors like location and ease of booking. Airports are often located outside city centers, requiring additional transport. Train stations tend to be centrally located, which can simplify travel logistics. Many bus services also provide convenient pick-up locations. Booking options differ as well; trains and buses tend to have more flexible schedules compared to air travel, which often requires advance reservations.

Scenic Value : Scenic value can enhance the travel experience, particularly in regions with beautiful landscapes. Train routes often traverse picturesque scenery not visible by road or air. For instance, the Glacier Express in Switzerland is renowned for its stunning views. Bus journeys can also offer scenic routes, while flights provide a limited view of landscapes below.

Environmental Impact : Transportation modes differ significantly in their carbon footprint. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA, 2021), air travel has the highest emissions per passenger-kilometer, while trains are generally the most eco-friendly option. Buses typically fall in between, being more efficient than planes but less so than trains.

Frequency of Service : Frequency of service can affect the convenience of travel. Bus and train services may operate more frequently, especially on popular routes, while flights can be limited in certain regions. A report by the Railway Technology Group (2022) indicated that major train lines in Europe offer services every 30 minutes during peak hours, ensuring flexibility for travelers.

Accessibility : Accessibility refers to how easy it is for people with disabilities to use each mode of transport. Most trains and buses are equipped with facilities to accommodate passengers with mobility needs. However, air travel varies significantly by airline. Studies from the National Council on Disability (2020) indicate that there are still challenges in providing uniform accessibility in airports.

By evaluating these factors, travelers can make informed decisions while weighing their preferences against practical considerations for their journey.

How Do Travel Times Compare for Different Transportation Options?

Travel times for different transportation options vary significantly, influencing the choice of how to travel. Buses, trains, cars, and flights often present unique advantages and disadvantages in terms of duration.

Buses: Bus travel typically offers a slower journey. For instance, a bus ride from Bangkok to Chiang Mai can take approximately 10 to 12 hours. This method is usually cost-effective but can be uncomfortable on long trips, as highlighted by a 2022 Transportation Research report by Smith.

Trains: Train services in Thailand provide a more leisurely experience. The time taken for a train journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai averages around 12 to 14 hours. However, train travel offers scenic views and varied classes, making it a popular choice among tourists (Jones, 2023).

Cars: Traveling by car allows for a flexible schedule. Driving from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes around 9 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and stops. A personal vehicle can offer convenience, especially for group travels (Lee, 2023).

Flights: Air travel is the fastest option, with flight durations of approximately 1.5 hours. However, when including check-in and transfer times, the total travel time increases to about 4 to 5 hours. Flights can be more expensive, but they save considerable time, supporting the findings of the 2023 Air Travel Study by Johnson.

Each mode of transportation brings different benefits and constraints. These factors must be considered when planning travel between Bangkok and Chiang Mai to select the best option suited to individual preferences and budgets.

What Are the Best Tips for Booking a Trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

To book a trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai effectively, consider the following tips and options.

Compare transportation methods.
Book in advance.
Check for discounts and promotions.
Choose the right season.
Read reviews and recommendations.
Stay flexible with dates.
Use reputable booking platforms.

Understanding these factors will enhance your travel experience.

Compare Transportation Methods : Comparing transportation methods involves evaluating options such as flights, trains, and buses. Each option offers distinct advantages and disadvantages. Flights are the fastest, taking about one hour, but may be more expensive. Trains offer scenic views and a comfortable journey, while buses are often the cheapest option but take significantly longer. For example, the 2020 survey by the Thai Tourism Authority suggests travelers prefer trains for their comfort and affordability.

Book in Advance : Booking in advance ensures better prices and availability. Popular travel times, such as holidays, often see higher prices and full bookings. When traveling during peak seasons, consider booking your tickets at least two to three weeks prior to your trip. According to a 2022 study by Travel + Leisure, early bookers can save up to 30% on transportation costs.

Check for Discounts and Promotions : Checking for discounts and promotions can lead to considerable savings. Various airlines and transportation services run promotions throughout the year. Websites like Agoda or Skyscanner often list special deals. A post from Booking.com in 2023 revealed that travelers who seek promotional codes can save an average of 15% on their bookings.

Choose the Right Season : Choosing the right season impacts your travel experience. The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the cool season from November to February. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing. However, visiting during the rainy season (July to October) often leads to fewer tourists and better rates, albeit with unpredictable weather. The Thai Meteorological Department states that the average temperature in Chiang Mai during the cool season hovers around 20°C (68°F).

Read Reviews and Recommendations : Reading reviews and recommendations from previous travelers is crucial. Websites such as TripAdvisor and Google Reviews provide valuable insights into transportation options and experiences. According to a 2021 report by the International Journal of Tourism Research, 85% of travelers consider reviews from other tourists before booking.

Stay Flexible with Dates : Staying flexible with travel dates can lead to better rates. If possible, avoid weekends or holidays when prices surge. Tools like Google Flights allow users to compare fares on different days easily. Research from Expedia in 2023 shows that travelers who adjust their departure dates by one or two days can save an average of 20%.

Use Reputable Booking Platforms : Using reputable booking platforms ensures safety and reliability. Platforms like 12Go Asia and Klook are popular for Southeast Asia travel. They provide comprehensive options and customer support. A 2022 customer satisfaction survey from Consumer Reports indicated that users of reputable platforms had a 95% satisfaction rate with their booking experiences.

When Is the Best Time to Book Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

The best time to book travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is typically between one to three months in advance. This timeframe allows you to secure better deals on flights and accommodations. Booking too early, such as six months ahead, may not provide the best rates, as prices can fluctuate.

When planning your trip, consider the season. The peak travel season runs from November to February, when many tourists visit. Prices during this time often rise due to demand. Booking your travel during the low season, from June to October, can yield lower prices but may come with occasional rain.

Monitor flight and hotel prices regularly. Many travel websites and apps allow you to set alerts for price drops. Being flexible with your travel dates can also lead to better deals.

In summary, aim to book one to three months before your travel date, be mindful of the peak season, and use price alert tools to find the best opportunities.

Which Websites or Apps Are Ideal for Booking Your Journey?

Various websites and apps are ideal for booking your journey. The most popular options include:

Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)
Airlines’ Official Websites
Accommodation Booking Sites
Car Rental Services
Trip Planning Apps

These platforms offer diverse features and benefits for travelers. Understanding their differences will help you choose the best option for your journey.

Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) provide a convenient platform for booking flights, hotels, and rental cars. Examples include Expedia, Booking.com, and Kayak. These sites often compare prices across multiple airlines and hotels, helping users find the best deals. According to a report by Phocuswright (2021), OTAs account for about 39% of total online travel bookings.

Airlines’ Official Websites: Airlines’ official websites allow customers to book flights directly with the airline. This option often includes exclusive promotions and discounts not available on third-party sites. For instance, Southwest Airlines emphasizes that booking directly may provide more flexible options. Additionally, booking directly can result in better customer service and support.

Accommodation Booking Sites: Accommodation booking sites like Airbnb and Hotels.com cater specifically to travelers seeking lodging. These platforms offer a range of options from hotels to vacation rentals. A 2022 study by STR, Inc. showed that alternative accommodations, like those found on Airbnb, have become increasingly popular due to the unique experiences they offer.

Car Rental Services: Car rental services, such as Hertz and Enterprise, enable travelers to secure a vehicle for their trip. Many of these companies offer apps for easy booking and management. According to a 2023 survey by Statista, over 60% of travelers prefer rental apps for booking convenience.

Trip Planning Apps: Trip planning apps like TripIt and Google Trips help travelers plan their entire itinerary. These platforms consolidate travel information in one place, making trip management easy. Case studies reveal that users find significant time savings and organizational improvements when utilizing such tools.

In summary, each platform serves distinct purposes and caters to varied traveler needs. By understanding the features of each, you can make informed decisions on how to book your next journey.

What Are the Typical Costs of Traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai typically costs between $20 to $90, depending on the mode of transport and additional factors.

Here are the main transportation options and their typical costs: 1. Bus 2. Train 3. Flight 4. Private Car 5. Minivan

Traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai involves various transportation methods, each with its own cost implications and experiences.

Bus : The bus is a budget-friendly option for traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Buses from the Mo Chit Bus Terminal offer different classes, including standard and VIP services. Prices generally range from $20 to $25. The journey takes around 10 to 12 hours.

Train : The train offers a unique experience with scenic views along the way. Prices vary from about $25 for a fan-cooled seat to $60 for a second-class sleeper cabin. Travel time is approximately 12 to 15 hours. Seat61, a travel website, notes that overnight trains can provide a cozy and culturally immersive way to travel.

Flight : Flights provide the fastest option, with prices typically ranging from $30 to $90. However, the cost fluctuates based on how early you book and the airline. The flight duration is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Airlines like AirAsia andThai Lion Air offer budget flights that can be economically advantageous if booked in advance.

Private Car : Renting a car for the journey allows for flexibility and stopovers. Costs can vary but generally range from $50 to $100 per day, excluding fuel. It takes about 9 to 11 hours to drive, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Minivan : Minivans offer a shared travel option, connecting passengers quickly. Typical costs range from $25 to $35, with a travel time of around 8 to 10 hours. This option may feel cramped but often provides fewer delays compared to buses.

Choosing the right option depends on client needs, budget, and travel preferences, underscoring the diverse experiences available when traveling between these two vibrant cities.

How Much Should You Expect to Pay for a Flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

You can expect to pay between 1,000 to 3,000 Thai Baht (approximately $30 to $90 USD) for a flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. The average price for a one-way ticket is around 1,500 Thai Baht ($45 USD). This price varies based on several factors, including the airline, time of booking, and season of travel.

The cost can be influenced by the following subcategories:

Airlines : Low-cost carriers, such as AirAsia and Nok Air, typically offer cheaper flights than full-service airlines like Thai Airways. Low-cost airlines can have prices starting around 1,000 Thai Baht, while full-service options might range from 2,500 to 3,000 Baht.

Booking Timeframe : Booking a flight several weeks in advance usually yields lower prices. Last-minute bookings may result in higher fares, potentially exceeding 3,000 Baht due to limited availability.

Seasonal Variations : Prices tend to rise during peak tourist seasons. For example, flights may be more expensive during holidays or festivals, such as Songkran in April and the Loy Krathong festival in November.

For illustration, a traveler who books a flight two months in advance during the low season may pay around 1,200 Baht. In contrast, someone booking a last-minute flight during the high season could pay upwards of 3,000 Baht for the same route.

Other factors influencing flight prices include airline promotions, additional fees for luggage, and the travel class chosen. It is also important to consider airport transfer costs, as both Bangkok and Chiang Mai have multiple airports.

In summary, flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai typically range from 1,000 to 3,000 Thai Baht, with variability based on the airline, advance booking, and travel season. Travelers should monitor prices and book in advance to secure the best rates. For further exploration, consider checking airline websites for promotions or using fare comparison tools to find the best deals.

What Are the Average Prices for Train and Bus Tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Average prices for train and bus tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai vary based on the type of service. Train tickets range from approximately 500 to 2,000 Thai Baht, while bus tickets cost between 400 and 1,200 Thai Baht.

Train services: – Sleeper class – Ordinary class – First-class

Bus services: – VIP buses – Standard buses – Night buses

Travelers have different preferences for transportation. Some prefer the comfort of trains, while others find buses more convenient. Train travel provides scenic views, whereas buses may offer more frequent schedules. Both options suit various budgets and travel styles.

Train services: Train services from Bangkok to Chiang Mai include sleeper class, ordinary class, and first-class options. Sleeper class tickets, costing around 1,000-2,000 Thai Baht, provide beds for overnight travel. Ordinary class tickets, priced between 500-800 Baht, offer basic seating but can be less comfortable for long journeys. First-class tickets may offer additional amenities and comfort for about 1,500-2,000 Baht.

The State Railway of Thailand (2023) indicates that train travel can take approximately 12 to 14 hours, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a leisurely journey. The scenic views along the route are a significant attraction for many travelers.

Bus services: Bus services from Bangkok to Chiang Mai consist of VIP, standard, and night buses. VIP buses provide reclining seats, snacks, and sometimes onboard entertainment. Prices for VIP buses range from 800-1,200 Baht. Standard buses are the most economical option, costing around 400-600 Baht and generally offer fewer amenities. Night buses are popular for booking overnight trips and can cost between 600-900 Baht.

According to the Transport Company of Thailand (2023), buses typically take around 10 to 12 hours, making them a faster alternative to trains. Passengers appreciate bus travel for its convenience and frequency, with buses departing multiple times daily.

Both train and bus experiences from Bangkok to Chiang Mai cater to different consumer preferences regarding comfort and cost.

What Should You Prepare for Your Journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

To prepare for your journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, you should organize your travel documents, choose your transportation mode, pack appropriate clothing, and plan for meals and accommodations.

Travel Documents
Transportation Mode
Accommodations

Preparing your trip involves considering various perspectives and opinions related to each point.

1. Travel Documents: Travel documents include your passport, identification, and transportation tickets. It is crucial to have these organized prior to departure. Some travelers may find it helpful to create a digital backup of these documents. Security experts recommend carrying physical and electronic copies for safety.

2. Transportation Mode: Choosing a transportation mode can vary based on personal preferences and budget. Options include flights, buses, and trains. Flights are faster but generally more expensive. Buses offer affordability, while trains provide scenic views. Some travelers prefer the comfort of overnight trains that save time on accommodation.

3. Clothing: Clothing selection is vital. Chiang Mai experiences cooler weather than Bangkok, especially during the evenings and winter months. Travelers should pack lightweight layers and comfortable shoes for walking. Opinions differ; some prefer packing formal attire for potential events, while others advocate for casual wear.

4. Meals: Planning meals ahead can enhance the travel experience. Chiang Mai is known for its vibrant street food scene and local cuisine. Travelers might consider food tours or cooking classes. However, some might opt for familiar restaurants due to dietary restrictions or preferences.

5. Accommodations: Selecting accommodations requires individual preference considerations, including budget and location. Options range from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Some travelers prefer staying in the Old City for accessibility. Others prioritize quieter areas, avoiding tourism crowds.

When preparing for your journey, it’s essential to thoughtfully consider these factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

What Essential Items Should You Pack Based on Your Chosen Transportation Method?

To pack effectively based on your chosen transportation method, consider the specific requirements and limitations of each mode of travel. This ensures a comfortable and hassle-free journey.

Train Travel
Bicycle Travel

Each transportation method presents unique packing needs due to different space allowances, accessibility, and convenience. Understanding these needs can enhance comfort and lower stress during travel.

Air Travel : Packing for air travel requires consideration of airline regulations. Each airline enforces a specific limit on the size and weight of carry-on luggage. Generally, a suitcase measuring 22 x 14 x 9 inches and weighing no more than 40 pounds is acceptable for most airlines. Essential items to pack include identification documents, electronic devices, and travel-sized toiletries. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), travelers should also include a light jacket or sweater because of variable aircraft temperatures.

Train Travel : Packing for a train journey offers more space than air travel but less than road travel. Passengers are encouraged to bring snacks, a travel pillow, and entertainment. The National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) suggests bringing a small suitcase, as they have a generous luggage policy allowing two carry-ons as well as checked baggage. It’s wise to pack a personal umbrella or raincoat in case of weather changes.

Bus Travel : Bus travel often involves limited space for luggage, usually one carry-on and one checked bag. According to Greyhound, essential items include water, snacks, and any required medications. Comfort is key; travelers should consider bringing a neck pillow and blanket for longer trips. Due to the unpredictability of bus schedules, packing an extra layer of clothing, such as a sweater or wrap, is also beneficial.

Car Travel : Packing for a road trip is flexible, as travelers can take more items without strict limits. Essentials usually consist of a first-aid kit, emergency supplies, and snacks. A study by the American Automobile Association (AAA) suggests drivers should include a roadside emergency kit with a flashlight, jumper cables, and a spare tire. Comfort items like travel-sized games, books, or electronic devices help pass the time during long drives.

Bicycle Travel : For bicycle travel, packing is minimal but strategic. Essential gear includes a helmet, a repair kit, and water bottles. Travelers can use panniers or bike bags to carry essentials like clothing, food, and tools. The Adventure Cycling Association recommends packing lightweight, durable items, which enhances mobility and reduces fatigue.

Understanding these packing needs based on the mode of transportation can greatly enhance the travel experience, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your journey.

What Are the Common Travel Etiquette Tips for Chiang Mai?

The common travel etiquette tips for Chiang Mai include respecting local customs, dressing modestly, using polite language, and being mindful of the environment.

Respect local customs
Dress modestly
Use polite language
Be mindful of the environment
Act respectfully in religious sites
Bargain politely at markets
Use both hands when giving/receiving items
Avoid public displays of affection

Understanding travel etiquette in Chiang Mai will enhance the visitor experience and promote cultural respect.

Respect Local Customs: Respecting local customs in Chiang Mai involves understanding and adhering to traditional practices. Thai culture emphasizes politeness and humility. This is crucial when interacting with local people. For example, a common greeting, the “wai,” involves placing palms together at the chest and bowing slightly. Failure to understand and participate in such customs can be seen as disrespectful.

Dress Modestly: Dressing modestly is important when visiting Chiang Mai. Visitors should wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees, especially when visiting temples and sacred sites. This practice demonstrates respect for local beliefs. Inappropriate attire can lead to denial of entry in religious establishments, as many have strict dress codes.

Use Polite Language: Using polite language is essential when communicating in Chiang Mai. Thai people often appreciate a polite demeanor. Simple phrases such as “sawadee ka” (hello) for women and “sawadee krub” for men enhance interactions. Using polite forms of language fosters goodwill and strengthens relationships with locals.

Be Mindful of the Environment: Being mindful of the environment means reducing waste and respecting natural resources. Tourists should avoid littering, choose eco-friendly options, and support sustainable tourism practices. Chiang Mai’s natural beauty is a key attraction, and protecting it ensures that future visitors can enjoy it too.

Act Respectfully in Religious Sites: Acting respectfully in religious sites includes being quiet, removing shoes, and not taking photos where prohibited. This behavior is fundamental during visits to temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Ignoring these rules can offend locals and tarnish the visitor’s reputation.

Bargain Politely at Markets: Bargaining politely is expected in Chiang Mai’s markets. It is common to negotiate prices, but it should be done with a smile and casual friendly banter. Aggressive bargaining can be viewed as rude; maintaining a respectful tone during negotiations promotes a positive experience for both parties.

Use Both Hands when Giving/Receiving Items: Using both hands when giving or receiving items signifies respect. This custom is prevalent in Thailand and reflects the value placed on interpersonal relationships. Ignoring this practice can be perceived as impolite, particularly when exchanging cultural gifts or business cards.

Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Avoiding public displays of affection is a cultural norm in Chiang Mai. Displays such as kissing or hugging in public are often viewed negatively. Respecting this custom contributes to a comfortable atmosphere for both locals and visitors.

By following these etiquette tips, travelers can ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience in Chiang Mai.

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BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI by TRAIN or BUS: Schedule and Fares

By continuing to read this article, you agree to double-check with the concerned establishments for the latest updates.

Bangkok is the epicenter of Southeast Asia’s backpacking scene, thanks to its central location, cheap costs, and direct flights from almost every major city worldwide. Naturally, travelers use this as entry point and jump off point to other destinations not just in Thailand but in the ASEAN region.

Most travelers on a multi-city tour take one of these three usual routes: go north to Chiang Mai, go south to Phuket and Krabi, or go out to Siem Reap in Cambodia. If you’re planning on taking the first route, this post is for you.

From Bangkok, you can reach Chiang Mai in three ways: by train, by bus, and by plane.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train

The first thing you should do is to get to Hua Lamphong Station (aka Bangkok Railway Station), where trains bound for Chiang Mai start their journey. If you’re coming from Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang Airport, here’s how to get to Hua Lamphong: Airport to Hua Lamphong .

At Hua Lamphong Station, you have a choice to ride a daytime train or an overnight sleeper train.

The journey to Chiang Mai takes 11 to 16 hours, depending on what train you’re taking. The daytime seat-only express Train #7 takes 11 hours, leaving Bangkok at 8:30am and arrives at 7:30pm. Fare is around ฿890 (USD27.32, PHP1460).

Hence, I recommend the overnight sleeper train so you won’t waste a day and you actually save a hotel night.

All overnight sleeper trains have second class berths, but not all have first class. Some trains are air-conditioned; others use fan only. Double check before booking.

Second-class fare: from ฿830 (fan only) to ฿1300 (air-conditioned)
First-class fare: around ฿1753 (USD54, PHP2875)

Here are your choices:

What I took was Train #13, which left Hua Lamphong at 7:35pm and arrived in Chiang Mai the next morning. Our train got delayed but it was a good experience overall. Just bring snacks onboard in case you get hungry.

✅ SEARCH FOR TRAINS TO CHIANG MAI HERE: BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI

Chiang Mai Train Station to Old City

In Chiang Mai, the train stops at the Chiang Mai Train Station, which is only 3km from the city center. From here, you have several options to reach the Old City in the city center.

By Taxi. Fare: around ฿150, depending on which part of the city is your destination.
By Tuktuk. Fare: ฿120-150, depending on your negotiation skills and where in the city you’re going.
By Bus. Take the City Bus B1. Fare: ฿15.
By Songthaew (shared taxi). Fare: ฿30 or more, again, depending on where you’re going.

Expect the songthaew to wait for other passengers. Like at the airport, some drivers will also try to convince you to just rent the whole vehicle for ฿150 or higher. Don’t. Just share with other passengers if you have time. You can also try to talk to other travelers too and form a group of four.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Bus

Another option is the bus. I haven’t really tried this because I find trains, although slower, to be generally safer and more comfortable. But if you prefer the bus, here’s how to reach Chiang Mai from Bangkok.

Daytime and overnight buses are also available, arriving at Chiang Mai Arcade. Fare is from ฿530 to ฿830, depending on the class and company.

You can board a bus at Mo Chit Bus Station or Viphavadee 13 Terminal .

From Mo Chit Bus Station

Also called Morchit Station or North Terminal. It’s situated close to Mo Chit BTS Station and Chatuchak Weekend Market. If your hotel is close to a BTS Station, you can easily get here. This is also where locals catch long-distance buses.

Below are the bus companies, schedules, and fares.

From Sombat Tour Viphavadee 13 Terminal

Sombat Tour’s own bus terminal near Chatuchak. Here, you can take a Sombat Tour bus or Bangkok Busline bus.

More Bus Options

You’ll find travel agencies that sell bus tickets to Chiang Mai. They usually cater to tourists so they’re slightly pricier. The catch is, you’ll also be taken to the bus station. It’s usually bundled with a minivan transfer to the bus terminal. You also have to be cautious because Khao San is rife with scams. Book with reputable companies only. If you want full control of your time, just go to the terminal and catch the bus there yourself. Or you can book via 12go.asia .

For more bus options, you may use the search form below.

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From Bangkok to Chiang Mai: 3 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Apr 14, 2023

Chiang Mai is one of Thailand's largest and oldest cities–a laid-back land of palaces and temples and a getaway to the lush, misty mountains of the north. The ancient walled city is a prime destination for hiking, culinary adventures, and animal lovers–Chiang Mai is home to more ethical elephant sanctuaries than anywhere else in Southeast Asia.

Located 700 kilometers north of Bangkok , getting from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes some planning. If you're hoping for just a quick weekend visit, it makes sense to fly between the two cities, as land travel options will take more than half a day. But whether you're looking for a relaxed trip that allows you to enjoy the scenery or want to get to your destination as quickly as possible, check out our list of the best ways to go from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Flying from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is the simplest mode of transportation if you're planning the trip on your own. Most low-cost carriers –such as Nok Air and AirAsia –flying to Chiang Mai leave from Bangkok's Don Mueang Airport , which mostly handles local flights. Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) is home to bigger airlines such as Bangkok Airways, which also fly to Chiang Mai but for a significantly higher price.

The flight between the two cities is about one hour and 15 minutes long regardless of the airline you choose, with the main difference between budget and "regular" flights being the little details. For example, budget airlines often don't allow checked luggage–not even for an extra fee. They also don't offer onboard snacks or drinks, and legroom is significantly limited.

If you book in advance, you can get very reasonably priced tickets, although in low season (July to October) you might be able to find promo fares at even cheaper prices. Since there are over 50 flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai every week, finding one that suits you should be no issue. Keep in mind that ticket prices are much higher during Songkran, the Thai New Year celebration that lasts for five days in mid-April.

Once in Chiang Mai, you can catch a tuk-tuk (a motorized three-wheeled taxi) or a moto taxi to the Old City center, just a few minutes away from the airport. Always agree on a price before you get on a taxi to avoid being overcharged later.

A Bangkok to Chiang Mai train traveling through the countryside

The train ride from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station to Chiang Mai station can take anywhere from 12 to 15 hours , so choosing a comfortable seat is a must. Don't let the distance feel daunting – this is one of Thailand's most picturesque train rides. On the way, you'll ride past historic Ayutthaya, golden temples on top of hills, lots of tropical jungle, and small traditional villages.

Sleeper trains are your best bet, and if you pick a first-class ticket in a two-person or four-person sleeper carriage, you'll get AC, a stewardess, and a train with a restaurant car. Lower bunks are always more expensive, as they're slightly bigger. The trains going to Chiang Mai also allow you to book the entire two-person compartment all for yourself by charging you the equivalent of 1.5 tickets – a great option at a decent price if you want some privacy. Anything marked as a second-class sleeper train is usually fans only–this saves you a little money, but you have to decide if the savings is worth the long, hot journey.

The Thai Railways 6:10pm daily sleeper train to Chiang Mai also has special "ladies and children only" carriages. If you're a woman traveling alone, this could be a fun way to travel that also offers some extra peace of mind.

For those on a budget, there are two cheaper options : The first one is a daytime 2nd Class seats-only (no beds) air-conditioned train. Although relatively comfortable and clean, traveling for 15 hours in a sitting position is not ideal. The extreme budget option is a third-class train with no beds, no AC, and wooden benches as seats. Third-class tickets cannot be reserved in advance and are only available on the day of the journey. These trains are hot, crowded, and not really comfortable, but the tickets are cheap, and you won't find a more authentic Thai experience than this.

No matter what train you choose, you'll get beautiful views of rice paddies and rainforest, plus snapshots of life in rural Thailand, along the way. Once you arrive in Chiang Mai, you will find tuk-tuk and moto taxis waiting right outside the railway station to take you to your hotel.

Dusk at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple in Chiang Mai

The cheapest way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is by bus . Several bus companies make the 10- to 11-hour trip every day from Bangkok's Mo Chit Bus Station to the Arcade main bus station in Chiang Mai. Because most of these companies have websites only in Thai, the easiest way to find a convenient ticket is to book through an online portal such as 12Go , Asia's largest online travel agency.

The cheapest tickets are for a seat in Express buses. Despite the name, these buses aren't any faster than the average, although they do offer basic comforts such as AC and onboard food. VIP buses offer a lot of upgrades for just a little more money–including a stewardess, onboard entertainment, bigger seats with more legroom, and free snacks.

Thailand's most popular bus transportation company, Bangkok Busline , also runs a VIP 24 bus, which carries fewer passengers and offers single seats for additional comfort. These buses also offer additional amenities, such as Wi-Fi, onboard restrooms, free water and snacks, and power outlets. All VIP buses are air-conditioned.

All buses arrive at the main bus station in Chiang Mai. Don't let the signs indicating you're inside the city confuse you. While that's technically true, all the main tourist attractions and hotels are on the other side of the river, a very long walk away from the station. Your best option is to catch a songthaew (shared open buses) to make it closer to your destination.

Chiang Mai - Climate Chart

More related articles on planetware.com.

Exploring Chiang Mai: For awe-inspiring nature, temples, and culture, check out what to do when visiting "the Rose of the North" in our Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chiang Mai article.

More on Thailand

Thailand Trains

Thailand train times & tickets, trains from chiang mai to bangkok.

The train journey from Chiang Mai to Bangkok has the best scenery of any train journey in Thailand. This long distance journey can be completed either in the day time when you can enjoy the views or at night when you can book an inexpensive sleeper berth and wake up when you arrive in Bangkok thereby saving on the cost of a hotel for the night.

Train times from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

There are five direct train services per day from Chiang Mai to Bangkok.

Fastest Train: Train #8 departing from Chiang Mai at 08:50 is scheduled to complete the journey in 10 hours 05 minutes making it the fastest service on this route.
Slowest Train: The slowest service is the 06:30 departure on Train #102 which takes a tedious additional 4 hours to do the journey in 13 hours 55 minutes.

Buy Tickets from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

Use the Search Box below to buy your train tickets from Chiang Mai to Bangkok.

Sleeper seats are available to book online as well as the cheaper seat only options.
After booking your tickets will be sent to you by e-mail.

Ticket Prices from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

Train tickets from Chiang Mai to Bangkok purchased online cost 52 to 290 THB per ticket more than a train ticket purchased at a train station.

If you have the opportunity to go to the train station a few days before you plan to travel to buy your ticket in advance then this is cheaper than booking online. The route between Chiang Mai and Bangkok is popular with both foreign and Thai travellers and the 1st and 2nd Class A/C Sleeper seats tend to sell out a few days, or even weeks (especially during the April Songkran festival and Loi Kratong in November), before the day of travel.

About Train Travel from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

The train journey from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is a classic, and probably the best journey on the Thai railway network. What makes this journey great is the variety of scenery on the way. After the first hour of the journey the train reaches an area with several lakes and then ascends into the mountains. From the mountains the train passes through a flat landscape of rice paddy fields with towns, cities and temples dotted across the prosperous and fertile central plain of Thailand.

Bangkok train station is a mix of new and old

As a final treat for passengers, the train negotiates its way through the back streets of old Bangkok past iconic features of the Thailand railway system, such as the Rot Fai market where vendors set up their stalls within inches of the passing trains, and the customers move to the side of the tracks for only as long as it takes a train to pass.

Chiang Mai Railway Station

Chiang Mai Train Station is about 3.7 km from Chiang Mai’s Old Town and about 1.9 km walking distance from Chiang Mai’s night bazaar area. It’s too far to walk so take either a shared pick up truck taxi or a tuk-tuk. Expect to pay around 100 THB for the trip from the Old Town. There are some restaurants and small shops in, and near, the railway station to buy some drinks and snacks for the journey.

Location of Chiang Mai Railway Station

Google Map of Chiang Mai Railway Station

Location of Bangkok Railway Station

The main railway station in Bangkok is Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (also known as Bang Sue Grand Station).

Google Map of Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

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Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai Timetable 2024 Ticket Price

Last updated: May 17, 2024

The train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai departs five times a day from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bang Sue Grand Station), taking between 10.5 and 14 hours to travel the 744 km distance, with tickets costing from 230 Baht for a 3rd Class seat to 1,646 Baht for a 1st Class sleeping berth on a Special Express service.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai Train Schedule / Timetable 2024

For the train timetable in the opposite direction click here >

To view the full timetables for these services and for photos of seats / berths, just click on the info link in the timetable above.

Times of train services in the opposite direction:

The train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok is one of the most popular rail journeys in Thailand.

On this journey, you can choose to travel through the day on one of the SRT "sprinter trains" (Diesel Railcars DRC), which will get you to Chiang Mai in the quickest time, or take a more relaxing overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai with a comfortable bed.

A Special Express locomotive train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok >

For information on Chiang Mai Train Station click here >

For how to travel from Chiang Mai station to the city centre click here >

Ticket Prices for the Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Prices shown are one-way fares in Thai Baht (tickets purchased online may vary).

Train number 7 is an all second class, air-conditioned, seat train ( Special Express DRC ). Tickets for this service cost 638 Baht for an Adult, 499 Baht for a Child.

Included in the price of the ticket are airline style meals and soft drinks, but you would also probably want to take some food of your own on-board as they are not that great.

Train 7 Bangkok - Chiang Mai timetable >

Train 109 is a slower Rapid service, so it is the cheapest, and costs:

2nd class A/C Sleeping Berths Upper Bed Adult 688 - Child 549 Lower Bed Adult 758 - Child 619 2nd class fan seats Adult 388 / Child 249 3rd class fan seats Adult 230 / Child 170

Train 109 Bangkok - Chiang Mai timetable >

Train number 9 and Train number 13 are the most popular night trains and are Special Express services, consisting of just 2nd and 1st class sleepers to Chiang Mai, with all coaches air-conditioned.

Train number 9 has newer Chinese made carriages, so it is slightly more expensive than train 13.

Fares for these services cost:

Fares for train 13 are: 2nd class Upper Bed Adult 768 - Child 629 Lower Bed Adult 838 - Child 699 1st class Upper Bed Adult 1,246 - Child 953 Lower Bed Adult 1,446 - Child 1,153 Fares for Train 9 are:

2nd class Upper Bed Adult 938 - Child 799 Lower Bed Adult 1038 - Child 899

1st class Upper Bed Adult 1446 - Child 1153 Lower Bed Adult 1646 - Child 1353 You can book the whole 1st class cabin to yourself for 1,946 (train 13) - 2,446 (train 9) if you want to travel in perfect isolation.

Train 9 Bangkok - Chiang Mai timetable >

Train number 51 is a slightly slower Express service but has a far greater choice of seats and sleeping berths, although there is no first class coach.

Tickets cost:

2nd class A/C Berths Upper Bed Adult 748 - Child 609 Lower Bed Adult 818 - Child 679 2nd class Fan Berths Upper Bed Adult 558 - Child 419 Lower Bed Adult 628 - Child 489 2nd class A/C seats Adult 538 / Child 399 3rd class fan seats Adult 270 / Child 210

Train 51 Bangkok - Chiang Mai timetable >

These seats are then converted to your bed / sleeping berth for the overnight trains to Chiang Mai from Bangkok.

One thing you should know about sleeping berths on trains to Chiang Mai - the lower berths are far more spacious and comfortable than the much narrower upper berths, which is why they cost more.

They are also the first to sell out. So, book early if you want a much more comfortable journey in a lower berth.

Where to Buy Tickets in Bangkok for the Train to Chiang Mai

Booking train tickets as far in advance as possible is advisable for this popular route.

The cheapest way to buy your tickets is in person at the ticket counters at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bang Sue Central Station).

The station is easily accessible from most parts of Bangkok, with buses and MRT trains running to the terminal.

Or you can book advance tickets to Chiang Mai online here >

Or you can also book tickets by visiting the SRT's own website here >

How to Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train, Bus, and Plane

In a nutshell, you have three options for getting from Bangkok to Chiang Mai : bus, train, or flight. Choosing the best mode of transport depends on your time-to-budget ratio and your tolerance for discomfort. There are roughly 400 miles to cover between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

Flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai only take a little over an hour, cutting down your travel time from a full day or night on a bus or train to a short plane ride. With dozens of daily flights between the two cities on low-cost airlines, it's usually the cheapest way to travel as well. However, the bus and train are comparable in price and even though the journey is much longer, you get to experience local train culture and the incredible landscapes in a way you don't get to on the plane.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

With up to 50 daily flights between Bangkok and Chiang Mai on a variety of low-cost and standard airlines, flying is usually the cheapest method for getting there. One-way tickets start at around $15, even if you make your purchase just a few days before your travel date. Bangkok has two major airports, so make note of which airport your flight is departing from before you purchase. Most full-service airlines leave from Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK), while the majority of the low-cost airlines—AirAsia, Thai Lion, Nok Air—leave from Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). Both airports are located about 30 minutes outside of the city center by taxi, although traffic can significantly impact the travel time. Only Suvarnabhumi has a convenient public transit option.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Flying isn't only the cheapest way to get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok, it's also by far the fastest. The total time in the air is a little over an hour, compared to spending all night or all day on a train or bus. Even once you take into account all of the time it takes to travel to and from the airport, check in for your flight, go through security, and wait at your gate, flying is still the quickest way to get from one city to the other.

How Long Is the Train Ride?

Even though the train takes significantly longer than flying and is usually more expensive, train travel between Bangkok and Chiang Mai continues to be a favorite mode of transport for most travelers. Riding the train gives you a chance to connect with locals as well as other travelers, and if you take the sleeper train it also saves you a night of having to pay for accommodations.

Second-class sleeper trains are the most popular option and provide a small bunk with a privacy curtain, and you'll be sharing the entire car with other passengers (choose a first-class sleeper if you prefer a private room). Trains are certainly the best option for enjoying the scenery of the Thai countryside, and even the overnight train will give passengers stunning views of the mountains around Chiang Mai at sunrise.

Trains arrive at the Chiang Mai Railway Station on Charoen Mueang, just east of the Old City. Numerous drivers will be waiting outside to take you from the station to your hotel.

Although trains can be booked through travel agencies, many agents may try to talk you into the overnight tourist bus instead so that someone from the company doesn't have to go purchase your ticket at the station. Optionally, you could take a tuk-tuk or quick motorbike taxi to buy the ticket commission-free at the station yourself. Try to book your train ticket a few days in advance to have the most options. If you wait until the day of, you may not get the car class you prefer, especially if you're traveling during popular holiday times.

Attendants sell food and drinks at an inflated price on the train, so you'll be far happier if you take plenty of snacks and water with you. Drinking alcohol on trains is illegal in Thailand, so wait until you arrive in Chiang Mai to enjoy a cold Singha beer.

Is There a Bus That Goes From Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Although buses may cover the distance slightly faster and with fewer stops than the train, it's less comfortable and costs only slightly less. There are two types of buses: the tourist buses and government buses. The tourist buses are cheapest and depart from Khao San Road , the infamous Bangkok heart of the backpacker Banana Pancake Trail . Most travelers opt for the overnight bus to save a night of accommodation and a day of trip time. You can buy tickets from vendors selling tickets right on the street, but you should shop around because prices fluctuate with every person you talk to. Someone will fetch you from your hostel or hotel when it's time to leave and bring you to the bus, and the bus drops off passengers in Chiang Mai at a designated hotel (you may feel pressured to stay at the hotel, but you have no obligation to do so).

The government buses are slightly more expensive, but in exchange, you get a much more comfortable ride with provided snacks, water, and a movie. While the tourist buses are usually filled with foreign backpackers, the government buses are more commonly used by Thai locals. These buses from Bangkok to Chiang Mai leave from the northeast bus terminal (Mo Chit), which you can get to by taking the BTS Skytrain. Buses arrive at the Arcade Bus Station in Chiang Mai, where transportation will be waiting to take you to your hotel.

If you decide to use the bus, regardless of which type, make sure to keep all of your valuables with you. It's not uncommon for luggage stored under the bus to be opened and robbed.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Chiang Mai?

The climate in Chiang Mai can be divided into three separate seasons.

November to February : Right after the rainy season, these four months are usually considered the most ideal time to travel in Chiang Mai and northern Thailand. Temperatures are perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities, and the evenings cool down enough to require a light jacket. This is also one of the busiest times to visit Chiang Mai, and making last-minute reservations may be more difficult.
March to May : The final months of the dry season are also the hottest, and daytime temperatures can soar to over 100 degrees F (38 C). Not only is it hot, but illegal burning of crops and fields across northern Thailand make the air dangerously smokey. If you suffer from asthma or other respiratory problems, the air quality during these months is important to consider.
June to October : Summer and autumn are the rainy seasons in Chiang Mai, and monsoons are a part of daily life. Temperatures drop from the unbearably hot days of March through May, but it's much more humid. If you don't mind the rain and you're looking for a quieter vacation, this is usually the least busy time to visit Chiang Mai.

Also, if you're planning to travel during any holiday periods , such as Thai New Year in April or Loi Krathong in November, trains can book up weeks in advance. Check the calendar and plan ahead.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

There is no public transportation from Chiang Mai Airport into the city center, but taxis and tuk-tuks are plentiful and the ride is short. You can get from the airport to the Old City in about 10 minutes, and the price should be about 160 Thai baht ($5). Many hotels also offer transportation from the airport for guests, so check with your accommodations before taking off.

What Is There to Do in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is the second most popular city to visit in Thailand after Bangkok, home to over 300 temples and used as a jumping-off point to explore the rest of Northern Thailand. Nestled in rolling hills, hiking and other nature excursions are some of the most popular activities for visitors to Chiang Mai, as are visiting the local (ethically run) elephant sanctuaries. The Old City is the historic center, and every evening it fills up with the huge Night Bazaar selling everything from local handmade goods to mouthwatering Thai dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai start at $15 one way.

The train ride from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes about 13 hours.

Flying is both the cheapest and quickest way to travel between the two cities. By plane, you can get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai in one hour and 15 minutes for as little as $15.

Train to Chiang Mai

Guide to the 5 daily trains from bangkok to chiang mai, buy train tickets, bangkok to chiang mai trains.

Click on the image to see information about all trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, including train times, seat types, facilities on board and ticket prices

About Buying Tickets

See more information about buying Thailand Train Tickets

Click on the image for more information about buying Thailand train tickets, ticket types, and collection and delivery options for tickets purchased online.

A Foodie’s 11-Day Guide to Thailand

From pad thai to khao soi and everything in between, eat your way through bangkok, chiang mai, and koh samui with this itinerary..

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Small boats carrying produce in the floating market of Damnoen Saduak in Ratchaburi, Thailand.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Courtesy of Goway

Thai food is world-renowned for excellent reasons. Delicious stir fries, savory rice dishes, mouthwatering soups, and incredible desserts draw on rich culinary heritage. Goway’s itinerary, Classic Thailand for Foodies: Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Koh Samui , is the perfect introduction to the beauty and geographic diversity of this special corner of the world with a focus on its legendary food.

The trip is also ideal for first-timers in Thailand with visits to three quintessential destinations: bustling Bangkok, culture-rich Chiang Mai, and the white-sand beaches of Koh Samui. In each, you’ll get to know Thai culture on a deeper level, through its flavors, and gain an appreciation for the subtle regional differences of its cuisine. Sample delicious street food in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, shop the markets like a local, and bring home some new skills after an all-day cooking class in the south.

Travelers on this trip also have the opportunity to make meaningful local connections through visits to hill tribe villages and community projects. These immersive experiences make for more sustainable travel too, helping to support the communities visited. (Discover more mindful options in Thailand with the Tourism Cares Thailand map created in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand.) Goway’s trip has this exact mission in mind. Think meals in local markets and cooking with produce you’ve picked yourself—all to make your journey that much richer (and more delicious).

Itinerary / 11 Days

Trip Highlight

Cooking class on koh samui.

Trip Designer

A woman in a hat standing in front of the colorful Maeklong Railway Market in Bangkok, Thailand

The unbelievable train tracks through Maeklong Railway Market

Days 1–3: Explore Bangkok’s Temples and Markets

A bowl of Khao soi on a table, a signature noodle dish of Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Chiang Mai’s signature dish, Khao soi

Courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand

Days 4–6: Eat Chiang Mai’s Celebrated Food and Meet a Local Hill Tribe Village

Leave Thailand with delicious recipes to bring home with you.

Days 7–9: Relax on Koh Samui and Take a Cooking Class

A Thai-style boat moving through the water surrounded by the craggy cliffs of Krabi Koh-PhiPhiLay, Thailand.

Traveloka Team

12 Sep 2024 - 4 min read

A Comprehensive Travel Guide: How to Get from Bangkok to Pattaya

Bangkok is well-known for its impressive temples and cultural heritage. Meanwhile, Pattaya is famous for its captivating beaches and lively nightlife. Are you interested in exploring both cities? Plan your trip well by understanding how to get from Bangkok to Pattaya.

So, let’s explore how to commute between these regions by bus, train, taxi, shared transfer, and car rental. Furthermore, you can find out the fares and routes as well.

How Far is Bangkok to Pattaya?

The distance between these popular destinations is approximately 150 km. However, they are remarkably well-connected, so transporting between them takes effort.

Multiple transportation options are available. Whether you prefer public transport or driving, several modes of transport are ready to take you to the desired destination.

Flight From Singapore to Bangkok

Start from S$ 88.87

Singapore (SIN) to Bangkok (BKK)

Mon, 30 Sep 2024

Jetstar Asia Airways

Start from S$ 94.73

Tue, 15 Oct 2024

Start from S$ 128.56

Wed, 16 Oct 2024

How to Get from Bangkok to Pattaya

You can choose the transportation option based on your needs, desired level of comfort, and travel budget. Here are five methods to reach the coastal city of Pattaya.

Catching the bus is an economical way to commute to Pattaya. It is undoubtedly the favourite transportation option among backpackers and those on a budget.

You can board from several locations in Bangkok. The buses run frequently throughout the day, and the trip usually takes 2.5 to 3 hours.

How do I get from Bangkok to Pattaya by bus? There are several stations where you can catch the bus.

Situated on Sukhumvit Rd (Ekkamai), this terminal is the most convenient option if you stay in central Bangkok. The bus runs every 30 minutes, and the last bus departs at 11.20 PM. The fare starts from THB 108.

This terminal is located on Kamphaeng Phet Rd in Mo Chit. The bus departs every two hours, and the last departure is at 10:00 PM. The ticket costs THB 128 to THB 230.

This departing point is located in Sai Tai Mai. The bus runs every 2,5 hours. Unfortunately, there is no late-night trip because the last bus departs at 6.30 PM. The bus fare is THB 108.

How to get from Bangkok Airport to Pattaya? If you land at Bangkok Airport, you can head to Gate 8 to find the bus. The trip is available from 08.00 AM to 06.00 PM, and the ticket costs THB 130.

AVANI Pattaya Resort

Central Pattaya

2. By Train

Travelling by train is a less common option. This is because the trip is much longer than taking a bus. It takes over 3 hours to arrive at Pattaya because the train must stop at many stations.

Besides, the train is less comfortable as it is not equipped with air conditioning. But if you go to Pattaya at the weekend, you can book a fully air-conditioned rapid train. The train ticket costs around THB 30 - 170.

If you want to experience the picturesque view of the Thai countryside, you may be curious about how to get from Bangkok to Pattaya by train.

You can purchase the ticket in person at Hualamphong Station. Unfortunately, an online booking service is not available.

Taking a taxi is the most comfortable option for those prioritising convenience and speed. Taxis are readily available throughout Bangkok.

Bangkok to Pattaya taxi fares vary by distance. They usually cost THB 1700 to THB 2500. Although this option may be more expensive, the comfort and convenience of this transportation can be worth the investment, especially for families or travellers with luggage.

4. By Shared Transfer

It is also known as minivans or shuttle services. Many agencies operate this service from various locations in Bangkok.

The pickup points can be from airports, hotels, or bus stations. The journey by minivan takes 2 to 3 hours. It is generally faster than buses even though it has several stops along the way.

The shared transfer price is slightly higher than bus tickets but still affordable. It ranges from THB 200 to THB 300 per person.

The Sanctuary of Truth Ticket in Pattaya

5. By Car Rental

How do you get from Bangkok to Pattaya and back quickly? Renting a car is another convenient way to commute to Pattaya's coastal region. Luckily, car rental services are easily found throughout the city.

The vehicle options range from economy to luxury cars. The rental costs vary depending on the models and rental duration. Usually, the price starts from THB 880 per day.

But, you should consider other expenses such as fuel and parking fees. Ensure you have a valid International Driving License and know the local traffic rules.

How far from Bangkok to Pattaya by car? The distance is around 150 km, and it takes 2 hours to arrive at the destination. Route 7 is recommended because it will be faster than Route 331.

After reviewing how to get from Bangkok to Pattaya , you can select the best travel method that suits your needs and financial condition. No matter which option you choose, the journey is straightforward, and you can experience the beauty of Pattaya in no time.

book your flights, snag a comfy accommodation to stay, and line up some fun things to do with Traveloka. Only Traveloka offers the best deals, so you know you’re getting top value every time. Get everything ready in one go, and you’ll be set to dive into your new life in no time!

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IMAGES

How to Easily Get From Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Discover the Beauty of Thailand: Train Journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
TRAIN FROM BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI 2023 Travel Guide
Sleeper Train #13: Bangkok to Chiang Mai Train Guide
Taking The Sleeper Train From Bangkok To Chiang Mai
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VIDEO

Bangkok to Chiang Mai ( Night Train/Sleep Train )
Tailandia en 15 días. Two weeks travel// Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi
Thailand & The Islands (EF Ultimate Break)
Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train
Bangkok to Chiang Mai Day Train 2022
방콕에서 치앙마이까지 15시간 동안의 기차 여행

COMMENTS

Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Train times from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. There are currently 5 direct trains per day from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. The fastest train is Train #7 departing at 09:05, which is scheduled to complete the journey in 10 hours 25 minutes. The best overnight train is Train #9 departing at 18:40, which is scheduled to arrive 12 hours 35 minutes later at 07:15.
The New Bangkok To Chiang Mai Overnight Sleeper Train
If you are taking the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Train No.9 leaves Bangkok Train Station (Hua Lamphung Station) at 6.10pm and arrives in Chiang Mai at 7.15am. And for the train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, Train No.10 leaves Chiang Mai Train Station at 6.00pm and arrives in Bangkok at 6.50am. Both trains are available daily. Please arrive at the train station 30 minutes before departure ...
Trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai from THB 278 Sep 2024
Bangkok to Chiang Mai Train Schedule; Transport Name Route Time Price; Jed Yord SUV 4pax : Any time: ฿ 22,451: Thai AirAsia Economy #FD3416: 05:10 - 06:20: ฿ 1,550: Nok Air Economy #DD120: 06:30 - 07:40: ฿ 2,129: ... Travel time from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is estimated to be about 10h 10m. Trains ensure the fastest time to travel by land.
Train travel in Thailand
It's comfortable, safe, cheap, environmentally friendly, and unlike flying it's a genuine Thai experience. Ride the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or take train+ferry or train+bus from Bangkok to Ko Samui, Phuket or Krabi. You can travel Bangkok-Vientiane, Bangkok-Cambodia or Bangkok-Penang-Kuala Lumpur-Singapore by train, too. The 1,200-mile ...
Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Bangkok Busline operates a bus from Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal to Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 every 4 hours. Tickets cost $18-30 and the journey takes 9h 30m. Three other operators also service this route. Alternatively, State Railway of Thailand operates a train from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Chiang Mai 5 times a day.
Train Bangkok to Chiang Mai from ฿217
The average train between Bangkok and Chiang Mai takes 12h 21m and the fastest train takes 10h 25m. The train service runs several times per day from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays; use the search form on this page to search for a specific travel date.
3 Ways to Buy Tickets for the Chiang Mai Train From Bangkok
The journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai via railway is 435 miles. The newer sleeper train (#9) takes 12-13 hours.The fastest train (#7) travels during the day and only takes 10.5 hours.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train
It is the most popular train route. Chiang Mai is one of the top attractions that tourists visit. From Bangkok to Chiang Mai, the distance is 693 kilometers. It takes about 11-14 hours by train. Tickets for this route are booked quickly. we recommend booking your train ticket in advance. Ticket booking is available 30 days in advance.
Train Bangkok (Station) to Chiang Mai from ฿245
Chiang Mai. The average train between Bangkok (Station) and Chiang Mai takes 12h 47m and the fastest train takes 10h 46m. The train service runs several times per day from Bangkok (Station) to Chiang Mai. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays; use the search form on this page to search for a specific travel date.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train
Overall a fun experience and a great way to travel. Train #9 2nd Class Sleeper AC, Thai Railways (การรถไฟแห่งประเทศไทย), Jul 15, 2024. CL. ... Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a decent alternative to bus or air travel. Travelling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train is easy, safe, and convenient. There ...
Bangkok To Chiang Mai: Bus, Train, Or Fly?
Another comfortable option when wondering how to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. There are essentially two different bus options, either the government bus or the 'VIP' / deluxe bus. Tickets will range from $15.00 - $25.00 / 500 - 800 baht depending on the type of bus booked and the travel agency it is booked through.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train
With such a large volume of travel between Bangkok and Chiang Mai there needs to be a faster service. The distance between the two cites is 754.4 KM, and depending on the train you get the journey time varies from 10h 35m to 14h 40m. That makes an average speed of 51 to 71 km/h.
Special Express No. 9: Bangkok to Chiang Mai
This is Special Express No. 9 sleeper train that goes from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.It leaves Krung Thep Aphiwat at 6:40 p.m. and arrives in Chiang Mai at 7:15 a.m. the next morning. It uses the newer CNR sleeper carriages and so is slightly more expensive than the Special Express No. 13 train that leaves an hour and a half later. Dining car services have now resumed on this train.
How To Travel From Bangkok To Chiang Mai: Best Ways ...
Train travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai offers several advantages. Comfort: Train travel provides spacious seating and sleeping options. Passengers can stretch out and move around, unlike cramped bus or airplane seats. Many trains offer sleeper cars with beds for overnight journeys, enhancing the travel experience. ...
BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI by TRAIN or BUS: Schedule and Fares
At Hua Lamphong Station, you have a choice to ride a daytime train or an overnight sleeper train. The journey to Chiang Mai takes 11 to 16 hours, depending on what train you're taking. The daytime seat-only express Train #7 takes 11 hours, leaving Bangkok at 8:30am and arrives at 7:30pm. Fare is around ฿890 (USD27.32, PHP1460).
From Bangkok to Chiang Mai: 3 Best Ways to Get There
The cheapest way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is by bus. Several bus companies make the 10- to 11-hour trip every day from Bangkok's Mo Chit Bus Station to the Arcade main bus station in Chiang Mai. Because most of these companies have websites only in Thai, the easiest way to find a convenient ticket is to book through an online portal ...
Chiang Mai to Bangkok
There are five direct train services per day from Chiang Mai to Bangkok. Fastest Train: Train #8 departing from Chiang Mai at 08:50 is scheduled to complete the journey in 10 hours 05 minutes making it the fastest service on this route. Slowest Train: The slowest service is the 06:30 departure on Train #102 which takes a tedious additional 4 ...
Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai Timetable 2024 Ticket Price
The train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai departs five times a day from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bang Sue Grand Station), taking between 10.5 and 14 hours to travel the 744 km distance, with tickets costing from 230 Baht for a 3rd Class seat to 1,646 Baht for a 1st Class sleeping berth on a Special Express service.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai (Station)
Tickets cost $16-25 and the journey takes 10h 10m. Bangkok Busline also services this route every 4 hours. Alternatively, State Railway of Thailand operates a train from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Chiang Mai 5 times a day. Tickets cost $6-50 and the journey takes 10h 25m. Airlines.
LARGEST
Train Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Info about Train Prices, Train Schedule and Timetables - Compare & Book Train Ticket Online at Easybook Thailand! ... Chiang Mai, Thailand Bangkok, Thailand 20 August 2024, Tue. Remove Return. X Choose Seats/Berths for Departing Trip.
Train Journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai: Great Stops & Highlights
1. Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya, or the ancient city of Thailand, is surely a sight to behold. From Bangkok to Ayutthaya, the train journey takes 1 hour 30 mins. If you catch a morning train, you can spend the day in Ayutthaya and continue with a night train to Lopburi. While in Ayutthaya, it's essential that you take a trip down the historical lane ...
How to Get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
How to Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train, Bus, and Plane. In a nutshell, you have three options for getting from Bangkok to Chiang Mai: bus, train, or flight. Choosing the best mode of transport depends on your time-to-budget ratio and your tolerance for discomfort. There are roughly 400 miles to cover between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Train to Chiang Mai. Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Click on the image to see information about all trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, including train times, seat types, facilities on board and ticket prices. About Buying Tickets. Click on the image for more information about buying Thailand train tickets, ticket types, and collection and delivery options for tickets purchased online.
9 Days of Thai Food and Culture from Bangkok to Koh Samui
Itinerary / 11 Days Days 1-3: Explore Bangkok's Temples and Markets Days 4-6: Eat Chiang Mai's Celebrated Food and Meet a Local Hill Tribe Village Days 7-9: Relax on Koh Samui and Take a Cooking Class PLAN YOUR TRIP
How to Get from Bangkok to Pattaya: by Bus, Train, and More
How to get from Bangkok to Pattaya? Discover the easiest way to travel between these cities by bus, train, taxi, van, and car rental here! ... This departing point is located in Sai Tai Mai. The bus runs every 2,5 hours. Unfortunately, there is no late-night trip because the last bus departs at 6.30 PM. The bus fare is THB 108.
Chiang Mai Terminal 3 to Kanchanaburi
There are 7 ways to get from Chiang Mai Terminal 3 to Kanchanaburi by bus, car, plane, or train. Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2rio's travel planner.

The New Bangkok To Chiang Mai Overnight Sleeper Train

The Train Times and Timetables

The FIRST CLASS Train Cabin

The SECOND CLASS Train Cabin

Facilities In The Train

Where To Buy Train Ticket

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A beginner's guide to

Train travel UK & Ireland...

Timetable & fares for popular routes

Map of the Thai train network

Bangkok Airport rail link

How to buy train tickets online

When does booking open?

Option 1, buy online at 12Go.Asia

Option 2, buy at www.baolau.com

Option 4, buy from State Railways of Thailand

How to buy tickets at the station

Buying tickets at Hualamphong

Busy periods

Buy by phone on 1690

Which station in Bangkok? See map

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central station (KTW)

How to reach KTW

Bangkok Hualamphong station

Luggage on Thai trains

Left luggage at stations

Taking a bicycle or motorbike

What are Thai trains like?

1st class sleepers

High-quality 1st class sleepers on trains 9, 10, 23, 24, 25, 26, 31, 32

1st class sleepers other trains

Japanese 1st class sleeper on trains 51, 52.

2nd class sleepers

High-quality 2nd class sleepers on trains 9, 10, 23, 24, 25, 26, 31, 32

Modern air-con 2nd class sleepers

Watch the video: Making up the beds

Non-air-con 2nd class sleepers

Restaurant cars

2nd class seats

2nd class seats on express trains

3rd class seats

Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Bangkok to Nong Khai for Laos

Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani

Bangkok to the Cambodian border

Bangkok to Kanchanaburi

Bangkok to Sukhothai

Bangkok to Chiang Rai

Bangkok to Ayutthaya

Option 1, by local train

Option 2, by express train

Stopping off on the way to Chiang Mai

Bangkok to Samut Songkhram

Bangkok ► Mae Khlong Market

Mae Khlong Market ► Bangkok

Bangkok to Southern Thailand

Bangkok to Ko Tao

How much does it cost?

Bangkok to Ko Samui & Ko Phangan

Option 2, via Seatrans Ferry

Bangkok to Phuket

Bangkok ► Phuket

Phuket ► Bangkok

Bangkok to Krabi

Bangkok ► Krabi

Krabi ► Bangkok

Bangkok to Phi Phi islands

Bangkok to Pattaya