Explore Thailand by Train, offering a scenic, comfortable, and eco-friendly way to explore the country.
With its well-connected rail system, train travel is one of the safest and most affordable options for getting around.
Enjoy overnight journeys that let you rest while traveling long distances, or take shorter scenic routes through bustling markets and picturesque villages.
From the cultural charm of Chiang Mai to the breathtaking landscapes of Nong Khai and the Gulf of Thailand, train travel in Thailand provides a unique way to experience local life, natural beauty, and Thailand’s diverse landscapes in comfort.
Popular train journeys in Thailand:
1. Bangkok to Chiang Mai:
The distance between these two cities is about 700 kilometers and it takes 11-12 hours to cover this distance by express train.
It is suggested that you take an overnight train to cover long distances as it will save time traveling as you sleep and save money on an overnight hotel.
You will get huge comfortable seats and a lot of legroom to sit relaxed. These seats can be converted into beds at night so you can sleep well as you approach Chiang Mai.
You will find English-speaking staff inside the train and at the information booths to assist you. You should pre-purchase the ticket before boarding and the ticket checker will check and punch your ticket on the way inside the train.
Mostly, trains arrive and depart on time but, the single-track system sometimes causes delays along the journey.
2. Bangkok to Maeklong:
Another amazing train journey in Thailand takes you from Bangkok to Maeklong, covering a 70 km trip.
The journey consists of two train rides separated by a ferry. As you explore Thailand by train, this route will amaze you as the train passes through the center of the world-famous market, running just inches from the fruits and vegetables displayed along the tracks.
To reach Mahachai, purchase a ticket to Samut Sakhon. The view of the market is jaw-dropping as vendors quickly move their goods to let the train pass.
The journey departs from Wong Wian Yai station in Bangkok and ends an hour later at Samut Sakhon, also called Mankong by locals.
3. Bangkok to Nong Khai:
The distance between Bangkok to Nong Khai is 647 kilometers and trains will take about 9-10 hours.
There are plenty of trains from Bangkok to Nong Khai. This trip is one of the most romantic in all of Southeast Asia.
You will get an amazing view of the vast and verdict plains spanning. On this trip of Explore Thailand by Train, you will get a chance to have a glimpse of plain fields where you will find children playing and chasing each other, the rice paddies and small traditional villages are the most beautiful things to see on this trip.
On the stops along your journey, you will see many local food vendors selling local traditional Thai food at bargain prices.
4. Bangkok to the Gulf of Thailand:
Reaching the Gulf of Thailand and Krabi from Bangkok
To reach the Gulf of Thailand from Bangkok, take a train to Surat Thani or Chumphon, then a ferry. For Krabi, take a train to Surat Thani, then a bus or fly. Ferries are available to explore the islands.
Traveling to Koh Samui from Bangkok
The quickest way to Koh Samui is by flight, with 19 daily departures from Bangkok. Alternatively, take a train or bus to Surat Thani and then ferry to the island. The latter is a more affordable option compared to flying directly.
