Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TRAIN
Thailand's train system connects the four corners of the country and is most con-
venient as an alternative to buses for the long journey north to Chiang Mai or south
to Surat Thani. The train is also ideal for short trips to Ayuthaya and Lopburi from
Bangkok where traffic is a consideration.
The 4500km rail network is operated by the
State Railway of Thailand
(SRT;
1690;
www.railway.co.th
)
and covers four main lines: the northern, southern, north-
eastern and eastern lines. All long-distance trains originate from Bangkok's Hu-
alamphong station.
CLASSES
The SRT operates passenger trains in three classes - 1st, 2nd and 3rd - but each
class varies considerably depending on whether you're on an ordinary, rapid or ex-
press train.
COSTS
Fares are determined on a base price with surcharges added for distance, class
and train type (special express, express, rapid, ordinary). Extra charges are added
if the carriage has air-con and for sleeping berths (either upper or lower).
RESERVATIONS
Advance bookings can be made from one to 60 days before your intended date of
departure. You can make bookings in person from any train station. Train tickets
can also be purchased at travel agencies, which usually add a service charge to the
ticket price. If you are planning long-distance train travel from outside the country,
you should email the
State Railway of Thailand
(passenger-ser@railway.co.th)
at
least two weeks before your journey. You will receive an email confirming the book-
ing. Pick up and pay for tickets an hour before leaving at the scheduled departure
train station.
It is advisable to make advanced bookings for long-distance sleeper trains
between Bangkok and Chiang Mai or from Bangkok to Surat Thani, especially
around Songkran in April and peak tourist-season months of December and Janu-
ary.
For short-distance trips you should purchase your ticket at least a day in advance
for seats (rather than sleepers).
