Trains in Thailand

State Railway of Thailand (SRT) runs the national network from Bangkok. Trains are slow but cheap and comfortable, and the overnight sleepers to Chiang Mai and the south are a classic way to travel. Long-distance trains leave from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal.

Main lines and journeys

Northern line

Bangkok to Chiang Mai, about 744 km, with daytime and overnight trains via Ayutthaya, Phitsanulok and Lampang.

Northeastern line

Bangkok to Nong Khai (for Vientiane in Laos) and to Ubon Ratchathani, with a branch to Nakhon Ratchasima.

Southern line

Bangkok to Hat Yai and Padang Besar on the Malaysian border, with branches to Surat Thani, Trang and Sungai Kolok.

Eastern line

Bangkok to Aranyaprathet on the Cambodian border, mainly slow local trains.

Train types and classes

Special Express and Express

The fastest long-distance trains, with sleeper cars on overnight routes.

Rapid and Ordinary

Slower trains that stop more often. Ordinary trains are the cheapest option for short trips.

1st class sleeper

Air-conditioned two-berth compartments, only on selected overnight trains.

2nd class sleeper and seat

The most popular class. Sleeper berths have privacy curtains. Seats are on daytime trains, with air-conditioned and fan cars.

3rd class seat

The lowest fare, mostly on short and local trips.

Travel tips

• Book early for Songkran in April and the New Year period, when sleepers sell out first.
• Check which Bangkok station your train uses: most long-distance trains leave from Krung Thep Aphiwat, not Hua Lamphong.
• Night trains are cold inside because of the air conditioning. Bring a layer.
• Food is sold on board, and restaurant cars serve set meals on many long-distance trains.

Popular routes in Thailand

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Written in October 2026. Services, timetables and fares change, so check the live timetable for your travel date before you book.