Thailand Train Routes and Railway Map
The railway network in Thailand, managed by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), is one of the most scenic and affordable ways to travel across the country. With over 4,400 kilometers of track, Thailand’s trains connect Bangkok to the north, northeast, east, and south of the country, reaching both domestic and international destinations.
Main Railway Lines in Thailand
Thailand’s railway system is divided into four major lines:
- Northern Line: Bangkok to Chiang Mai via Ayutthaya, Nakhon Sawan, Phitsanulok, Lampang, Lamphun.
- Northeastern Line: Splits into:
- Nong Khai Branch: Via Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, ending at Nong Khai near Laos.
- Ubon Ratchathani Branch: Via Buriram, Surin, Sisaket to Ubon Ratchathani.
- Eastern Line: Includes:
- Ban Phlu Ta Luang Branch: Serves Chon Buri and Pattaya.
- Aranyaprathet Branch: Connects to the Cambodian border via Prachin Buri and Sa Kaeo.
- Southern Line: Extends to Hua Hin, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Hat Yai, and the Malaysian border.
- Kantang Branch: Splits toward Trang.
- Nakhon Si Thammarat Branch: Splits east of Surat Thani.
- Padang Besar Branch: Leads to Malaysia from Hat Yai.
Train Types and Seating Classes
Train services in Thailand are categorized by codes:
- SP (Special Express): Fastest, limited stops.
- EX (Express): Stops at major stations only.
- RP (Rapid): Stops at most stations.
- OR (Ordinary): Stops at all stations.
Classes on board:
- First-class sleeper: Private cabins for 1–2 passengers, air-conditioned.
- Second-class sleeper: Shared compartments, fan or air-conditioned.
- Second-class seat: Soft reclining seats, air-conditioned or fan.
- Third-class seat: Wooden or plastic seats, fan only, cheapest option.
Popular Train Routes in Thailand
1. Bangkok – Chiang Mai
The most famous northern route, popular for overnight travel with sleeper trains. Stops at Ayutthaya, Phitsanulok, Lampang.
Travel time: 11–13 hours
Recommended trains: SP7, SP9, EX51, RP111
2. Bangkok – Nong Khai (via Khon Kaen, Udon Thani)
Connects Bangkok to the Laos border, perfect for cross-border travelers heading to Vientiane.
Travel time: 9–11 hours
Recommended trains: SP25, EX75
3. Bangkok – Ubon Ratchathani
Eastern route via Buriram and Surin to the Lao border near Champasak Province.
Travel time: 10–12 hours
Recommended trains: SP23, EX67
4. Bangkok – Pattaya
Short and convenient route to Thailand’s famous beach city. Trains depart from Hua Lamphong.
Travel time: 2.5–3 hours
Recommended trains: RP997, RP998
5. Bangkok – Surat Thani (gateway to Koh Samui)
Ideal for travelers heading to the islands. Connects with ferry services to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan.
Travel time: 9–11 hours
Recommended trains: SP31, SP39, EX85
6. Bangkok – Hat Yai
Southern route to the economic hub near the Malaysian border. Often used for connections to Malaysia.
Travel time: 13–15 hours
Recommended train: SP31 (Thaksinarath)
International Train Routes
- Thailand – Laos: Bangkok to Vientiane via Nong Khai.
- Thailand – Malaysia: Bangkok to Padang Besar, with connection to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
How to Book Train Tickets in Thailand
- SP Trains: Book up to 90 days in advance.
- EX/RP Trains: Book up to 30 days in advance.
- OR Trains: Book 1 day in advance at stations only.
All tickets can be issued as e-tickets sent via email. You can print the ticket or show it on your phone when boarding.
Need Help Booking?
Website: https://thai-railways.com
Email: support@thai-railways.com
Phone: (+66) 961 818 165
