Train from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi: Online Booking, Schedules, and Routes
Skip the Bus, Take the Scenic Rail: Travel smarter from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi with SiamTickets and choose the charm and scenery of train travel.
Looking for an authentic Thai travel experience? The train offers a refreshing alternative – a scenic journey that takes you directly to historic Kanchanaburi, home to the famous River Kwai Bridge and captivating World War II history.
Pro-tip for experience-seeking travelers: Buses might be more frequent, but they miss the stunning landscapes and local character of rail travel. Embrace the train’s leisurely pace! Opt for a comfortable 3rd class seat on Train #257 or #259 and enjoy a relaxed, scenic journey while immersing yourself in local Thai culture.
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Contents
Train Schedule & Fares
Thon Buri Railway Station is the starting point for this journey, located on the western side of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. It offers ticket counters, food stalls, and restrooms—easily reached by taxi or public transport. Once you’re onboard, expect travel times of 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the train. Refer to the table below for a quick overview of each train number, schedule, and seat options.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi
| Time & Duration | Train Info |
|---|---|
| 07:45 – 10:25, ~2h 40m | #257, Seat: 3rd Class Fan |
| 13:55 – 16:24, ~2h 29m | #259, Seat: 3rd Class Fan |
Detailed Journey (Train #257)
Kanchanaburi to Bangkok
| Time & Duration | Train Info |
|---|---|
| 07:05 – 09:35, ~2h 30m | #260, Seat: 3rd Class Fan |
| 14:43 – 17:40, ~2h 57m | #258, Seat: 3rd Class Fan |
Seat Classes
The trains on this route offer 3rd Class Fan Seats, providing an authentic Thai railway experience. The fare for foreign travelers is a fixed 100 THB per person.
Ordinary Trains (#257, #259)
- Basic wooden or padded bench seating
- Ceiling fans & open windows for natural ventilation
- Authentic local travel experience
- Scenic views through open windows (great for photography)
Fixed price of THB 100 for foreign travelers
- Arrive early to secure the best seats, as they’re not assigned.
- Window seats offer the best views of passing scenery.
- 3rd Class carriages are more comfortable from Nov–Feb (cooler weather).
Luggage & Policies
| Policy Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard Luggage | 1 carry-on + 1 suitcase (max ~20kg) |
| Child Policy | Under 3 yrs (below 100cm): Free, no seat; Ages 3–11: Half fare |
| Ticket Purchase | Available on the day of travel at the departure station |
| Boarding Requirements | Foreign travelers must show ID/passport. Arrive at least 30 mins early |
| Not Allowed | Pets, smoking, strong-smelling food, flammable items |
Food & Onboard Services
Food is an integral part of the Thai train experience. Throughout your journey, you’ll encounter various food options that add to the cultural immersion of train travel in Thailand.
Dining Options
Station Food Highlights
- Thon Buri Station: Traditional Thai breakfast items such as jok (rice porridge) and patongo (deep-fried dough).
- Nakhon Pathom Station: Local specialties such as Khao Lam (sticky rice in bamboo) and fresh sugarcane juice.
- Throughout the journey: Vendors board with grilled meats, sticky rice, fresh fruits, and various beverages.
Onboard Essentials
- Basic toilet facilities in most carriages
- Train staff available throughout the journey
- No Wi-Fi onboard; bring a local SIM for data
- Cash transactions only (small denominations recommended)
Kanchanaburi Highlights
Kanchanaburi offers a wealth of historical sites and natural beauty. The railway station is conveniently located near several attractions:
Key Attractions in Kanchanaburi
- 15-minute walk from station
- Iconic WWII memorial site
- Pleasant riverside setting
- 20-minute walk from station
- WWII history and artifacts
- Built like POW quarters
- Near the railway station
- Fresh local produce and crafts
- Authentic Thai street food
FAQ
Tickets are available for purchase on the day of travel at Thon Buri Railway Station. For foreign travelers, the fare is a fixed 100 THB per person.
Under 3 yrs (below 100cm): Free, no seat. Ages 3–11: Half fare with their own seat. 12+ or 150cm+: full adult fare.
No, seating is first-come, first-served. Arrive early to secure the best seats, particularly by the windows for the best views.
Foreign travelers must show a valid ID/passport. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to purchase tickets and find your platform.
No, Wi-Fi is not provided. Bring a local SIM or portable hotspot for internet access during your journey.
It’s approximately 130 kilometers by rail. Travel times range from 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on which train you choose.
Best Times to Travel
Consider weather and crowd levels when planning your train journey.
Comfortable daytime journeys with mild weather.
- 15–28°C (59–82°F), low humidity
- Peak tourism season—more crowded trains
- Perfect for open-window travel
Lush scenery and fewer crowds.
- 23–33°C (73–91°F), occasional rain
- Less crowded trains, vibrant green landscapes
- Refreshing rain showers (bring rainwear)
For the most comfortable experience, take the morning Train #257 during the cool season (Nov-Feb). The cooler temperatures and golden morning light make for a perfect journey with spectacular photo opportunities.
Recommended Itineraries
- 07:00: Arrive at Thon Buri Station
- 07:45: Board Train #257 to Kanchanaburi
- Enjoy breakfast from platform vendors
- 10:25: Arrive in Kanchanaburi
- Visit the Bridge Over River Kwai
- Explore the JEATH War Museum
- Lunch at riverside restaurants
- 14:15: Return to Kanchanaburi Station
- 14:43: Board Train #258 back to Bangkok
- 17:40: Arrive at Thon Buri Station
Sit on the right side of the train (facing forward) on the way to Kanchanaburi for the best views.
- 13:30: Arrive at Thon Buri Station
- 13:55: Board Train #259 to Kanchanaburi
- 16:24: Arrive in Kanchanaburi
- Evening: Bridge Over River Kwai, riverside dining
- Morning: JEATH War Museum, Death Railway Museum
- Lunch: Local Thai restaurant in town
- 14:15: Return to Kanchanaburi Station
- 14:43: Board Train #258 back to Bangkok
- 17:40: Arrive at Thon Buri Station
Book accommodation near the river for beautiful sunset views of the Bridge Over River Kwai.
- 13:30: Arrive at Thon Buri Station
- 13:55: Board Train #259 to Kanchanaburi
- 16:24: Arrive in Kanchanaburi
- Evening: Check-in, explore town center
- Morning: Bridge Over River Kwai, JEATH War Museum
- Afternoon: Erawan Waterfall tour (arranged from town)
- Evening: Night market and riverside dining
- Morning: Hellfire Pass Memorial (if time permits)
- Lunch: Quick meal near station
- 14:15: Return to Kanchanaburi Station
- 14:43: Board Train #258 back to Bangkok
- 17:40: Arrive at Thon Buri Station
Consider hiring a local guide for Day 2 to maximize your experience at historical sites.
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