Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai: Online Booking, Schedules, and Routes
Take the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai along Thailand’s 750 km northern route. Choose daytime seats or overnight sleepers departing from Krung Thep Aphiwat Terminal. The journey passes rice fields and teak forests before arriving in Chiang Mai. Book through SiamTickets for easy seat selection and payment.
Enjoy the changing landscape without airport hassles—no transfers, baggage fees, or early check-ins. Simply unwind as the train carries you through Thailand’s scenic countryside.
Ready for a rail escape north? Book your seats now.
Contents
Train Schedule & Fares
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal is Bangkok’s modern railway hub with ticket counters, food outlets, and clean facilities—readily accessible by MRT subway. Once onboard, plan for travel times of 10 to 14 hours, varying by train service. Check the table below for a quick look at each train option, timetable, and seating choices.
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal
| Time & Duration | Train Info | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 09:05 – 19:30, ~10h 25m | #7, Seat: 2nd A/C | Fast daytime trip, scenic views, meal service |
| 14:15 – 04:05 (+1), ~13h 50m | #109, Sleeper: 2nd Fan; Seat: 2nd Fan | Budget-friendly option, natural ventilation |
| 18:40 – 07:15 (+1), ~12h 35m | #9, Sleeper: 1st A/C, 2nd A/C | Premium overnight service, dining car, morning arrival |
| 20:05 – 08:40 (+1), ~12h 35m | #13, Sleeper: 1st A/C, 2nd A/C | Popular overnight service, quality sleeper cars |
| 22:30 – 12:10 (+1), ~13h 40m | #51, Seat: 2nd Fan, 3rd Fan | Economy night travel, multiple stops |
Sleeper and Seat Classes
From luxurious private cabins to authentic local experiences, find your perfect seat for the spectacular Bangkok to Chiang Mai railway journey:
| Class | Price (THB) | Experience | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Class AC Sleeper | 1,500 | Private 2-berth cabin, lockable, washbasin, AC | Couples, privacy seekers |
| 2nd Class AC Sleeper | 950-1,050 | Open berths, curtains, bedding, AC | Solo travelers, groups |
| 2nd Class Fan Sleeper | 650 | Open berths, fans, bedding | Budget travelers |
| 2nd Class AC Seats | 550-850 | Reclining seats, AC, footrests | Daytime travelers |
| 2nd Class Fan Seats | 525-575 | Padded seats, open windows, fans | Photography, budget |
| 3rd Class Seats | 375 | Basic benches, fans, local vibe | Short trips, locals |
Private 2-berth cabin, lockable, washbasin, AC
Couples, privacy seekers
Open berths, curtains, bedding, AC
Solo travelers, groups
Open berths, fans, bedding
Budget travelers
Reclining seats, AC, footrests
Daytime travelers
Padded seats, open windows, fans
Photography, budget
Basic benches, fans, local vibe
Short trips, locals
1st Class AC Sleeper
Private cabins with two berths, ideal for overnight luxury. Available on trains #9 and #13.
2nd Class AC Sleeper
Popular open-plan berths with AC and curtains. Available on trains #9 and #13.
2nd Class Fan Sleeper
Budget-friendly with natural ventilation. Available on train #109 only.
2nd Class AC Seats
Reclining seats for daytime comfort. Available on train #7 (Special Express).
2nd Class Fan Seats
Classic open-window experience. Available on trains #51 and #109.
3rd Class Seats
Basic and authentic, popular with locals. Available on train #51 (Express).
Timeline Example: Train #9
Train Schedule: Special Express Train #9 is a top-rated overnight service with high-quality sleeper berths. Below is the typical timeline, though times may vary slightly depending on seasonal adjustments.
Detailed Journey (Train #9)
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 Changes | Allowed up to 1 day before departure; ~20–50% fee depending on how many days in advance |
| Boarding Requirements | Show e-SRT ticket (phone or print) + matching ID. Arrive at least 30 mins early |
| Not Allowed | Pets, smoking, alcohol, strong-smelling food, flammable items |
Food & Onboard Services
Food is a highlight of Thai train travel. From full meals served at your seat in AC sleeper cars to sampling local specialties from platform vendors at station stops, your journey north becomes a tasty adventure through Thailand’s regional cuisine.
Dining Options
- Available in AC carriages
- Thai & Western meals (200–250 THB)
- Typically served 1-2 hours after departure
- Local specialties at major stops
- Keep small bills handy
- Budget-friendly and authentic
- Station food court options
- Nearby shops and convenience stores
- Stock up on snacks and drinks
Station Food Highlights
- Ayutthaya (~20:45): Famous boat noodles, sweet roti
- Lopburi (~21:40): Sunflower seeds, seasonal fruits
- Nakhon Sawan (~01:15): Late night noodles, local snacks
- Lampang (~04:30): Morning coffee, steamed buns
Onboard Essentials
- Western-style toilets in all AC carriages
- Staff available throughout the trip
- Shared sink areas in each car
- Morning wake-up call for sleeper passengers
- No Wi-Fi available; bring mobile data
- Power outlets in Train #9 (limited availability)
Chiang Mai Arrival Station
All trains from Bangkok arrive at Chiang Mai Railway Station, located about 3km east of the Old City. The station offers basic facilities including a ticket office, small shops, and restrooms. Getting to your hotel or the Old City is easy with these options:
Transportation from Chiang Mai Station
- THB 30-50 per person
- Red shared pickup trucks
- Most budget-friendly option
- THB 100-150 per ride
- Quick and direct service
- Negotiate price before boarding
- THB 80-150 per ride
- Air-conditioned comfort
- Fixed price via app
FAQ
Not automatically. Book 2–3 months ahead for the best chance at group seating. Make a specific request when booking your tickets.
Under 3 yrs (below 100cm): Free, no seat. Ages 3–11: Half fare with their own seat. 12+ or 150cm+: full adult fare.
Yes, up to 1 day before. Fees vary: ~20% if 3 days before, ~50% if just 1 day prior. Visit any major railway station to process.
Your e-SRT ticket on phone or printed plus matching ID/passport. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
No, Wi-Fi is not available on any trains. Get a local SIM card for internet access during your trip.
The rail distance is about 750 kilometers. Travel times range from 10 to 14 hours, depending on which train you choose.
Summary
The overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai lets you trade the stress of air travel for a relaxing journey through Thailand’s heartland. Here’s what makes rail the smart choice:
- Saves a hotel night while traveling as you sleep
- Delivers you to central Chiang Mai ready to start your day
- Offers options for every budget from THB 375 to THB 1,500
- Includes dining options from restaurant-quality meals to local street food
- Provides an authentic Thai travel experience
Book your tickets through SiamTickets for current schedules, instant confirmation, and helpful travel guides that make planning simple.
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