Train from Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai update: Online Booking, Schedules, and Routes
Skip the Flight, and the Bangkok Detour: Travel directly from Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai by train with The State Railway of Thailand. The overnight journey on Special Express #9 or #13 in a 2nd class AC sleeper combines comfort with convenience, taking you straight to Northern Thailand’s cultural capital.
Enjoy Thailand’s scenic landscapes along the way and book your tickets through SiamTickets for a hassle-free travel experience.
Value your time and your comfort? Book your Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai train tickets here.
Contents
Train Schedule & Fares
Ayutthaya Railway Station is a convenient hub with ticket counters, food stalls, and restrooms—easily reached by tuk-tuk or songthaew from the historic center. Once you’re onboard, expect travel times of 9.5 to 12.5 hours, depending on the train. Refer to the table below for a quick overview of each train number, schedule, and seat options.
| Time & Duration | Train Info | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 09:55 – 19:30, ~9.5h | #7, Seat: 2nd A/C | Fast daytime trip, scenic mountain views |
| 19:44 – 07:15 (+1), ~11.5h | #9, Sleeper: 2nd A/C | Premium overnight rest, dining service, sunrise arrival |
| 21:06 – 08:40 (+1), ~11.5h | #13, Sleeper: 2nd A/C; Seat: 2nd, 3rd | Value overnight comfort, multiple seating options |
| 23:36 – 12:10 (+1), ~12.5h | #51, Sleeper: 2nd A/C; Seat: 2nd, 3rd | Budget-friendly, midday arrival, dining car available |
| 15:19 – 04:05 (+1), ~12.75h | #109, Seat: 2nd, 3rd | Economical option, early morning arrival |
Timeline Example: Train #9
Below is the timeline for Special Express Train #9, one of the most popular overnight services with 2nd-class AC sleeper berths. Times vary by a few minutes depending on seasonal schedules.
Detailed Journey (Train #9)
Seat Classes & Sleeper Options
The State Railway of Thailand provides varying levels of comfort. Here’s a breakdown of Second Class AC Sleeper, Second Class Fan Seat, and Third Class Fan Seat—the most common for this route. Ticket prices can fluctuate based on train type, berth selection (upper/lower), and seasonal surcharges.
Special Express & Express (#9, #13, #51)
- Open-plan carriage with upper & lower berths
- Privacy curtains, clean linens, and pillows
- Personal reading light & adjustable AC vents
- Access to dining service
~THB 1,300 on Train #9 (premium service)
~THB 1,100 on Train #13
~THB 900 on Train #51 (value option)
Special Express & Express (#13, #51, #109)
- Reclining seats with decent legroom
- Ceiling fans and open windows (natural breeze)
- Budget-friendly fare for overnight or daytime travel
- Access to platform food vendors
~THB 540 on Train #13
~THB 490 on Train #51
~THB 440 on Train #109
Almost all trains except #9
- Basic seating (wooden or padded)
- Ceiling fans & open windows
- Lively local atmosphere
- Cheapest option, but limited comfort
~THB 360 on Train #13
~THB 310 on Train #51
~THB 270 on Train #109
- Lower berths cost ~THB 100–150 more but have slightly more room & a window view.
- Book 2-3 months ahead to secure your preferred berth, especially during peak season.
- Fan seats 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 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, strong-smelling food, flammable items |
Food & Onboard Services
Don’t underestimate the culinary aspect of your trip. Whether it’s meals served to your seat in AC sleeper carriages or grabbing freshly grilled street food at station stops, Thai trains transform travel into a foodie adventure.
Dining Options
Dining Options
- Available in AC carriages
- Thai & Western meals (150–200 THB)
- Usually served soon after departure
- Regional specialties at major stops
- Cash recommended, small bills
- Often cheaper & more authentic
- Ayutthaya Station café/stalls
- Nearby 7-Eleven & street vendors
- Pick up snacks for the ride
Station Food Highlights
- Nakhon Sawan (~22:15): Grilled meats, sticky rice
- Phitsanulok (~00:15): Noodle dishes, grilled fish
- Nakhon Lampang (~05:00): Thai coffee, pastries
- Lamphun (~06:50): Sweet longan fruits
Onboard Essentials
- Western-style toilets in most carriages
- Train staff available day & night
- Shared wash basins & sink areas
- Wake-up call service for sleeper passengers
- No Wi-Fi onboard; bring a local SIM for data
Chiang Mai Railway Station
Chiang Mai Railway Station is located about 3 km from the Old City, offering toilets, luggage storage, and various snack shops. Getting into town is easy:
Transportation to Chiang Mai City
- THB 30–40 per person
- Shared ride, multiple stops
- ~15 minutes to Old City
- THB 100–150 per trip
- Faster, personal ride
- ~10 minutes to Old City
- THB 60–100 per ride
- Book via app, AC comfort
- No haggling required
FAQ
Not guaranteed. Book at least 2–3 months in advance for the best chance. Request group seating when purchasing 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.
Show your e-SRT ticket on your phone or printed. Must match name on a valid ID/passport. Arrive at least 30 minutes early.
No, Wi-Fi is not provided. Bring a local SIM or portable hotspot for internet access.
It’s 580 kilometers by rail. Travel times range from 9.5 to 12.5 hours, depending on your train choice.
Best Times to Travel
Consider weather and crowd levels when planning your train journey.
Comfortable overnight journeys and mild weather in Chiang Mai.
- 15–28°C (59–82°F), low humidity
- Peak season—trains fill up quickly
- Best for fan seats (cooler nights)
Lush mountain scenery and fewer crowds.
- 23–33°C (73–91°F), occasional rain
- Better ticket availability, potential discounts
- Incredible green landscapes
If you want daytime views of lush mountains, pick Train #7 in the green season. For a comfortable overnight in cooler temperatures, go for Train #9 during the cool season.
Recommended Itineraries
- Morning: Explore Ayutthaya Historical Park
- Lunch near the train station
- Board Train #9 at 19:44
- Enjoy dinner onboard and a comfortable sleeper
- Wake up to mountainous views
- Arrive in Chiang Mai at 07:15
- Head to your hotel by songthaew or tuk-tuk
- Explore Chiang Mai’s Old City & temples
Choose a lower berth for the best early-morning mountain scenery.
- Board Train #7 at 09:55
- Capture views of rolling hills and farmland
- Arrive Chiang Mai at 19:30
- Spend the evening at the night bazaar
Sit on the left side (facing forward) for panoramic mountain vistas.
Essential Travel Tips
- Arrive at Ayutthaya Station at least 30 minutes before departure.
- Carry small denominations of Thai baht for onboard and platform purchases.
- Bring a light jacket for AC carriages, which can get chilly.
- Store valuables securely, especially if you’re sleeping overnight.
- Expect possible delays during rainy season—schedule flexibility helps.
- Download offline maps or have a local SIM for internet on the go.
- Always double-check platform changes, which can occur last-minute.