THailand night-train travel

Discover the convenience and comfort of taking the nighttrain between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, an ideal way to experience Thailand’s scenic landscapes while saving on accommodation and maximizing your travel time.

A modern tablet on a wooden desk, showing a dark brown screen with a white calendar for the upcoming three days. In the ca...

When considering night train travel in Thailand, several routes stand out as popular choices for both locals and tourists, primarily due to their convenience for long distances and connections to key destinations. All these major routes typically originate or terminate in Bangkok, which serves as the central hub for the Thai railway network.

Night train tickets can be booked on 12go.Asia >

Here are the 4 most popular night train routes in Thailand:

  1. Bangkok to Chiang Mai (Northern Line): This is arguably the most famous and sought-after night train route in Thailand. It connects the bustling capital with the cultural northern city of Chiang Mai, known for its temples, markets, and surrounding natural beauty. Travelers often choose this route to save on a night’s accommodation and wake up refreshed in Chiang Mai. There are several services, with Special Express trains #9 and #13 being particularly popular due to their newer carriages and convenient arrival times.

    Typically leaving around 18:10 and 22:00 and departing from Bang Sue Grand Station (Krung Thep Aphiwat).

  1. Bangkok to Surat Thani (Southern Line): This route is a gateway to Thailand’s southern islands, including Koh Samui, Koh Phangan (famous for the Full Moon Party), and Koh Tao. Travelers take the night train to Surat Thani, from where they can easily connect to ferries. It’s a highly popular option for beach-bound tourists looking for an economical and comfortable way to reach the southern provinces.
  2. Bangkok to Hat Yai (Southern Line): Further south along the same line as Surat Thani, Hat Yai is a major commercial hub in Southern Thailand and a key connection point for travel to Malaysia. The night train to Hat Yai is popular for those heading to the Malaysian border or exploring the diverse southern region of Thailand.
  3. Bangkok to Nong Khai (Northeastern Line): This route takes travelers to the northeastern province of Nong Khai, situated on the Mekong River and serving as a popular crossing point into Laos (specifically Vientiane). It’s a favored option for those continuing their journey into Southeast Asia. Sleeper berths are available on dedicated night services, providing a comfortable overnight journey to the Lao border.

Traveling by Nighttrain between Bangkok and Chiang Mai