Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train
The scenic train ride from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is where your backpack adventure in Thailand really kicks off. By taking the night train to Chiang Mai, you will save on accommodation and get into the traveling vibe. For me, waking up and looking out of the window to see rice paddies, mountains and jungle were among the best experiences I had in Thailand.
How to book your train ticket to Chiang Mai
Backpacking in Thailand doesn't need a lot of planning, and most activities and transportation you can book a few days in advance. The train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is different, though. It is such a popular travel option that tickets will be sold out sometimes weeks in advance. We recommend booking your ticket for the night train using our partner, 12GO. You can book your train ticket online and pick them up at one of the conveniently located pickup points in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. This way, you avoid spending your first days in Bangkok looking for train tickets at the overpriced and dodgy travel agents around Khao San Road. Check out the schedule below to see the various departure times and prices.
What to do when the train to Chiang Mai is full?
In case there are no available train tickets on the dates you would like to travel, then there are other options to reach Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai has a large airport close to the city, and flights from the two airports in Bangkok, Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang, are regular and cheap. The flights take one hour, making it the fastest and most comfortable, but the least adventurous option. You can check for flights using the schedule below.
Another option is to take the bus. There are several comfortable buses on the route between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Our favorite bus companies are Sombat VIP20 and NCA Bus. Not only are the buses cheaper than the train, but they are also faster. When you are using a travel agent to book a bus ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or the other way around, demand that they book you on the companies' buses mentioned above. You can also book your bus tickets conveniently online to avoid any hassle. Check the options using the online bus schedule below.
The time-table and prices for the various trains from Chiang Mai to Bangkok
First, second, or third-class ticket?
What is the difference between first, second, and third-class tickets?
The first class will offer you more privacy because you will get a private cabin for two persons. For females traveling alone in first class, please mention your gender when booking a train ticket online. The railway company will make sure that you will share your cabin with another female. The first-class cabin has a sink, but toilets and showers are shared with the other first-class passengers in the carriage.
The second class is my favorite option as it will give you enough privacy, but you will still have the opportunity to meet other travelers in your carriage. You start the train ride in comfortable seats, made into lower and upper berths around 9 pm by the friendly staff. You can close your curtain for privacy, similar to a bunk bed in most hostel dorm rooms. Both first and second-class options come with clean linen and air-conditioning. Thais love their air-conditioning to be on freezing mode, so don't forget to bring a jacket and long pants. There are toilet and shower facilities in the second-class carriages, which are clean at the beginning of the journey but will not be so clean anymore in the morning. Our tip is to shower before bedtime and take the morning shower at your hotel in Chiang Mai.
The night train at 6:10 pm offers a 'ladies only' second class carriage. Check for tickets HERE.
Food and drinks (no alcohol) are available, but a bit pricey so if you are on a budget, please stock up at a 7-eleven before the journey. Alcohol and smoking are not allowed in the trains.
Third class tickets are only available to buy at the train station and offer the cheapest possible way to get to Chiang Mai. The third-class carriage doesn't have beds, but benches that you share with up to three people. If you are on a budget or looking to have a real, local experience, then this is the way to go, but be aware that it will not be comfortable. Third-class carriages have drinks and food available for sale, and there are toilet facilities, but no air-conditioning.
Insider Tips
If you are looking to meet other travelers and want some sleep and privacy, book the second-class.
The air-conditioning is freezing, bring warm clothes!
Take the 10 pm train from Bangkok to be able to enjoy the countryside scenery by daylight in the morning. You will arrive in Chiang Mai at around 1 pm, so you don't have to wait for your hotel's check-in time.
Book your train tickets ahead to avoid disappointment and to be able to choose your preferred seat. (Lower or upper berth) You can book online by clicking HERE.
Bring your own drinks and food to save money. Alcohol is not allowed.
Trains are a very safe mode of transport in Thailand, and theft is rare. To avoid any problems, we do recommend keeping your valuables with you at all times. You can store your backpack safely at the carriage entrance.
Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. We’d love to help you! :)