How to Take an Overnight Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (What to Expect)

2025-09-23 08:16:51
Transportation & Getting Around

Book Ahead!

This is a very popular route, especially the comfortable overnight trains. Book your tickets as far in advance as possible (2-3 weeks, or even months for peak season) via the official State Railway of Thailand (SRT) website or at the station.

Part 1: Before You Go (Booking & Preparation)

Which Train to Choose?

You want one of the overnight trains that leaves Bangkok in the late afternoon/evening and arrives in Chiang Mai the next morning. The best options are the Special Express (ด่วนพิเศษ) trains:

Train #9: Leaves from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (the new main station) around 6:40 PM. Arrives in Chiang Mai around 7:15 AM.
Train #13: Leaves from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal around 8:05 PM. Arrives in Chiang Mai around 9:10 AM.

⚠️ Important: Double-check which Bangkok station your train departs from. Most long-distance trains now use Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (connected to MRT Bang Sue Grand Station), not the historic Hua Lamphong station.

Which Class to Book?

For the overnight journey, you have two main choices:

2nd Class Sleeper (Recommended for most travelers):
- What it is: Open carriages with upper and lower berths that are converted from seats by the attendant in the evening.
- Privacy: Each berth has a curtain.
- Comfort: Includes a thin mattress, sheet, pillow, and blanket. It's surprisingly comfortable.
- Air-Con: Yes, and it can be very cold. Wear warm clothes.
- Best Berth: The Lower Berth is more expensive but offers more space, a larger window, and you don't have to climb a ladder.
1st Class Sleeper (For more privacy):
- What it is: A private, lockable cabin for one or two people.
- Privacy: Complete privacy with a door that locks.
- Comfort: Similar bedding to 2nd class. The cabin has a small sink.
- Note: There are very few 1st class carriages, so they book out extremely fast.

What to Pack in Your Day Bag

Warm Layers: The air-conditioning is powerful. Wear long pants, socks, and a long-sleeve shirt or sweater.
Earplugs and Eye Mask: The train is noisy (tracks, snoring, announcements) and the lights are dimmed but not turned off completely.
Snacks and Water: You can buy food on the train, but it's a good idea to have your own supplies.
Portable Power Bank: While some berths have a socket, it's not guaranteed to work.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, and face wipes. The toilets are basic.
Hand Sanitizer & Toilet Paper: Essential for the train toilets.

Part 2: The Journey - What to Expect Step-by-Step

1. At the Station (Bangkok)

Arrive at least 60-90 minutes before departure.
Find your train on the departure board and go to the correct platform.
Wait on the platform. Your ticket will have your Carriage Number and Seat/Berth Number.

2. Boarding and the Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

You'll board and find your assigned seat. In the evening, the carriage is set up with facing seats and a table.
The train attendant will check your ticket.
A food cart will come through the train selling drinks, snacks, and simple meals like fried rice or chicken. You can also bring your own food.
Toilets: There are two types at the end of each carriage: a Western-style toilet and a Thai-style squat toilet. They are basic but functional. Go before you go to sleep.

3. The "Transformation" (Around 9:00 PM)

This is the magical part. The attendant will efficiently convert the seats into beds.
They will provide you with a clean(ish) fitted sheet, a pillow, and a blanket.
You can retreat behind your curtain and get settled for the night.

4. Overnight

The train rocks and sways, which many people find helps them sleep.
It can be noisy from the track sounds and the train horn.
The train will make several stops during the night, but they are usually brief.

5. Morning (6:00 AM - Arrival)

About an hour before arrival, the attendant will wake everyone up and convert the beds back into seats.
You can brush your teeth and get ready as the sun rises over the northern Thai landscape.
The train often arrives slightly late, so don't plan a super-tight connection.
Once you arrive at Chiang Mai station, you can easily find a taxi, red songthaew, or Grab to your hotel.

What the Toilets are Like

They are located at the ends of the carriages.
They are basic but generally kept clean by the staff, especially at the start of the journey.
As it's a moving train, it can be a bit of a challenge to use. Hold on to the rails!
The flush is a button that releases water directly onto the track.

Pros and Cons of the Overnight Train

Pros

Saves time and the cost of one night’s accommodation.
Unique and memorable experience.
Wake up in the center of Chiang Mai.
Enjoy countryside views in the early morning.
Strong social atmosphere, with opportunities to meet other travelers.

Cons

Can be noisy for light sleepers.
Toilet hygiene may deteriorate as the journey progresses.
Not as fast as flying.
Requires advance planning to secure a good berth.
Air-conditioning can be very cold.

In summary: The overnight train is a fantastic journey if you approach it as part of the adventure, not just a mode of transport. Book a 2nd class lower berth well in advance, pack for a cold and potentially noisy night, and bring a sense of humor. You'll have a story to tell when you arrive in Chiang Mai!