Chiang Mai Railway Station is the main train station serving Chiang Mai, Thailandโs cultural capital in the north. As the terminus of the Northern Line from Bangkok, the station plays a crucial role in connecting Chiang Mai with the rest of the country. Whether you’re arriving in Chiang Mai for its stunning temples, vibrant night markets, or scenic mountains, Chiang Mai Railway Station is your entry point to exploring the beauty of northern Thailand.
Timetable
| Train Chiang Mai - Bangkok เธฟ 278–1,796 10h 5m – 13h 40m | |
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| Train Chiang Mai - Phitsanulok เธฟ 225–980 5h 44m – 8h 5m | |
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| Train Chiang Mai - Lamphun เธฟ 65–833 56m – 1h 18m | |
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| Train Chiang Mai - Ayutthaya เธฟ 271–1,888 9h 15m – 12h 44m | |
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| Train Chiang Mai - Nakhon Sawan เธฟ 253–392 10h 29m | |
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| Train Chiang Mai - Uttaradit เธฟ 151–737 4h 39m – 6h 4m | |
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| Train Chiang Mai - Lopburi เธฟ 262–1,286 8h 36m – 11h 35m | |
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| Train Chiang Mai - Pathumthani เธฟ 277–1,131 9h 40m – 13h 25m | |
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| Train Chiang Mai - Phichit เธฟ 235–774 6h 41m – 8h 36m | |
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Overview of Chiang Mai Railway Station
Opened in 1922, Chiang Mai Railway Station has seen several upgrades over the years while retaining its traditional charm. Located about 3 kilometers east of the city center, it serves as the last stop on Thailandโs Northern Line, which begins in Bangkokโs Hua Lamphong Station. The station is designed to handle both locals and tourists, offering comfortable facilities and convenient transport options to the city and surrounding areas.
Key Features of Chiang Mai Railway Station
Direct Connections to Bangkok and Beyond
Chiang Mai Railway Station is the terminus of several daily trains to and from Bangkok, making it a key hub for travelers moving between Thailandโs capital and the northern region. Most trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai are overnight services, offering sleepers and reclining seats, making for a comfortable journey.
- Sleeper Trains: The most popular choice for travelers, sleeper trains offer first- and second-class air-conditioned cabins for an overnight journey.
- Express and Rapid Trains: These daytime and overnight trains provide second-class and third-class seating options for budget-conscious travelers.
- Travel Duration: The train ride from Bangkok to Chiang Mai typically takes around 11 to 14 hours, depending on the service.
Station Facilities and Services
Chiang Mai Railway Station is equipped with basic yet adequate facilities for travelers:
- Ticketing Office: The station has both manned ticket counters and self-service kiosks where you can purchase or pick up pre-booked tickets. English-speaking staff are available to assist tourists.
- Waiting Areas: Spacious seating areas are available for passengers awaiting their trains, offering shelter from the weather and access to nearby services.
- Restaurants and Shops: Small food stalls, snack shops, and convenience stores are located in and around the station. Some local vendors sell refreshments directly on the platform.
- Luggage Storage: Secure luggage storage services are available for travelers who want to explore Chiang Mai before or after their journey.
Train Classes and Services
Trains departing from and arriving at Chiang Mai Railway Station offer a range of seating classes to suit different budgets and preferences:
- First-Class Sleeper: Private, air-conditioned cabins with two bunk beds and personal space for added comfort during overnight journeys.
- Second-Class Sleeper: Air-conditioned cabins with bunk beds, offering a more affordable yet comfortable option for long-distance travel.
- Second-Class Seats: Reclining seats in air-conditioned coaches, ideal for daytime journeys.
- Third-Class Seats: Basic seating in non-air-conditioned coaches, providing the most budget-friendly option for local travelers.
Transportation from Chiang Mai Railway Station
Chiang Mai Railway Station is well-connected to the rest of the city and surrounding areas through various modes of transportation:
- Songthaews (Red Trucks): These shared taxis are the most common and affordable way to travel from the station to Chiang Maiโs city center and other destinations. Just flag one down or negotiate the fare directly with the driver.
- Tuk-Tuks: Tuk-tuks are a quick and easy option for getting to nearby hotels or landmarks. Prices vary depending on distance but should be negotiated before the ride.
- Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Metered taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are also available at the station, providing a more comfortable and direct transfer to your destination.
- Car Rental: Several car rental services operate from the station or can be arranged in advance. Renting a car is ideal for exploring the areas around Chiang Mai, including the mountainous region of Doi Suthep and the Mae Rim district.
Future Development Plans
Chiang Mai Railway Station is set to benefit from future infrastructure improvements as part of Thailandโs broader plan to modernize its rail network. Proposed upgrades include:
- High-Speed Rail: Future plans to extend the BangkokโChiang Mai High-Speed Rail project will significantly reduce travel time between the two cities. Once completed, the travel time could be cut down to around 3 to 4 hours.
- Station Expansion: There are discussions about expanding and upgrading the stationโs facilities to better accommodate the growing number of domestic and international travelers.
Train Services from Chiang Mai Railway Station
Chiang Mai Railway Station offers several daily departures and arrivals, with both daytime and overnight services available:
- Bangkok to Chiang Mai: Daily services including the popular sleeper trains and express services.
- Chiang Mai to Bangkok: Return services from Chiang Mai to Bangkok run throughout the day and night, giving travelers plenty of options.
- Other Routes: In addition to Bangkok, trains from Chiang Mai can also connect to destinations like Lampang, Phitsanulok, and Ayutthaya, allowing for easy exploration of northern and central Thailand.
Popular Train Routes:
- Chiang Mai to Bangkok (Overnight Sleeper): Most travelers opt for the night train, departing in the evening and arriving in Bangkok early the next morning.
- Chiang Mai to Ayutthaya: For those looking to stop at Ayutthaya (the UNESCO-listed ancient capital), there are regular train services that connect the two cities.
How to Get to Chiang Mai Railway Station
Getting to Chiang Mai Railway Station is straightforward due to its location near the city center and its connection to major transport routes:
- By Tuk-Tuk or Songthaew: These local transport options are the quickest and most convenient ways to reach the station from anywhere in Chiang Mai.
- By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service: Taxis and Grab cars are readily available in Chiang Mai, offering a direct route to the station.
- By Bicycle or Motorbike: For adventurous travelers, renting a bicycle or motorbike is a fun and efficient way to reach the station. Bicycle parking is available at the station.
Final Thoughts on Chiang Mai Railway Station
Chiang Mai Railway Station is more than just a transit pointโit’s a gateway to the rich culture and natural beauty of northern Thailand. With its convenient train services connecting travelers to and from Bangkok, Chiang Mai Railway Station is a comfortable and reliable option for exploring Thailand by rail.
For those planning to travel to Chiang Mai by train, be sure to book your tickets in advance, especially for the popular sleeper trains. Use our online search form at the top of the page to compare all travel options and secure your tickets.
