How much is the overnight express train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, 2017-2018?
If you have been hearing a lot about the new overnight express train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai recently, I’m not surprised.
Not only is it difficult to get tickets on it, as it is so popular, the express train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is fast, affordable and, frankly, fun.
It is also incredibly convenient, as it leaves Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong station at 6:10pm every night and arrives in Chiang Mai at 7:15am the following day (you can check the timetable here for those and other stops along the way).
Yes, a 13 hour and five minute trip, that’s all, and all of it while being able to walk around, relax in comfort and, of course, sleep. And the trains are lovely and clean too!
So, how much is the express train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
It depends on if you decide to travel first or second class, and if you want a top or a bottom bunk.
Here are the prices as of December 20th, 2018:
1st Class tickets — 1,453 baht if you want an upper bunk, or 1,653 baht for a lower bunk
2nd Class tickets — 941 Baht for an upper bunk, and 1,041 for a lower bunk
First class also has free Wi-Fi. If you are traveling 2nd Class, you can get free Wi-Fi in the restaurant.
All carriages are air-conditioned, and most births are 2nd Class — with 200 2nd Class berths, and just 20 1st Class berths. There is also a restaurant car.
Personally, if it was me, I would go for the 1st Class ticket. After all, it’s only an extra 512 baht (about $15) for a 1st Class ticket for an upper bunk, and 612 baht (around $18) more if you want a lower bunk, and you get more privacy plus free Wi-Fi on the entire trip.
You can find out more information about the express train on the State Railway of Thailand’s website. Just remember, you will have to book well in advance, as these tickets are selling very very fast.
Related: Top 10 best cheap restaurants in Chiang Mai, Thailand