Unforgettable Journey: Experiencing First Class on the Overnight Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
- Adventuring Lauren
- Jun 13, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 20, 2024
Traveling by train has a certain allure and charm that adds a touch of nostalgia and adventure to your journey. When it comes to exploring Thailand, one of the most iconic train routes is the overnight journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. I adore train travel and when we had the ability to cross "taking an overnight sleeper train" off my bucket list we jumped at the opportunity. The train left Bangkok at 8 pm and we pulled into Chiang Mai around 9 am. The cost per person for our first-class sleeper cabin was around $63 a person. On Thai trains, first class only has two people per cabin unlike Vietnam which has four. So my husband and I had the cabin all to ourselves. Below is some things I hope will help you know if you decide to travel In first class on the overnight train.
Boarding: Bangkok just opened a new train station in January 2023. It is clean, easy to navigate, and has the coldest AC you have ever felt. The only security is walking through a metal detector. There are several food stands including a Dunkin Donut. Be aware that there can be two trains being boarded at the same platform so just watch the screens (they rotate between Thia and English)> We boarded our 8 pm train at 7:30 pm. They scanned your tickets and then we took an escalator to the train. A lovely train worker helped show us to the right train car.
Accommodations: Boarding the train, my husband and I were greeted by the bunked first-class cabin which had a nice sink and an area to store our luggage. The compartment featured comfortable seating that had already been converted into a cozy sleeping berth since it was 8 pm at night, ensuring a good night's rest during the overnight journey. The clean and private cabin offered a peaceful ambiance, allowing me to unwind and fully enjoy the experience after a crazy day in Bangkok. My husband immediately fall asleep and stayed asleep until 7 am the next morning. The ride
Amenities: First-class passengers on the overnight train are treated to an array of amenities that enhanced the overall journey. From bedding and fresh linens to personal reading lights and power outlets for charging electronic devices, every detail they added ensured a comfortable and convenient experience. Additionally, the train offers clean restroom facilities and a shower compartment for refreshing oneself during the journey. To be fair though, the bathroom was a squatty potty (we hadn't been expecting that) and the shower was just over the hole in the train. I nor my husband took part in the shower!
Scenic Landscapes: As the train departed Bangkok and ventured into the countryside, we were treated to a captivating display of Thailand's natural beauty. The lush green fields, rolling hills, and picturesque villages provided a stunning backdrop for the journey as the sunset. The ever-changing landscapes, especially as the train approached the mountainous regions near Chiang Mai, are a sight to behold and an excellent opportunity for photography enthusiasts. Our morning sunrise on the train was beautiful as we pulled into Nothern Thailand and my husband spent a lot of time with his camera out the window getting pictures.
Food: The one place in this journey that did NOT meet expectations. The food was bland and tasteless. My husband really wanted to try the breakfast and it was expensive and not good. The eggs were rubbery and the fruit slightly stale.
I highly recommend stopping at 7-11 and stocking up on snacks and a breakfast scone or muffin before taking this train. The coffee was surprisingly decent though!
Connecting with Fellow Travelers: One of the highlights of the overnight train journey was the opportunity to interact with our fellow travelers. The first-class car provided a convivial atmosphere for sharing stories, exchanging travel tips, and making new friends from around the world. We meet people from Norway, Denmark, and Brazil.
Embarking on the overnight train journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai in first class is an experience that combines comfort, and the timeless charm of train travel. From the well-appointed accommodations to the breathtaking scenery, every aspect of the journey is designed to make it an unforgettable adventure. As you plan your visit to Thailand, consider adding this enchanting train journey to your itinerary, and let the rhythm of the rails and the allure of the landscapes transport you to a world of discovery and wonder
Whole Train Journey:
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