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How To Get To Ayutthaya From Bangkok By Train

Traveling from Bangkok to Ayutthaya by train is a convenient and scenic way to visit Thailand’s ancient capital. The journey, which takes approximately 1.5 hours, offers a comfortable and affordable option for both locals and tourists. Trains depart regularly from Bangkok’s Aphiwat Central Terminal.
Operator: State Railways of Thailand (SRT)
Station: Bang Sue Grand Station
Average Time: 1.5 hours
Average Cost: $4
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Train travel is ideal for:
It isn’t ideal for:
Trains to Ayutthaya depart from two main stations in Bangkok: Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal and Don Mueang Station. Both stations are easily accessible from the city center via taxi or the MRT (Metropolitan Rapid Transit). It’s important to confirm your departure station beforehand to ensure a smooth journey.
The State Railway of Thailand operates multiple trains daily, with both daytime and nighttime services available. The first train to Ayutthaya departs at 6:27 am, and the last train leaves at 11:23 pm. Ticket prices range from $2 to $22, depending on the train type and class of service. Options include third-class seats, which are the most economical, and more comfortable first-class and second-class options for those willing to spend a bit more.
We highly recommend opting for a second-class fan seat, as it offers the best value for your journey. With the train nearly always in motion, you’ll find that an open window and a fan provide ample comfort, making the additional cost for air conditioning unnecessary. The natural breeze combined with the fan ensures a pleasant travel experience without the significant price jump.
Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles. Online booking platforms like 12Go offer a convenient way to secure your tickets and choose your preferred departure time and station. Alternatively, tickets can be bought directly from the ticket counters at the stations if you prefer to purchase them in person.
The trains to Ayutthaya depart from Platform 5. The platform is located upstairs from the seating lounge and is only opened to passengers 20 minutes before departure.
If you purchase your train tickets online, there’s no need to print them out. Simply scan the QR code on your e-ticket at the station, and show your e-ticket to the onboard officer when requested. Train stations are clearly announced as they are passed, ensuring you won’t miss your stop due to translation issues. Additionally, hawkers are permitted to board the train at each station stop to sell water and food, so don’t be surprised if you hear people calling out in Thai as they walk down the aisles.
Upon arriving in Ayutthaya, the train station is conveniently located close to the Ayutthaya Historical Park, the main attraction of the city – it’s roughly a 10 minute drive away. From the station, you can easily hire a tuk-tuk, rent a bicycle or motorbike to start your exploration of the historic ruins and temples. This makes the train a practical and enjoyable way to travel from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, combining efficiency with a touch of adventure.
It’s worth noting that the majority of the historical park opens at 8:00 am and closes by 6:30 pm.
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Thai trains are generally considered safe and reliable, providing a popular means of transportation for both locals and tourists. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) oversees the operation of the country’s train network, which spans thousands of kilometers and connects major cities, towns, and rural areas. Safety and reliability are key priorities for the SRT, and numerous measures are in place to ensure passengers have a comfortable journey.
Thai trains are equipped with essential safety features, including regular maintenance checks and inspections to ensure that the rolling stock is in good condition. The train staff are trained to handle various emergencies and are usually available to assist passengers throughout the journey. Additionally, many trains have onboard security personnel to enhance passenger safety, particularly on overnight and long-distance services. In recent years, efforts have been made to upgrade and modernize the rail infrastructure, including track improvements and the introduction of newer train models.
While the overall safety record of Thai trains is commendable, the reliability aspect can vary. Trains in Thailand are known for occasional delays, which can be attributed to factors such as aging infrastructure, ongoing maintenance work, and natural weather conditions. However, these delays are typically communicated to passengers, and the SRT works to minimize disruptions as much as possible. Despite these occasional delays, the train services remain a dependable option for many travelers, offering a consistent schedule and a wide range of routes.
Located in the Chatuchak district, this major railway hub is easily accessible from various parts of the city. The most common and efficient way to reach the terminal is by taking the MRT (Metropolitan Rapid Transit) Blue Line to the Bang Sue Station, which is directly connected to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal. This ensures a seamless transfer from the MRT to the train terminal.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service, which is a convenient option, especially if you have luggage or are traveling in a group. The terminal is also accessible by several bus routes that pass through the area, specifically: 3, 16, 49, 67, 96, 136, 138, 145, 157, 170, and 536.
Rapid trains are slower compared to express trains, making them a good option for travelers who are not in a hurry and prefer a more leisurely journey. One of the main characteristics of rapid trains is their frequent stops. They stop at most, if not all, stations along the route, which significantly increases the overall travel time. This makes rapid trains ideal for those who are heading to smaller towns or less frequented stations that are not serviced by faster trains. While rapid trains may have basic amenities, they are typically less equipped than express trains. The seating options can range from third-class (non-air-conditioned) to second-class (air-conditioned or fan-cooled), providing various levels of comfort depending on the ticket purchased.
On the other hand, express trains are designed for speed and efficiency, making fewer stops and significantly reducing travel time between major destinations. Express trains have limited stops, usually only at major stations, which makes them ideal for travelers who want to reach their destination quickly without frequent interruptions. This makes express trains a preferred choice for those traveling between large cities or key tourist spots. In terms of comfort and amenities, express trains often offer better options than rapid trains. Passengers can typically choose from first-class, second-class, and sometimes even sleeper car options, with both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned compartments available. The enhanced amenities and fewer stops make the express trains a more comfortable and time-efficient choice for longer journeys.
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Welcome to North of Known! We’re Alan and May, a married couple who have embraced digital nomadism while calling Bangkok, Thailand, our current home base. Over the past 7 years, our shared passion for exploration and adventure has fueled our journey across the globe. Join us as we continue to embark on our nomadic adventures, sharing our insights, discoveries, and travel tales along the way.