Bangkok to Chiang Mai by sleeper train
Every train, every fare, and which berth to book.
The overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of Thailand's classic journeys and a smart budget move: you travel about 750 km and save a night's accommodation. A 2nd class lower berth costs ฿758–1,038 depending on the train.
Trains and fares
| Train | Departs–arrives | 2nd class AC berth (upper / lower) | Other classes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train 7 Special Express | 07:30–17:50 | – | Seat ฿558 |
| Train 109 Rapid | 14:15–04:00 | ฿688 / ฿758 | Seat ฿388 · 3rd ฿230 |
| Train 9 Special Express | 18:40–07:15 | ฿938 / ฿1,038 | 1st class ฿1,446 / ฿1,646 |
| Train 13 Special Express | 20:05–08:45 | ฿768 / ฿838 | 1st class ฿1,246 / ฿1,446 |
| Train 51 Express | 22:30–11:40 | ฿728 / ฿798 | Seat ฿428 · 3rd ฿270 |
Fares and times from Train36, based on the State Railway of Thailand timetable. Online prices can differ slightly.
Which train to take
- Best overall: train 9 or 13. Evening departure, morning arrival, newer sleeper carriages.
- Cheapest berth: train 109. But it arrives at 4am.
- Daytime views: train 7. Seats only, through the hills in daylight.
Upper or lower berth?
Lower berths are wider, have a window and cost about ฿70–100 more. They sell out first. Upper berths are fine for one night and are the cheapest bed on the train.
How to book
Trains leave from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bang Sue Grand Station), not the old Hua Lamphong station. Tickets are cheapest at the station counters. Online booking is easier when you are not in Bangkok yet, and booking ahead is wise in high season and around holidays.
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Bus or flight instead?
| Option | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeper train, 2nd class berth | ฿688–1,038 | Saves a hotel night |
| Bus | ฿400–800 | Cheapest, less comfortable |
| Flight | varies | Fastest; add airport transfers |
Partner links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.
Questions people ask
How much is the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
A 2nd class AC sleeper berth costs ฿688–1,038 depending on the train and upper or lower berth. 3rd class seats start at ฿230.
How long is the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
About 10 to 14 hours depending on the train. Overnight trains leave in the evening and arrive the next morning.
Which station does the Chiang Mai train leave from?
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bang Sue Grand Station).
Is the sleeper train to Chiang Mai worth it?
Yes for most budget travellers: it is comfortable, scenic in the morning and saves a night's accommodation.