S1 E32 | First Thai Train Ride – Bangkok to Chiang Mai Overnight sleeper Journey
Leaving Bangkok felt bittersweet. After days of exploring the city’s street food stalls, temples, and chaos, we checked out of our hostel and headed towards the bus station — hungry but excited for the next leg of our Thailand adventure. This time, it wasn’t a flight or a bus. It was something new for us: our very first Thai train journey – it cost us THB 770 per person.
The local bus ride was an adventure in itself. With no air-conditioning, just open windows, warm breeze, and locals going about their day, it gave us a glimpse of daily Thai life. At the train station, we still had time before departure, so naturally, our noses led us to the rows of street food stalls outside. Plastic chairs, sizzling woks, steaming bowls of noodles — it was the real deal. We ate noodles, adjusted the spice with soy, lime, and chili, and cooled down with a peach tea that didn’t taste very peachy but felt perfect in the Thai heat.
Boarding the second-class sleeper train was both confusing and fascinating. Wide seats during the day transformed into bunk beds at night. Pro tip for fellow travelers: the lower berth was wider and more comfortable, though slightly more expensive than the upper berth. We had booked our tickets directly on the official Thai Railway website, avoiding agents and extra commissions. It was quick, easy, and accepted international cards — something every traveler should know.
As the train rolled out of Bangkok, we settled into our bunks. Compared to the buses we had taken earlier in Southeast Asia, the train felt more expensive but far more comfortable. The toilets were also surprisingly neat — complete with spray, tissue, and even a view of the rushing tracks below.
By morning, as the train pulled into Chiang Mai, the scenery had completely changed. Lush green fields stretched into misty mountains, and we finally understood why Chiang Mai is called the digital nomad capital of Thailand. With its mix of nature, culture, and community, it already felt different from Bangkok.
We checked into a simple guesthouse for THB 200 (just a fan room — no air conditioning needed in Chiang Mai’s cooler climate) and rented a scooter for the next few days from Cat Motors Chiang Mai. Helmets on, bags strapped, and no fixed itinerary, we were ready to see what Chiang Mai would show us — from the famous weekend night markets to hidden temples.
This overnight Bangkok to Chiang Mai train ride wasn’t just transport; it was part of the adventure. Sitting by the window, sipping our first coffees, and watching Thailand roll by — it was exactly the kind of slow travel moment we had dreamed of when we started this journey.