Your complete guide to the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Book tickets, compare carriages, check timetables, and get tips for the best overnight rail journey
There’s a certain magic woven into the fabric of overnight train travel in Thailand. It’s the gentle rhythm of the rails beneath you, a lullaby rocking you towards sleep as the city lights fade into darkness. It’s waking to the sun’s rays painting misty northern valleys in hues of gold and rose. In Thailand, the definitive way to capture this timeless romance is aboard Train #9, the flagship Special Express sleeper service linking the vibrant chaos of Bangkok with the cultural heart of Chiang Mai.
Forget the sterile hustle of airports, the cramped confines of budget airline seats, and the blur of the landscape seen only from 30,000 feet. Taking the Bangkok to Chiang Mai sleeper train isn’t just about efficient transport; it’s a conscious choice to slow down, soak in the journey, and arrive feeling refreshed rather than frazzled.
It’s part adventure, part relaxation, and surprisingly comfortable thanks to modern rolling stock. Whether you’re a wide-eyed first-timer visiting Southeast Asia or a seasoned rail enthusiast, this guide covers everything you need for a smooth and memorable overnight journey in 2025.
OK. That’s enough of the flowery, travelogue prose, you’ll be pleased to know that from now on it’s just simple information and facts. :-)
Why Choose the Overnight Sleeper Train?
Swapping a rushed flight for a night trundling through the Thai countryside offers compelling advantages:
- Travel While You Sleep: Departs Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in the evening and arrives directly in Chiang Mai shortly after sunrise, effectively saving you travel time and the cost of a night’s accommodation.
- Modern Comfort: Train #9 (and its southbound counterpart, #10) uses relatively new CNR carriages. Expect effective air-conditioning, clean bedding, functional (and regularly cleaned) toilets, plus power sockets to keep devices charged.
- Scenic Awakening: The real payoff comes in the morning. Watching the landscape transform from central plains to the rolling hills and rice paddies around Lampang as the sun climbs is unforgettable.
- Eco-Conscious Choice: Rail travel generally boasts a significantly smaller carbon footprint per passenger compared to flying.
- The Experience Itself: There’s an undeniable charm to settling into your berth, perhaps sharing smiles with fellow travellers, watching station lights drift past, and being gently rocked to sleep. It’s travel at a human pace.
But what about Train #13 & #14?
Correct, you’ve been doing your research. There is another overnight sleeper option, the slightly later train #13. So why not include it in this article?
If you’re planning to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train, choosing the right service can make all the difference. Train #9 stands out as the best option for tourists thanks to its modern, electric-powered carriages introduced in 2016. These newer trains offer a quieter, smoother ride, with air-conditioned sleeper cabins that are both clean and comfortable. The highlight for many travelers is the first-class option, which includes private compartments and ensuite bathrooms. These are ideal for those seeking a little extra privacy and convenience on the 12-hour journey.
In comparison, Train #13, while slightly cheaper, uses older diesel-powered carriages that can be noisier and less comfortable. It also departs later in the evening and arrives in Chiang Mai around 90 minutes after Train #9, which can cut into your sightseeing time. First-class cabins are not available on Train #13, and some travelers report mixed experiences when it comes to cleanliness and overall comfort.
So, for a more relaxing and enjoyable overnight journey, Train #9 is clearly the better choice. Especially if you value a good night’s sleep and want to arrive in Chiang Mai refreshed and ready to head to your hotel, drop your luggage off and explore the city.
Train #9 & #10 Timetable and Ticket Prices
Consistency is key with these popular services, but always double-check times closer to your travel date.
Note: Prices are indicative and sourced from official channels as of early 2025. They may fluctuate slightly. First Class price often assumes two people sharing a cabin; single occupancy is possible but significantly more expensive.
▶ Pro Tip: Lower berths in Second Class are wider, offer better window views, and are closer to the floor (less sway). They inevitably sell out first, so book your train tickets well in advance!
How to Book Your Bangkok to Chiang Mai Train Ticket
Securing your spot on this popular route requires planning, especially during peak season (November-February) or around Thai holidays.
- Directly with the State Railway of Thailand (SRT):
- Online: Use the official SRT D-Ticket website (dticket.railway.co.th). Tickets are typically released 30 days in advance, though sometimes up to 90 days for popular routes like this one. The interface can sometimes be quirky, but it offers the base price.
- In Person: Visit major train stations in Thailand (like Krung Thep Aphiwat in Bangkok or Chiang Mai station). Bring your passport.
- Through Reputable Online Agents:
- 12Go Asia (12go.com): A popular and user-friendly option for booking transport across Asia. They allow booking further in advance (up to 180 days), handle the SRT system for you, and offer multiple payment methods. Prices include a small booking fee, which many find worthwhile for the convenience.
- Baolau (www.baolau.com): Another reliable agent for South East Asian travel with a similar service model to 12Go Asia. But not yet as popular in Thailand
Booking Strategies:
- Book Early: Cannot stress this enough, especially for lower berths or First Class cabins. Aim for at least 30 days out, more if travelling during peak times.
- Upper Berths Last Longer: If lower berths are gone, don’t despair. Upper berths are slightly narrower and higher up but still comfortable and cheaper.
- Be Flexible: If Train #9 is fully booked, check Train #13 (older carriages, departs later) or consider booking to Lamphun (the stop before Chiang Mai) and catching a short local transfer – sometimes seats open up this way.
Cabin Types & What to Expect Onboard
Train #9 offers two main sleeper classes:
1. First Class Sleeper:
- Layout: Private, lockable two-berth cabins (one upper, one lower bunk). Ideal for couples, families (booking adjacent cabins), or solo travelers wanting complete privacy (though you’ll pay a premium).
- Features: Each cabin has its own washbasin, mirror, power sockets, small table, and large window. Bedding is provided.
- Facilities: Toilets and a shared (sometimes cold) shower room are located at the end of the carriage.
- Service: Attendants may offer wake-up calls and take food/drink orders delivered to your cabin.
2. Second Class Sleeper (Air-Conditioned):
- Layout: The most popular choice. Open-plan carriages lined with pairs of facing seats that convert into bunk beds at night. Heavy curtains provide surprisingly good privacy for each berth.
- The Transformation: Around 8-9 PM, attendants efficiently move through the carriage, expertly converting the seats into beds with clean sheets, a pillow, and a sealed blanket. It’s quite a sight!
- Features: Each berth has a reading light, power socket (often shared between berths), and a small storage net. Luggage usually fits under the lower berth or on overhead racks.
- Facilities: Clean Western-style toilets and washbasin areas are at both ends of the carriage. No showers.
- Atmosphere: More social than First Class initially, quieting down as beds are made. You’ll see a mix of locals and tourists.
Dining Car and Food Options
No need to go hungry on your journey!
- Dining Car: Train #9 usually includes a dedicated dining car serving basic but decent Thai dishes (like fried rice, basil chicken with fried egg) and drinks, including beer (served until around 10 PM). Prices are reasonable. It’s also a good place to stretch your legs.
- Attendant Service: You can often order food from the dining car menu via your carriage attendant, delivered directly to your seat/berth.
- Bring Your Own: Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal has numerous food stalls and convenience stores (like 7-Eleven). Stocking up on snacks, fruit, water, and perhaps breakfast items is a popular and cost-effective strategy.
Highlights of the Journey (Try not to Sleep Through Them All!)
While much of the journey happens under the cover of darkness, key moments punctuate the ride:
- Leaving Bangkok (18:40 onwards): Watch the city sprawl give way to suburbs and then countryside as dusk settles.
- Ayutthaya (~19:45): Shortly after departure, you might glimpse the illuminated ruins of Thailand’s former capital city fleetingly from the train.
- Khun Tan Tunnel (~03:30 – 04:00): Feel the train rumble through Thailand’s longest railway tunnel (1,352 meters), nestled deep in the mountains between Lampang and Lamphun.
- The Golden Hour near Lampang (~05:45 – 06:30): This is the visual reward. If you wake early, you’ll be treated to gorgeous sunrise views over misty mountains, verdant rice fields, and small rural villages. Keep your camera ready!
Arriving in Chiang Mai: Station Guide & Onward Travel
Train #9 is scheduled to arrive at Chiang Mai Railway Station at 07:15, though minor delays are common. The station itself is a charming, manageable size with a distinctive Lanna-style teak roof.
Getting to Your Accommodation:
- Songthaews (Red pick up truck taxis): These ubiquitous shared taxis are usually waiting on the main road outside the station. Expect to pay 40 – 60 Baht per person for a ride to the Old City or Nimman area, depending on your bargaining skills and how many people share.
- Taxis/Grab: Metered taxis are less common directly at the station, but you can easily order a car via the Grab app. Expect fares around 100 – 150 Baht to most central locations.
- Tuk-Tuks: Available but often more expensive than songthaews for similar distances. Agree on the price beforehand.
Station Facilities:
- Left Luggage: If you arrive before check-in, luggage storage is available near the station entrance (usually charges per piece, per hour/day – approx 20 – 50 Baht depending on size/duration).
- Information Desk & Tickets: For onward journeys or queries.
- Toilets: Basic facilities available.
- Food & Drink: A few small shops and food vendors operate in and around the station.
Need Coffee & Breakfast Immediately?
- Café Doi Chang: Located just a 5-minute walk from the station exit, this local coffee house opens early and serves excellent northern Thai coffee – the perfect post-train pick-me-up.
Essential Packing List for the Sleeper Train
Maximise your comfort with these items:
- Eye Mask & Earplugs: Crucial! Carriage lights remain dimmed, not fully off, and ambient noise (snoring, train sounds) is expected.
- Slip-on Shoes/Sandals: Essential for easy trips to the bathroom without fumbling with laces in the night.
- Portable Charger/Power Bank: While sockets are available, they can be awkwardly placed or sometimes faulty. A power bank ensures your phone stays juiced. Don’t forget a universal adapter if needed (Thailand uses Type A, B, C, F plugs – Type A & C are most common).
- Offline Entertainment: There’s no Wi-Fi onboard. Download movies, music, podcasts, or e-books beforehand.
- Light Sweater, Hoodie, or Sarong: The air-conditioning can be surprisingly effective (read: chilly), especially on upper berths. Layers are key.
- Wet Wipes & Hand Sanitiser: Always useful for a quick refresh.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated. You can refill at stations or buy bottled water on the train.
- Your Tickets & Passport: Keep them easily accessible for inspection.
Quick FAQs for the Bangkok-Chiang Mai Train
- Can I take a bicycle? Yes, bicycles can usually be transported in the freight car. You’ll need to purchase a separate cargo ticket at the station (expect around 100-200 Baht depending on size/distance) and load it before departure. Check specific regulations when booking.
- Are pets allowed? Generally, no pets are allowed in passenger sleeper cabins. Small animals in secure carriers might sometimes be permitted in the freight car, but policies can be strict and vary. It’s best to assume pets cannot travel in passenger areas.
- What if I need to cancel my ticket? SRT cancellation policies (subject to change):
- More than 24 hours before departure: ~80% refund.
- 3–24 hours before departure: ~50% refund.
- Less than 3 hours before departure: No refund.
- Agent policies (like 12Go) may differ slightly regarding their service fees.
