We went to the train station a bit early to try and get tickets from Bangkok to Chang Mai in the sleeper car, but almost everything was full! Our only option was 3rd class “seats” on the late night train. Since we really needed to get to Chang Mai for a pre-purchased elephant adventure, we decided to give it a try. It only cost 530 baht ($16). With the money we saved, we had some beers at a restaurant across the street while we waited five hours for the late train.

At 10pm, we finally boarded and were surprised to learn that our seats were just bench seats (like you find in a diner but with hardly any padding). So began our 15 hour journey to the north. Luckily, the car wasn’t full so we could spread out a little and attempt to get some sleep. Our train car also didn’t have any climate control except for opening and closing the windows which meant we started off hot and a few hours later we were very cold, making it even more difficult to sleep.

After a very restless night, the sun rose over beautiful mountains. The train clambered its way through passes and over tall bridges. We relaxed in the morning sun and enjoyed the scenery streaming past. Finally after 15 hours, and exactly on time for once, we arrived in Chaing Mai!

Bangkok train station

Bangkok train station

Beginning of the train line - Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Our 3rd class train car

Passing a southbound train

View from train

Will taking in the sights

Rural station

Passing a southbound train

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