Ultimate Guide: Train to Chiang Mai & Bus Journeys from Bangkok to the South
Thailand is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, famous for its stunning beaches, ancient temples, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality. Travelers exploring the country often face a common question: What’s the best way to travel between regions?
Two of the most popular long-distance journeys are:
Taking the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai in the north.
Traveling by bus from Bangkok to Southern Thailand, including Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about both journeys, including stations, ticket options, VIP overnight buses, sleeper trains, and insider tips. We’ll also explain why arranging your trip through a Khaosan Travel Agency such as Lampoo Ocean Travel, makes your travel easier, safer, and more convenient.
1. Train Travel in Thailand: Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Why Take the Train?
The train journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic travel experiences. Covering over 700 kilometers, the ride takes between 10 and 14 hours depending on the train type. Many travelers prefer the overnight sleeper service, where you board in Bangkok in the evening and wake up in the lush hills of Northern Thailand.
Trains are more spacious than buses, with beds, restrooms, and dining cars on longer routes. The scenery is spectacular—rolling rice fields, mountains, and small rural towns.
Bangkok Train Stations
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bang Sue Grand Station) – Opened in 2023, this is Bangkok’s new central railway hub, replacing Hua Lamphong for most long-distance services. Modern, air-conditioned, and connected to MRT Blue Line.
Hua Lamphong Railway Station – The historic station still runs some commuter and regional trains, but most Chiang Mai routes now depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat.
Classes of Service
2nd Class Sleeper (Air-Con) – The most popular choice for budget and mid-range travelers. Comfortable bunk beds, with staff converting seats into beds at night. Curtains for privacy.
1st Class Sleeper – Private two-berth cabins with lockable doors, perfect for couples or those seeking extra comfort.
3rd Class Fan Seats – Cheapest but basic; wooden or padded seats without air-conditioning. Recommended only for short journeys.
Special Express Trains – Newer rolling stock, cleaner restrooms, LED information screens, and smoother rides.
Tickets and Booking
While it is possible to buy tickets directly at the station, seats often sell out—especially during weekends and festivals. Travelers staying in Khaosan Road usually prefer booking through a Khaosan Travel Agency like Lampoo Ocean Travel. Benefits include:
Advance reservations without the hassle of queuing at the station.
Hotel pick-up to the station included in some packages.
Clear information in English, with the option of combining train + onward transfers (e.g., to Pai or Chiang Rai).
The Overnight Experience
Most tourists choose an overnight train:
Depart Bangkok around 6:00–10:00 PM.
Dinner available on board (Thai set meals).
Lights dimmed, staff convert seats into beds.
Wake up to mountain scenery near Lamphun and Chiang Mai.
Arrive in Chiang Mai between 7:00–10:00 AM.
It’s a cultural rite of passage—sharing stories with fellow travelers, watching the countryside roll by, and falling asleep to the rhythm of the train.
2. Bus Travel in Thailand: Bangkok to the South
Why Take the Bus?
While trains dominate northern routes, buses are the king of travel to Southern Thailand. Buses are more flexible, frequent, and connect directly to popular islands and beach towns.
From Bangkok to Phuket, Krabi, or Surat Thani, buses are often faster than trains, and VIP buses provide luxury-style comfort at affordable prices.
Bangkok Bus Terminals
Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) – The main hub for buses heading south (Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani, Hat Yai). Located in Taling Chan district.
Ekkamai Bus Terminal – Eastern terminal, mostly for routes to Pattaya, Rayong, and Koh Samet.
Mo Chit Bus Terminal – Northern terminal, for buses to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Isaan.
For travelers staying around Khaosan Road, these terminals can feel far and confusing. Booking through Lampoo Ocean Travel saves time: tickets are issued in advance, and hotel pick-up brings you to the correct terminal or agency bus departure point.
Types of Buses
VIP 24-Seat Bus – Spacious, reclining seats with footrests, air-con, onboard snacks, Wi-Fi, and sometimes entertainment screens.
VIP 32-Seat Bus – Slightly less space but still comfortable, with reclining seats and air-con.
Sleeper Bus (Double Decker) – Fully reclining seats or capsule-style bunks. Depart at night, arrive in the morning.
Standard Bus – Cheapest option, basic comfort. Not recommended for overnight travel.
Popular Southern Routes
Bangkok to Phuket – ~12 hours by overnight VIP bus.
Bangkok to Krabi – ~10–11 hours.
Bangkok to Surat Thani – ~9 hours. Perfect for ferry connections to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao.
Bangkok to Hat Yai – ~13–14 hours. Gateway to Malaysia.
Most VIP buses leave Bangkok in the evening and arrive in the morning—similar to overnight trains.
Combined Bus + Ferry Tickets
One of the biggest advantages of booking through a Khaosan Travel Agency is combined bus and ferry tickets. For example:
Bangkok → Surat Thani (bus) → Donsak Pier (ferry) → Koh Samui/Koh Phangan/Koh Tao
Luggage handled seamlessly, no need to buy separate ferry tickets.
Lampoo Ocean Travel offers these packages with confirmed seats and guaranteed connections.
3. Khaosan Road: Bangkok’s Travel Hub
For decades, Khaosan Road has been the backpacker center of Thailand. Packed with hostels, street food, bars, and travel shops, it’s also the starting point for journeys across the country.
Why Book Tours Here?
Agencies speak English, understand international traveler needs.
Flexible ticket changes.
Affordable prices and clear itineraries.
Central location, walking distance from Rambuttri Road, Banglamphu, and the Chao Phraya River.
Among the many agencies, Lampoo Ocean Travel is highly trusted, offering not just tickets but also full service: hotel pick-up, organized transfers, and emergency assistance.
4. Why Choose Lampoo Ocean Travel?
Traveling across Thailand independently can be confusing. Stations are large, tickets sell out, and English signage isn’t always clear. Lampoo Ocean Travel, located between Khaosan Road and Rambuttri Road, solves these problems:
Professional Service – Over 20 years of experience serving international tourists.
Door-to-Door Pick-Up – Avoid taxi scams or getting lost at unfamiliar stations.
Best Price Guarantee – Transparent, competitive pricing.
Flexible Itineraries – Combine train, bus, and ferry tickets in one booking.
Multi-Language Support – English and Thai-speaking staff.
Whether you’re heading north to Chiang Mai or south to Koh Samui, booking through a reliable Khaosan Travel Agency ensures a smooth journey.
5. Sample Itineraries
Train to Chiang Mai (2 Days, 1 Night on Train)
Day 1: Evening departure from Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal. Overnight on sleeper train.
Day 2: Morning arrival in Chiang Mai. Optional transfer to Pai or Chiang Rai.
Bus + Ferry to Koh Samui (Overnight)
Evening: Hotel pick-up near Khaosan Road → overnight VIP bus to Surat Thani.
Morning: Transfer to Donsak Pier → ferry to Koh Samui.
Late Morning: Arrival at Nathon Pier, Koh Samui.
Phuket Express Bus
Evening: Depart Bangkok Southern Terminal by VIP sleeper bus.
Morning: Arrive in Phuket Town, with transfer options to Patong or Kata Beach.
6. Travel Tips
Book Early – Trains and VIP buses sell out quickly, especially during Songkran (April) and New Year.
Bring Snacks – Food is served onboard, but having extra snacks and water is useful.
Pack Light – Storage is limited on buses and sleeper trains.
Charge Devices – Some buses offer USB ports, but not always reliable.
Be Prepared for Delays – Trains in Thailand are scenic but not always punctual.
7. Conclusion
Traveling around Thailand is an adventure in itself. The train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai offers breathtaking scenery and the charm of overnight rail travel. Meanwhile, VIP buses from Bangkok to the South provide comfort, convenience, and direct links to islands and beaches.
For those staying near Khaosan Road, the simplest solution is to book with a trusted Khaosan Travel Agency. Lampoo Ocean Travel stands out with professional service, clear itineraries, and door-to-door convenience. Whether you dream of sipping coffee in Chiang Mai’s Old Town, snorkeling in Koh Tao, or enjoying the beaches of Phuket, your journey begins with the right ticket.