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Train route through the north of Thailand

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If you have Southeast Asia on your list as a holiday destination, there is no way you can skip over Thailand, the land of smiles. On this Thailand itinerary, you will see Impressive jungles, extensive rice fields, and beautiful beaches create the diverse faces of Thailand which make it one of the most popular travel destinations.

The north of Thailand is especially known for its beautiful nature and culture. Fascinating temples, impressive nature, and one of Thailand’s largest night markets await you on this route.

 

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Where To Buy Tickets: 12GO

Countries Visited: Thailand

Rail Passes: –

Price Range: $

Recommended Days: 10 Days

Riding Hours: Approx. 18 hrs

Distance: 1,069 km

Transportation: Train, Bus

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Bangkok: Thailand’s Largest Metropolis

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, captivates people with its special charm of traditional culture and modern metropolis. Old culture meets modern culture.

With over 400 Buddhist temples (“Wats”), palaces and statues alternate with glamorous shopping centers and traditional markets to make up the pulsating Bangkok streets. In the center of the Grand Palace, you will find a holy temple Wat Phra Kaeo housing the legendary Emerald Buddha.

Also, worth seeing is Wat Traimit, the temple of the Golden Buddha. Good and cheap restaurants can be found in Soi Ram Butri.

Bangkok Hua Lamphong → Ayutthaya Railway Station | Duration: 1:30-1:58 h | Transfers: 0

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From Bangkok, take the train from Hua Lamphong station to Ayutthaya. The journey takes about 1.5 hours and offers a beautiful view of the changing landscape.

Ayutthaya: Thailand’s Former Capital

Ayutthaya, the former capital of the ancient kingdom of Siam, is located 70 km from Bangkok; therefore, is the perfect second stop on your Thailand itinerary.

Ayutthaya is almost entirely surrounded by water, so a ride in one of the popular longtail boats is a wonderful alternative to seeing the city and its cultural treasures.

Awaiting you onshore are the impressive temples and palaces of Wang Luang, the royal palace, Wat Maha That, and the Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the largest and most impressive temple of the city.

Ayutthaya Railway Station → Sukhothai | Duration: 6:23 h | Transfers: 1

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From the Ayutthaya Railway Station, take a train to Phitsanulok then from Phitsanulok station take a bus or taxi to Sukothai. Connections from Ayutthaya to Phitsanulok are offered 4-5 times a day and the bus connects Phitsanulok to Sukothai 3 times a day.

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Sukothai: The Cradle Of Thailand

The biggest attraction of Sukhothai is the historical park which focuses on the origin of Thai architecture and culture. It is 45 sq km of partially rebuilt ruins.

Because of its expansiveness, we recommend renting a bicycle or an electric buggy to visit one or all of the five zones of this impressive park.

On Saturdays, there is a night market where there will be stands and stands of sizzling tasty Thai food to indulge in.

Sukhothai → Chiang Mai | Duration: 7:30-8:30 h | Transfers: 1

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To head to Chiang Mai, first, take the bus from Sukhothai to Phitsanulok and then get on the train there. You have the choice between a day trip or a night trip in the sleeping compartment. There are 4 connections available throughout the day and night.

Chiang Mai: The Rose Of The North

Chiang Mai, with its many river landscapes, green meadows, and impressive mountain ranges, the area is one of the most beautiful regions in Thailand. In addition to 200 different temples to explore, such as the Wat Lok Mo Li.

You can visit an elephant sanctuary. If renting a scooter sounds exciting, a fun alternative activity to beat the heat is to head to the Grand Canyon Water Park, a water obstacle course in an old flooded rock quarry.

In the evening, make sure you don’t miss the Night Bazaar. It’s one of the largest markets in Thailand where you will find everything from art to clothing to souvenirs to countless food options.

Chiang Mai → Chiang Rai | Duration: 3:10 h | Transfers: 0

Unfortunately, there is no train connection from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, therefore the final leg of the journey is by bus. From bus terminal 3, the company Thailand Greenbus offers several connections a day to Chiang Rai.

Chiang Rai: The Golden Triangle

Chiang Rai is the next stop through the north and worth a visit. The small town is situated at about 580 meters above sea level and is picturesquely embedded in the impressive mountain scenery of the Golden Triangle.

The main attraction is the Wat Rong Khun, the famous snow-white temples with a twist of modernity in the main hall, such as peculiar drawings of anything from Spongebob to Elvis Presley to images depicting 9/11.

Next is Singha Park, situated in the heart of the city. It is a place worth visiting and every year in March, this beautifully landscaped park is the venue for the Chiang Rai Balloon Fiesta. Countless colorful hot-air balloons ascend from here to the sky, an unforgettable sight.

*Disclaimer: Due to the fluidity of transportation schedules, the information seen on RailwayHero may not be up to date at the time of readíng. Always double-check with the operator for the latest information.

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