Reader’s E-mail:
Thai Railways doesn’t appear to have an internet ticket booking facility. How can I book Thai railway tickets before I come to Thailand. I want to travel on an overnight train from Bangkok to Surat Thani on the same day that I arrive on the plane from the UK. Can I turn up at the train station and just buy a ticket at Bangkok Train station?
Reply from Thailand Info
It is possible to turn up at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok, and book a train ticket for travel on the same day.
Problems with Booking a Train In Thailand On The Day Of Travel
I have done this several times for the overnight journey down to Surat Thani, however, I have always ended up on a ‘Sprinter’ train or in 3rd class on an ‘Express’ train, which means that I got a seat rather than a bed. 2nd and 1st class sleeper seats have always been fully booked when ever I have tried to get one the same day as I plan to travel.
Book a Sleeper Berth
If it were me, I would not much fancy a night trying to sleep in a train seat after taking an overnight flight from Europe. Book a sleeper berth, which is not very expensive compared to prices in Europe, so that you get some sleep.
Buy Thailand Train Tickets Online
A better option would be to book a train ticket for a sleeper seat on an express train service online. You are right Thai Railways does not take online bookings any more – their online booking service was discontinued in 2012. You can though get tickets through an online travel agent service for a small additional charge. I always use 12go to book advance train and bus tickets if I am coming to Thailand and want to guarantee onward travel from Bangkok. I also use them if I can’t be bothered to go to a ticket office when I am in Thailand. Booking through 12go costs around 50 to 100 THB more than booking direct with Thai Railways, but I feel that this is a small price to pay for the hassle and uncertainty it saves you.
Staying Overnight in Surat Thani
Have a good train trip. If you end up having a night in Surat Thani try the Wang Tai Hotel it has great views over the Tapee river and comfortable beds at a reasonable price.
Taxi Boat in Koh Phangan