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 Suratthani 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 Hua Lamphong Railway Station, 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 a ticket office when I am in Thailand. Booking through 12go costs around 250 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.
Collect Your Train Tickets in Bangkok
Once you have booked your tickets through 12go you can pick up them up on the day of travel between 10.00 and 20.00 Monday to Friday and 11.00 to 19.00 on Saturdays and Sundays from the DOB Building which is located on the other side of the road to the main train station building..
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