Make the journey part of the adventure by travelling in Thailand by train.
If you fancy getting out of Bangkok for the weekend but would rather not ramp up your carbon footprint getting on a plane or even hopping in a car, then why not explore some of Thailand by train? The rail network may not always run efficiently but it is a great way to explore the country and the journey itself is an exciting experience on its own. Depending on the type of train there may or may not be a buffet cart, but there will be vendors walking the carriages selling snacks and drinks. If you are wanting an air conditioned experience and not just a breeze coming in from the window, be sure to book your seat in advance.
1. Hua Hin.
If it is beach time you are looking for then head to the much loved seaside resort of Hua Hin that is a mecca for Bangkokians at the weekend. Hordes of residents leave in their droves especially over the public holiday. Cue being caught up in traffic and it not being the quick getaway that you had hoped. The train journey operates out of Hualamphong Railway Station travelling south for 229 kilometres. There are varying speed of trains to catch but book ahead if you want to secure a seat on one of the faster trains that takes approximately 3 hours and 20 mins. Upon arrival at Hua Hin you will arrive at the very quaint train station, from which you will easily be able to reach the beach or your hotel.
2. Kanchanaburi.
For those fascinated in the past, start your historic trip to the Death Railway by travelling by train from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi for just THB 100. With lots to see in and around the area, it is advised to get the morning train that departs from Bangkok Thonburi station, or Bangkok Noi, on the West side of the Chao Phraya. Note that there are only two trains that operate daily. From Kanchanaburi you can travel to Hellfire Pass, Wampo Viaduct and Nam Tok. The scenery on the journey is stunning and you will be able to get a real insight into how the Allied prisoners lived their lives as prisoners of war during World War II whilst building death railway by visiting the local attractions and museums.
3. Ayutthaya.
Just 71 kilometres outside of Bangkok is the former capital of Ayutthaya. Littered with stunning ruins this is a great place to explore on a tuk-tuk on by hiring a bike. Close enough to visit as a day trip, depending on the speed of the train, it makes for the ideal escape from the buzzing metropolis. Plus if you are really on a budget you can pick up a third class ticket for just THB 15. But if you don’t have all the time in the world, then you can either get a minivan one way or even catch a cab and join the train Bang Sue to miss out on the slow chug it takes getting out of the capital.
