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The Overnight Sleeper Train Bangkok to Chiang Mai 2025

BySteffan and Emma 16 January 202516 January 2025 Updated on16 January 2025

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Table of Contents

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  • How to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
  • 🚂Facts about the trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai🚂 
  • Schedule for Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train
    • Train Times from Bangkok to Chiang Mai 
    • How long is the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
    • Which railway station do you board the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
  • How much do the tickets cost for the Overnight Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
    • Tickets for First Class Sleeper Train Bangkok to Chiang Mai
    • Tickets for Second Class sleep train Bangkok to Chiang Mai
  • How to book the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
    • Step One: Where to book your Bangkok to Chiang Mai train tickets? 
    • Step Two: Choose which overnight sleeper train you want to book
    • Step Three: Enter your details and complete your booking
    • Step Four: Check your email confirmation and wait for your tickets
    • Step Five: Collect your tickets and get excited about your trip to Chiang Mai!
    • Which trains and tickets for the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai do we recommend?
  • Facilities on the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (2nd Class Cabins)
    • What is the food like on the Sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai? 
    • The differences between the Upper and Lower berth in the 2nd Class AC Cabin
    • What are the toilets like on the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
    • What to expect in the morning on the Bangkok to Chiang Mai Night Train?
  • What to bring with you on the Bangkok to Chiang Mai Sleeper Train
  • Where to go after Chiang Mai?
    • Heading back to Bangkok?
  • FAQS about the Bangkok to Chiang Mai Sleeper Train
    • How far is it from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train?
    • Which is the best train ride from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
    • Is there a day train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
    • Is the night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai safe? 
    • Does the Bangkok to Chiang Mai train stop? 
  • In conclusion, is it worth taking the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
  • More Thailand Inspiration!

Everything you need to know about the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Covering how to book your tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, what facilities are on board, what you need to take with you and much more!


While many transport options are available, the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of the most popular and for good reason. 

It is comfortable, clean and quiet, along side offering the opportunity to experience a more authentic mode of transport than just catching another flight!

Experiencing a sleeper train in Thailand is also an incredible bucket list experience to tick off when visiting this part of the world!

We have had both good and bad travel day experiences while travelling Asia and the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of our favourite so far!

It was simple to book, we both managed to get a good nights sleep and everything felt very organised and safe.

In this blog you will find out everything you need to know about taking the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and why we think it’s the very best way to make this epic journey! 

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The grey sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai with pink bands across it and the door is open with a small digital sign saying "Train 009 Car 12 Krung Thep Aphi Wat Chiang Mai"

How to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?


Bangkok is brimming with things to do from the bustling street markets to the incredible unique temples.

But if you can tear yourself away from the city, then Chiang Mai and the North are certainly worth a visit. 

Northern Thailand is full of misty mountains, rice terraces and gorgeous temples and in our opinion, should not be missed!

The three main options for tourists to get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok are by plane, bus or train. 

Taking into account the cost of the journey vs both speed and comfort, we believe that the overnight sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai is the best option!

Whilst it may take much longer than flying, most of the hours spent on the night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai are spent sleeping so time does pass very quickly. 

Steffan sat on a red seat on the sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai wearing shorts, t shirt and a baseball cap whilst looking at his phone. There are bags on the seats and a window behind him showing the train station.

The Bangkok to Chiang Mai sleeper train also works out the most cost-effective option taking into account the ticket cost and the fact that you have a night’s accommodation included. 

Lastly, land travel is so much better for the environment and when you love travel as much as we do, we always try and opt for the most eco-friendly mode of transport if we can! 

And if all of that doesn’t convince you then we can wholeheartedly say that the journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai on the overnight sleeper train was one of the most exciting and interesting train rides and overland journeys we have done so far in Asia!

Steffan wearing black shorts and t shirt smiling whilst laying on the bottom berth on the sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai with a window to his right and a cream curtain to his left


🚂Facts about the trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai🚂 


  • The Bangkok to Chiang Mai train journey route is often referred to as the most beautiful and scenic journey in all of Thailand
  • Bangkok to Chiang Mai distance: 700km (435 miles) 
  • The overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of the top five train journeys in the whole of Thailand!
  • The trains to Chiang Mai from Bangkok take 11-14 hours depending on the train you book

A dark brown buddha statue with pieces of gold stuck on it with steps in the background taken at a temple in Chiang Mai
Beautiful Chiang Mai

Schedule for Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train

Five trains depart from Bangkok to Chiang Mai each day and three of those are overnight sleeper trains. 

This makes train travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai incredibly easy to book as there are lots of options available each day.

However, the most popular trains to Chiang Mai to be booked are the sleeper trains 9 and 13 as they arrive early the next day and do not cut into your valuable daylight hours. They are special express trains. 


Train Times from Bangkok to Chiang Mai 


Train #BangkokChiang MaiServiceTrain
79.0519.30Special ExpressDay Train
10914.154.05RapidDay / Night
918.407.15Special ExpressNight Train
1320.058.40Special ExpressNight Train
5122.3012.10ExpressNight Train

We opted to book the newer sleeper train 9 Bangkok to Chiang Mai, as we had read reviews that as well as the cabins being much newer and more comfortable, the train was also quieter as it is electric, meaning for an even better night’s sleep! 

On our return journey from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, we chose to book the day train to experience the beautiful views along the way. 

After experiencing both train journeys, we always recommend the overnight sleeper train as the best option for both comfort and the experience. 

A long row of Orange and grey seats in the day train 2nd class cabin from Chiang Mai to bangkok
After riding the day train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok we preferred the sleeper train!

How long is the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?


Regardless of which train you choose to book from Bangkok to Chiang Mai it is a long journey spanning over 400 miles! 

The fastest Bangkok to Chiang Mai train is the #7 but this does mean you spend a whole day of your trip on a train.

If you are on vacation and have a bucket list of things to see and do then this is not the ideal choice. 

The sleeper train to Chiang Mai takes 12-13 hours but as most of the hours are spent sleeping it feels more like 4-5 hours. 

Two train tickets showing the time and date for the sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Which railway station do you board the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?


You will board the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station which is located close to the popular Chatuchak Market. 


Whilst you can get the bus or metro from almost anywhere in Bangkok to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station, it’s not an option we recommend if you are travelling with lots of luggage! 

Our grab driver in Bangkok which is A man wearing a blue shirt and face mask driving a car
Our Grab Driver to Krung Thep Central Station

We always use Grab when travelling in Asia which is pretty much the same set-up as Uber and find it to be very safe and reliable and often as cheap as public transport. 

Just download the app, set yourself up with an account and you can book a private car within minutes. 

How much do the tickets cost for the Overnight Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?


Whilst we always recommend booking train tickets on 12go.Asia, it’s important to note that the Bangkok to Chiang Mai train price is higher here than if you were to buy them yourself from the train station in Bangkok. 

However, the overnight sleeper train tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai get booked out weeks in advance so it is highly unlikely that you will be able to secure these yourself. 

The other advantage to booking with 12go.Asia is that the train tickets are only released 30 days in advance at the main train stations.  


Price of 1st Class AC and 2nd Class AC Tickets in Thai Baht, USD and GBP

Fare TypePrice THBUSDGBP
1st Class AC Sleeper1753-190348-5339-41
2nd Class AC Sleeper1011-129128-3622-29

But with 12Go you can book 2nd Class AC tickets 60-90 days in advance and they book your tickets as soon as they are released. 

All you have to do is sit and wait for the confirmation making it a stress-free experience! 

Getting your hands on tickets for first class, however, is much more difficult as they sell out immediately.

But fear not, 2nd Class sleeper tickets are a perfect mix of a unique experience and comfort for a very decent price! 


The 2nd class AC cabin on the sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai which is a row of red seats and a lade wearing all red with black trousers taking orders for food


Tickets for First Class Sleeper Train Bangkok to Chiang Mai


  • The cost for first-class sleeper train tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is between THB 1753-1903pp (roughly 48-53USD / 39-41GBP) and there are just 12 of these cabins so they do sell out quickly. 
  • The first-class sleeper train tickets give you a private cabin for two people so if you are travelling as a couple this is a great option. If you are travelling solo then you can book two tickets or you will share with another passenger.
  • First-class cabins do not have a private bathroom but there is a sink in your room to freshen up. 
  • The first-class cabin shared bathrooms do have a shower with hot water which is an advantage over the 2nd Class AC tickets where no shower is available. 
  • The biggest advantage to 1st Class sleeper train tickets is that you have additional privacy as you can lock your door. You can also turn off the lights so you may get a better night’s sleep given the lights remain on throughout the night in the 2nd Class Cabins. 

❗Important 2025 Update: As of January 2025, 12go.Asia have confirmed that there is limited availbility for 1st class tickets.

Due to limited space on the carriage and high demand it is now very difficult for them to secure 1st class tickets from the rail line in Thailand.

If 2nd class tickets are the only option available to you on their website despite searching 30-90 days in advance, it is possible there are no 1st class tickets available to book.
You can however try and book these online direct with the train line here.


Tickets for Second Class sleep train Bangkok to Chiang Mai


When travelling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train we opted for the 2nd Class AC sleeper train tickets. 

The main reason was that we wanted to experience something unique and also felt that the cost was very reasonable for such a long journey. 

The upper and lower berth on the overnight sleeper train from bangkok to Chiang Mai which are red bunk beds with white sheets and a cream privacy curtain
The 2nd Class AC Cabin
  • The cost for 2nd class sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai ticket price is between Thai Baht 1011-1291pp (roughly 28-36USD / 22-29GBP) 
  • Each 2nd Class cabin has between 36-40 seats that are turned into beds so you will be sharing with many other passengers. However, we found it to be a very peaceful experience with everyone respecting privacy and quiet time. 
  • Each 2nd Class cabin has three shared toilet rooms (no shower) and a baby changing room as well as two external sinks for freshening up. 
The toilets and baby changing facilities on sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai 2nd Class showing two white doors with silver handles
  • You can store your luggage safely and securely underneath the bottom berth with ease.
  • Each berth has a privacy curtain to draw when you are ready to get some shut-eye. 

❗Important Note: Although 2nd class tickets do not sell out as quickly as 1st class, they do sell out in advance.

If you are not booking the tickets AT LEAST 3-4 weeks in advance then it is very possible they will be all sold out.

For this reason, we HIGHLY recommend booking tickets as soon as you know your travel dates.

This is another reason that we prefer to use 12Go to book our tickets as you can secure your tickets even earlier than the 30 day set by the train line.

See full booking instructions below.👇

How to book the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?


Step One: Where to book your Bangkok to Chiang Mai train tickets? 


Whilst you can try and book your tickets in advance from the train station in Bangkok, unless you are there 14-30 days in advance, we recommend booking your tickets online with 12Go.Asia. 

12Go.Asia is one of the most popular websites and options for travellers to book train tickets and transport in general when travelling in Asia and we highly recommend them.

A screen shot of The 12go.asia home page showing the words "travel planning in asia - book trains, buses, ferries, transfers and flights with a booking system to enter dates, locations and passengers as well as asian destinations listed below with images

I am always cautious about booking things online with a company I have no experience with.

But we have now booked with them four times, and they have provided exceptional service and a seamless experience every single time. 

Due to our poor planning, we almost missed our Night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and could not get to their offices in time to collect our tickets.

But they resolved the issue for us, emailed us the tickets and thankfully we managed to board the train.

You always know the worth of an organisation and how good they truly are when faced with a difficult situation. We were very impressed.


🚂BOOK YOUR TICKETS WITH 12GO.ASIA HERE🚂


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The super helpful thing about 12go.Asia is that you can book weeks in advance even if the tickets have not been released yet. 

They will book your tickets as soon as they are available and you then either opt to collect or deliver and you are all set.

A completely stress-free experience. 

You can book your overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai tickets here by selecting the journey you wish to take and adding dates and the number of passengers. 

💡TIP: 12GoAsia has an app which works very well so if you are not travelling with a laptop then download the app to book your tickets and gain access to your booking confirmations and tickets!


Step Two: Choose which overnight sleeper train you want to book


  • Once you have entered your dates and journey you will be taken through to the transport options and booking page. 
The 12go.asia transport page showing the best options for the dates of travel selected  including trains and buses
  • You will see many options of transport to get you from Bangkok to Chiang Mai including trains, flights, buses and taxis! 
  • Scroll down and select “trains” and then you can view the various trains available on your chosen date, and departure times.
  • Select which overnight sleeper train you wish to travel on.  Be sure to select one with air conditioning. 

💡TIP: The newest train is the number 9 sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and this is the train we travelled on. As its electric It’s quieter than the older #13 and it also has newer furnishings making it a little more comfy. 


The 12go.asia booking page with a list of trains from Krung Thep central station to Chiang mai including both day trains and night trains, the schedule and the costs

Step Three: Enter your details and complete your booking


  • Once you have selected your train and clicked next you will reach the “Passengers Page” and will be asked to add the passenger’s information including contact details, full names, and ID/passport numbers
The 12go.asia passenger information page asking for name, passport number, seat preference and gender
  • You will then be given the option to book the upper or lower berths on the train

💡Tip – Travelling as a couple we booked the upper and lower berth but if we booked again we would probably select two lower berths opposite one another. The lower berth is much larger than the upper berth and it also stays much darker once you have drawn your privacy curtain. Given it’s not right next to the cabin lights!


  • If you are booking in advance and before the tickets are officially released, you will need to select how you would like 12Go Asia to manage your booking if you’re chosen seats are not available. This is very helpful and reassuring as 12Go Asia will refund you if you select “not flexible” and they are unable to secure your chosen tickets. 

The 12go.asia screen shot asking what to do if the customers chosen seats are not available including refund and flexible options to select

  • Finally, you will select how you would like to receive your tickets. 12GoAsia offers two options.
  1. Collect your tickets from their head office in Bangkok which is located inside the Metro Mall at Chatuchak Station – they are available 3 days before departure – Open hours: Sun-Sat (09:00-20:00)
  2. Have the tickets posted to an address in Thailand for a small cost

A screenshot of 12go.asia booking page with ticket collection options including pick up or delivery options

  • The 12go.asia ticket office is in an easy-to-reach location from most places in Bangkok as its close to Chatuchak Market but be sure to collect your tickets in due time

  • You are then given an option at the bottom for added travel insurance if you have not already arranged this. 

💡TIP: We use safetyWing Nomad Insurance and have no hesitation in recommending them for your travels. We have had personal experience of filing a claim and dealing with them as an organisation. We found the claims process to be simple, straight forward and the payout was very quick! 


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The view out of the window of the day train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

  • The final step is to make your payment and click Complete! Get excited for your trip to Chiang Mai!
  • Be sure to write down your confirmation number just in case you have any issues receiving your email confirmation.

🚂BOOK YOUR TICKETS WITH 12GO.ASIA HERE🚂

Step Four: Check your email confirmation and wait for your tickets


  • After booking check your email account for a confirmation email which arrives in the form of a receipt.
  • Be sure to check your junk folder if you have not received it within a few hours.  
A screen shot of the booking receipt received by 12go.asia showing booking numbers, name and dates of travel and also explaining that it will be 24 hours or longer before receiving the tickets
The receipt you will receive shortly after booking your tickets
  • Depending on how far in advance you booked your overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai tickets, your wait time on ticket confirmation can be anywhere from three days to a few months! 
  • If you have booked a train to depart in the next 30 days you should receive confirmation and a PDF of your tickets via email within 3-4 days once 12go Asia has secured your tickets.  
The booking confirmation and pdf attachment showing the ticket collection instructions, links for the maps to get to the ticket office and confirmation of dates and journey
The Booking Confirmation once your tickets are secured
  • If you have booked your train much further in advance then you will not receive the tickets and PDF until you are within the 30-day departure window. This is because the tickets have not yet been released so 12GoAsia will be waiting to purchase them for you. 

We booked tickets two months in advance and had no issue getting the exact tickets we opted for!


Step Five: Collect your tickets and get excited about your trip to Chiang Mai!


  • The final step if you have selected collected, is to collect your train tickets from the 12go.Asia ticket office in the Metro Mall near Chatuchak Station. 
  • You can collect them anywhere from 3 days to 3 hours before your train journey is booked. 

❗IMPORTANT NOTE – Do not make the mistake we did!

Whilst it looks like the 12go Asia ticket office and Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (also known as Bang Sue Grand Station) are close to one another (approx 5 minutes by car) do not make the mistake that we made. 

If you decide to collect your train tickets on the day of departure and are leaving from the Khao San road area by car you will be travelling during busy rush hour due to the trains departure time. 

We left our hotel 90 minutes before our departure time to make a journey that should have taken 30 minutes and due to traffic we very nearly missed our train. 

Luckily for us, the staff at 12Go.Asia were so helpful in our time of need! 

The grey sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai with pink bands across it and the door is open with a small digital sign saying "Train 009 Car 12 Krung Thep Aphi Wat Chiang Mai"

I emailed them whilst we were in the taxi explaining that we were struggling to get there on time and fearful we were going to miss our train and they emailed us our tickets.  

They advised us to get them printed off at the station and even provided a caption explaining we needed our tickets printed in Thai, to show the train staff members.

Their service was exceptional! 

Every blog we had read had said how easy it was to collect your tickets for your Bangkok to Chiang Mai overnight sleeper train on the same day.

No one mentioned the intensity of Bangkok rush hour traffic so do not make the same mistake we did. 

💡TIP: We highly recommend that you either collect your tickets before your departure day, or leave for the station before 4-5 pm so you avoid rush hour traffic. Or opt to take the metro and sky train instead of travelling by car.


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Which trains and tickets for the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai do we recommend?


We recommend the number 9 sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai in 2nd Class with AC.

After examining photographs of both the number 9 and the number 13 night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and doing extensive research I could see that the beds and seats looked much more comfortable on the newer number 9. 

2nd Class AC cabin on sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai - a row of red seats looking down a cabin isle with a black suitcase and a lady looking at something with cabin doors in the distance.
The 2nd Class AC Cabin

The beds on number 9 are made of softer material instead of the plastic/leather material on the older number 13 train.  

We also liked the fact that since the newer train was electric they would make for a quieter journey so we could get more sleep! 

🚂BOOK YOUR TICKETS WITH 12GO.ASIA HERE🚂


A man wearing black trousers and a white shirt making the bed on the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Facilities on the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (2nd Class Cabins)


  • Bedding – YES including a sheet, pillow, and a very comfortable blanket
  • Toilets – YES there are “Western-style” toilets but remember to bring toilet paper
  • Showers – NO
  • Wifi – NO
  • Electrical Socket – YES you will find one per bunk but no USB sockets
  • Food – YES  You will be offered a dinner and breakfast menu when you board as well as snacks in between meals (see below for menus!)
  • Water – YES you will be provided with two small bottles each but this is not enough for the journey so bring extra with you
  • Luggage racks – YES But you have ample room under your seats to store bags safely. We had TWO 80L bags plus TWO 40L bags and they fit under the seats
  • Table for working – YES but for a very short window of time so do not anticipate being able to work comfortably on the overnight sleeper train
  • Smoking – NO
  • Alcohol – NO
Steffan wearing black Tshirt and shorts ordering food from a menu on the overnight sleeper train from bangkok to Chiang Mai. A member of staff wearing a red hat and t shirt is taking the order.

What is the food like on the Sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai? 


  • As soon as the train departs you will have the chance to order food for your dinner and breakfast the next morning – vegetarian options are available! Just ask!
The dinner menu on the sleeper train bangkok to Chiang Mai which is a large cardbpard menu with photographs of various rice dishes and costs and names in Thai
The dinner menu on the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Breakfast menu on the sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai which is a large cardboard menu with images of various egg dishes and the names and costs in Thai
The breakfast Menu on the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
  • The cost of the food for two dinners and two breakfasts was 740THB (16GBP / 20USD) which is hugely overpriced for Thailand.
  • There was no card facility. So ensure you bring enough cash with you. 
  • The quality of the food for both breakfast and dinner was well below average and not nearly as good as plane food. So we recommend that you eat before boarding the train and bring snacks with you.
Dinner on the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai which is in a black plastic tray with some white rice and a few other dishes of sauce and fruit
Dinner on the sleeper train

The differences between the Upper and Lower berth in the 2nd Class AC Cabin


  • The staff change the seats into beds for you at 7.40 pm just an hour after boarding. 
  • The bottom berth is the more spacious option and you can even pull the small table across you so you can set up your tablet or mobile phone on there and watch TV!
  • The top berth does not have a table or shelf and is smaller but I still had enough room to stretch out and keep my day bag and change of clothes with me. 
Lower berth on the sleeper train from bangkok to Chiang Mai which shows a flat bed with a window on the far side. Its dark outside. There is a table and a curtain hanging down on the bed which has white sheets and you can see there is an upper bunk.
Lower berth on the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai in 2nd Class AC
The upper berth on the sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai which is a red flat bad with a silver bar across it and a white mattress / sheet with a blanket in a packet
The Upper berth on the sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai
  • Both the top and bottom berth have hooks to hang small items of clothing or a hat, plug sockets, a small reading light, a small net compartment for any small items and a privacy curtain. 
  • The lower birth is darker than the top berth as the top is positioned right through the cabin lights which shine through your curtain. 
  • The beds themselves were comfortable enough. The staff do add a thin mattress when they make the bed but they are not thick and don’t have much padding but we found them sufficient for one night!
The space on the upper berth bed in 2nd Class sleper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai showing Emma laying down but just viewing her leg and leg room with the cream curtain pulled across
I had plenty of space to stretch out in the upper berth

What are the toilets like on the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?


  • There are three toilets at the end of each car – two normal Western-style toilets and one baby changing room.
  • There are also two sinks outside the toilets to brush your teeth and wash your hands. 
  • They were all kept very clean for the duration of the journey.
Emma standing against a wall in a small toilet on the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai showing a small basin and toilet and a mirror
The toilets on the sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Two silver sinks with taps and a mirror behind them with paper tissue to dry your hands on the sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai

What to expect in the morning on the Bangkok to Chiang Mai Night Train?


  • The staff announce waking up at 5.50 am sharp and the crew changes the beds around back to seats at 6 am on the dot. 
  • Breakfast arrived at 6.15 and was very average again but it was something to get our day going and the coffee was pretty good. 
  • You arrive in Chiang Mai at 7.15 am so just an hour later. 
Steffan smiling wearing a black zip up jumper and a baseball cap with two plastic trays of food infront of him on the sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Breakfast time!

💡TIP: One perk of being woken up so early is that you get to watch the sunrise from your seat as you pass by green farm fields and forests. It’s quite magical so be sure to keep your camera with you!


A view out of the train window of green fields and mountains and an orange sky as the sun rises with two bottles of water and orange juice infront of the window

Chiang Mai and the north is brimming with things to do and epic beauty spots!

From visiting the unique and breathtaking Sky Temple in Lampang or Doi Inthanon National Park just 90 minutes from the city!

To the mountains of Phu Chi Fa and the Tea Plantations of Doi Mae Salong further North.

Many places can be visited independently with a hire car or bike but if you prefer to have trips organised for you then we have listed some of our favourites below to help you plan your Northern Thailand itinerary.


If you are looking for things to do in Chiang Mai, we highly recommend using Get Your Guide. 

They offer free cancellation and reserve now, pay later, making it easy and simple to book your activities with no pressure or problems if your plan changes!

🛕The Best Chiang Mai Day Tours & Activities 🛕

  • Doi Inthanon National Park – Nature Trails & Waterfalls!
  • Chiang Rai Incredible Temples
  • Cooking Class, Market and Thai Herbs Garden Tour
  • Chiang Mai Old City and Temples Guided Walking Tour
  • Pa Bong Biang Rice Terraces & Doi Inthanon
  • Thapae Boxing Stadium Muay Thai Match Ticket!
  • Historic Old City 4-Hour Guided Bike Tour
  • Doi Suthep Temple and Wat Pha Lat Hike!
  • Karen Tribe and Waterfalls Private Hike
  • Evening Local Street Food Market Tour
  • Akha and Lahu Village Trekking One day Tour
  • Authentic Thai Cooking Class and Farm Visit!
  • Khan Toke Traditional Meal and Dancing Performance
  • Thailands Sky Temple – A Full Day Tour (Or read how to visit yourself from Chiang Mai like we did!)

❗Important Note: You will see elephant tours advertised A LOT in Chiang Mai and across Thailand in general.

Please ensure you are booking with a truly ethical sanctuary where they are completely hands-off.

🐘This means No bathing – No touching – and No feeding.🐘

🌿A truly ethical sanctuary is 100% hands-off and encourages natural elephant behaviours.

You can learn how to choose an ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand here.

By choosing an ethical sanctuary that is hands-off you will see elephants behaving naturally and be supporting the care of these gentle giants.

We recommend Chang Chill Sanctuary, an hour from Chiang Mai, which is the sanctuary that we chose to visit.

They collect you and drop you off from your hotel as part of the ticket cost and we promise it will be one of the most magical experiences you have in Thailand!

Seeing rescued elephants roam in the forest and getting up close and personal but on their terms, whilst always keeping a respectable distance felt like an honour and privilege.

We had such an incredible day!

The only tour company we recommend for elephant tours is Seek Sophie as they are pioneers for responsible and ethical travel.

📍Somboon Legacy Foundation is our recommendation for an ethical sanctuary near Bangkok – we volunteered here for a whole month and it is an incredible place!

Note: We will never recommend any tours involving animals unless we have been on these ourselves or have assurances from conservationists that they are ethical facilities.

What to bring with you on the Bangkok to Chiang Mai Sleeper Train


  • Snacks – Whilst the menu and food are offered, the food was not the finest of cuisines and not the most filling either so we recommend bringing some tasty snacks for the trip.
  • A reusable water bottle – we recommend Water-to-Go filter bottles, as they can be used almost anywhere and filter out viruses and bacteria. Keeping you hydrated, safe and reducing single-use plastics!
  • Eye mask – The lights on the train remain on for the duration of the journey in 2nd Class. Whilst you have a privacy curtain you can pull across, if you are on the top bunk then the light very clearly shines through to your bunk making an eye mask essential. 
  • Earplugs – We found the Bangkok to Chiang Mai overnight sleeper train to be very quiet and everyone respected the fact that people were trying to sleep.  But if you are an extremely light sleeper it’s worth bringing some earplugs with you just in case. 
Emma smiling standing in the cabin of the sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai with the orange blanket provided wrapper around her.
The blanket provided is pretty thick but bring layers if you feel the cold
  • A warm jacket – The air conditioning stays on all night and it can get a little chilly so it’s worth keeping a warm jacket or long-sleeved top with you especially if you feel the cold. 
  • Pyjamas – Have some comfortable clothes to hand if you want to change before going to sleep. There are no changing rooms but I got changed on my bunk behind the privacy curtain and it made for a much more comfortable sleep. Many people just got on the train in their animal print pyjamas so you can always opt to do that if you prefer! 
  • A lock for your bags – If you are worried about your bags then you could bring a lock to chain them together for added security. However, there was plenty of space for them under the seats and it felt very secure. 
A burgundy bag with gret trainers underneath the bottom bunk on the sleeper train Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Our two 80L and two 40L bags fit underneath the bottom berth
  • Additional toilet paper – The toilets did run out of toilet tissue after a few hours so it is best to bring some of your own.
  • Entertainment & a local SIM card – There is no Wi-Fi on the 2nd Class overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and there is no entertainment.  Ensure you download a couple of movies onto your mobile phone before you set off and don’t forget to get set up with a local sim with 4G to stay connected.
  • A Power bank – Whilst there are plug outlets in each berth there are no USB ports. So a power bank will come in very handy if you do not have a plug adapter with you.

Where to go after Chiang Mai?

So you made it to Chiang Mai, but where should you go next?

Chiang Mai is a fantastic city full of incredible cafes and some beautiful views BUT you are missing out if you do not venture further afield.

We spent three weeks exploring the North of Thailand and discovered so many amazing places that seem to be unknown to most tourists.

If you have time then we HIGHLY recommend visiting these amazing places!!

  • The Floating Pagodas in Lampang – An incredible temple perched on top of a mountain that glistens for miles around – 1 hour and 30 minutes from Chiang Mai
A drone landscape image of vast green mountain ranges covered in trees with small white bell shaped Pagodas perched on top of the mountains that make up the Sky Temple known as Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat in Thailand.
Floating pagodas over the mountain ridge Mavic 3 Camera Settings – ISO-100, f/6.3, 1/800 sec, 12mm
  • Phu Chi Fa National Park – Epic mountain ranges with a stunning blanket of fog at sunrise that makes for incredible views and amazing photographs – 4 hours 30 minutes from Chiang Mai
Phu Chi Fa mountain range showing green mountains with golden sunlight glowing on the mountains at sunrise
  • Doi Mae Salong – A mountain village nestled on the border of Thailand and Myanmar and home to lush tea plantations and majestic temples and no other tourists at all! – 4 hours and 20 minutes from Chiang Mai.
Drone photography of huge green hilly landscape in Doi Mae Salong North Thailand with small colourful villages below and a tall temple in the foreground with a white and golden pagoda
Golden pagoda overlooking Doi Mae Salong Camera Settings – Mavic 3 – Fstop 6.3, Shutter speed 1/200, ISO 100, Focal Length 12mm
  • Doi Inthanon National Park – One of the most popular day trips from Chiang Mai and worthy of exploring for a few days due to its powerful waterfalls and unique hikes with friendly local Hill Tribe villagers! – 1 hour and 30 minutes from Chiang Mai. It is full of hidden gems and beauty spots with a fraction of the usual crowds.
Emma stood in a flowing white dress stands on rocks in front of the majestic Mae Ya Waterfall, captured with a long exposure to create a soft, ethereal effect on the cascading water.
Camera Settings – ISO-100, f/10, 1/2 sec, 24mm

Heading back to Bangkok?

Don’t miss beautiful Kanchanaburi with its peaceful temples, interesting history, ethical elephant sanctuary and clear blue waterfalls!

Just a short few hours by train from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is packed with beauty spots.


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FAQS about the Bangkok to Chiang Mai Sleeper Train


How far is it from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train?

Chiang Mai is over 400 miles from Bangkok and this takes between 10-14 hours by train depending on which train you book.

Which is the best train ride from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

In our opinion, the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is the best option when choosing a train as you spend most of the journey sleeping.

Of the overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, the number 9 train is the newer and quieter train and the number 13 is the older train. 

There is also a number 51 but it leaves much later and you do not arrive until midday the following day so this cuts into precious vacation time!

Is there a day train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Yes, there are two-day trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, the number 7 and the number 109.

But be aware that the only true day train is the number 7 as the number 109 gets you into Chiang Mai at 4 am. 

Is the night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai safe? 

Taking an overnight train in Thailand, we had concerns about our luggage’s safety and whether we’d get any sleep.

However, we were pleasantly surprised! 

The carriages were peaceful throughout the night, save for the occasional snore from fellow passengers. 

We also noticed two friendly guards stationed in our carriage until midnight, which added an extra layer of security. 

It seemed they were there to ensure passengers followed the rules, perhaps regarding noise levels or alcohol consumption. 

Overall, the experience felt well-organized and reassuringly safe!

Does the Bangkok to Chiang Mai train stop? 

Yes, the Bangkok to Chiang Mai train makes many stops along its 400-mile journey at various other stations.


A green sign with gold writing saying Chiang Mai and a statue of an elephant under it and a photograph of a man in a royal outfit above the sign - taken at Chiang Mai Train station
Chiang Mai train station

In conclusion, is it worth taking the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?


Yes absolutely!

Riding the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai was both thrilling and memorable. 

It beat any plane journey we’ve had and offered great value with its onboard accommodation.

Waking up in a new city was truly magical—a must-do for all travellers!


More Thailand Inspiration!

  • Visiting Phu Chi Fa Mountains in Thailand – A Photographers Guide
  • 2-Week Northern Thailand Itinerary for Photographers
  • How to get from Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon National Park
  • Guide to Ang Ka Nature Trail in Doi Inthanon National Park
  • Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail – Doi Inthanon National Park
  • How to choose an ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand
  • Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail in Doi Inthanon National Park
  • Mae Ya Waterfall in Doi Inthanon National Park – A Photographers Guide
  • Mae Klang Waterfall in Doi Inthanon National Park – A Complete Guide
  • Mae Salong in North Thailand – A 2-Day Itinerary
  • Things to do in Doi Inthanon – A Day trip from Chiang Mai
  • The Overnight Sleeper Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
  • How to Visit Thailand’s Sky Temple in Lampang
  • How to Travel from Chiang Mai to Bangkok by Day Train
  • Ultimate Guide to Wat Sam Phran Dragon Temple in Bangkok
  • Visitors Guide To Sirithan Waterfall in Doi Inthanon
  • Wachirathan Waterfall in Doi Inthanon – A Complete Guide
  • 4 Beautiful Doi Inthanon waterfalls You Shouldn’t Miss
  • A Complete Guide to 3 Beautiful Doi Inthanon Hikes
  • A Complete Guide to Twin Royal Pagodas at Doi Inthanon
  • Chang Chill – An Ethical Elephant Sanctuary in Chiang Mai
  • Is It Safe to Drive in Thailand? Everything You Need to Know
  • Chiang Mai Lantern Festival: Is it Worth it? An Honest Guide
  • 11 Best Places to Visit in Northern Thailand for Photography
  • 4 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary for Photographers
  • Guide to The Tiger Cave Temple in Kanchanaburi – Wat Tham Sua
  • The Photographer’s Guide to Erawan Waterfalls, Kanchanaburi

Emma and Steffan from Inwanderment standing side by side with lots of large colourful umberellas behind them painted in various ways. taken at a cultural photography location in Java.
Steffan and Emma

Steffan and Emma, a husband-and-wife team from the UK, are the founders of InWanderment, a Travel and Photography blog dedicated to sharing their experiences and insights from around the world.

Steffan is a self-taught photographer who enjoys helping others explore the outdoors through photography. He shares his knowledge to make capturing the beauty of nature accessible to everyone.

Emma is a seasoned traveler and writer who has visited over 40 countries. She uses her love of storytelling to share practical advice and personal experiences, aiming to inspire others to explore new places.

Now back in the UK, they are focusing on creating content from their 18 months of travel across Asia.

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Emma and Steffan from Inwanderment doing the peace sign and one hand in the air with a rice terrace and mountain the background smiling at the camera
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