Are you thinking about or planning to travel by train around Thailand? The good news is that you can still book at Thailand’s railway stations or book online.
2017 introduced a new online STR (State Thailand Railway) booking system and as expected the website suddenly collapsed and disappeared. However, before the SRT website was live online there were already agent booking sites available that are still in operation.
When To Book
It’s the norm in any country to try and book in advance to ensure a seat is available, and the same applies in Thailand, in most cases. If you’re planning an overnight train then booking at least a week in advance is a good idea – especially if it’s high season (Nov – Mar).
Some journeys cannot be booked in advance. These are the day trains for shorter distances, such as the Bangkok – Aranyaprathet that I have taken in the past which you’ll need to purchase a ticket at the station for before the train departs.
Advance bookings can be made 60 days before travel, and at least 2 hours before departure. 90 days for long haul journeys like to Chiang Mai.
- Holidays: Check if there are any national holidays in Thailand or any of the neighboring countries you’re traveling to. All forms of transport get booked up well in advance, especially during Songkran (Thai new year) and the calendar new year.
Online Ticket Booking
SRT did have online booking from 2011 – 2013 then it suddenly shut down. They have a new online booking website that’s been live since February 2017, which is great news. Online bookings are made at ThaiRailwayTicket.Com.
I must admit I do have my doubts about the current site because I have already seen issues. And, one basic but extremely important aspect of any website of today is to display well on mobiles and devices, which it doeskin (it views as only desktop).
Other Online Booking Option
12go.asia is another online booking service that can be used. I have used them before the current SRT website was up and running and use them now.
This is a company that you book with and they collect the ticket from the station for you and then they either post the ticket to you or it has to be collected from a 12.go.asia collection point. You can find out more about 12go.asia collection points and their ticket process HERE.
12go.asia is a great option I keep in mind and I’m glad it’s still available. They do charge small extra fees and have restrictions, nevertheless, it’s another option.
Check with 12Go.asia if it will be suitable for making a reservation for your trip planned. As mentioned, restrictions apply, and it’s not just a simple pay and print your ticket service.
Station Booking
Making an advance booking at the railway station to reserve a seat and buy a ticket is the traditional method that still operates very well. This is a good option for tourists when they have time on their hands to check out the station and surrounding area.
Agents and Telephoning SRT
Since the SRT online booking has become available and the option of using 12go.asia, the need to use another agent shouldn’t be required. And, if you’re going to telephone SRT you’ll still have to collect the ticket anyway after you request it before you travel.
