How to get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya by train

If you’re planning a stay in Bangkok and trying to figure out your Thailand itinerary, I recommend a day trip by train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya used to be the capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, and today, it’s known for its remarkable temples.

However, even more than temples, I loved the atmosphere of this place. Despite being close to the bustling capital of Thailand, it has a relaxed local vibe. While I met many tourists on my day trip, it still didn’t compare to visiting any famous places in Bangkok.

I rented a bicycle and explored the vast area, hopping from one temple to another. Together with the exciting train ride, it was a memorable experience.

And since Bangkok is one of the best places to visit for first-timers and a popular digital nomad hub, you’ll likely spend some time in the city. You might as well visit Ayutthaya, right?

So, if you’re looking for everything you need to know to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok, you’re in the right place. In this blog post, I’ll share a step-by-step guide to taking the train, choosing between train types and classes, and buying a train ticket.

I’ll also share other travel options, Ayutthaya’s history, the best temples to visit, and other tips.

Quick overview

Are you looking for ways to travel from Bangkok to Ayutthaya? You have four options – train, public bus, minivan, or joining a tour.

While a minivan or joining a tour is most comfortable, public transport provides valuable insight into Thai culture and the opportunity to meet the locals.

Trains depart from multiple stations in. The most common options are Hua Lamphong (for Ordinary slow trains), Krung Thep Aphiwat Terminal (speed trains), Bang Sue (also for Ordinary trains), or Don Mueang (near the airport).

The fastest train can take as little as 35 minutes. Other connections arrive in 45 minutes—2.5 hours.

While the cheapest ticket only costs around 15 THB for a third-class Ordinary train, you can pay as much as 900 THB for the fastest connections.

While you can purchase third-class tickets directly at the train station before boarding the train, during high season, I recommend buying the second-class tickets in advance, either in person or online via 12Go.

Where to catch the Bangkok to Ayutthaya train

All the trains that depart on the Northern and Northeastern Line would stop at Ayutthaya. However, there are a few different train stops from where you can board the train.

Hua Lamphong

My absolute favorite is Hua Lamphong because it is close to the capital’s tourist areas. It’s the nearest station to the Khao San area, China Town, or Sukhumvit.

The train station is rather old and has mostly stayed the same in recent years.

If you decide to depart from here, you must catch one of the 3rd class tickets. These are Ordinary and Commuter trains, which are slower. It takes between 1.5 hours to 2 hours to reach Ayutthaya.

However, these trains are the cheapest option, with ticket prices starting at only 15 THB. You cannot buy tickets online; you must purchase them at the Hua Lamphong Railway Station counter.

You don’t need to buy tickets in advance; you can go to the train station and buy a ticket for the next train heading north.

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station is a newly built train station further from the center. It’s located right next to the Bang Sue Station. When we first entered, it reminded us of an airport. The interior is vast and spacious, with signs everywhere.

During our visit, it was not yet finished.

All the speed trains heading north now only depart from this station instead of Hua Lamphong. If you catch a slow train here, it will depart from Hua Lamphong, and you’ll have to walk outside to the old Bang Sue Station to catch it.

You can easily reach the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station by MRT or use Grab.

Don Mueang

Don Mueang is another train station where you can board the Bangkok to Ayutthaya train. As the name suggests, it’s in front of the Don Mueang International Airport.

It’s a convenient train station if you’re traveling north right after arriving in Bangkok, without any need to travel to the city center first. You can catch both slow and speed trains from here.

Bangkok to Ayutthaya train schedule

Hua Lamphong to Ayutthaya Ordinary trains schedule

Train No.	Departure	Arrival	Duration	Train type
303	4:15	5:48	1 h 33 min	Ordinary
339	5:05	6:44	1 h 39 min	Ordinary
201	9:30	11:27	1 h 57 min	Ordinary
209	11:15	13:01	1 h 46 min	Ordinary
233	11:30	13:06	1 h 36 min	Ordinary
211	12:55	14:31	1 h 36 min	Ordinary
207	14:10	15:57	1 h 37 min	Ordinary
301	16:30	18:23	1 h 53 min	Ordinary
341	17:00	18:52	1 h 52 min	Ordinary
317	17:30	19:12	1 h 52 min	Ordinary
313	18:20	20:08	1 h 48 min	Ordinary

Krung Thep Aphiwat Terminal to Ayutthaya train schedule

Train No.	Departure	Arrival	Duration	Train Type
135	07:10	08:27	1 h 17 min	Rapid
109	14:15	15:17	1 h 2 min	Rapid
9	18:40	19:44	1 h 4 min	Special Express
139	19:25	20:25	1 h	Rapid
13	20:05	21:06	1 h 1 min	Special Express
25	20:25	21:38	1 h 13 min	Special Express
107	20:45	21:47	1 h 2 min	Rapid
23	21:05	22:01	56 min	Special Express
133	21:25	22:29	1 h 4 min	Rapid
51	22:30	23:35	1 h 5 min	Express
141	23:05	00:16	1 h 11 min	Rapid

Don Mueang to Ayutthaya train schedule

Train No.	Departure	Arrival	Duration	Train Type
21	06:27	06:58	31 min	Special Express
135	07:27	08:27	1 h	Rapid
111	07:47	08:37	50 min	Rapid
75	09:02	09:41	39 min	Express
7	09:20	09:54	34 min	Special Express
71	10:52	11:30	38 min	Express
109	14:32	15:17	45 min	Rapid
9	18:57	19:44	47 min	Special Express
139	19:41	20:25	44 min	Rapid
13	20:22	21:06	46 min	Special Express
25	20:42	21:38	56 min	Special Express
107	21:02	21:47	45 min	Rapid
23	21:22	22:01	39 min	Special Express
133	21:42	22:29	47 min	Rapid
51	22:47	23:35	48 min	Express
141	23:23	00:16	53 min	Rapid

Bangkok to Ayutthaya train classes

Third Class

The third class is the cheapest but has the least comfortable seats and no AC. Each carriage has a few fans, and the windows are usually open during the ride. The windows also have metal shades, which are excellent when the sun is too intense.

This class is often full, mostly used by those with lower income.

All the Ordinary trains (departing to Ayutthaya from Bangkok Railway Station known as Hua Lamphong) only have third-class carriages.

Second Class

Second Class comes with a few different options – Fan, AC, Sleeper.

The cheapest option is the 2nd class fan seat. The seats are more comfortable than those in the third class, and no advance booking is necessary. Similar to the third class, fans and opened windows help circulate the air. It’s a good choice for short rides.

If you can’t cope with the Thai heat, travel by 2nd class AC. The seats are designed in an airplane style, with folding tables. It’s the most popular option for long-distance trips. Special Express train types even include food and drink in the ticket price.

The 2nd class sleeper is not a relevant option for the short Bangkok to Ayutthaya trip. Shortly, two seats at the bottom convert to a lower bunk at night and there’s one upper bunk above.

First Class

First-class seats are only available on overnight trains and come with sleeper seats. They are the most comfortable and expensive way to travel. Once again, however, they are unnecessary for the Bangkok to Ayutthaya day trip.

Bangkok to Ayutthaya train types

• Ordinary and Commuter – Numbered from 298 to 398, these are the slowest trains with many stops. They only have 3rd class carriages.
• Rapid – The most common type, with 2nd and 3rd class available. They stop at every station.
• Express – They come with each class and make fewer stops than Rapid trains.
• Special Express – The fastest and the most expensive train type.

Bangkok to Ayutthaya train ticket price

When departing from Hua Lamphong and traveling by slow trains, the ticket can cost as little as 15 THB. If you choose one of the faster trains, expect to pay more.

The final ticket price depends on the train type and the chosen class. It can be as high as 1000 THB. On 12Go, a few options cost between 100 THB and 200 THB.

If you want to pay as little as possible, you can buy the ticket directly at the train station. However, there is a small service charge when using an online service.

For this trip, I believe it’s enough to simply show up at the train station and buy a ticket. If you prefer to secure your seat, you can buy your tickets a day or two before traveling or purchase them online.

We only use 12Go for any bus, train, and ferry tickets in Thailand and Southeast Asia. We booked our train tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai through them and were happy with the service.

Where to buy train tickets

The cheapest way to buy Bangkok to Ayutthaya train tickets is in the booking offices at train stations. Ticket counters are located at any major train station.

Buying 3rd class tickets in advance is unnecessary, but 2nd class trains might be sold out in the main season.

Another option is to purchase train tickets online. While there are multiple platforms, we prefer 12Go because it is easy to use, efficient, and reliable. We never use anything else.

You can use the search for below to buy your ticket:

Other ways of getting to Ayutthaya

By bus

Regular buses leave the Northern Bus Terminal near Mo Chit station approximately every 30 minutes. The ride to Ayutthaya takes around two hours, and the ticket price should be 60 THB.

By minivan

A convenient option worth considering is traveling by minivan. These are scheduled every 30 minutes and depart from Mo Chit Van Terminal or Khao San.

The minivans from Khao San are more expensive, at around 350 THB. However, they only cost around 150 THB from Mo Chit. The trip takes 1 hour and 30 minutes from Mo Chit, and 2 hours and 30 minutes from Khao San.

The travel time depends on the traffic. Avoid busy hours if you can.

To book a van, we recommend 12Go.

Join a group tour

If you prefer a hassle-free organized tour where everything is taken care of, we recommend the Ayutthaya and Ayothaya Floating Market day trip.

In addition to Ayutthaya temples, the tour will take you to Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, the former residence of Thai kings, and a floating market. A great benefit of this tour is that you’ll also have a guide who can help you learn more about Thai history.

The final price includes all the entrance fees, guide, and transportation from/to Bangkok.

About Ayutthaya

Historical significance of Ayutthaya

During Thailand’s history, there was a period between 1350 and 1767 known as the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. During this time, the city of Ayutthaya served as the kingdom’s capital and the center of power for Siam (the historical name for Thailand).

The city quickly became one of the most important in Southeast Asia. Thanks to its location at the intersection of three rivers (Chao Phraya, Lopburi, and Pa Sak), it was perfect for trade, with merchants arriving from China, India, and even Europe.

Ayutthaya was known as a very beautiful city because of its grand temples, golden palaces, and advanced infrastructure. However, its prosperity also attracted enemies.

In 1767, the city was attacked and destroyed by the Burmese, who burned many of its temples. Survivors moved south to a new location, which later became Bangkok. Today, Ayutthaya is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, and its ruins attract many visitors.

While its temples are not as majestic as the famous White Temple and Blue Temple in Chiang Rai or as majestic as Wat Huay Pla Kang, it’s an experience not to be missed.

Must-visit temples

Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat is one of the most iconic temples in Ayutthaya, famous for the Buddha’s head, entwined in tree roots.

The exact origin of the head’s placement remains a mystery. Some believe that during the Burmese invasion in 1767, the soldiers beheaded many Buddha statues, possibly because they were filled with gold.

Over time, the head may have been abandoned and entwined by a tree’s roots.

It’s a popular photo spot, but visitors should sit down to take a photo with the Buddha’s head. Standing next to or over the Buddha’s head is considered disrespectful in Thai culture, as it is believed to be inappropriate to be taller than the Buddha.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Wat Phra Si Sanphet was once the royal temple famous for its three large, iconic chedis (stupas) standing in a row.

These chedis were built to house the ashes of kings, symbolizing the kingdom’s power and prestige. The temple was also used for important royal ceremonies, including the coronation of kings.

Wat Yay Chai Mongkhon

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is known for its impressive reclining Buddha statue and towering chedi that offers stunning views of the surrounding area when you climb it.

The temple was built in the 14th century to commemorate the victory of King Naresuan over the Burmese. It is also a site where monks trained and taught.

Wat Ratchaburana

Wat Ratchaburana is famous for its preserved central prang (tower) and intricate carvings. You can descend into the crypt below the prang, where you’ll find murals depicting scenes from Buddhist teachings.

Other temples

• Wat Lokayasutharam – Famous for its giant reclining Buddha that measures 42 meters in length.
• Wat Na Phra Meru – This temple stands out for its well-preserved wooden ordination hall and is the site where the last king of Ayutthaya, King Chulalongkorn, had his royal ceremony after the kingdom’s fall.
• Wat Thammikarat – A lesser-known temple, unique for its relic stupa and rows of Buddha statues.

Practical tips for visiting Ayutthaya

How to get around

Ayutthaya is a vast area with temples spread out across the whole city. If you wish to see as many as possible, hiring a tuk-tuk or a taxi is the best choice. As soon as you get off the train, you’ll be surrounded by several drivers offering you their services.

Expect to pay around 400 THB, depending on your negotiating skills.

I chose a bicycle. It felt terrific to cycle around the historical streets, moving from one temple to another. Bikes can be rented in multiple spots. I think it’s a great way to explore Ayutthaya, which has an entirely different vibe than tuk-tuk.

Expect to pay between 50 THB – 100 THB for a bike per day.

Lastly, you can also walk around. But as mentioned before, the area is spacious. Walking will take a lot of time, and let’s not forget that it’s scorching hot, especially during noon.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Ayutthaya is during the dry season between November and March. The weather is going to be stable with a lot of sun.

You might want to avoid March till May, when the temperatures often rise above 35°C, making sightseeing less comfortable.

The rainy season, which lasts from June to October, brings frequent showers, which can quickly ruin a day trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya.

Opening hours & Entrance fees

Since Ayutthaya is a vast area, no official opening hours or general entrance fees would cover it all.

Most temples are open between 8 am and 5 pm. However, I recommend checking for any special events or ceremonies which may result in closures.

Most temples charge an entrance fee of 20 THB to 50 THB, payable at the entrance.

In addition, there is an Ayutthaya Temple Pass, which includes multiple temples for 220 THB. It is only valid for one day.

Dress code

When visiting any Buddhist temple, respecting the dress code is essential.

Both women and men should cover their shoulders and knees. Long pants or skirts and shirts with sleeves are recommended. Avoid tight-fitting or revealing clothing. You’ll be required to remove your shoes when entering the temples.

I came prepared, wearing a longer skirt, but I didn’t realize I would also have to cover my shoulders. Since I only had spaghetti straps, I had to buy more appropriate clothes. It’s always good to travel with a light scarf for these occasions.

Luckily, right next to the entrance to most temples, there’s a small shop selling any clothes you might need – long pants, scarves, T-shirts, and some other souvenirs.

Where to eat

• Burinda
• Tuk Restaurant
• Vietnamese Kitchen Dalat Ayutthaya
• Shuinsen Ramen and Izakaya

What to pack

• comfortable shoes, easily taken off and on
• light scarf to cover your shoulders
• sunscreen and / or hat
• a lot of water (can be bought everywhere)
• light change (for entrance fees)
• small fan (it’s soooo hot)
• camera (we use Sony A7IV with Sony 24-240mm lens)

Final thoughts on the Bangkok to Ayutthaya train

A day trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya is an incredible adventure. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves history and Thai culture, wants to learn more about the religion, and admires historical architecture.

Thanks to its proximity to Bangkok, the trip can be easily organized and takes only one day.