Scenic Railway Journeys in Thailand That Are The Perfect Shelter From A Storm

When the rainy season in Southeast Asia begins, many travellers find their outdoor adventures curtailed by the pouring rain. But what if the journey itself could be the destination, offering a cosy, captivating escape from the elements? Thailand, with its verdant landscapes and historic rail lines, provides the perfect answer. After all, a train journey through the Thai countryside during the rainy season transforms potential washout into picturesque wonder.

Forget battling umbrellas and dodging puddles; imagine sinking into a comfortable seat, hot tea in hand, as lush scenery glides past your window. These railway adventures offer beauty without the need to brave the elements, making them ideal for a truly unique rainy-day escape.

Also read: Where to Go in Thailand Between May and October: A Month-by-Month Guide

1. Royal Blossom Train

The SRT Royal Blossom is a relatively new and exciting offering from the State Railway of Thailand, designed to provide a premium and comfortable way to explore various destinations across Thailand. The carriages consist of refurbished Hamanasu cars from Japan, meticulously transformed to offer a luxurious and upgraded travel experience, focusing on comfort, scenic viewing, and all-inclusive convenience. Imagine plush seating, cedar wood accents, and a leisure car with a bar, creating an elegant and relaxing atmosphere.

Its most striking features are the large, panoramic windows that offer expansive views of the surrounding landscape, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the stunning natural scenery. Destinations vary, often including cultural and historical sites like Kanchanaburi, Lopburi (for seasonal sunflower fields), and Ayutthaya, with integrated bus transfers and guided tours. 

For June 2025, it presents “A Journey of Happiness to Mallika R.E.124,” providing a full-day, immersive experience along the historic Thai-Burma Railway. This route, forged during World War II, is renowned for its dramatic cliffside tracks, made even more captivating when the surrounding landscape is lush and vibrant from the rains. The journey highlights key landmarks of the legendary route, including the iconic Bridge on the River Kwai, the Tham Krasae Viaduct, a stunning wooden trestle that hugs the sheer limestone cliffs, and culminates at Mallika R.E. 124, a living museum town that meticulously recreates Siamese life during the reign of King Rama V (around 1905). 

Train info

The June 2025 “Journey of Happiness to Mallika R.E.124” operates on 8 weekend days: June 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, and 29. The excursion offers a convenient round-trip from Bangkok (Hua Lamphong Railway Station) to Kanchanaburi.

Expect the journey to take up a large part of your day as it is designed to be an engaging one-day excursion. 

2. The legendary Thai-Burma Railway

While its name evokes a sombre past, the Thai-Burma Railway from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, famously known as the ‘Death Railway’, offers a remarkably scenic and historically rich experience. In fact, it is Thailand’s most famous and historic rail route. This journey, spanning 415km, is a testament to human resilience and a moving tribute to those who suffered during its construction in World War II. 

Beyond the historical significance, the views are breathtaking. The train hugs cliffs, crosses over rivers, and weaves through dense foliage, offering glimpses of rural Thai life. The cooler, wetter weather adds a certain atmospheric beauty to the journey. During the rainy season, the surrounding jungle explodes in vibrant greens, making the dramatic Kwai River Bridge and the infamous Wampo Viaduct even more striking against the misty backdrop.

The most iconic stretch is the wooden viaduct at Tham Krasae, where the train seems to float above the Kwai River. You can disembark at various points to visit the War Cemeteries, the JEATH War Museum, and Krasae Cave.

Train info

Trains usually depart from Thonburi (Bangkok Noi) Station in Bangkok and terminate at Nam Tok in Kanchanaburi Province. Sit on the left side for the best views. 

The full journey to Nam Tok takes approximately 4-5 hours.

3. The Sleeper Train to Chiang Mai

The overnight train journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai on the Northern Line is arguably the most popular scenic train route in Thailand, and for good reason! Simply put, this route offers a comprehensive visual tapestry of Thailand’s diverse landscapes. 

As the train pulls away from the bustling capital, the urban sprawl gradually gives way to vast rice paddies, sleepy villages, and eventually, the undulating hills of the north. During the monsoon, these hills are often shrouded in ethereal mists, and waterfalls cascade down verdant slopes, creating a truly magical tableau.

Most passengers opt for the sleeper trains as it’s a fantastic way to cover a significant distance while enjoying the ever-changing scenery and getting a good night’s rest. The sleeper compartments offer a surprisingly comfortable and novel way to travel. Waking up to the cool, fresh air of northern Thailand as the train winds through mountainous terrain is an unforgettable experience. 

Charming pit stops along the way include Phitsanulok, famous for its Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, and Lampang, known for its horse-drawn carriages. Both are accessible and enjoyable even in wet weather.

Train info

Trains usually depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok and arrive at Chiang Mai Railway Station. Prices vary significantly depending on the class of travel. A second-class sleeper (fan) can cost around 1,000 – 1,300 Thai Baht (S$40 to S$52), while a first-class sleeper (air-conditioned private cabin) might range from 1,700-1,900 Thai Baht (S$67 to S$75) or more.

The journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train takes around 11 to 14 hours.

4. The Southern Line

Heading south from Bangkok, the railway line unfurls a different kind of beauty. Hugging the coast and passing through palm-fringed landscapes, it provides easy access to some of Thailand’s most beloved seaside towns, offering a gentler pace of travel compared to bus or car. Plus, the stunning views of the ocean are a highlight!

This route is particularly appealing during the rainy season as the coastal towns like Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan offer plenty of sheltered attractions, from charming cafes to historical palaces. The sight of the rain-kissed Gulf of Thailand from the comfort of your carriage is undeniably serene, along with the awe-inspiring salt flats. 

The section past Hua Hin is particularly scenic, with glimpses of fishing villages and pristine beaches. In fact, the Hua Hin Train Station itself is a major draw, known widely as the most beautiful train terminus in the Land of Smiles. Its iconic red and white architecture provides the perfect backdrop for that #potd! While you’re there, make sure to check out the town itself, as it is home to numerous indoor attractions like the elegant Maruekhathaiyawan Palace and the bustling Cicada Market (which operates under cover). 

You could continue further south to the tranquil bay of Prachuap Khiri Khan, with its picturesque Khao Chong Krachok (Mirror Mountain), which offers a peaceful respite even amidst the constant downpour; or head to Surat Thani, where you could transfer to the lovely island of Koh Samui, or head al the way to Hatyai on the edge of the Malaysian border.  

Train info

Trains usually depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok. Depending on your destination, they can terminate at Hua Hin Railway Station, Surat Thani Railway Station (for connections to the islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan), or Hat Yai Junction Railway Station. 

The journey to Hua Hin typically takes around 4-5 hours, while extending further south to Hat Yai can take 15-17 hours.

5. The Northeastern Line

The Northeastern Line offers a compelling journey from Bangkok directly to Khon Kaen, one of Thailand’s most vibrant and modern cities, often overlooked by tourists despite offering a fascinating blend of urban development, academic importance, and rich culture. 

As the train traverses the central plains and enters the northeast, the urban bustle of Bangkok gradually gives way to sprawling rice paddies, traditional villages, and open skies. During the rainy season, these agricultural landscapes appear particularly lush and verdant, creating a soothing panorama from your window. Plus, the train journey allows for a relaxing approach to this bustling city, letting you appreciate the changing scenery at a leisurely pace.

The city boasts impressive attractions like the towering Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon, a nine-story stupa with panoramic city views, and the serene Bueng Kaen Nakhon, a large lake perfect for a leisurely stroll. Khon Kaen is also a centre for silk production and Isaan cuisine, offering ample opportunities for unique culinary and shopping experiences. 

Train info

Trains typically depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok and arrive at Khon Kaen Railway Station.

The journey to Khon Kaen usually takes around 7 to 9 hours, depending on the specific train service.

6. The Mahachai Line

Perhaps one of Thailand’s most unique railway experiences, the Mahachai Line offers a truly local adventure leading to the famous Mae Klong Railway Market. This isn’t a long-distance scenic route, but rather a fascinating short trip that culminates in the extraordinary sight of vendors swiftly packing up their stalls as a train literally passes through their market. During the rainy season, the market awnings might be even more quickly unfurled and retracted, adding to the spectacle.

The Mahachai Line itself is split into two segments, requiring a short ferry crossing between Mahachai and Ban Laem. This adds to the adventure and allows you to experience the vibrant seafood market at Mahachai before taking the second train to Mae Klong. The climax is undoubtedly witnessing the “umbrella market” (Talad Rom Hup) in action.

Simply put, this is an experience unlike any other, a genuine slice of local life intertwined with a quirky railway phenomenon. It’s a fantastic day trip from Bangkok, easily combined with a visit to a nearby floating market.

Train info

The first train segment departs from Wongwian Yai Railway Station in Bangkok to Mahachai Railway Station. From Mahachai, you take a short ferry across the Tha Chin River to Ban Laem, where you catch the second train to Mae Klong Railway Station. 

Each train segment takes approximately an hour, plus the ferry crossing and time spent at the markets. Allow a full half-day or day for the entire experience.

Also read: The Ultimate Bangkok Rainy Day Guide: Best Indoor Activities To Do

Enjoy scenic journeys in the rain

So, the next time a tropical storm rolls in, don’t let it dampen your spirits. Instead, embrace the opportunity to embark on a scenic railway journey through Thailand. These train trips offer not just a refuge from the rain but a unique window into the soul of the country, proving that sometimes, the most beautiful adventures begin when you simply sit back and let the world roll by.