13 Jan 2008

To/from Nong Khai by rail

Nong Khai is the last stop on the northeastern line from Bangkok. One day this line will run to Vientiane (see the rusty tracks on the bridge), but don’t hold your breath. Maybe next year...

The train station in Nong Khai is about a kilometre out of town on the Vientiane road. There are plenty of tuk-tuks there waiting to fleece you.

The train station in Bangkok that serves the Northeastern line to Nong Khai is Hualumpong, but you can also board/disboard at Don Muang, the station about 500 metres from Bangkok’s older (now mostly domestic) airport.

You're best off buying the ticket at the station. You can buy them in town if you like paying more for the same thing.

Sleeper berths with air-con vary in price from 708 to 1,217 baht. The very cheapest seats come in at 258 baht but I wouldn't recommend them on a trip that lasts (if on time) between 10 and 13 hours. Try to book in advance to be safe. Sleeping compartments fill up quickly.

Catching a plane between Bangkok and Udon doesn't cost much more if you book several days in advance - although you'll also need to fork out for a bus, minibus, or taxi between Udon and Nong Khai.

The trains have rough and ready bars that serve "food" and expensive beers. Staff travel the carriages selling overpriced drinks including Heinekens and something purporting to be coffee.

Trains tend to leave on time but arrival times vary.

Bangkok to Nong Khai

Rapid or express trains generally leave at 0600 (arrives 1825), 1830 (arrives 0415), 1840 (arrives 0720), and 2045, but check at the station.

Nong Khai to Bangkok

Usually depart 0540 (arrives 1700), 0816 (arrives 2110), 1810 (0545) and 1905 (arrives 0730), but check at the station - schedules vary.

Link: State Railway of Thailand - click on the “Northeastern” link

Transport        By air        By road        Getting around Nong Khai