Just arrived in Bangkok and need to get to the train station? Don’t worry, you’ve got several convenient choices! Here’s a rundown of how to get from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Bangkok’s main train station, Hua Lamphong:
1. Bangkok Airport Rail Link (ARL): This is a fast and affordable train service directly connecting the airport to Phaya Thai station. From there, you can easily transfer to the BTS Skytrain or MRT subway to reach Hua Lamphong. The ARL operates daily from 6:00 AM to midnight, with trains departing every 10-15 minutes. Tickets range from 15 to 45 baht depending on the distance.
2. Train and Subway: While there’s no direct train connection to Hua Lamphong from the airport, you can combine the ARL with the MRT for a budget-friendly option. Take the ARL to Makkasan Station and switch to the MRT Blue Line heading towards Hua Lamphong. This journey takes about 45 minutes and costs around 50 baht total.
3. Taxi: If you have heavy luggage or prefer a direct ride, taxis are a convenient choice. The fare to Hua Lamphong should be around 250-350 baht depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available at the airport, but be sure to use a metered taxi to avoid inflated fares.
4. Bus: While not the fastest option, buses offer a cheap way to reach Hua Lamphong. However, there’s no direct bus service. You can catch a public bus departing from the airport to Victory Monument, and then take another bus or taxi to Hua Lamphong station. This option is time-consuming (around 1-1.5 hours) but very budget-friendly.
Choosing the Right Option:
Consider these factors when deciding how to get to Hua Lamphong:
- Budget: ARL and train-subway combo are cheapest.
- Time: Taxis are fastest, followed by ARL and then ARL-MRT. Buses are slowest.
- Luggage: Taxis are most convenient for heavy luggage.
- Connection: ARL is best if you need to connect to the BTS Skytrain for other destinations.
Additional Tips:
- Purchase tickets for the ARL at the station machines using cash or major credit cards.
- Download offline maps or a navigation app to help you navigate Bangkok’s public transport system.
- Be aware of rush hour crowds, especially on the MRT and buses.
With a little planning, you can easily find the most convenient and budget-friendly way to get from Bangkok Airport to Hua Lamphong station and kickstart your Thai adventure!
