Overview Compare Taxi Tuk-tuk MRT BTS Bus To Stay
How to get from and to Hua Lamphong Railway Station
Hua Lamphong Railway Station is Bangkok’s main train station, boasting an Italian neo-renaissance style with a distinct half-dome structure. The train station serves as the main hub for intercity and international train services in Thailand, and it is also connected with the MRT underground system.
The distance from Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Bangkok centre is about 4 km (3 miles). In this post, we discuss the 5 options to go to and from Hua Lamphong Railway Station: by taxi (15 minutes), by tuk-tuk (15 minutes), by train (MRT) (10-55 minutes), by train (BTS) (20-60 minutes), and by bus (30 minutes). Ticket prices range from 20 THB ($0.50) to 140 THB ($4).
5 ways to get from and to Hua Lamphong Railway Station
We recommend taking a taxi from Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Bangkok. Taxi fares cost around 70 THB ($2), and travel time is just 15 minutes.
A tuk-tuk ride lets you experience traditional Thai transport. However, note that it offers limited space and can only comfortably fit two passengers with little luggage. Tuk-tuks are also not metered, so you need to first negotiate a price with the driver. Fares usually start from 140 THB ($4).
If you want to save some money, you can also travel by train. The BTS (sky train) and MRT (underground) are quick and affordable. They also stop in the most popular tourist, shopping, and sightseeing areas, except for Khao San Road. For this option, you first need to take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the train station, and combined fares start from 80 THB ($2.30).
The public bus is the cheapest option at only 10 THB ($0.20). If you’re staying at Khao San Road, there is a public bus that can take you directly from Hua Lamphong Railway Station. However, this bus takes a long route and travel time can take more than 30 minutes, especially during peak hours. Expect the bus to also be crowded, which is not ideal if you have luggage.
Itinerary from and to Hua Lamphong Railway Station
Taxi
- Hua Lamphong Railway Station
- 15 minutes
- Bangkok (different areas)
Tuk-tuk
- Hua Lamphong Railway Station
- 15 minutes
- Bangkok (different areas)
Subway Train (MRT)
- Hua Lamphong Railway Station
- 10-55 min
- Bangkok (different areas)
Skytrain (BTS)
- Hua Lamphong Railway Station
- 15 minutes
- BTS National Stadium
- 5-60 minutes
- Bangkok (different areas)
Bus
- Hua Lamphong Railway Station
- 30 minutes
- Bangkok
Hua Lamphong Station by Taxi
Want to travel to or from Hua Lamphong railway station straight to your hotel? Taking a taxi is your best option. Taxis are available outside the train station.
Note that the roads in Bangkok can get extremely busy during peak hours. This is why many taxi drivers will request a flat rate, which may be much higher than using the meter. Some drivers will refuse to use the metre or agree on a fare, so prepare your negotiating skills or simply find another driver.
The taxi ride to and from the city centre costs between 70 THB ($2) and 100 THB ($2.80). An alternative option is to book a Grab taxi with fares from 125 THB ($3.60).
PRO TIP: Always take a metered taxi so that you don’t end up paying twice the actual fare!
Hua Lamphong Station by Tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuk drivers tend to charge around the same price as a taxi, especially in tourist areas. This option is a good way to experience the local transportation in Thailand, but if you’re not hoping for that, it’s best to stick with a taxi.
Bangkok is hot and sunny almost all year round, even during the rainy season. While a ride in a tuk-tuk may get hot, especially if stuck in traffic, it does provide a nice, refreshing breeze.
Also, note that tuk-tuks do not provide a lot of space for your luggage, so it could be quite cramped.
Negotiate your price
Many tuk-tuk drivers will quote you a high price, which can be anywhere between 140 THB ($4) to 200 THB ($5.50) or more for two people to the city centre. Tuk-tuks are not metered, so you will need to negotiate a price. You can just move along to the next driver if you think the price is too expensive.
Note that some drivers may try to lead you to a restaurant or hotel that they are affiliated with to receive a commission. If they offer you a ride that is much cheaper or even free, you should be aware that they will likely try to sell you something.
In this case, be firm in your negotiations and tell the driver you do not want any stops on the way to your destination. This does not apply to all drivers, but it’s certainly something to be aware of.
Hua Lamphong Station by Train (MRT)
There are two main train networks that offer easy transport options to travellers within Bangkok: the Skytrain (BTS) and the underground train (MRT).
The MRT is directly connected to Hua Lamphong station, and you can easily find it by following the signs. The MRT connects Hua Lamphong Railway Station to the northeastern part of Bangkok, which includes the following areas:
- Bang Rak
- Thung Maha Mek
- Lumphini
- Khlong Toei
- Din Daeng
- Huwai Kwang
- Samsen Nok
- Chum Phon
- Chatuchak.
The MRT line is continuously expanding its network, so more destinations will follow when completed.
Trains operate from 05:30 to 00:00 from Monday to Friday. During weekends and public holidays, trains are available from 06:00 to 00:00.
Fares range from 20 THB ($0.50) to 45 THB ($1.30), depending on your current location and desired destination. For a single journey, you can buy tickets from the counter or vending machines at the train station.
Hua Lamphong Station by Train (BTS)
The BTS is the most popular train line in Bangkok with trains running to different areas in Bangkok every few minutes. This train is your best option if you are staying in the city centre because it stops at all tourist, shopping, and sightseeing areas in Bangkok, except the popular Khao San Road area.
There are two BTS lines: the Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line.
To reach the BTS lines, you need to take a taxi or tuk-tuk from Hua Lamphong Station to National Stadium or Siam BTS Station. Tuk-tuk or taxi fare is about 60 THB ($1.70) to 80 THB ($2.30), but expect to pay more during peak hours.
Travel time via BTS can take 20 minutes up to 1 hour, depending on your destination. The sky trains operate from 06:00 to 00:00 every day.
The Sukhumvit Line
The Sukhumvit route passes through the followings areas:
- Chatuchak
- Phaya Thai
- Ratchathewi
- Nana
- Asoke
- Thong Lo
- Phra Khanong
- Bang Na
- Bearing
Fares range from 20 THB ($0.50) to 60 THB ($1.70). This BTS line is projected to extend further north and south in the coming years.
The Silom Line
The Silom Line starts at the National Stadium and passes through the following stations:
- Sala Daeng
- Pathumwan
- Bang Rak
- Yan Nawa
- Thon Buri
For this line, tickets are priced between 20 THB ($0.50) and 40 THB ($1.10). For more information, you can visit the BTS Skytrain website.
Hua Lamphong Station by Bus
The cheapest way to get to the city centre is to catch a public bus outside Hua Lamphong Railway Station. Bus #53 is a red-coloured non-aircon bus that travels throughout the city centre. It is the only shared transport that makes a stop at Khao San Road.
Tickets only cost 10 THB ($0.20) to the city centre. The fare speaks for itself, so don’t expect a comfortable ride. The bus will likely be hot and crowded.
Buses are available every 20 minutes from 05:00 until 22:00 daily. Travel time is about 30 minutes, but this depends entirely on traffic. Be prepared to spend up to an hour on the bus due to heavy traffic in Bangkok during peak hours.
This bus line circles around the downtown Bangkok area. For a complete list of bus stops, you can check the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority website.
Our favourite places to stay in Bangkok
Here Hostel
If you’re looking for a fun social atmosphere then Here Hostel is the place for you! Enjoy relaxing by the pool in the garden area or enjoying a drink with travelers from around the world. Why take the stairs when you can use the indoor slide to travel between floors, this place is full of fun, energy, and laughter. Located less than 1km from Khao San Road, this is the perfect hostel if you’re looking to have a great time in Bangkok!
Dorm rooms start at $16 per night
Hom Hostel & Cooking Club
Located in the heart of downtown Bangkok, between Nana and Ploen Chit BTS stations, this hostel is the perfect location in the Sukhumvit area. The hostel offers a garden area, a rooftop terrace and an on-site kitchen for guests to cook their own food or take part in the daily cooking classes. There is also a restaurant and bar on-site if you’d prefer someone else cook for you, as well as buffet breakfast included each day. Extremely clean and very friendly staff are top priorities for this hostel.
Single bed in dorm rooms start at $15 per night
Lamphuhouse Bangkok
If you’re looking to be near the excitement of Khao San Road but still enjoy some peace and quiet, this guesthouse is absolutely perfect. A delicious breakfast is included in your stay and the restaurant is open 24/7 for your convenience. A lovely garden area to relax in the afternoons and very comfortable beds in rooms will make for a great stay. Just 300m to Khao San road, this guest house is walking distance to many sights including the Grand Palace and the Golden Mountain Temple.
Rooms start at $19 per night
Mam’s House
Just 700m from Khao San road and sitting along the river is Mam’s House. The staff here will welcome you with open arms and help you in any way that they possibly can. The rooms are huge, the beds are comfortable and it’s extremely clean. There is a cafe on the ground floor of the hotel, street food along the riverbank and countless restaurants, bars and shops just steps away. Locally owned and operated by Mam, this hotel is all about customer service and making sure you have the best stay possible. Perfect location, great views and all the comforts you need!
Rooms start at $26 per night
Blue Chang House
Cozy, comfortable, and ideal location! This guest house is less than 1km from Khao San Road and offers all the comforts you need. It is within walking distance to numerous Temples, Wats and attractions throughout Old Town. On-site bar to enjoy a drink while taking in the sights from the terrace or a lovely garden area to enjoy to relax in if you need some quiet time. The staff is known to be exceptionally welcoming and happy to assist with all guest requests. Located in a quiet area so you will be sure to get a good night's rest after exploring the Capital City!
Rooms start at $40 per night
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About the author(s)
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
