Over 13,000 travellers have taken the Bangkok-Vientiane rail route since its launch in July, prompting the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to boost capacity by adding an extra carriage. SRT Governor Veeris Ammarapala announced on October 20th that a meeting with Lao National Railway's chief followed a recent freight-focused memorandum. This collaboration aims to enhance cross-border transport, both in passenger journeys and freight services.

 

The current service is a testament to rising connectivity between Thailand and Laos, signalling the success of the cross-border rail initiative. To keep pace with demand, a new air-conditioned carriage equipped with sleeping beds will soon be added. Furthermore, plans are underway to provide Lao Railway with retired carriages, anticipated to improve freight transport between Nong Khai and Vientiane.

Scheduled for regular nightly departures from Bangkok's Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, this service concludes at Vientiane's Khamsavath Station the following morning. Additionally, routes from Udon Thani and Nong Khai extend connectivity, linking Laos further with high-speed networks reaching into China.

 

These developments represent significant steps in strengthening ASEAN rail ties, with aspirations to position Thailand as a central hub in the region's transport infrastructure.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-10-21

 

 

 

looking forward to taking this train.

 

it's a pity there's been such a lack of investment in the railway infrastructure over the years.

11 hours ago, it is what it is said:

looking forward to taking this train

 

Yes, much safer than a bus or minivan.

12 hours ago, it is what it is said:

 

looking forward to taking this train.

 

it's a pity there's been such a lack of investment in the railway infrastructure over the years.

Thinking about it myself, take a train/van from my neck of the woods to link-up in BKK

and head north for a first visit to Laos

19 hours ago, it is what it is said:

 

looking forward to taking this train.

 

it's a pity there's been such a lack of investment in the railway infrastructure over the years.

 

Enjoy. It is an overnight service and will be far more comfortable and warmer than "freezing cold" buses.

3 minutes ago, Burma Bill said:

Enjoy. It is an overnight service and will be far more comfortable and warmer than "freezing cold" buses.

The airconditioned trains are often colder than the busses, but you get a much thicker blanket and of course the bed to sleep on.