Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train

[CircadianRhythm01]

Well, I'm told this is quite an experience - and, often, one that people don't want to repeat...

 

The choice has been made for me, however, as I'm travelling as part of a group.

 

Does anyone have any (constructive) suggestions for the trip?  And yes, I have seen the cost of a flight, please refer to the second sentence...

[Ron19]

Do it in the day time.

[bluebluewater]

I have made this trip and I would describe it as one of those experiences that sound better than it really is.   I have taken the evening sleeper train a couple of times.   Since it is traveling at night there is not a lot to see once you leave BKK and after an all nighter of - for me - fitful sleep all I wanted to do in the morning was get off.  I think it is scheduled at a 12 hour trip but was more accurately about 14 hours when I did it.  Enough was more than enough.

 

Enjoy!

[Katia]

I did it recently.  I'd do it again, especially on the new trains.  My only tip is that yes, the new cars are nicer.  Personally I don't see much wrong with the older ones (save for the bathrooms...), but the new ones are newer and fancier.  You sleep for most of the trip, so if you're able to sleep on trains, you should be fine.

[Crossy]

Tell the group you'll meet them in CM.