Overview: Public transportation Bangkok has diverse transportation system that caters to its bustling population and the myriad of tourists that visit each year. From the modern BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems to the traditional river taxis and tuk-tuks, Bangkok offers a range of options to navigate the city.
Operators: The primary operators for the city’s rapid transit systems are the Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) for the Skytrain and the Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT) for the subway. Additionally, river taxis operate on the Chao Phraya River, and a plethora of buses run on the city’s roads.
Rapid Transit Systems:
- BTS Skytrain: This elevated rapid transit system has two main lines: Sukhumvit (light green on maps) and Silom (dark green on maps). The central hub is the Siam Station.
- MRT Subway: The MRT serves over 400,000 daily passengers and currently has two lines: the Blue Line and the Purple Line. The main interchange is Tao Poon Station.
Major Airport Services:
- Airport Rail Link: This connects the city to Suvarnabhumi Airport. The Phaya Thai Station on the BTS Sukhumvit Line and the Phetchaburi Station on the MRT are the main connecting points.
Commuter Rail: Hua Lamphong Station, located near Chinatown, is the primary hub for long-haul surface trains and the MRT. This station, dating back to 1916, is set to be converted into a museum, with the new station in Bang Sue poised to become Southeast Asia’s largest train station.
Buses: Bangkok’s buses, while slower and more complicated, offer another means of transportation. Tourists rarely use them due to their complexity and the city’s traffic congestion.
Table: Transportation Systems:
| Transportation | Operator Name | Website URL |
|---|---|---|
| Skytrain | BTS | BTS Website |
| Subway | MRT | MRT Website |
| Buses | Bangkok BRT | – |
Guide on Ticket Purchasing:
- BTS Skytrain: Tickets are available from machines or the ticketing window. Prices for single journeys are based on distance, ranging from 16-59 baht. A one-day pass for unlimited rides costs 140 baht.
- MRT Subway: Ticketing machines vend an RFID token that is tapped for entrance. Prices are based on distance, ranging from 15-50 baht.
- River Taxi: The riverboat taxis use a colored-flag system. Fares can be as cheap as 30 cents, with an all-day pass costing around 100 baht.
- Buses: Payment is made directly to the conductor on the bus. Small change is recommended.
For both the BTS and MRT, if you’re staying in Bangkok for an extended period, consider purchasing rechargeable smart cards to avoid queues at ticketing machines.
Major Passenger Airports and Ways to City Centre:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Connected to the city via the Airport Rail Link. The Phaya Thai Station on the BTS Sukhumvit Line and the Phetchaburi Station on the MRT are the main connecting points.
Walking & Biking Facilities: Bangkok is a vibrant city with busy streets. Pedestrians should always be cautious when crossing roads. Biking is possible, but due to the city’s traffic, it might not be the safest option for tourists. However, certain parks and recreational areas in Bangkok offer serene environments for walking and biking away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
