5 more ways to get around in Bangkok
In a previous article I wrote about 5 modes of transportation in Bangkok. However those are not the only options you can use to get around in this city. In this follow up article I will provide you with 5 more transportation options, which you can use in the capital city of Thailand.
1. Chao Phraya Express Boats
The express boats run along the Chao Phraya river. They bring you to various places, like for example Grand Palace or Khaosan Road. Tickets are very cheap and will cost you around 15 baht. The boats provide a good opportunity to see the city from the river. A tour on the river is especially nice at night, when you can see all the lights from the buildings and temples.
By taking an express boat you can avoid the traffic jams on the road. There are three different lines that you can use. Their operating hours differ. The first boat departs at 03:30 a.m. and the last boat departs at 08.00 p.m. An easy way to reach the boats is by taking the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin. From there it is only a short walk to the central pier.
2. Buses
Take the bus if you want to experience a local way of traveling around. Tickets are very cheap and some buses even offer free rides. The challenge is to find the right one. Try to approach locals if you are not sure which one to take. Expect to be an attraction in the bus as not many foreigners seem to use this form of transportation. You can find various buses who drive day and night.
3. The Airport Rail Link
The Airport Rail Link started running in 2010. It is a Skytrain who commutes between Suvarnabhumi international Airport and Phaya Thai station in Bangkok. It is a delight that this service is available. It saves you a long and more “expensive” taxi ride. The prices for the Airport Link range from 15 to 45 baht. The Airport Rail Link will stop at various stations between the airport and Phaya Thai. You can take the line to the last stop in the city center, and then transfer to the nearby BTS Skytrain or other forms of transportation. The Airport Rail Link runs from 06:00 till midnight.
4. Express Boats
There is another water transportation service you can use. This service is provided by the Khlong Saen Saep Express Boats. The express boats transport you along the Khlong (canal) Saen Saep. Positive points about the Khlong boat service are the fast way of transportation and the cheap tickets. A negative point about this service is the polluted water in the canal, which you really do not want to get on your body or cloths. There are two boat lines operating. One is the NIDA Line, which commutes between Pratunam and Wat Sriboonreung. The other option is the Golden Mount Line, which operates between Panfa Leelard (close to Golden Mount) and Pratunam. The boats operate from 5.30 a.m. till 20:30 p.m. Tickets cost between 10 and 20 baht.
5. Songthaews
A Songthaew is a pick up truck which is transformed into a taxi. It has two benches in the back of the vehicle. There is also a small platform on the rear of the pick up for standing passengers. The Songthaew also has a roof to protect people from the rain. The price for a Songthaew ride is very cheap and ranges from 10 to 20 baht. There are several places in the city where you can hop on for a ride. The Songthaew’s drive around at daytime and in the evening. Keep in mind that it can get crowded in the back of these vehicles.
Your experiences
As you can see you have a lot of useful and cheap transport options if you want to travel around in Bangkok. I would like to know from you: Did you use any of the described services? Feel free to tell us more about your travel experiences in the capital city of Thailand.
Useful links:
- www.transitbangkok.com: This site provides a lot of information about public transportation in Bangkok. You find information about the provided services, operating times, a route planner and other travel information.
- www.bangkok.com: This site offers a lot of useful information about Bangkok. It also has a section which provides information on getting around in the city.
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