Overnight train to Chiang Mai (Day 4 – Day 5)

me 2 comments Backpacking, Featured Articles, Thailand

Feb 13

After transit in Bangkok, I went to Chiang Mai by an overnight sleeper train. Not only it got me to my destination comfortably, I actually saved on a night of accommodation. The train departed from Hua Lamphong train station punctually at 6pm.

I must say the train was the most comfortable transportation I took for the whole 2 weeks trip. I could actually sleep in it. When I first entered the cabin, I quickly put on my jacket because the cabin was fully air-conditioned. It was kind of cold at night. I introduced myself to a couple of tourist from Germany who sat across the alley and engaged in a short chat. However, my bunk mate was still no where in sight. Since I haven’t done my homework, I took out my Lonely Planet to find more information on Chiang Mai. The train moved slowly and hopped from one station to another to picked up more passengers. After a few stations, my bunk mate arrived. Her name was Conny and she was from Holland. She turned out to be a very friendly person who has vast experience in Chiang Mai. I tucked away my Lonely Planet and she became my “guide book” that night I also learned a lot from her life experience. We chatted for hours until it was time to sleep.

Pedi and friend

Conny from Holland

The train attendants would moved from one cabin to another and prepare the bed for every passengers. It was amazing to see them work because they could prepare the bed so fast almost like they could do it with their eyes close. I kept my backpack underneath the bottom bunk and took the valuable stuffs with me. There was a curtain I could pull over to provide some privacy when I slept. Sleeping in the small bunk with the curtain pulled over reminded me of my childhood when I used to play house my brother. The house was built by cardboard and blankets and we would pretend to lived in it. I put on my iPod before falling asleep.

It became a seat when the bed is folded

I slept on the top bunk

I woke up around 7am and was greeted by a beautiful sunrise on a hilly scenery. I went to brush my teeth and washed my face in the common wash room. Then I had my breakfast that I bought at 7-Eleven. Even though food is sold on the train, it is cheaper if I bring my own food. The train finally reached Chiang Mai at around 8 something in the morning and it was time to say goodbye to Pedi and friend from Germany and Conny.

Sunrise as seen from the window