Skytrain & MRT info
Whilst taxis are cheap and plentiful in Bangkok, they can’t escape the omnipresent traffic jams that are synonymous with the city. Thankfully the public transport system has forged ahead over recent years. The opening of the Skytrain (BTS) in 1999 and the Underground Railway (MRT) in 2004 heralded a new era in Thai transport and eased the burden on the congested roads. Getting from place to place around central Bangkok and even out into some of its suburbs, is cheap, fast and efficient.
Skytrain (BTS)
The elevated concrete train network is a familiar and welcome sight around central Bangkok. Trains run every few minutes from 6am to midnight, with fares ranging from 15 to 40 baht a trip. Tourists can purchase a day pass for 120 baht. Work is underway to extend the Skytrain progressively over the next few years. Eventually the concrete pylons will transport passengers to & from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Further details can be found on www.bts.co.th
Subway (MRT)
The air-conditioned comfort of the Mass Rapid Transit system is a welcome relief to weary shoppers in Bangkok. As fast and efficient as the BTS, the underground offers an affordable alternative to taxis. With trains arriving every 5 to 10 minutes between 6am and midnight, you’ll never be stranded. Designated MRT stations connect with BTS stations, so you can use a combination of both to get around the city. Check out www.bangkokmetro.co.th.Map of Skytrain & MRT (click to enlarge)
BTS (Skytrain) one day pass: cost 120 Baht and give you unlimited rides for 1 day. This one day pass is Non-refundable and valid for date of purchase only. Smart pass: cost 100 Baht (Price excludes 30 Baht issuing fee for a new SmartPass) You can refill up to 2,000 Baht. (minimum 100 Baht). 5 year lifetime from date of first use.The graduated fare structure is employed for the ISP project, comprising the entry fare of Baht 12 and the distance-related charge of Baht 2 /station but capped increasing for no more than 12 stations.
