Bangkok MRT

The Benefits of Bangkok MRT

In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide to navigating Bangkok's MRT system, including the

Bangkok MRT map
ticket information
operating hours

and tips for getting the most out of your MRT experience.

Unlike the BTS, the MRT in Bangkok is (mostly) an underground train, so it isn't quite as visually appealing as the BTS as you don't get to see the Bangkok sights through the window.

Think of it as being a Bangkok subway that gets you where you want to go, in and around Bangkok. It is clean and relatively inexpensive for traversing the city.

If you came to this page looking for general transport options around Bangkok, then you need to also read the page about the Bangkok BTS Skytrain.

The Bangkok MRT (Metropolitan Rapid Transit) is a convenient underground train system to travel around Bangkok with ease.

One great tip is to use the Bangkok MRT map to pre-plan your route whenever possible, to avoid the traffic snarls that the city is well known for and avoid the hassle of using taxis.

With a network of underground trains, the MRT is a popular choice for both locals and tourists that connects many of the city's major attractions and business districts.

Efficient and Time Saving

One of the primary benefits of Bangkok MRT is its efficiency and time-saving nature and that it now has four lines that span the breadth of the city.

The trains run at regular intervals, ensuring minimal wait times for passengers and with dedicated lanes and advanced signaling systems, the MRT allows commuters to bypass heavy traffic and reach their destinations swiftly.

This efficiency is particularly valuable during peak hours when road congestion is at its highest; especially during heavy rain when the road traffic can become gridlocked.

Extensive Network Coverage

Bangkok MRT boasts an extensive network that covers various parts of the city.

The BKK MRT system comprises multiple lines, including the Blue Line, Yellow Line, Pink Line and the Purple Line, which intersect at key transportation hubs throughout the city and surrounding suburbs.

This comprehensive coverage allows commuters to access numerous neighborhoods, commercial districts, shopping centers, and tourist attractions conveniently.

Whether you're visiting popular destinations like Chatuchak Market, Siam Paragon, or the Grand Palace, there's likely a Bangkok MRT station nearby, making it an ideal mode of transportation for tourists.

Comfortable and Air-conditioned

Bangkok's weather can be quite hot and humid, especially during certain times of the year and the Bangkok MRT provides a respite from the heat with its air-conditioned trains and stations.

Passengers can travel in comfort, enjoying a cool and refreshing environment throughout their journey.

This comfort is particularly appreciated during long commutes or when traveling with children or elderly passengers and the clean and well-maintained trains and stations further enhance the overall travel experience.

Affordable and Cost Effective

Bangkok MRT offers an affordable and cost-effective means of transportation compared to other options like taxis or private cars.

The fares are calculated based on distance travelled, ensuring that passengers pay only for the distance covered.

Additionally, the MRT accepts various payment methods, including contactless smart cards and mobile payment apps, making it convenient for both locals and tourists to use.

By choosing the Bangkok MRT, travellers can save money while enjoying a reliable and efficient mode of transportation.

MRT Map Bangkok: An Overview of the MRT System

Before diving into the details, let's take a look at the MRT map of Bangkok.

The MRT system in Bangkok currently has four lines.

MRT Blue Line

Start: Tha Phra (in the southwest of Bangkok)
End: Lak Song (in the northwest of Bangkok), with a branch line to Hua Lamphong (in the central business district)

MRT Purple Line

Start: Khlong Bang Phai (in the northwest of Bangkok)
End: Tao Poon (in the north of Bangkok), with a future extension planned to the northeastern suburbs

MRT Pink Line

Start: Khae Rai (in the north of Bangkok)
End: Min Buri (in the eastern suburbs of Bangkok)

MRT Yellow Line

Start: Lat Phrao (in the northeastern part of Bangkok)
End: Samrong (in the southeastern suburbs of Bangkok)

The Blue Line (Chaloem Ratchamongkhon Line)

The Blue Line is the older of the two lines, and it covers many of the most popular tourist destinations in Bangkok, such as:

Chatuchak Weekend Market,
Hua Lamphong (the main railway station), and the shopping districts of Siam and Sukhumvit.

The Blue Line also connects with the Airport Rail Link at Makkasan Station, providing a direct connection to Suvarnabhumi Airport.

The MRT Blue Line is a 48-kilometer railway line that runs from the southwest to the northwest of Bangkok, with a branch line to the central business district. The line has 38 stations:

Main Line: Hua Lamphong (in the central business district) to Tha Phra (in the southwest of Bangkok) and Lak Song (in the northwest of Bangkok)
Branch Line: Tha Phra to Lak Song (via the northwest of Bangkok)

Operating Hours

The MRT Blue Line operates from:

6:00 AM to 12:00 AM, Monday to Sunday

Frequency

Trains run at a frequency of:

2-3 minutes during peak hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
5-10 minutes during off-peak hours

Fares

The Bangkok MRT fare for the Blue Line ranges from:

16 baht to 42 baht, depending on the distance traveled

Transfers

The MRT Blue Line connects with other MRT lines at:

Si Lom station: Transfer to the BTS Skytrain (Silom Line)
Phetchaburi station: Transfer to the Airport Rail Link
Tao Poon station: Transfer to the MRT Purple Line
Tha Phra station: Transfer to the MRT Orange Line (under construction)

The Purple Line (Khlong Bang Phai - Tao Poon)

The Purple Line is newer than the Blue Line, and it serves areas of Bangkok that are less frequented by tourists.

However, it still provides easy access to many interesting destinations, such as the famous Wat Arun temple and the Bang Yai Night Market.

The Purple Line also connects with the BTS Skytrain at Bang Yai Station, providing a convenient link to the rest of the city.

The MRT Purple Line is a 23-kilometer elevated railway line that runs from the northwest to the north of Bangkok. The line has 16 stations:

Start: Khlong Bang Phai (in the northwest of Bangkok)
End: Tao Poon (in the north of Bangkok), with a future extension planned to the northeastern suburbs

Operating Hours

The MRT Purple Line operates from:

6:00 AM to 12:00 AM, Monday to Sunday

Frequency

Trains run at a frequency of:

3-5 minutes during peak hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
5-10 minutes during off-peak hours

Fares

The Bangkok MRT fare for the Purple Line ranges from:

16 baht to 42 baht, depending on the distance traveled

Transfers

The MRT Purple Line connects with other MRT lines at:

Tao Poon station: Transfer to the MRT Blue Line
Pak Kret station: Transfer to the MRT Pink Line

The Pink Line (Khae Rai - Minburi)

The MRT Pink Line is a 34.5-kilometer elevated railway line that runs from the north to the east of Bangkok. The line has 30 stations:

Start: Khae Rai (in the north of Bangkok)
End: Min Buri (in the eastern suburbs of Bangkok)

Operating Hours

The MRT Pink Line operates from:

6:00 AM to 12:00 AM, Monday to Sunday

Frequency

Trains run at a frequency of:

3-5 minutes during peak hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
5-10 minutes during off-peak hours

Fares

The Bangkok MRT fare for the Pink Line ranges from:

16 baht to 42 baht, depending on the distance traveled

Transfers

The MRT Pink Line connects with other MRT lines at:

Pak Kret station: Transfer to the MRT Purple Line
Lat Phrao station: Transfer to the MRT Blue Line (via a short walk to the Phra Ram 9 station)

The Yellow Line (Lat Phrao to Samrong)

The Yellow Line is the newest MRT extension and it goes from Lat Phrao to Samrong.

There are 23 stations and the line extends over 30 Km and a lot of the distance is along the length of Srinakarin Road.

This makes if very handy to reach the Seacon Square Shopping Mall on the very busy Srinakarin Road, along with the more upmarket Paradise Park Shopping Mall and Thaniya Park complex.

If you stay all the way to Samrong then there is a large wet market there to explore.

The MRT Yellow Line is a 30.4-kilometer elevated railway line that runs from the northeastern part of Bangkok to the southeastern suburbs. The line has 23 stations:

Start: Lat Phrao (in the northeastern part of Bangkok)
End: Samrong (in the southeastern suburbs of Bangkok)

Operating Hours

The MRT Yellow Line operates from:

6:00 AM to 12:00 AM, Monday to Sunday

Frequency

Trains run at a frequency of:

3-5 minutes during peak hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
5-10 minutes during off-peak hours

Fares

The Bangkok MRT fare for the Yellow Line ranges from:

16 baht to 42 baht, depending on the distance traveled

Transfers

The MRT Yellow Line connects with other MRT lines at:

Lat Phrao station: Transfer to the MRT Blue Line (via a short walk to the Phra Ram 9 station)

The MRT Yellow Line is a relatively new line, opened in 2023, and is expected to play a significant role in improving transportation in the eastern suburbs of Bangkok.

How to Ride The Bangkok MRT?

Check out the map of the BKK MRT below to find the nearest station to your location.

Easily travel around Bangkok, just take the underground line that starts at Hua Lamphong station and travels all the way to Bang Sue and choose your destination .

Choose your entry and exit stations to get where you want.

The MRT Bangkok, intersects the BTS line at Sala Daeng, Asoke and Mo Chit so you can also transfer to the BTS line at these points.

If you want to visit Chatuchak Market then alight at Mo Chit or if you want to look around Wat Hua Lamphong you need to get off at Sam Yan.

How Much is the Bangkok MRT Ticket Price?

If you want to know how to buy an MRT ticket in Bangkok and the current pricing, then read on.

The MRT Bangkok uses an electronic ticketing system and there are a couple of types of tickets that are great bargains for the visitor or tourist.

Single Journey Token - For one trip
Bangkok MRT Day Pass - This allows unlimited rides on the day of issue for 140 baht, similar to the BTS.
Bangkok MRT 3 Day Pass - This allows you unlimited travel for three consecutive days for the princely sum of 240 baht.
Bangkok MRT Stored Value Card Add stored value to the card, sufficient for several trips in the Bangkok MRT system. Initial value of 180 baht (100 baht travel value, 50 baht deposit and 30 baht issuing fee)

Any of these tickets can be purchased at the ticket office or vending machine located at each MRT station, although I am checking to see if options 2 and 3 are still available, as the website suggests that only options 1 and 4 are currently in use.

If you just have a single destination in mind, then you can choose to purchase a single journey token from the vending machine.

The Bangkok MRT fare ranges from 17 baht for one stop, up to a maximum of 70 baht from the beginning of the line to the end of the line.

There doesn't seem to be a Bangkok MRT card for tourist, so select from the Bangkok MRT Pass or the Bangkok MRT 3 Day Pass.

The Bangkok MRT monthly pass seems not to be offered any longer as it seems to have been replaced with the Stored Value card.

There is no Rabbit card for use on the Bangkok Metro, this is for use on the BTS, however you can now directly tap with your credit card, using the tap on - tap off concept.

The Yellow line looks like MRT but is operated by BTS and so their ticketing applies. It all seem pretty confusing with the different lines and operators, so if you are not sure, either purchase at the platform or use a credit card.

How to Travel on the Bangkok MRT?

Plan your journey ahead of time and make sure you have a good idea of where you're going and which stations you need to get off at.

The MRT map Bangkok is easy to understand, so take some time to study it before setting out.

Upon arrival at the station if you don't have a pre-paid card, then collect your travel token from the ticket vending machine (TVM) in the station.

Purchase of the single journey tokens is from the TVM, which takes 5 or 10 baht coins as well as banknotes.

The machines are simple to use:

Select English language
A map of the various stations is displayed
Select your destination
The screen will show the price
Insert coins or banknotes
The machine will dispense the appropriate change.

If you haven't used one on these tokens before, you need to tap it on the turnstile as you enter the station and place it in the turnstile slot as you depart at your final destination, so don't lose it during your journey.

The MRT Bangkok generally operates from 06.00 am - midnight daily.

Between 06.00 am - 09.00 am and 16.30 pm - 19.30 pm the trains run every five minutes and during off peak hours they run at less than ten minute intervals.

See the most accurate time for the Blue and Purple Lines below.

Bangkok MRT Map

The MRT map Bangkok is a great tool for exploring the city.

The map can be accessed through the official website of the BEM (Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited) or by downloading an application on your phone.

The Official App is available on Google Play and on the Apple App Store, look for BANGKOK MRT with a blue "M" in a white circle.

There is also the Google Maps application that is familiar to most people and there is a full layout of all the Bangkok MRT and the Bangkok BTS train system on this application and I have created a link to use.

Here is the Google Maps link to the Bangkok MRT lines.

Before you visit Bangkok, take the time to look at the BTS line and this full size MRT map Bangkok, in jpg format. (opens in a new window)

Now that you have got your Bangkok MRT map to hand, you get an idea of how much of the city the two Bangkok trains systems cover; plan where you want to go and see how close these two transport systems can take you to your final destination.

The great advantage of both the BTS Skytrain and the BKK MRT transportation systems, is that you avoid the traffic jams, and so it makes sense to start your journey by using the Bangkok MRT and then perhaps just take a taxi for the last few kilometres.

By planning out your sightseeing trip beforehand and using a combination of the BTS Skytrain and BKK MRT one can easily visit:

Wat Hua Lamphong or the market at Chatuchak by riding on the MRT and using the Bangkok Metro pass to travel cheaply.

Ensure you get a copy of the Bangkok Metro Map or load the App onto your phone, before you arrive to get familiar with the stations.

MRT Map Bangkok (smaller version)

The MRT provides priority seating for monks, seniors, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. If you don't fall into any of these categories, it's polite to give up your seat to someone who does.

During peak hours, the MRT system can get very crowded, especially on the Blue Line and as with any public transportation system, it's important to keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

Pickpocketing can occur on crowded trains, so keep an eye on your valuables and be aware of your surroundings.

When you arrive at your destination, follow the signs to the appropriate exit.

The exits are numbered, so make sure you remember the number of the exit closest to your destination. The signs often have this information included, but it is best to have an idea of where you need to exit.

Use the Bangkok MRT as Part of Your Sightseeing

Many of Bangkok's top attractions are located near MRT stations, so consider using the MRT as part of your sightseeing itinerary.

For example, the Blue Line stops at Chatuchak Weekend Market, which is one of the largest markets in the world, while the Purple Line stops at the famous Wat Arun temple.

Can I change from the MRT to the BTS?

At certain points the Bangkok MRT crosses close to the BTS and a transition can be made from one system to the other, with just a short walk.

The train station interconnections are at:

MRT Chatuchak Park ↔ BTS Mo Chit
MRT Phahon Yothin ↔ BTS Ha Yaek Lat Phrao
MRT Sukhumvit ↔ BTS Asok
MRT Silom ↔ BTS Sala Daeng
MRT Bang Wa ↔ BTS Bang Wa
Sam Yan Station (MRT Blue Line) ↔ Siam Station (BTS Sukhumvit and Silom Lines) While not directly connected, the proximity allows for a short ride or walk to transfer.
Phetchaburi Station (MRT Blue Line) ↔ Makkasan Station (ARL, Airport Rail Link) and connection to BTS Phaya Thai
While indirect, travellers often use this combination for MRT-to-BTS connections via the ARL.
Tao Poon Station (MRT Blue and Purple Lines)
A key transfer point between the two MRT lines, though not directly to BTS.

Can I change from the MRT to the Airport Rail Link (ARL)?

These train station interconnections are at:

MRT Phetchaburi / ARL Makkasan

Using the combination of MRT, BTS and ARL provides a simple system for commuters to traverse Bangkok, in even the busiest of periods.

The Airport Rail Link is the main line to Suvarnabhumi Airport and is a fast and cheap way to get into the city of Bangkok directly from the airport.

Are there storage facilities available for luggage on the Bangkok MRT?

Several of the Bangkok MRT Stations have storage facilities on the MRT property and so you can drop your heavy items here before heading out for a day shopping or sightseeing.

The storage services are provided by LockBox Self Service Storage and they can fit small to large items, with locker sizes including Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large.

The automated locker service costs from 30 - 70 baht / hr or 180 - 420 baht for 24 hours, depending upon the item size.

You can read more about the Lockbox storage here at the official website.

Below is an example Lockbox unit in the Airport Rail Link area of Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Suvarnabhumi Airport lockbox storage area

Bangkok MRT Tourist Attractions

The Bangkok MRT is a pleasant way to get around the city and knowing which stations to use is vital for trip planning.

Here are eight interesting places to go, with brief instructions; but make sure you take a camera, as there are lots of memories to be captured.

If you prefer an organised tour around the city, then GetYourGuide have a Bangkok Temple Tour available.

Follow the link to see what is on offer, or continue reading below.

Bangkok Temple Tour

Upto groups of four persons:

Visit Bangkok’s most recognised attractions with tickets to the Grand Palace, the Emerald Buddha Temple, Wat Pho and Wat Arun.

Marvel at the Grand Palace, once the home of the kings of Siam and now a place of worship and big ceremonies
Explore the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and admire the brightly colored buildings, golden spires and glittering mosaics
Admire the beauty of the Reclining Buddha and learn the history of Wat Pho, the oldest and largest temple complex in Bangkok
See Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, to admire its pagoda, colorful porcelain tiles, bell tower and giant statues

Reclining Buddha image in Bangkok temple

Reclining Buddha image in Wat Pho

8 Tourist Attractions Near the BKK MRT

If you need some inspiration to put your own plan together, then here are 8 places that are close to MRT stations, to get you started.

Bang Yai Flower Market

Selling retail and wholesale garden plants, the Bang Yai Flower Market consists of:

Big Garden Market
Garden Center Market
Boonyong Tree Market
Soi Wat Phra Ngoen Tree Market
Saeng Aree Market

for you to visit and shop.

As a tourist you are unlikely to be taking live plants home, but it is a great way to experience the flora of Thailand.

From Talad Bang Yai Station exit 4, turn left and walk along Kanchanaphisek Road, a distance of 1 Km.

Taling Chan Floating Market

This is an authentic Thai floating market, situated about 12 km from the city and also known as Khlong Lad Mayom Floating Market.

Here you will find heaps of Thai foods served from small boats and a great atmosphere.

Make sure you check out the puppet theatre at the Artists House.

Open weekends: 8:00 - 16:00

From Bang Khun Non Station exit 1, take the public transport the road along the Talingchan railway line, a distance of 4.2 Kms.

Pak Khlong Talat

This is probably the most well known flower market in Bangkok, but Pak Khlong Talat is one of the largest fresh fruit markets in Thailand daily.

In the evening, visit the nearby Saphan Phut Market and enjoy browsing the stalls.

From Sanam Chai Station (Exit 4), walk along Rachini Road and turn left into Chakkraphet Road, a distance of 250 metres.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

The delights of Chatuchak Market are already shared in the linked page, so make sure to read that.

At the back of Chatuchak Market is JJ Mall, so if you still have shopping energy left, make sure to call in and enjoy the air-conditioned comfort.

From Kamphaeng Phet Station (Exit 2), you’ll see the Chatuchak (JJ) Market.

Esplanade Ratchada

A shopping mall with Movie theatres and shops.

I know it quite well as I used to go and have Thai lessons there.

MRT Cultural Centre Station (Exit 3)

Fortune Town

This is one of the largest IT Centres in Bangkok and surely surpasses the old IT centre at Pratunam.

Fortune Town is open from 10:00 - 22:00 and is conveniently located on Ratchadapisek Road.

MRT Phra Ram 9 Station (Exit 1) you will see the destination as you leave the station.

Talat Chao (Morning Market)

Wake up early and give alms to the passing monks.

From Hua Lamphong Station (Exit 1), turn left into Charoen Krung Road then turn right into Soi Charoen Phanit, a distance of 750 metres.

Paruhat and Sampheng Markets

These two markets with different cultural identities lie side by side and make a great cultural adventure for those that like to scour market stalls for treasure.

Paruhat is also known as Little India and Sampheng is where the Chinese first settled in Bangkok, and the markets reflect this heritage.

From Sam Yot Station (Exit 3), turn left and walk along Burapha Road, a distance of 300 metres.

Bangkok MRT Pass

With your Bangkok MRT pass in hand, a bottle of water in the backpack and your MRT map Bangkok ready, then you should now be all set to explore some of Bangkok's most interesting places.

Be sure to take some amazing images with your phone or larger camera.

Best Hotels to Stay Near Bangkok MRT Stations

If you're planning a trip and want to stay at a hotel near the main Bangkok MRT stations, you're in luck!

There are plenty of nice Bangkok hotel options to choose from, each offering convenient access to the city's efficient public transportation system.

In this section, we'll explore some of the best hotels located near Bangkok MRT stations, helping you find the perfect place to stay during your visit to Bangkok.

Whether you're looking for accommodation for a family group or just budget-friendly options, you'll find a wide range of choices near these Bangkok MRT stations.

So why wait?

Start planning your trip to Bangkok today and stay at a hotel that puts you just a train ride away from all the city has to offer!

A map of Bangkok MRT stations is provided above, and the best hotels near each station are listed in order of proximity, so just use your Bangkok MRT map to orientate yourself and check availability and pricing through the Agoda link.

I always read the hotel reviews before booking and make sure to sort them by Most Recent first, as these always seem more accurate.