The MRT subway in Bangkok is an underground mass rapid transit system that serves the city of Bangkok, Thailand. It is operated by the Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited (BEM). The MRT system is one of the major public transportation options in Bangkok and provides a convenient way to travel around the city.
Here are some key details about the MRT subway in Bangkok:
Lines: The MRT subway currently consists of two lines: the Blue Line (officially known as the Chaloem Ratchamongkhon Line) and the Purple Line (officially known as the Metropolitan Rapid Transit Line). The Blue Line is the older line, while the Purple Line was opened more recently.
Blue Line: The Blue Line runs from Hua Lamphong in the central part of Bangkok to Bang Sue in the northern part of the city. It has a total of 18 stations, covering a distance of approximately 27 kilometers. Some of the important stations on this line include Silom, Sukhumvit, Chatuchak Park, and Bang Sue.
Purple Line: The Purple Line connects Tao Poon in the northwestern part of Bangkok to Khlong Bang Phai in the western part of the city. It has a total of 16 stations and covers a distance of around 23 kilometers. Notable stations on this line include Bang Yai, Bang Rak Noi Tha It, and Khlong Bang Phai.
Interchange Stations: There are two interchange stations that connect the Blue Line and the Purple Line. These stations are Tao Poon and Bang Sue. Passengers can transfer between the two lines at these stations.
Operating Hours and Frequency: The MRT subway operates from around 6:00 AM to midnight daily. Trains usually arrive at stations every 5-7 minutes during peak hours and every 10-15 minutes during non-peak hours.
Fares: The fare for traveling on the MRT subway depends on the distance traveled. The fare ranges from 16 to 42 Thai Baht, depending on the number of stations traveled. The fare is paid using tokens or rechargeable contactless smart cards known as "Rabbit cards."
Accessibility: The MRT subway is designed to be accessible to people with disabilities. Stations have elevators, ramps, and other facilities to assist passengers with mobility challenges.
It's worth noting that the information provided is based on the knowledge cutoff of September 2021, and there may have been updates or changes to the MRT subway system in Bangkok since then. It's always a good idea to check for the latest information from official sources or consult local transportation authorities when planning to use public transportation in Bangkok.
The frequency of trains on the Bangkok MRT subway system can vary depending on the time of day and the specific line. Here are some general guidelines for the frequency of trains on the MRT:
Peak Hours: During peak hours, which are typically in the morning and evening on weekdays when people are commuting to and from work, trains on the MRT system usually operate at a higher frequency. Trains may arrive at stations approximately every 5-7 minutes on average.
Non-Peak Hours: Outside of peak hours, such as midday or late at night, the frequency of trains may be slightly reduced. Trains on the MRT system generally arrive at stations every 10-15 minutes during non-peak hours.
It's important to note that these are general estimates and actual train frequencies may vary depending on factors such as operational conditions, maintenance schedules, and unexpected incidents. Additionally, different lines within the MRT system may have slightly different frequencies.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on train schedules and frequencies, it is recommended to check the official MRT website, consult travel apps, or refer to information boards at the MRT stations. These sources will provide the most reliable information regarding train frequency for the specific day and time you plan to travel.
The Blue Line of the Bangkok MRT subway system, officially known as the Chaloem Ratchamongkhon Line, consists of 18 stations. Here is a list of the stations on the Blue Line, starting from the southern end and moving northwards:
Hua Lamphong: Located near Bangkok's main railway station, Hua Lamphong is an important transportation hub in the city.
Sam Yan: This station serves the Silom area, which is known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Si Lom: Si Lom station is situated in the heart of Bangkok's business district and is connected to the BTS Skytrain's Sala Daeng station.
Lumphini: Lumphini station is located near Lumphini Park, a popular green space in the city.
- Khlong Toei: This station is close to the Khlong Toei Market, one of the largest fresh markets in Bangkok.
- Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre: As the name suggests, this station is located near the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre.
- Sukhumvit: Sukhumvit station is connected to the BTS Skytrain's Asok station, and it provides access to the Sukhumvit Road area, which is famous for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
- Phetchaburi: Phetchaburi station is situated near the intersection of Phetchaburi Road and Asoke-Din Daeng Road.
- Rama IX: This station is named after King Rama IX, also known as King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and it provides access to the Rama IX Park.
- Thailand Cultural Centre: Located near the Thailand Cultural Centre, this station is a convenient access point for cultural events and performances.
- Huai Khwang: Huai Khwang station is close to the Huai Khwang Night Market, where visitors can experience local food and shopping.
- Sutthisan: Sutthisan station is situated near the Sutthisan Market and the Wat Sutthisanaram Ratchaworawihan temple.
- Ratchadaphisek: Ratchadaphisek station is located in the bustling Ratchadaphisek Road area, known for its entertainment venues, shopping malls, and nightlife.
- Lat Phrao: This station is near the Lat Phrao intersection, which is a major transportation hub and shopping area in Bangkok.
- Phahon Yothin: Phahon Yothin station provides access to the Central Plaza Ladprao shopping mall and the Union Mall.
- Chatuchak Park: Chatuchak Park station is located near Chatuchak Park, which is home to the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market.
- Kamphaeng Phet: This station is close to the Kamphaeng Phet MRT Park and the Bang Sue Grand Station, which is a major railway transportation hub.
- Bang Sue: Bang Sue station is the northern terminus of the Blue Line and connects with the Bang Sue Junction Railway Station.
These stations along the Blue Line provide access to various popular areas, landmarks, and attractions in Bangkok.
The Purple Line of the Bangkok MRT subway system, officially known as the Metropolitan Rapid Transit Line, consists of 16 stations. Here is a list of the stations on the Purple Line, starting from the western end and moving eastwards:
- Khlong Bang Phai: Khlong Bang Phai is the western terminus of the Purple Line and serves as an interchange station with the Dark Red Line.
- Talad Bang Yai: This station is located near Bang Yai Market, where you can find a variety of local products.
- Sam Yaek Bang Yai: Sam Yaek Bang Yai station is situated near the Bang Yai Intersection and provides convenient access to the Bang Yai Clock Tower.
- Bang Phlu: Bang Phlu station is located near Bang Phlu Temple and the Bang Phlu Market.
- Bang Rak Yai: This station is close to Bang Rak Yai Temple and Bang Rak Yai Market.
- Bang Rak Noi Tha It: Bang Rak Noi Tha It station serves as an interchange station with the Dark Red Line.
- Sai Ma: Sai Ma station is located near the Sai Ma Market and is a convenient access point for local neighborhoods.
- Bang Son: Bang Son station is situated near Bang Son Market and provides access to the Central Plaza Ladprao shopping mall.
- Wong Sawang: This station is close to Wong Sawang Market and the Wong Sawang Floating Market.
- Bang O: Bang O station provides access to the Bang O Canal and nearby residential areas.
- Tao Poon: Tao Poon is an interchange station between the Purple Line and the Blue Line. It offers convenient transfers between the two lines.
- Bang Sue: Bang Sue station is a major transportation hub and connects with the Bang Sue Junction Railway Station.
- Kamphaeng Phet: Kamphaeng Phet station is located near the Kamphaeng Phet MRT Park.
- Chatuchak Park: Chatuchak Park station is situated near Chatuchak Park, which is home to the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market.
- Phahon Yothin 24: This station is near Kasetsart University's Bang Khen Campus.
- Phahon Yothin 59: Phahon Yothin 59 station is the eastern terminus of the Purple Line and provides access to local residential areas.
These stations along the Purple Line offer convenient access to various neighborhoods, markets, and attractions in Bangkok's western and northern areas.
The fare for traveling on the Bangkok MRT subway system depends on the distance traveled. The MRT fare structure is divided into different fare zones, and the fare is calculated based on the number of zones crossed during the journey. Here are some general guidelines regarding MRT fares in Bangkok:
1. Single Journey Ticket: If you are using a single journey ticket, the fare will be determined by the number of stations traveled. The ticket vending machines at the MRT stations will calculate the fare based on your entry and exit stations.
2. Stored Value Card (Rabbit Card): The Rabbit Card is a rechargeable contactless smart card that can be used on the MRT subway system in Bangkok. With a Rabbit Card, you can simply tap the card at the entry and exit gates, and the fare will be automatically deducted based on the distance traveled.
3. Fare Ranges: The fare ranges for the MRT subway system in Bangkok are as follows:
- For a journey within a single zone (up to three stations), the fare is generally around 16 Thai Baht.
- For a journey crossing two or more zones (more than three stations), the fare can range from around 20 to 42 Thai Baht.
It's important to note that these fares are subject to change, and it's always a good idea to check for the latest fare information from official sources or consult the fare charts available at the MRT stations.
Additionally, there may be fare discounts or promotions available for certain groups such as students, senior citizens, or frequent travelers. These discounts can vary, so it's advisable to inquire about any applicable discounts at the MRT station or check the official MRT website for details.
Remember to keep your ticket or card throughout the journey, as you may be required to present it for inspection at the exit gates or during random checks by MRT staff.