Navigating Bangkok can be difficult, but the BTS Skytrain Bangkok offers a convenient and efficient solution. This elevated rapid transit system helps travelers travel above the city’s traffic, connecting key areas quickly and comfortably. Whether you’re a tourist exploring attractions or a business traveler rushing to meetings, mastering the Skytrain Bangkok system is essential. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from routes and ticketing to nearby shopping centers and hotels, ensuring your Bangkok journey is smooth and stress-free!
What is the BTS Skytrain Bangkok?
The BTS Skytrain Bangkok is a critical component of the city’s public transportation network. Launched in 1999, this elevated rapid transit system has revolutionized travel in Thailand’s capital. The Skytrain Bangkok network consists of two main lines: the Sukhumvit Line (light green) and the Silom Line (dark green).
The BTS Skytrain, operating from 6 a.m. to midnight daily, offers a reliable alternative to Bangkok’s road traffic. Trains arrive frequently, especially during peak hours, with intervals as short as 3-6 minutes. The BTS connects many of Bangkok’s key areas, including business districts, shopping centers, and tourist attractions. It’s an integral part of daily life for locals and an invaluable resource for visitors. With clear signage in both Thai and English, and staff available to assist, the Skytrain Bangkok system is user-friendly even for first-time visitors to the city.
Routes of the BTS Skytrain, MRT, and Airport Rail Link
The BTS Skytrain Bangkok system comprises two main lines:
- Sukhumvit Line (Light Green): Runs from Mo Chit to Kheha, passing through central areas like Siam and Asok.
- Silom Line (Dark Green): Extends from National Stadium to Bang Wa, serving the Silom business district and Sathorn area.
The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) complements the Skytrain Bangkok with two underground lines:
- Blue Line: A circular route connecting Tao Poon to Lak Song, intersecting with the BTS at several points.
- Purple Line: Runs from Tao Poon to Khlong Bang Phai in Nonthaburi province.
The Airport Rail Link provides a direct connection between Suvarnabhumi Airport and downtown Bangkok:
- It runs from Phaya Thai station (connecting with BTS) to Suvarnabhumi Airport, with several stops in between.
Understanding these routes helps navigate the Skytrain Bangkok system efficiently, allowing seamless travel across the city.
Interchange Between BTS, MRT, and Airport Rail Link
The integration of the BTS Skytrain Bangkok, MRT, and Airport Rail Link systems provides comprehensive coverage of the city. Key interchange stations facilitate easy transfers between these networks:
- BTS Asok connects with MRT Sukhumvit
- BTS Sala Daeng connects with MRT Si Lom
- BTS Mo Chit connects with MRT Chatuchak Park
- Phaya Thai BTS connects with the Airport Rail Link
When interchanging, follow the clearly marked signs directing you to your desired line. You’ll need to exit through the gates of one system and enter the other, which may require purchasing a new ticket. Some interchanges involve short walks through connected pathways or skywalks.
For frequent travelers, consider multi-system passes that allow seamless transfers between the Skytrain Bangkok and other rail systems, saving time and money.
Shopping Centers Around the BTS Skytrain Bangkok
The BTS Skytrain Bangkok provides easy access to numerous shopping centers. Here’s a list of major malls near BTS stations:
Sukhumvit Line:
- Mo Chit: Chatuchak Market
- Ari: La Villa Ari
- Phaya Thai: Platinum Fashion Mall
- Ratchathewi: Siam Square
- Siam: Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery
- Chit Lom: Central Chidlom, Gaysorn Plaza, CentralW0rld
- Phloen Chit: Central Embassy
- Nana: Nana Square
- Asok: Terminal 21
- Phrom Phong: EmQuartier
- Thong Lo: J Avenue
- Ekkamai: Gateway Ekkamai
- Phra Khanong: W District
Silom Line:
- National Stadium: MBK Center
- Siam: Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery
- Sala Daeng: Silom Complex
- Chong Nonsi: Empire Tower
- Saphan Taksin: ICONSIAM
- Krung Thon Buri: ICONSIAM (Interchange with the Gold Line which connects directly to the mall)
- Talat Phlu: The Mall Tha Phra
These shopping centers offer a mix of local and international brands, dining options, and entertainment, all conveniently accessible via the Skytrain Bangkok network.
How to Buy a Ticket
Purchasing tickets for the BTS Skytrain Bangkok is straightforward. Use ticket vending machines or ticket offices at any station. Choose your destination, pay in Thai Baht (cash or card), and receive your ticket to ride.
1. BTS prepaid card
The BTS Skytrain Bangkok offers a convenient prepaid card called the Rabbit Card. This reloadable smart card allows quick and easy access to the system. Purchase it at any BTS station with a minimum initial top-up of 100 Baht. The card is valid for 7 years.
There are three types of Rabbit Cards:
- Adult (aged between 23 and up but not over 60 years old)
- Student (aged not over 23 years old and currently studying at an academic institution in Thailand, or studying in a foreign country at an institution recognized by the Ministry of Education)
- Senior (aged 60 years old and above)
2. One-day pass
For tourists or those planning multiple trips in a day, the BTS Skytrain Bangkok offers a convenient One-Day Pass. Priced at 150 Baht, this pass allows unlimited rides on both the Sukhumvit and Silom lines for one day. It’s an economical choice if you’re planning to make more than four trips. The pass is valid from the first use until midnight of the same day. Purchase it at any BTS station ticket office. Remember, this pass is for the Skytrain Bangkok only and doesn’t cover the MRT or Airport Rail Link.
3. Single-Journey Card
The BTS Single Journey Ticket offers a one-time ride with fares ranging from 16 to 62 Baht, depending on the destination. These tickets are only valid on the day of purchase and are collected by the automatic gate upon exit. Passengers can conveniently buy Single Journey Tickets from various machines available at stations or ticket offices.
Looking for a Bangkok Hotel Near BTS, MRT, and Airport Rail Link?
When seeking accommodation with convenient access to Bangkok’s public transportation, Akara Bangkok is an excellent option. This luxury hotel is located in the heart of the city, offering easy access to multiple transit options.
Akara Bangkok is situated near the Phaya Thai BTS station, which is part of the Sukhumvit Line of the Skytrain Bangkok system. This station is particularly noteworthy as it’s also an interchange with the Airport Rail Link, providing a direct connection to Suvarnabhumi International Airport. This makes Akara Bangkok an ideal choice for travelers who prioritize easy airport access.
The hotel’s proximity to the BTS also allows guests to easily explore many of Bangkok’s key areas, including the shopping districts of Siam and Sukhumvit, as well as the business areas in Silom and Sathorn.
BTS Skytrain Contact Information
For inquiries about the BTS Skytrain Bangkok:
- Customer Service Hotline: +66 2617 6000
- Website: www.bts.co.th
- Email: nuduan@bts.co.th
- Facebook: BTS SkyTrain
- Twitter: @BTS_SkyTrain
- Lost & Found: +66 2617 7300 Ext. 1830
- Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. daily
- Head Office Address: BTS Building, 1000 Phahonyothin Road, Chomphon, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
For the most up-to-date information on the Skytrain Bangkok system, routes, and fares, always check the official BTS website or contact their customer service.