Soon, it will be easier for tourists to visit Pattaya as a new train service will be launched in about a month’s time! Pattaya, a seaside resort city in Thailand, is a popular spot but it is difficult to get there for a day trip, even though it is located a mere 100km from the capital.
Source: Mark Blackard
However, this is set to change as a new Bangkok-Pattaya train service will be up and running by mid to late March. This new train will allow passengers to make day trips, which was previously impossible on the old train service. Yay, Pattaya here we come!
According to CNA, the new train is meant to run twice a day on weekends and will be put on a six-month trial first. The train is scheduled to leave Bangkok at 6.30am and reach Pattaya at 9am while the train back to Bangkok will depart at 3.50pm and arrive at 6.50pm.
Source: Asia Rising TV
Previously, the old train service only ran on weekdays, which made it difficult for day-trippers to plan their time. The morning train would reach Pattaya at 11.20am from Bangkok and there was only one train leaving Pattaya to Bangkok at 1.35pm. That’s just two hours from arrival time!
Mr Oratai Suwannatas, tourism marketing executive at the State Railway of Thailand said that this new service would help boost the tourism in Pattaya. “This new service is to accommodate both Thai and foreign tourists planning for one-day or weekend trips in Pattaya. The current timing makes it impossible for a one-day trip. Hardly any tourists get on it,” he added.
Source: YouTube
The bigger and better train will have air-conditioning too, which is something the old train did not have. Travel time will be shortened by an hour, so visitors can expect to reach their destination sooner. If the trial period is successful, the trains will be operated permanently. Fingers crossed!
They have also made it easier for tourists to explore Pattaya as there will be a total of six stations on the new railway. These stations will be near the Sriracha Tiger Zoo, North Pattaya, Pattaya Floating Market, Yanasanwararam Temple, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and the Plutaluang Railway Station. Plus, shuttle services are also provided to nearby attractions to ensure tourists can explore the city easily.
Time to plan a trip to Pattaya now!
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