With a population of more than 11 million, greater Bangkok is a sprawling metropolis that can be traversed by taxi (car and motorcycle), túk-túk, bus and boat. So there is always a way to move around, but a little savvy will go along way to help you get from A to B safely and efficiently – the rules of the road tend to be suggestions, and sidewalks are an inconsistent presence (and sometimes even impromptu motorcycle roadways).
A major transport highlight is the ever-expanding light-rail mass transit system. Even old-timers familiar with the original two central city Skytrain lines will be surprised to learn that there are now 10 lines with a total of 181 stations and more to come. Lines cross the Chao Phraya River and reach far into the northern and southeastern suburbs.
Here are our tips for navigating this energetic behemoth of a city by road, rail and river.
Somewhat simplified, Bangkok has two commuter light-rail systems: the Skytrain and MRT (Mass Rapid Transit). One-way fares start at 16B and go up to 59B. Visitors should be aware that transferring between stations of the two systems usually entails a walk of at least several hundred meters. A prime example is the long walk between the Skytrain’s Sukhumvit station and the MRT’s Asoke station at the intersection of Thanon Sukhumvit and Thanon Asoke/Sukhumvit Soi 21 near Terminal 21 mall.
More important, the systems have separate payment systems. In fact, the MRT consists of several systems because it fields three different operators. While it's relatively easy to move between the old and new MRT lines, you will have to buy a new token when transferring to the new Pink, Purple and Yellow lines.
The MRT is the more extensive network with six lines and 120 stations and counting. In central Bangkok, the trains of the original Blue Line run underground north from Asoke intersection before looping westward to intersect with the Skytrain's light green Sukhumvit Line near Chatuchak Park and crossing the river.
Outer stations and the five newer MRT lines run high above ground like the Skytrain. With the opening of the Sanam Chai station, one of the newest stations on the Blue Line's western lower leg, there is finally a station on Ratanakosin Island. It’s midway between Chinatown and the Grand Palace.
The Skytrain, the original two-line elevated commuter rail system debuting back in December 1999, is officially known as the Bangkok Mass Transit System or "BTS." In practice, "BTS" has become a common nickname for all the commuter lines. If you're desperately looking for the nearest Skytrain or MRT station, asking a Thai passerby or taxi driver for the nearest BTS station ("sà·tăh·nee BTS"), will get you directions.
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