🚆 KiHa 40 COMMUTER TRAIN
Bangkok ↔ Ayutthaya
Thailand's rail network is getting a unique upgrade with the introduction of the KiHa 40/48 commuter service between Bangkok and Ayutthaya. These classic Japanese diesel railcars bring a new travel option to one of the country's busiest corridors — combining affordability, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia.
🚆 Overview
From 20 April 2026, the KiHa 40/48 service will operate as a feeder connecting Don Mueang to Ayutthaya, filling the gap until full electrification reaches north of Rangsit. The 20 carriages were donated by Japan's East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and six units have been fully refurbished for this service.
| Operator | State Railway of Thailand (SRT) |
| Route | Don Mueang ↔ Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya |
| Train type | KiHa 40/48 diesel multiple unit (donated by JR East, Japan) |
| Refurbishments | New engines, electrical systems, air-conditioning, closed toilets, luggage storage |
| Class | Air-conditioned (unreserved seating) |
| Fares | 30–50 baht depending on distance |
| Frequency | 6 round trips per day (Mon–Fri only) |
| Trial period | 20 April – 31 October 2026 |
| Expected passengers | At least 1,000 per day |
⏱️ Journey Time
Average duration is approximately 1 hour. This service is designed as an all-stop commuter train rather than an express service, so journey times are longer than the faster Rapid and Express trains on the same route.
🕒 Timetables
Three trains run in each direction every day. Click any train number to view the full timetable:
📍 All Stops
The service calls at all stations between Don Mueang and Ayutthaya:
💡 Tip: Board at Don Mueang to connect directly from the Red Line or Don Mueang Airport. Rangsit is also a convenient interchange from the Red Line.
💰 Fares
Fares are 30 or 50 baht depending on the distance between stations. The fare chart below shows the cost between every pair of stops:
Source: State Railway of Thailand official fare chart for the Don Mueang–Ayutthaya KiHa 40/48 feeder service.
🌟 Why Ride the KiHa 40?
- A rare chance to ride classic Japanese diesel railcars — donated directly by JR East (East Japan Railway Company) and refurbished for Thai use
- Comfortable, air-conditioned carriages with modern upgrades including new engines, closed toilets, and dedicated luggage storage
- Fares of just 30–50 baht — one of the most affordable ways to reach Ayutthaya
- Direct connection from Don Mueang Airport — no need to go into central Bangkok first
- Easy Red Line interchange at Rangsit for passengers coming from central Bangkok
- Stops at Thammasat University (Rangsit campus) — useful for students and visitors
👥 Who Is This Service For?
SRT designed this feeder service primarily to serve:
- Daily commuters travelling between Bangkok and Ayutthaya province
- Air travellers using Don Mueang Airport who want to visit or stay in Ayutthaya
- Students at Thammasat University's Rangsit campus
- Tourists and day trippers heading to the Ayutthaya historical park
The service is expected to carry at least 1,000 passengers per day and aims to reduce road congestion and private vehicle use on this busy corridor.
📋 Full Timetables
View detailed schedules for all six KiHa 40 services: