Wongwian Yai BTS Station

4.2(260 reviews)

Wongwian Yai is a compact commuter train station on the BTS Silom line in Bangkok, primarily serving as the departure point for local trains heading toward Maha Chai. It sits tucked within a row of shophouses, making it easy to miss, but it functions as an important transit hub for travellers looking to reach the famous Maeklong Railway Market — a journey that requires continuing onward by ferry and connecting train from Maha Chai. The station has a distinctly local character, with street vendors, small businesses, and the occasional sight of monks passing through in the early morning. Trains depart roughly every one to two hours, tickets cost around 10 baht per person, and seating is unreserved. Trains generally run on time, so arriving with a few minutes to spare is advisable. Travellers should note that the station is small and does not offer significant facilities or signage in English. The seats on board are hard and basic. For those heading to Maeklong, the 7:40am departure is a popular early option. Arriving during a weekday morning typically means smaller crowds. Keep in mind this is a working commuter station, not a tourist attraction in itself, and the experience reflects everyday Thai transit life rather than polished infrastructure.

Experience hints

Pair your visit. After Wongwian Yai BTS Station, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Reviews

If you want to go to the Maeklong train market, you can take a train from here to Mahachai. Ticket is 10bht per person, free seating and train leaves on time. I took the 7.40am train. There's a big construction going on around here. Make sure to plan your time properly so you wont miss the train passing at the Maeklong market.

Came here to take the train to Maha Chai. It was a weekday morning and not too many folks waiting for the train. Mostly they depart almost hourly, with some every two hours. You will see mostly locals here and only few tourists. Tickets can be easily purchased at the booth. The ride to Maha Chai costs only 10thb per person. 20thb if you want a wagon with AC (not all trains offering these though). What a price! And it's nice taking the train compared to a taxi. Firstly it's just so cheap and secondly you get a nice glimpse of a more rural Thailand along the way. And you won't get stuck in traffic. I really enjoyed the ride. Yes, the train (Diesel) tends to be quite loud and is rattling pretty much. But it's a nice ride first out of Bangkok and then through the countryside. Away from all the touristy stuff. Maha Chai is a nice seaside town. Nice shops and stalls. Some good restaurants. Around the train station it's pretty nice and quiet with lots of shops just around the corner. Lots of nice products for low prices.

Despite the city location this train station still offers a glimpse of Thailand's more rural life... Shopkeepers greet early morning shoppers.. bells ring.. monks are walking the station collecting merit and alms offering blessings and prayer in return. The ticketing office closes a few minutes before the departure of each train. The station master will ring a bell right before departure. The train arrives literally 2 minutes before it's next departure from.. so turn around is very quick.. be prepared to haul yourself (on or off) in double-time. Once the train rolls out of the station . Life carries on until the next train arrives.. and the whole process repeats itself.

Location Info

สถานีรถไฟวงเวียนใหญ่ Khwaeng Don Mueang, Khet Don Mueang

Get directions

www.railway.co.th/

Visitor Information

Best time to visit

November – February

Avoid: April – May (peak heat)

Rainy season

May – October

Avg. temperature

25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)

Crowds

Very High

Peak: December & January

Getting there

Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.

Getting around

•BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
•MRT Metro (underground)
•Airport Rail Link (ARL)
•Chao Phraya Express Boat
•Grab (ride-hailing app)
•Metered taxis — always use the meter

Where to stay near Wongwian Yai BTS Station

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Tips for Visiting Transportation

Take the Sleeper Train at Least Once

The Bangkok-to-Chiang Mai overnight train in a second-class sleeper berth is a bucket-list experience. Book at least a week ahead via 12Go.asia or at Hua Lamphong station. Upper berths are cheaper and have more headroom; lower berths have a window.

Use Grab Everywhere

Grab is the Uber of Southeast Asia and works across Thailand for cars, motorbike taxis, and even tuk-tuks in some cities. It eliminates haggling and provides fare estimates upfront. Load a Thai SIM or use eSIM to stay connected.

Rent Scooters Carefully

Always photograph the scooter's existing damage before riding off, and keep your passport — give a photocopy instead (some shops insist on the original; avoid these). Wear a helmet; police fine 500 THB for no helmet and accidents without one void insurance.