Bangkok Underground - Subway - MRT

The MRT has a similar ticket system as the Skytrain (BTS) but the ticket systems are, for the time being, not compatible - you must purchase separate tickets for the Skytrain and MRT. All stations of the underground train can be reached via ramps and elevators, if needed, or alternatively via escalators.

See combined route map below:

The MRT Bangkok Metro Underground

The 'impossible' became a reality in April 2004. It had taken seven years to build, comprising 21 kilometres of bored tunnels, with 18 simultaneously-built stations, using top-down techniques up to 30 metres deep under the city's major roads. The cost was approximately US$ 2.75 billion.

Officially called the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and in Thai as rot fai fah mahanakhon ("metropolitan electric train") or more often as the rot fai tai din ("underground train") the line operates from 5am to midnight, and extends in a wide loop from the main railway station of Hualumpong, then tracks back via the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre to the smaller rail station of Bang Sue to the north.

To protect against periodic flooding, station entrances are elevated above ground, and equipped with built-in floodgates. To prevent accidents and suicides, a glassed-in Automatic Platform Screen Door separates the platform and track, and opens only when the trains pull in and stop. All stations feature lifts and ramps for disabled people.

As with the Skytrain, there are a number of ticket types, which only need to be held close to the ticket barriers to operate them, thanks to a proximity sensor. Tokens are used for single journeys. An unlimited 1 day go-as-you please travel ticket is available. A joint ticketing system for the Subway and Skytrain is planned.