The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) have launched a new train service connecting Vientiane and Bangkok. This initiative aims to boost cross-border tourism and strengthen economic cooperation between Thailand and Lao PDR.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) have indeed launched a new train service connecting Vientiane and Bangkok. This service is set to begin on July 19, 2024, and aims to boost cross-border tourism and strengthen economic cooperation between Thailand and Lao PDR. The train will depart from Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station and arrive at Vientiane’s Khamsavath Station, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Welcoming Laotian Passengers
Bangkok, 14 July 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and State Railway of Thailand (SRT) warmly received Laotian passengers arriving by the full trial train from Vientiane to Bangkok. Passengers on SRT’s Rapid No. 134 were greeted with fresh floral garlands at Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Station, symbolizing traditional Thai hospitality.
Inauguration of New Train Service
This celebratory event highlights the readiness of the new train service connecting Thailand and Lao PDR, extending the Bangkok-Nong Khai route to Vientiane’s Khamsavath Station. Initiated following Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s visit to Laos on 30 October 2023, the project emphasizes enhanced bilateral ties and regional rail network integration, facilitated by the Neighboring Countries Economic Development Cooperation Agency (NEDA).
Boosting Tourism and Economy
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, emphasized the significance of this new train service in promoting cross-border tourism and economic activities, in line with the Thai government’s “Ignite Tourism Thailand” vision. The Bangkok-Vientiane service officially begins operations on 19 July, with reservations available through the D-Ticket mobile application and SRT websites. With the new service, TAT anticipates boosting tourism revenue, targeting 977,000 Laotian tourists generating 36.96 billion Baht in 2024.
Source : TAT welcomes Laotian tourists on full trial train from Vientiane to Bangkok
