Unleashing Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi on Long-Haul Trains in Thailand
The Gist
Complimentary high-speed internet access coming for travelers aboard lengthy railway journeys
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is hell-bent on shaking things up by rolling out a free wi-fi service on long-haul trains, tackling the gripes of passengers who regularly lose their internet connection during journeys through dense jungles and towering mountains. This ambitious move aims to supercharge the travel experience on flagship routes.
Routes at the Forefront
Initially, the wi-fi revolution will touch down in first and second-class compartments of Special Express trains coursing through the following key routes:- Bangkok-Chiang Mai (North)- Bangkok-Nong Khai (Northeast)- Bangkok-Ubon Ratchathani (Northeast)- Hat Yai (South)
Timeframe for Takeoff
- Late 2025: The initial rollout of the free wi-fi service on Special Express trains is in the works.
- 2026: Expect the service to expand its horizons to an additional 146 air-conditioned trains[1][5].
Objectives and Perks
The main objective behind this project is to cement an unbroken network for passengers, providing them with internet access throughout their voyages and addressing earlier issues with signal loss in off-the-beaten-path regions. With an upgraded connection, travelers can stay updated, check the news, or track their train's location in real-time, making for a smoother experience all around[1].
[1] https://www.bangkokpost.com/tech/201113/srt-to-roll-out-free-wi-fi-on-long-haul-trains
Passengers traveling on Special Express trains between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Nong Khai, Bangkok and Ubon Ratchathani, or Hat Yai can expect free Wi-Fi services to be available in their compartments as early as late 2025. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) aims to expand this service to 146 additional air-conditioned trains in 2026, marking the wider government's commitment to improve connectivity for passengers. This technological advancement not only provides unbroken internet access throughout the journey but also allows travelers to stay updated, check the news, and track their train's location in real-time, enhancing their overall travel experience.
