Bangkok MRT (Metropolitan Rapid Transit) is one more addition to the public transport system of the bustling Asian metropolis. Conveniently connected with other mass transit systems, MRT is a convenient way to travel around Bangkok as this metro system helps to escape busy traffic in Thailand’s capital. MRT links central Bangkok with important areas of the city making it very useful for exploring Bangkok.
There are two MRT lines (Blue and Purple) with 35 stations around Bangkok at the moment as the Purple line was recently opened and connected to the Blue line. MRT network will be expanded as construction works are still going on. MRT system connects with other Bangkok’s Mass Transit Systems – BTS SkyTrain and Airport Rail Link in several places.
Bangkok MRT Map 2020
Current Bangkok MRT map with planned extensions can be found here: Bangkok MRT Map.
The map of specific MRT line can also be easily found at all MRT stations.
Bangkok MRT Operating Hours
MRT operates daily from 06.00 am to midnight.
Finding MRT Station
Currently there are 35 MRT stations around Bangkok. Finding one of the stations shouldn’t be difficult if you are staying in the area near one. All entrances to MRT stations are clearly marked and can be easily noticed.
There are automated escalators leading down to the station.
Bangkok MRT Fare 2020
Bangkok MRT fare of a Single Journey Ticket, which is valid for a single journey, depends on the chosen destination, starting at 16 Baht, up to 42 Baht per journey on one line and up to 70 Baht if you’re changing lines on your journey.
The exact Bangkok MRT fare for your journey can be found using Online MRT Fare Calculator or on the board at the station (see below).
Buying Bangkok MRT Ticket
There are few ways to buy a MRT ticket but the most common way is using Ticket Vending Machines. All these machines accept coins and banknotes.
These Ticket Vending Machines are easy to use as you can choose between English and Thai language on the touchscreen. Then you just need to choose your destination. If your destination isn’t listed on the screen, most probably you need to swap lines – you can do it by clicking blue or purple button on the top left of the touchscreen. The exact fare will appear on the screen. Tickets must be bought one by one on these Ticket Vending Machines.
You need 1, 5, 10 Baht coins or 20, 50, 100 Baht banknotes as 2 Baht coins, satangs and larger banknotes are not accepted. Insert coins and banknotes into dedicated slots.
When the amount inserted will reach the required fare, your ticket (token) and change (given in coins only) will fall down into the windowed chamber below. Take the token and your change if any.
You can also buy your ticket from MRT Station Ticket Office. Just stand in a queue, proceed to one of the windows, tell your destination and a number of tickets, pay money and you will get a token and change if any.
Keep in mind that Single Journey Tickets are valid for travel on date of purchase only.
It is also possible to purchase a Stored Value Card - a smart card which can be stored and topped up value for multiple rides, but if you are visiting Bangkok only as a tourist for a short stay and will rarely use MRT it’s usually not worth it. Stored Value Card can be bought and topped at any MRT Station Ticket Office.
Using Bangkok MRT Ticket
When you get your token, proceed to the metallic gates. Green arrow signs indicate entry points - you need to choose one of them.
Touch your token to the indicated place on the metallic part of the gates. The red gates will open then. Quickly walk through as the gates stay open for just a couple of seconds.
At the exit you will have to insert your token into the dedicated slot and the gates will open. Don’t lose it!
Taking Bangkok MRT Train
When you enter the Paid Area of MRT station, just follow signs leading to the trains.
On the ground level you will need to choose the platform. The platforms are named with the last station of the line and you just need to choose correct direction. MRT Blue and Purple lines connect at Tao Poon station and you might need to change the train and platform there.
When you will get to the platform, you will notice that MRT platforms have yellow arrows pointing towards and back from the track. You should wait in a line behind the yellow arrows pointing to the track.
The doors of the train will stop directly in front of the arrows pointing back from the track and passengers will disembark the train there.
There’s a map inside the train above the door showing stations on the line. The name of the next station is clearly announced in advance so you have time to prepare for disembarking the train.
If you will choose wrong direction or miss your station, don’t worry and just swap platforms at the next station. You don’t need to buy a new ticket if you just change platforms and don’t leave the station.
Tips on Using MRT in Bangkok
Before exiting MRT station, check the Locality Map and choose the exit which is the most convenient for you.
If you see long queues near Ticket Vending Machines and Ticket Offices on one side of the station, just walk to another side (you can do it without entering the Paid Area of MRT station) as the situation there might be much better.
Bangkok MRT is very convenient when used with other Bangkok’s Mass Transit Systems – BTS SkyTrain and Airport Rail Link.
For getting more familiar with Public Transportation in Bangkok you should check:
How to use BTS SkyTrain in Bangkok
How to use Airport Rail Link in Bangkok
How to change trains from ARL Makkasan Station to MRT Phetchaburi
Detailed guide on using Public Bus in Bangkok
Khlong Saen Saeb Boat Service in Bangkok
Where to Stay in Bangkok?
What is the best area to stay in Bangkok? You should choose one of the areas well connected with MRT or BTS as it can really save your time. Our recommendations for choosing the right area to stay in Bangkok can be found here: Where to Stay in Bangkok - Guide to Bangkok Best Areas.
Any Questions?
Check our Frequently Asked Questions about public transportation in Bangkok and ask your own question if it's not answered there yet.
