Kiha 40/48 — Bangkok ↔ Ayutthaya
The Japanese KIHA 40 and KIHA 48 diesel railcars have an unusual history in Thailand. The trains were originally operated in Japan by JR East and were subsequently donated to Thailand. The State Railway of Thailand refurbished the cars, installing new engines and electrical systems, air-conditioning, closed toilets and luggage storage while retaining much of their distinctive Japanese character.
The result is the SRT Bangkok Connex, an air-conditioned commuter service connecting Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal with Ayutthaya. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes and the trains operate as all-stop commuter services rather than express trains.
For railway enthusiasts and photographers, the KIHA is particularly interesting because it combines a distinctly Japanese train design with Thailand’s traditional railway environment.The service began on 1 August 2026 and is currently running as a trial service. The trains are Japanese-built KIHA 40/48 railcars, refurbished by the State Railway of Thailand with air-conditioning and new interiors.
Route:
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal → Don Mueang → Rangsit → Chiang Rak → Thammasat University → Chiang Rak Noi → Khlong Phutsa → Bang Pa-in → Ban Pho → Ayutthaya.
Bangkok → Ayutthaya
| Train | Bangkok departure | Ayutthaya arrival | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9001 | 05:15 | 06:30 | Mon–Fri |
| 9003 | 09:05 | 10:20 | Daily |
| 9005 | 18:15 | 19:30 | Daily |
Ayutthaya → Bangkok
| Train | Ayutthaya departure | Bangkok arrival | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9002 | 06:50 | 08:05 | Mon–Fri |
| 9004 | 14:40 | 15:55 | Daily |
| 9006 | 19:45 | 21:00 | Daily |
Important: On weekends only the 9003/9004 and 9005/9006 operate.
Fare
At present, during the promotional period 1 August–31 October 2026:
- Bangkok → Ayutthaya: 50 baht
- Bangkok → Don Mueang/Rangsit/Khlong Phutsa: 30 baht
- Bang Pa-in/Ban Pho/Ayutthaya: maximum 50 baht
The fare is 2nd class air-conditioned, and seats are unreserved. Tickets are currently purchased at the railway station rather than online.
Things to See and Do in Ayutthaya
For visitors arriving by KIHA, there is plenty to fill a day.
Wat Mahathat
Probably Ayutthaya’s most recognisable photographic subject, Wat Mahathat is famous for the Buddha head embraced by the roots of a banyan tree. The temple was an important royal monastery and originally housed Buddhist relics.
Wat Ratchaburana
Immediately opposite Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana is particularly attractive to photographers because of its impressive Khmer-influenced prang, surviving stucco decoration and dramatic brick ruins.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet
One of Ayutthaya’s most important royal temples, Wat Phra Si Sanphet is distinguished by its three large bell-shaped chedis. It was part of the former Royal Palace complex.
Viharn Phra Mongkhon Bophit
Located beside Wat Phra Si Sanphet, this temple houses an enormous bronze Buddha image and is one of the most visited religious sites in the historic city.
Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Across the Chao Phraya River, Wat Chaiwatthanaram is one of Ayutthaya’s most impressive monuments. Its large Khmer-style central prang and surrounding structures make it particularly rewarding for architectural and sunset photography.
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
Known for its enormous bell-shaped chedi surrounded by smaller stupas and Buddha images, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon provides some of the city’s most recognisable architectural views.
Chao Sam Phraya National Museum
For anyone interested in the history behind the ruins, the museum contains important Buddha images, votive objects, gold ornaments and other archaeological discoveries from Ayutthaya.
Explore by bicycle
Ayutthaya is unusually well suited to exploring by bicycle. Many of the major temples and ruins are relatively close together, and cycling gives photographers considerably more freedom to stop when something catches the eye. TAT specifically recommends cycling as one of the best ways to explore the extensive historical park.
And, of course, don’t leave without trying roti sai mai — Ayutthaya’s famous cotton-candy-filled Thai dessert. Local river prawns and noodles are also among the area’s culinary highlights.