Learn how to travel to Cambodia from Thailand by train! Discover routes, costs, cultural tips, border etiquette, and Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours for a scenic, green journey. Explore Bangkok to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh and book now!
Traveling from Thailand’s vibrant capital, Bangkok, to Cambodia’s cultural gems like Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat or Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace offers a unique, budget-friendly adventure steeped in history and local charm. The 400 km train route from Bangkok to the Cambodia border at Aranyaprathet-Poipet, followed by onward travel to Siem Reap (151 km) or Phnom Penh (536 km), takes 6–10 hours and is a favorite among backpackers, families, and eco-travelers seeking an authentic Southeast Asian experience. Understanding how to travel to Cambodia from Thailand by train ensures a respectful, immersive journey, perfect for connecting with the region’s rich heritage.
Train travel supports sustainable tourism by reducing carbon emissions compared to flights, aligning with Cambodia’s eco-border initiatives like community-focused facilities. Legend Travel Group, Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tourism ambassador with over 17 years of expertise, integrates eco-friendly transfers and cultural tours into your train journey. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to travel from Thailand to Cambodia with sustainability and respect!
Trains depart from Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Ban Klong Luk Border Station, near the Aranyaprathet-Poipet border, open 8:00 AM–4:00 PM for tourists due to current restrictions. Eco-friendly buses or taxis connect to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, enhancing cultural immersion.
Legend Travel Group excels as the region’s premier local travel curator, dedicated to unveiling Vietnam, Cambodia, and Southeast Asia’s treasures through safe, eco-conscious journeys. Our Cambodia tours feature sustainable transport, expert guides on Khmer and Thai culture, and initiatives preserving border communities and ecosystems. Specialists provide insights on traveling to Cambodia from Thailand by train, border etiquette, and green travel practices for seamless trips. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before, and 24/7 support, we ensure effortless exploration. Register a free account on our platform to save travel plans, craft eco-focused itineraries, and receive fresh updates—enhancing your cross-border adventure.
Photograph the serene beauty of Cambodia’s landscapes (Source: Internet)Photo @thai-train Travelling by train offers a nice chance to enjoy the scenery if you’re taking a daytime train. The train in Thailand is slow and not as comfortable as Western trains, and it takes six hours to get from Bangkok to the Thai border town of Aranyaprathet.
Traveling from Bangkok to Cambodia by train involves a scenic ride to the border, followed by onward transport to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. Here’s your comprehensive guide to traveling to Cambodia from Thailand by train:
Train Route Details:
Route: Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal) to Ban Klong Luk Border Station (near Aranyaprathet, Thailand), 258 km.
Duration: 5–6 hours.
Schedule: Two daily trains at 5:55 AM and 1:05 PM (Ordinary Class, no air-conditioning).
Cost: $1.50–$2 (48–66 THB or 6,000–8,000 KHR), tickets sold at the station (no pre-booking).
Eco-Tip: Trains are low-carbon; bring a reusable water bottle ($5 or 20,000 KHR).
Border Crossing (Aranyaprathet-Poipet):
Process: Walk from Ban Klong Luk to Poipet border (2-minute walk, open 8:00 AM–4:00 PM). Complete Thailand exit and Cambodia entry formalities (30–60 minutes).
Visa: Cambodia visa-on-arrival ($30–$35 or 120,000–140,000 KHR) or e-visa ($36 or 144,000 KHR); passport (6+ months validity) required. Avoid bribe requests by knowing fees.
Etiquette: Use “salaam” (hello) in Thailand, “sok sabay” in Cambodia; dress modestly ($5 scarf or 20,000 KHR); no photography in customs areas.
Eco-Tip: Use digital e-Arrival Card for Cambodia to reduce paper waste.
Onward Travel from Poipet:
To Siem Reap (151 km, 2–3 hours):
Shared Taxi: $48 per taxi (up to 4 people, $12/person or 48,000 KHR).
Bus: $9–$12 (36,000–48,000 KHR), departs from Poipet bus station (free shuttle from border).
Minivan: $10–$15 (40,000–60,000 KHR), waits for 10 passengers.
To Phnom Penh (536 km, 8–10 hours):
Bus: $15–$20 (60,000–80,000 KHR), book via apps or at Poipet station.
Train: Limited service (once weekly, 7:00 AM, $10 or 40,000 KHR), check Royal Railways for updates.
Booking: Via apps or Legend Travel Group for eco-friendly transfers.
Eco-Tip: Shared buses or minivans reduce emissions.
General Travel Tips:
Tickets: Buy Bangkok train tickets 45 minutes early at the station; arrive by 5:15 AM for the 5:55 AM train.
Navigation: Pin “Ban Klong Luk Border Station, Thailand” in offline apps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.50–$1 (2,000–4,000 KHR).
Comfort: Bring a fan ($3 or 12,000 KHR) for non-air-conditioned trains; carry snacks ($2–$4 or 8,000–16,000 KHR).
Legend Travel Group tours include eco-transfers and border guidance.
Note: Schedules and border hours reflect current travel conditions; verify updates due to regional restrictions. Our tours enhance with sustainable practices.
Experience Cambodia Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)These budget-friendly, eco-activities, $0–$37, complement your journey:
Marvel at the UNESCO temple at sunrise, entry $37 (148,000 KHR).
Cost: $37.
Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use e-bikes ($6–$10 or 24,000–40,000 KHR).
Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Angkor Eco-Trail ($90–$130).
Discover Khmer architecture, entry $10 (40,000 KHR).
Cost: $10.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Walk from city center ($0).
Tip: Part of Legend Travel Group’s Royal Eco-Tour ($50–$90).
Shop local crafts, daytime, items $1–$5 (4,000–20,000 KHR).
Cost: $1–$5.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use e-tuk-tuk ($3 or 12,000 KHR).
Tip: In Legend Travel Group’s Market Eco-Trail ($45–$85).
Explore floating villages, boat $12–$18 (48,000–72,000 KHR).
Cost: $12–$18.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Community-supported eco-boats.
Tip: Featured in Legend Travel Group’s Lake Eco-Cruise ($70–$110).
Savor Khmer cuisine, evenings, $3–$5 (12,000–20,000 KHR).
Cost: $3–$5.
Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Locally sourced ingredients.
Tip: Highlight of Legend Travel Group’s Riverside Eco-Dine ($45–$85).
November to March offers mild weather for comfortable train rides and border crossings, ideal for cultural exploration. Avoid April-May heat or June-October rains for smoother travel; February or May balances pleasant conditions and fewer crowds.
Train from Thailand to Cambodia (Source: Internet)Details for a seamless rail adventure:
Train Booking: Purchase tickets at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal; no advance booking. Arrive early (5:15 AM for 5:55 AM train).
Border Process: Prepare Cambodia e-visa ($36 or 144,000 KHR) or visa-on-arrival ($30–$35 or 120,000–140,000 KHR); carry USD for fees.
Onward Transport: Book buses or taxis at Poipet via apps or Legend Travel Group for eco-transfers.
Navigation Tip: Pin “Poipet Border, Cambodia” in offline apps (Maps.me).
Eco-Friendly Note: Trains and shared buses minimize emissions.
Travel Tip: Early train (5:55 AM) allows same-day arrival in Siem Reap.
Pack for a respectful, eco-friendly journey:
Documents: Passport, Cambodia e-visa ($42 or 168,000 KHR); wallet ($8–$12 or 32,000–48,000 KHR).
Clothing: Light, modest attire; scarf ($4 or 16,000 KHR) for border respect.
Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($5 or 20,000 KHR); snacks ($2–$4 or 8,000–16,000 KHR).
Tech: Phone with offline maps; portable charger ($15–$25 or 60,000–100,000 KHR); local SIM ($7–$10 or 28,000–40,000 KHR).
Eco Items: Reusable tote ($4 or 16,000 KHR); phrase card ($2 or 8,000 KHR).
Extras: Small cash in USD/THB/KHR for border fees; travel towel ($5 or 20,000 KHR). Tip: Modest attire respects border and cultural norms.
Train Costs
Bangkok to Border: $1.50–$2 (48–66 THB or 6,000–8,000 KHR).
Onward to Siem Reap: $9–$15 (36,000–60,000 KHR, bus/minivan).
Onward to Phnom Penh: $10–$20 (40,000–80,000 KHR, bus/train).
Visa & Border Costs
Cambodia Visa: $30–$36 (120,000–144,000 KHR).
Border Snacks: $1–$3 (4,000–12,000 KHR or 35–105 THB).
Activity Fees
Angkor Wat: $37 (148,000 KHR).
Royal Palace: $10 (40,000 KHR).
Central Market: $1–$5 (4,000–20,000 KHR).
Tonle Sap Boat: $12–$18 (48,000–72,000 KHR).
Riverside Meal: $3–$5 (12,000–20,000 KHR).
Souvenirs: $3–$7 (12,000–28,000 KHR).
Eco-Tour: $20–$35 (80,000–140,000 KHR).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person, Post-Arrival)
Budget: $25–$45 (train, bus, street food).
Mid-range: $50–$80 (minivan, market, boat tour).
Luxury: $100–$140 (taxi, upscale dining). Tip: Train $1.50–$2; visa $30–$36; activities $0–$37; eco-tours add cultural value.
Etiquette: Use “salaam” (Thailand) and “sok sabay” (Cambodia); dress modestly; queue politely at borders.
Transport Choices: Early train for efficiency; shared buses for eco-travel.
Schedules: 5:55 AM train for same-day Siem Reap arrival; check border hours.
Sustainability: Opt for digital tickets and shared transport.
Navigation: Border to city via eco-taxi ($10–$15 or 40,000–60,000 KHR).
Weather: Dry season for comfortable train rides.
Cultural Note: Respect border officials; avoid loud behavior.
Legend Tours: Eco-transfers and cultural briefings included.
Explore Cambodia post-train with our eco-tours:
Angkor Eco-Trail ($90–$130/person, 1 day): Guided temple tour with e-bike, eco-snack ($3–$5 or 12,000–20,000 KHR). Guide, cultural tips included.
Market Eco-Trail ($45–$85/person, half day): Central Market exploration, sustainable meal, culturally sensitive stops.
Cambodia Cultural Explorer ($280–$400/person, 4 days): Multi-site tour with eco-lodges, meals, green transfers. Prices include guides, sustainable logistics, entries. 25% off for groups of 4+! Register a free account to track, save, and tailor your Cambodia itinerary.
Traveling to Cambodia by train from Thailand offers a scenic, budget-friendly journey ($1.50–$2 or 48–66 THB for the train, plus $9–$20 or 36,000–80,000 KHR onward), connecting Bangkok’s vibrancy to Cambodia’s cultural treasures like Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace. This eco-friendly route fosters respectful exploration with sustainable transfers and local experiences. Legend Travel Group’s Cambodia Tours guide you through these iconic destinations, ensuring a sustainable Cambodia Travel experience filled with cultural immersion. Create your free account to monitor guides, design vibrant itineraries, and explore further—reach out at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com for your sustainable Cambodian adventure!
Ready to journey to Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace by train? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.
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