Riding the BTS

Posted by Sukhumwit Steve on April 8th, 2011 filed in Sightseeing

The Bangkok Mass Transit system, commonly known as the BTS Sky-Train is the safest, most comfortable and convenient way to get around Bangkok. It has been in service since December 5th, 1999, operated by Bangkok Mass System Public Company Limited (BTSC), under a concession granted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). It has transformed the face of public transport in Thai capital, for the first time, offering both residents and visitors a comfortable ride, lifting them up central Bangkok.

The typical station consists of two levels, concourse and platform, the concourse provides ticketing facilities and the other, passenger amenities as well as access to the system which consists of 23 stations along two lines, the Sukhumvit line running northwards and eastwards, terminating at Mo Chit and On Nut respectively and the Silom line which plies Silom and Sathon Roads, the Central Business District of Bangkok, terminating at the National Stadium and Wongwian Yai. The lines interchange at Siam Station and have a combined route distance of 55KM. The system is formally known as the Elevated Train in Commemoration of HM the King’s 6th Cycle Birthday

Besides the BTS, Bangkok’s metro system also comprises the underground railway line MRT and the elevated Suvarnabhumi Airport Link (SARL), serving several stations in the city before reaching the airport.

The trains are designed to high international standards, Doors open/close automatically, Beeper sounds will warn you when the doors are about to close and if standing, stand clear of the doors at all times and also be aware that when in the station, the train may approach the platform anytime, boarding or alighting from any direction, so stay away from the tracks and electrified railings and pay attention to all warning signs.

Pricing really depends on where you are going and just between stations, it cost from 15baht, on words or if you are staying in Bangkok, the price of 100 Baht (Price excludes 30 Baht issuing fee for a new Smart Pass)
2. Refill up to 2,000 Baht. (minimum 100 Baht)
3. 5 year lifetime from date of first use.