The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) launched a special steam locomotive train on the Bangkok–Ayutthaya route for the 2569 Chakri Memorial Day to honor King Rama V's royal benevolence. All tickets were sold out, featuring the first-ever addition of the "Sky’s Edge Train" carriage.
On 23 October 2569, Mr. Anan Pho Nin Daeng, Governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), presided over the ceremony to pay respect at the Royal Train Memorial and officially launched the special steam locomotive tourist train on the Bangkok–Ayutthaya–Bangkok route for the 2569 Chakri Memorial Day. This event honored the royal benevolence of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), who laid the foundations and established Thailand’s railway system.
This event attracted great interest from both Thai and foreign tourists, resulting in all tickets selling out rapidly. This year’s highlight was the first-time service including the "Sky’s Edge Train" carriage alongside the steam locomotive to enhance the historic travel experience for tourists.
According to the State Railway of Thailand, special train operations on significant historic days are held continuously to allow the public to experience nostalgic travel atmospheres while promoting railway tourism in key provinces nationwide.
The atmosphere at Bangkok Station (Hua Lamphong) was lively, with people and tourists taking memorable photos with the historic steam locomotives numbers 824 and 850. These Pacific-class steam engines were manufactured by Nippon Sharyo Co., Ltd. in Japan and brought into service in Thailand after World War II.
Currently, both steam locomotives are well maintained and repaired to remain in operational condition at the Thonburi Locomotive Depot. The SRT only runs these special tourist trains on a few important national occasions each year, providing the public a chance to reflect on the origins of Thailand’s rail transportation system.
For those who missed this trip, the State Railway of Thailand will operate another special steam locomotive tourist train on 5 December 2569 on the Bangkok–Chachoengsao–Bangkok route, commemorating the birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great (National Father’s Day).
Those interested can follow ticket booking announcements and further details via the Facebook fan page “SRT Public Relations Team” or contact the Customer Service Center at phone number 1690, available 24 hours.