The Bangkok MRT is a major part of transportation in Bangkok, covering the Bangkok Metropolitan Region with rapid transit and monorail services. The system includes the Blue Line and Purple Line, plus the Yellow and Pink monorail lines, while the Orange Line is under construction. Together with the BTS Skytrain and Airport Rail Link, it forms a key public transport network for city transport and local transport across the capital and nearby suburbs.
| Key | Information |
|---|---|
| System | Bangkok MRT rapid transit and monorail network |
| Current lines | Blue Line, Purple Line, Yellow Line, Pink Line |
| Line under construction | Orange Line |
| First opening | Blue Line, July 2004 |
| Operators | BEM operates the Blue and Purple Lines; BTSC subsidiaries operate the Yellow and Pink Lines |
| Operational stations | 54 stations on BEM-operated lines as of August 2024 |
| Route length | 71 km (44.1 miles) on BEM-operated lines |
| Daily ridership | About 526,000 passengers per day on BEM-operated lines as of August 2024 |
| Role in Bangkok | Core rail-based public transport alongside BTS Skytrain and Airport Rail Link |
Bangkok Metro Map
Map of Bangkok Metro System showing different lines and stations. Click on the map to enlarge it or download the Bangkok Metro System map in PDF format.
Bangkok Metro Interactive Map
Lines and Stations
Bangkok’s MRT network includes two fully operational rapid transit lines and two fully operational monorail lines. The Blue and Purple Lines form the core metro system, while the Yellow and Pink Lines extend rail transport deeper into suburban areas. The Orange Line is under construction, with more expansion projects planned.
Current MRT Lines
- Blue Line — Bangkok’s first metro line, opened in July 2004. It runs between Tha Phra and Lak Song and now works as a quasi loop around central Bangkok, with an interchange with itself at Tha Phra.
- Purple Line — Opened in August 2016. It connects Khlong Bang Phai with Tao Poon and was the first mass transit line to extend outside Bangkok.
- Yellow Line — A fully open monorail route running between Lat Phrao and Samrong.
- Pink Line — A fully open monorail route running between Nonthaburi Civic Center and Min Buri.
Main Station Groups and Interchanges
The MRT stations map includes several important interchange points. The Blue Line connects with the BTS Skytrain and other rail systems at Sukhumvit, Si Lom, Chatuchak Park, Phetchaburi, and Bang Sue. The Purple Line links with the Blue Line at Tao Poon. The Yellow Line connects with the Blue Line at Lat Phrao and with the BTS at Samrong. The Pink Line connects with the Purple Line at Nonthaburi Civic Center and also links with other rail systems at key transfer stations.
Many stations have multiple exits, and some interchanges connect directly to the BTS, Airport Rail Link, and commuter rail. Stations are designed with clear local maps and exit information. Platform screen doors, security staff, and CCTV help keep the system safe.
Selected Station Highlights
| Station | Details |
|---|---|
| Tha Phra | Interchange point on the Blue Line where the route forms its quasi loop. |
| Tao Poon | Main interchange between the Blue and Purple Lines. |
| Lat Phrao | Connection between the Blue and Yellow Lines. |
| Sukhumvit | Transfer point to the BTS at Asok. |
| Si Lom | Transfer point to the BTS Silom Line at Sala Daeng. |
| Bang Sue | Important interchange with the wider rail network. |
| Nonthaburi Civic Center | Interchange between the Purple and Pink Lines. |
| Samrong | Connection between the Yellow Line and the BTS. |
Across the network, the stations list covers residential areas, business districts, shopping centers, markets, and transport hubs. In practice, that makes the MRT one of the most useful ways to move around Bangkok.
Operating Hours and Frequency
Bangkok MRT operating hours are generally from about 6:00 AM to midnight every day. On the Blue Line, the starting time for the first train on weekdays is around 5:30 AM from the start of the route, while trains from other stations begin just before 6:00 AM. On weekends and public holidays, opening times are slightly later, but still no later than 6:03 AM.
The last train on the Blue Line leaves the first station shortly after 11:00 PM, and the final service reaches the end of the line at around 12:30 AM. If you need to change to the Purple Line, it is best to board at least one hour before the last train from your station.
Train frequency depends on the day and time. On weekdays during rush hour, trains usually run every 3.5 to 4 minutes. Off-peak frequency is normally every 5 to 7 minutes. On weekends and public holidays, the usual interval is every 8 minutes, with slightly more frequent service on Saturdays between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
For the Muang Thong Thani service, the schedule also varies by operating day. During special events with unusually high demand, extra trains may be added.
| Service detail | Timings |
|---|---|
| General operating hours | About 6:00 AM to midnight daily |
| Blue Line first train on weekdays | Around 5:30 AM from the start of the route |
| Blue Line first departures from other stations on weekdays | Just before 6:00 AM |
| Weekend and public holiday opening times | Slightly later, but no later than 6:03 AM |
| Blue Line last train from first station | Just after 11:00 PM |
| Blue Line final running time to end of line | Around 12:30 AM |
| Weekday rush hour frequency | Every 3.5 to 4 minutes |
| Weekday off-peak frequency | Every 5 to 7 minutes |
| Weekend and public holiday frequency | Every 8 minutes |
| Saturday enhanced service | More frequent between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM |
| Ticket Office working hours | 06:00 to 24:00 |
- Departure timings are approximate.
- Wait on the platform before the train arrives.
- You cannot buy tickets or add value before opening hours or after closing time.
- For convenience, use a Rabbit Card with enough value or trips, or buy a Single Journey Ticket from a ticket machine via QR payment.
- You can also add value to a Rabbit Card at a ticket vending machine that accepts banknotes only.
The service interval details above apply to normal operations and are stated as effective from 1 September 2025.
Fares, Tickets, and Cards
Bangkok MRT fare is distance-based, so the ticket price depends on how far you travel. On the Blue Line, the fare ranges from 17 THB to 45 THB, about $0.47 to $1.24. On the Purple Line, the price ranges from 14 THB to 20 THB, about $0.38 to $0.55. If your trip includes a transfer between the Blue and Purple lines, the total cost can be higher.
The exact fare for each journey is shown on fare boards at stations, and passengers can also use the official fare calculator. If you want to check ticket price before traveling, that is the easiest way.
Tickets are sold at vending machines and station ticket offices. Available options include single-journey tokens, stored-value cards, and EMV contactless bank cards. Ticket machines are cash only and generally accept Thai baht coins and banknotes. Tokens are valid only on the date of purchase.
To travel with a token, tap it at the entry gate and insert it into the exit gate at the end of the trip. If you use a stored-value card or contactless bank card, just follow the instructions at the station gates.
- Single-journey token — best for occasional rides.
- Stored-value MRT card — can be bought and topped up at MRT station ticket offices.
- EMV contactless card — supported on MRT Blue and Purple Lines for eligible Visa or Mastercard cards.
- Rabbit Card — useful for BTS Skytrain and MRT Yellow and Pink Lines, but not for the Blue and Purple Lines.
Discounted fare may be available for children, seniors, and passengers with disabilities, depending on the ticket type and the conditions in force. For a short visit, single-journey tickets are usually the simplest choice. If you plan to ride often, a stored-value card or contactless card saves time.
Interconnectivity with Other Systems
Bangkok’s MRT connects closely with several other rail networks, so it plays a central role in public transport across the city. The Blue Line has the most interchanges. It links with the BTS Sukhumvit Line at Sukhumvit, Chatuchak Park, and Phahon Yothin, with the BTS Silom Line at Si Lom and Bang Wa, with the Airport Rail Link at Phetchaburi, with the Yellow Line at Lat Phrao, and with the SRT Red Line at Bang Sue.
The Purple Line also extends the network beyond central Bangkok. It connects with the Blue Line at Tao Poon, with the SRT Light Red Line at Bang Son, and with the Pink Line at Nonthaburi Civic Center. These links make transportation in Bangkok and nearby areas much easier, especially for trips into Nonthaburi.
The Yellow Line connects with the Blue Line at Lat Phrao, with the Airport Rail Link at Hua Mak, and with the BTS Sukhumvit Line at Samrong. The Pink Line connects with the Purple Line at Nonthaburi Civic Center, with the SRT Dark Red Line at Lak Si, and with the BTS Sukhumvit Line at Wat Phra Sri Mahathat.
Some transfer stations matter more than others. Bang Sue is a major interchange between the Blue Line and the SRT Red Line, while Phetchaburi links the MRT with the Airport Rail Link. Asok and Mo Chit are also well-known transfer points between the MRT and BTS. Put simply, these connections make the MRT a practical backbone of Bangkok transport.
Even with these interchanges, the systems are still operated separately, so passengers generally need separate tickets when changing networks. A joint ticketing system has been planned, but it is not yet in place.
Airport Connections
The Airport Rail Link is the main rail connection between Suvarnabhumi International Airport and central Bangkok. It is a safe and inexpensive alternative to a taxi or bus. The City Line runs 28 km (17.4 miles), stops at six stations between the airport and downtown, and has a running time of about 26 minutes.
The airport station is on the basement level at Suvarnabhumi Airport. On the city side, the line connects with the MRT at Makkasan Station, linked to Phetchaburi MRT, and with the BTS at Phaya Thai, so onward travel is straightforward.
Standard fare is 15 THB to 45 THB, about $0.41 to $1.24, depending on distance. A one-way ticket from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Makkasan costs 35 THB, about $0.96, and to Phaya Thai costs 45 THB, about $1.24. Children under 12 years old and under 90 cm tall travel free. As of December 2025, contactless credit or debit cards and mobile wallets can also be used at the fare gates.
Operating hours are daily from 05:30 AM to midnight. During peak periods, trains run every 10 to 11 minutes. Off-peak and weekend frequency is every 12 to 13 minutes. The line can be busy because commuters and airport workers use it too, though passengers boarding at the airport or Phaya Thai usually have little trouble finding a seat.
For Don Mueang Airport, the Airport Rail Link does not currently go there. Don Mueang is served by Red Line trains, while future plans have long discussed an Airport Rail Link extension north from Phaya Thai.
- Suvarnabhumi Airport to central Bangkok — about 26 minutes.
- Makkasan — MRT interchange, 35 THB ($0.96) fare.
- Phaya Thai — BTS interchange, 45 THB ($1.24) fare.
- Opening hours — 05:30 AM to midnight daily.
Brief History
The MRT was developed under a concession model in which the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand owned the lines and private operators ran the service. Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited, or BEM, won the concession for the first line and operates the Blue and Purple Lines.
Construction of the first Bangkok metro route, the Chaloem Ratchamongkhon Line or Blue Line, began on 19 November 1996. The project was delayed by the 1997 economic crisis and by the difficulty of building large underground structures in Bangkok’s water-logged soil. After a limited public trial from 13 April 2004, the Blue Line opened officially on 3 July 2004 as Bangkok’s second metro system.
The Blue Line was initially completely underground, which is why it became widely known as the underground train. Ridership was lower than expected at first, but the line gradually stabilized and then expanded. In August 2017, it was extended to Tao Poon to create an interchange with the Purple Line, followed by further extension in 2019.
The Purple Line, officially the Chalong Ratchadham Line, opened on 6 August 2016 between Tao Poon and Khlong Bang Phai in Nonthaburi. It was the first mass transit line to extend outside Bangkok.
In 2023 and 2024, the system expanded again with the opening of the Yellow and Pink monorail lines. The Yellow Line entered trial operation in June 2023 and opened fully on 3 July 2023. The Pink Line started public trial service in November 2023 and began full operation on 1 February 2024.
Today, the MRT remains a major part of Bangkok rail transport and continues to grow, with the Orange Line under construction.
Future Expansions
Bangkok’s MRT system is still growing through government master plans and project studies. The current route plan aims to extend rail coverage into more suburban areas, improve feeder links, and support future urban growth across the Bangkok Metropolitan Region.
The latest draft plan, known as M-Map 2, was announced by the Department of Rail Transport in July 2023 and was intended for Cabinet approval in 2024. Its long-term target is to accelerate the start of all projects within 20 years, by 2042. The draft includes both new routes and extensions of existing lines.
Key MRT projects in the pipeline
- Orange Line: The eastern section is under construction from Thailand Cultural Centre to Yaek Rom Klao, while the western section from Bang Khun Non to Thailand Cultural Centre is also under construction. An additional Bang Khun Non to Taling Chan section has been approved.
- Purple Line: The southern extension from Tao Poon to Khru Nai is under construction and is expected to open in 2029.
- Brown Line: The approved Brown Line will run from Nonthaburi Civic Center to Yaek Lam Sali, with an expected opening in 2030.
- Grey Line: Proposed southern and northern sections remain postponed, while a Khlong Si extension is in planning.
- Light Blue Line: A proposed Sathorn to Din Daeng route has been revived after being removed from the original master plan.
Other planned rail expansions
Beyond the core MRT network, future expansion also includes commuter rail and Airport Rail Link projects. These include the Dark Red Line, the Light Red Line, and an approved Airport Rail Link section from Phaya Thai to Don Mueang. Some routes remain in planning, while others have been reevaluated or scheduled for later construction.
Several extensions on existing MRT and monorail corridors are also listed in current plans, including the Sukhumvit, Silom, Blue, Yellow, and Gold lines. Some projects are postponed or shelved, while others are still being studied or awaiting formal approval.
The broader expansion roadmap points toward a denser and better connected transit network, with more feeder links, suburban access, and easier interchange across the city.
System Regulations
Bangkok MRT regulations are designed to keep the system safe, orderly, and convenient. The network uses a controlled paid area: passengers enter through the gates, travel on the selected line, and exit through the correct station gate. Tickets and cards are recorded for each trip, and each token or card is meant for one passenger only.
Passengers must follow the published fare conditions. Because the fare is distance-based, the price depends on the line and the journey taken. If a passenger stays in the paid area longer than the permitted time, a surcharge may apply. Additional charges may also be added if a journey is not completed properly, such as in the case of a lost token or card.
Accepted ticket and card options vary by line. The main choices include single-journey tokens and stored-value cards. In 2026, the Mangmoom Card is usable across all MRT-operated lines. EMV contactless cards are accepted on the Blue and Purple Lines, while the Pink and Yellow Lines have their own fare and ticket arrangements. Older MRT stored-value cards are being phased out in 2026, so it is worth checking current station notices.
Signs and announcements are bilingual in Thai and English. Passengers should keep the correct card or token for the line they are using. If someone enters and exits the same station without making a proper trip, a fare may still be charged according to the rules in force. Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and passengers with disabilities, depending on eligibility.
For safety, stations have platform screen doors, security staff, CCTV, elevators, and ramps. Trains and stations are air-conditioned, though the elevated Purple, Yellow, and Pink Line stations are open-air and can feel warmer than the underground Blue Line. Station parking and Park & Ride are available at selected stations, especially outer terminals, but parking charges and parking charges per day depend on the operator and line.
Basic etiquette matters too. Let passengers exit before boarding, stand clear of the doors, and follow staff instructions. During busy morning and evening periods, trains can get crowded, so allowing extra time helps.
- Follow station signs and announcements in Thai and English.
- Use the correct token, card, or contactless payment method for your line.
- Keep your journey within the permitted paid-area time to avoid surcharges.
- Respect the gates, platform screen doors, and safety instructions from staff.
- Allow passengers to exit before boarding and avoid blocking doors.
Notable Facts
The MRT combines metro and monorail services in one growing Bangkok transit system. It currently includes the Blue, Purple, Yellow, and Pink lines, with the Orange Line under construction.
The first line to open was the Blue Line, officially the Chaloem Ratchamongkhon Line. Its first section, between Hua Lamphong and Bang Sue, opened in July 2004 and became Bangkok’s second metro system. Because that early section was completely underground, the Blue Line became widely known as the underground train.
The Purple Line, officially the Chalong Ratchadham Line, opened on 6 August 2016 between Tao Poon and Khlong Bang Phai in Nonthaburi. It was the first mass transit line to extend outside Bangkok.
The Blue and Purple Lines are operated by BEM under a concession from MRTA, while the Yellow and Pink Lines are operated by BTSC subsidiaries. As of August 2024, the BEM-operated lines carry about 526,000 passengers per day and have 54 operational stations across 71 km (44.1 miles) of route.
After the Blue Line extension opened in April 2020, the line became a quasi loop around central Bangkok with an interchange with itself at Tha Phra.
Bangkok’s flood-prone geography influenced station design. Entrances are built about one meter above ground level and include floodgates. Stations are also accessible, with elevators, ramps, and platform screen doors.
The Blue and Purple Lines use RFID contactless ticketing, including round tokens for single trips and stored-value cards for regular passengers. Since January 2022, EMV contactless payment has also been accepted on those lines.
Children under 15, or those no taller than 90 cm, may ride free, while reduced fares are available for older children and half-price fares for the elderly when buying a token at the booth.
Ridership grew after the Tao Poon interchange opened in 2017, and the Blue Line extension to Lak Song in 2019 increased usage further.
Travel Tips
For first-time visitors, the Bangkok MRT is one of the easiest ways to get around. It is fast, affordable, air-conditioned, and especially helpful in hot or rainy weather.
Check the route, stations map, and station exits before you travel so you know which line to use. The MRT connects well with the BTS Skytrain, and some stations also link with ferries and other local transport options.
Tickets can usually be bought at kiosks or ticket booths, and some lines support stored-value cards or contactless bank cards. If you are unsure, ask station staff. Signage is in Thai and English, so it is generally easy to follow.
When boarding, let passengers get off first, then stand clear of the doors and follow platform markings. During rush hour, trains can be crowded, so off-peak travel is often more comfortable.
The MRT is especially useful for reaching places such as Chatuchak Market, Wat Pho, the Grand Palace area, Chinatown, and Sukhumvit. For the smoothest trip, combine it with other transport when needed.
- Keep some coins or small banknotes handy for ticket machines.
- Check station exits before you tap out.
- Allow extra time if you need to transfer to another line.
- Bring a light layer if you are sensitive to strong air-conditioning.
Sightseeing via Bangkok Metro
Bangkok’s MRT makes sightseeing easier, cheaper, and more comfortable, especially if you want to avoid road traffic. It is often used together with the BTS Skytrain and the Airport Rail Link, so moving across the city takes much less hassle.
As of 2026, the network includes underground metro lines, elevated suburban routes, and driverless monorails. That makes it a practical choice not just for commuting, but also for temples, shopping districts, markets, and neighborhood trips around Bangkok.
Quick Facts
| Lines | Blue, Purple, Pink, and Yellow |
| Hours | Approximately 6:00 AM to midnight |
| Fare range | Around THB 15-45 per trip |
| Useful for | Temples, shopping areas, markets, and daily commuting |
| Key interchanges | Sukhumvit / Asok, Tao Poon, Lat Phrao, Samrong, and Wat Phra Sri Mahathat |
| Payment options | Single-journey token, Mangmoom card, and selected contactless bank cards |
| Languages | Thai and English signs and announcements |
The Mangmoom Card is now available for all MRT lines, allowing travel on the Blue, Purple, Pink, and Yellow Lines with a single card. BTS Skytrain and the Airport Rail Link still require separate cards.
Top Places Accessible via MRT
- Chatuchak Market — Chatuchak Park station
- Wat Pho and Grand Palace — Sanam Chai station
- Wat Arun — Itsaraphap station
- Chinatown — Wat Mangkon station
- Asok / Terminal 21 — Sukhumvit station
- Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station — Bang Sue station
- Government Complex — Lak Si via the Pink Line
For sightseeing, the Blue Line is especially useful for the old city and major cultural sites, while the Pink and Yellow Lines help with cross-city trips and access to residential and shopping areas. Stations such as Sanam Chai, Wat Mangkon, and Chatuchak Park are especially handy if you want to combine train travel with a short walk.
If you are planning a full day out, using the MRT alongside other rail lines is one of the easiest ways to move between temples, markets, and shopping districts without relying on road traffic.