Mahachai Station—Samut Sakhon, Thailand. - Train Stations/Depots on Waymarking.com

The town of Samut Sakhon, capital of the province of the same name, is located approximately 30kms to the south west of Bangkok, on the mouth of the Tha Chin Klong river, a tributary of the Chao Phraya river, on the Gulf of Thailand. Economically, the town is part of greater Bangkok. Connecting these two points is a train line, unconnected to the main train system of Thailand. For historical reasons, the town is referred to as 'Mahachai', even though (as far as I understand, which is not always very far in Thailand), legally, the name is 'Samut Sakhon'.

The history of this line (information garnered from a variety of sources), states that this line was privately built, largely to convey fish from the town to Bangkok. If you were to visit the town (as I did) you would see that fishing and fish are both still important to the local economy (and diet). As I understand it, at the present time, the line is administered by the State Railway of Thailand, as is the bulk of the Thai rail system. The train looks to be elderly. The trip is very noisy (seriously, I suggest that you bring ear protectors), and the train sways a fair amount (to the point where I suggest that those susceptible to motion sickness take a taxi).

The Samut Sakhon end of this line has what can only be described as a '3rd world' station. Small, cramped, teeming with people, and lots of smelly fish—just keep smiling. Trains run frequently, and the fare is very reasonable, 10 baht (~us30c), however, no aircon, and the fans do not work. The trip takes 50mins to an hour, with frequent stops. The train halts at a number of small stations along the way, but also at passenger request spots—very user friendly.

When you exit this station and wander around the town, you will find the town far less crowded and also friendly (as is the station). Even though this town is close to Bangkok, I am fairly certain that I was the only westerner visiting that day. Not a great deal of English spoken. Bring with you your guide book and repertoire of pantomime (sense of humour mandatory). Expect children to stare and point, but adults too polite to do so.

Is the station/depot currently used for railroad purposes?: Yes Is the station/depot open to the public?: Yes What rail lines does/did the station/depot serve?: Samut Sakhon <--> Bangkok. Station/Depot Web Site: [Web Link] If the station/depot is not being used for railroad purposes, what is it currently used for?: Not listed

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