(C) Khaleej Times
Amidst the bustling tourist hotspots of Thailand, a unique and mesmerizing railway adventure is quietly gaining popularity. Known as the “floating train,” this journey takes passengers off the beaten track, offering a rare opportunity to savor the kingdom’s natural beauty and cultural delights away from the crowds of temples and beaches.
This past Saturday marked a significant event for train enthusiasts and curious travelers as the State Railway of Thailand introduced its “Rot Fai Loi Nam” service from Bangkok to the Pasak Jolasid Dam. The launch of this service signifies the end of the rainy season and the start of a remarkable voyage.
As the sun began to rise, hundreds of eager passengers embarked on this extraordinary journey from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station. The landscape transformed as the train made its way through picturesque lotus ponds, lush jungles, serene temples, and vibrant rice paddies. Travelers in the third class didn’t hesitate to hang out the windows, capturing images of the enchanting scenery while enjoying the natural air conditioning.
At Ayutthaya, the ancient former capital of Siam, local vendors hopped on board, offering delights like fairy floss and the renowned pad krapow, a flavorful stir-fry basil dish. A little over three hours after departing from Bangkok, the refurbished Japanese train, composed of more than a dozen carriages, gracefully crossed the Pasak Jolasid reservoir. The train made its way over a series of viaducts, creating a breathtaking illusion of floating on water.
The unique charm of this journey lies in the seasonal transformation. For most of the year, the train’s route is ordinary, with cattle grazing underneath the bridge. However, during the months of October to January, the water levels rise on both sides, creating the awe-inspiring spectacle of a “floating train.” Long-time British expat, train enthusiast, and travel blogger Richard Barrow shared his excitement about the journey, stating that he’s experienced it multiple times and has three more bookings for the season. However, he lamented that the journey is mostly publicized in the Thai language, making it a hidden gem for foreigners.
With thousands of passengers embarking on Thailand’s “floating train,” this extraordinary rail adventure presents a unique perspective on the kingdom’s diverse landscape. As travelers journey from the vibrant capital of Bangkok to the tranquil Pasak Jolasid Dam, they savor the illusion of gliding across the water, celebrating the remarkable rise in water levels during the post-monsoon season.
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