There is an easier way to get to Chiang Mai, Thailand from Bangkok. An hourly flight whisks travelers between the two cities several times a day. Overnight trains on Thai provincial railways have long been a budget-friendly option. However, this fall, the new trains aim to make this journey as exciting as their destination.
Released on November 16th, 2025, Blue Jasmine is a restored set of 1960s Japanese sleeper cars that were reimagined as a rolling boutique hotel. Over nine days, the train traveled from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, dating back to 1350, the former Thai capital and dates back to UNESCO World Heritage Site. Usai Tani is known for her natural and historical beauty. And Sukotai is an ancient city listed on UNESCO, rich in traditional architecture. The train follows the route through Thailand’s misty mountains and temple-studded plains.
Blue Jasmine with 10 horse-drawn carriages and rooms for 37 guests (Designed in collaboration with Thai state railways by Dth Travel, an Asian specialist tour operator and travel agency.
The railroad itinerary is built around daily cultural experiences (including in ticket prices, but not required). Travelers can choose to go on a Tuk-Tuk tour of Ayutthaya, join locals at morning alms rituals and visit the famous temples of Uthai Thani. They can also participate in hands-on workshops in ceramics and Goldsmiths before seeing a traditional Thai dance performance in Sukhothai. Additionally, they can visit the ethical elephant reserves in Chiang Mai. The trip culminates in a scenic cruise past historic temples, followed by a lively market along Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, followed by a farewell dinner at a waterside restaurant.
I only spend two nights on the train. Everything else is found in 4-star hotels such as Bodhi Serene in Chiangmai and Sukhothai at Sukhothai Heritage Resort. The cabin comes in three categories: classic, premium and premium suites. Classic offers cosy accommodation with bunk beds, small sinks, mirrors, side tables, reading lights and shared bathroom facilities. The Premium Twin Cabin is similar, offering bunk beds (but with more furniture) and shared bathroom facilities (shared with fewer people), as well as access to a panoramic lounge, including a balcony and premium dining car. The premium suite also offers double beds, a private EN suite bathroom with separate toilet and shower space, two photo windows, private butler service and access to the panoramic lounge.
In the dining and lounge car pair, travelers can drink cocktails and sample local cuisine while watching the Thai countryside slides through wraparound windows. Wi-Fi is available by train.
Unlike super-luxurious trains such as Eastern & Oriental Express, Blue Jasmine is positioned as a “premium” rather than a luxury. Prices start at 195,000 Thai baht (about 6,000 USD) per person based on double occupancy rate (although all room categories have solo supplement options), with accommodation, meals, curated off-train excursions and hotels staying along the route.
The first trip departs from Bangkok’s historic Hua Lamp Hong Station on November 16th, 2025, with additional trips scheduled for the end of the year. In 2026, Blue Jasmine is scheduled to depart in January, February, July, November and December.
