BTS Skytrain, Bangkok

The Bangkok Mass Transit System, commonly known as the BTS or the Skytrain, is an elevated rapid transit system in Bangkok, Thailand. It is operated by Bangkok Mass Transit System PCL, a subsidiary of BTS Group Holdings, under a concession granted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. The system consists of 43 stations along two lines: the Sukhumvit Line running northwards and south-eastwards, terminating at Kasetsart University and Kheha respectively. The Silom Line which serves Silom and Sathon Roads, the central business district of Bangkok, terminates at National Stadium and Bang Wa. The lines interchange at Siam station and have a combined route length of 53.5 kilometers. The system is formally known as "the Elevated Train in Commemoration of HM the King's 6th Cycle Birthday". Besides the BTS, Bangkok's rapid transit system includes the underground and elevated Mass Rapid Transit railway lines, the Bus Rapid Transit System, and the elevated Airport Rail Link, serving several stations in the city before reaching Suvarnabhumi Airport.

There are 2 important BTS Lines serving downtown Bangkok:

1. SILOM LINE runs from west to south, between the National Stadium in the Siam shopping area and Bang Wa in Thonburi (across the Chao Phraya River).
2. SUKHUMVIT LINE runs north to east from Ha Yaek Lat Phrao to Kheha, with most stations planned.

The 2 lines meet at Siam Station, and also connect at 4 points with the underground (MRT) – at Sala Daeng Station (Silom Line) and Asok, Mo Chit and Ha Yaek Lat Phrao stations (Sukhumvit Line).

A new train arrives every 3-6 minutes or so between 6.30am and midnight. The last train leaves between 11.30pm and 11.50pm. Note that trains can get pretty full during peak hours (from 7am to 9am and from 4pm to 7pm) as the BTS has also become the choice mode of transport for people living and working in Bangkok.

The following stations offer facilities (such as elevators) for disabled people: Mo Chit, Siam, Asok, On Nut and Chong Nonsi. BTS Tourist Information Centers can be found at Siam, Nana and Saphan Taksin stations. A very informative BTS city map can be picked up free from any station.

Fares and Skytrain Passes
The BTS Rabbit cards are used to access all stations. Fares start at 15 baht per one stop. A one-day pass may be a good option for those planning to do a lot of hopping on and off for one full day. But if you plan to be in Bangkok for a while, it might be a good idea to buy the BTS Smart Pass.

One-day Pass
Unlimited travel within the duration of a single day for 140 baht. Ideal for tourists.

Standard Rabbit Card / Stored Value Cards
These are available for 200 baht with 100 baht stored value. The Standard Rabbit Cards are valid for 7 years from its date of issuance and can be filled with a minimum of 100 baht and up to 4,000 baht.

BTS SkyTrain, Bangkok

• Average speed: 35 km/h
• Owner: Bangkok Metropolitan Administration
• Began operation: December 5, 1999
• Operator(s): Bangkok Mass Transit System; Public Company Limited
• Number of stations: 48
• Top speed: 80 km/h (50 mph)