The growth of Hua Hin and its popularity is closely associated with the railway.

In 1911 the then Royal State Railway of Siam opened a line to Hua Hin to allow ease of access for the Thai royal family. A beautiful railway station was also built and to this day remains one of the oldest and most well-preserved in Thailand. The design has much in common similar with Maruekhathaiyawan Palace which was constructed at the same time.

In 1922 Railway Hotel was built (currently part of Centara Grand Resort & Villas) and the also Royal Hua Hin Golf Course opened.  The advent of the railway and the building of the Railway Hotel were closely followed in 1926 by the construction of Klai Kangwon Palace.

Today, most visitors to the popular resort town arrive by car or shuttle bus but travel by rail is still the most relaxed option.

Trains leave Bangkok’s Hua Lampong station on a regular basis but it is advisable to book a seat in advance. The journey takes around four hours and is an excellent way to get a glimpse rural Thailand.

The carriages offer comfortable reclining seats, air-con and fans. Once seated, a hostess serves passengers a cold drink and a snack. And of course the journey ends at the historic Hua Hin railway station.