Bangkok Railway Station: A Historical Landmark
Bangkok Railway Station, also known as Hua Lamphong Station, has been a vital transportation hub since the early 20th century, and over time, it has become a true landmark. This architectural masterpiece was designed by Italian architects in the New Renaissance style, making it unique among railway stations. Its design features stained glass windows and wooden finishes on the roofs. Despite its grand appearance, Hua Lamphong is highly functional, housing:
14 platforms;
Over 25 ticket counters for both immediate and advance ticket purchases;
Two massive electronic scoreboards displaying schedules.
Every day, more than 60,000 passengers and 130 trains pass through the walls of this historic station. Hua Lamphong is conveniently situated near Lumpini Park, Chinatown, and the Indian Quarter, making it an interesting place to explore while waiting for your train.
The History of Hua Lamphong
Bangkok was designated as Thailand's capital in the late 19th century when the city's transportation network was still rudimentary. At the time, residents primarily relied on privately owned or rented carts and boats along the Chao Praya River for travel. King Rama V, the reigning monarch, recognized the need for change and sought European expertise to establish a railway network. In 1894, the first train journeyed from Bangkok to Ayutthaya.
In 1910, the construction of Hua Lamphong Station commenced and spanned six years.
After World War II, much of the railway infrastructure was damaged, leading to a substantial reconstruction effort in the latter half of the 20th century.
