MRT Purple Line Bangkok Guide 2025: Complete Timetable, Route Map, Stations & Tips
Hey, it’s Monchai again! Have you thought about exploring Bangkok metro beyond the usual tourist hot spots?
If you've already ridden the MRT Blue Line or the BTS Skytrain, you might think you've seen all of Bangkok's modern transit options. But there's one line that often flies under the radar for tourists and even some expats—the MRT Purple Line.
This Purple Line route connects central Bangkok to Nonthaburi, a neighboring province that feels like a mix of suburban charm and authentic Thai local life.
MRT Purple Line train approaching Wong Sawang station. PHOTO: Takeshi Aida Bangkok_MRT_Purple_Line_J-TREC,_Wong_Sawang_(20240629)
For me, the Purple Line is my to-go transportation option when I visit my aunt in Nonthaburi. I usually hop off at Ministry of Public Health station, then grab a taxi or bus to the Nonthaburi Pier before crossing the Chao Phraya River on a ferry. It's fast, convenient, and gives me a little slice of everyday Thai commuting life.
If you're a first-time visitor, an expat settling into Bangkok, or simply someone curious about exploring beyond the tourist-heavy center, this complete MRT Purple Line guide will help you navigate with confidence.
🟣 About the MRT Purple Line Bangkok
The MRT Purple Line, officially known as the Chalong Ratchadham Line, opened in 2016 and became the first MRT route to extend outside Bangkok into Nonthaburi province.
MRT Purple Line Route Details:
Route length: ~23 km
Total stations: 16 stations (from Tao Poon in Bangkok to Khlong Bang Phai in Nonthaburi)
Purple Line schedule: Daily, 5:30 AM – midnight (Check schedule for exact station timing)
Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes end-to-end
The Purple Line was designed to ease traffic congestion between Bangkok and Nonthaburi while giving locals a reliable alternative to sitting in gridlock. For travelers, it's a gateway to authentic markets, local temples, and suburban neighborhoods you might otherwise miss.
MRT Purple Line Timetable. PHOTO: https://www.mrta.co.th/en/
🎟️ MRT Purple Line Fares, Tickets & Payment Options
Riding the Purple Line is both affordable and straightforward.
MRT Purple Line Cost & Payment:
Single Journey Token: Small black plastic token you tap in at gates and drop when exiting. Perfect for one-off rides.
Stored Value Cards: Get an MRT Plus card if using Bangkok MRT frequently. Saves time by skipping ticket machines.
VISA & Mastercard: Thai bank-issued cards and some international cards are accepted
Price Range: 17–42 THB depending on distance (roughly $0.50–$1.20 USD) [Thai nationals who register with the government’s Tang Rat app have their fare capped at 20 Baht]
Payment Options: Cash at machines, or top-up cards at station counters, or some international VISA/ Mastercard (Most tourists prefer to use cash)
💡 Pro tip: If you're also riding the MRT Blue Line, you can use the same token/card for seamless transfers. Note that BTS Skytrain Rabbit Cards are still not fully integrated with MRT systems.
🔗 Purple Line Connections & Strategic Transfers
One of the biggest advantages of the MRT Purple Line route is seamless connectivity to Bangkok's entire transit network.
Key Transfer Points:
Tao Poon Station: Direct transfer to MRT Blue Line, connecting to central Bangkok districts
Bang Son Station: Easy connection to SRT Red Line, linking to Don Mueang Airport and northern Bangkok
Bus & Taxi Access: Available outside most Purple Line stations for extended travel
Ferry Connections: At Phra Nang Klao Bridge and Ministry of Public Health (+ bus/taxi) stations, connect to Chao Phraya river piers
The Purple Line's strategic connections mean you can travel from Bangkok's city centers into Nonthaburi without fighting traffic—saving some precious time during peak times.
MRT Purple Line Map - Bangkok to Nonthaburi. PHOTO: https://alchetron.com/
⭐ Complete Guide to 16 Essential Purple Line Stations
Here's your complete MRT Purple Line station guide, perfect for tourists, expats, and locals.
Bangkok Section (Stations 1-3)
1. Tao Poon Station
Purple Line's southern terminal station and primary connection hub to MRT Blue Line
Essential transfer point for travelers from central Bangkok
Multiple local eateries, cafés and condo buildings within walking distance
2. Bang Son Station
Key interchange with SRT Red Line connecting to Don Mueang Airport
Convenient for unrushed air travelers avoiding expensive taxi rides
Local markets and street food nearby
3. Tao Poon Junction
Secondary connection point with local bus routes
Residential area with authentic Thai neighborhoods
Nonthaburi’s city bus No. 63 can take you from the Nonthaburi Pier to the MRT Ministry of Public Health station for 13 Baht. PHOTO: Thailand With Monchai
Nonthaburi Section (Stations 4-16)
4. Ministry of Public Health Station
Serves one of Thailand's leading nursing college, government’s public health complex, and local villages
Personal recommendation: My regular stop when visiting my aunt in Nonthaburi. From here, take a short taxi or bus to Nonthaburi Pier, then cross the Chao Phraya by ferry—practical and scenic route to local neighborhoods.
5. Yaek Nonthaburi 1 Station
Gateway to Nonthaburi's more bustling fresh markets
Excellent street food sampling and local shopping opportunities
6. Phra Nang Klao Bridge Station
Scenic riverside location with direct ferry access across Chao Phraya River
Close to historic temples, cultural attractions, and Rajamangala University of Technology
7. Bang Krasor Station
Central Northville Mall: major shopping mall with restaurants, cinemas, international retail
Modern shopping and dining hub
8. Nonthaburi Civic Center Station
Administrative heart of Nonthaburi province
Government offices, cultural centers, and local exhibitions
9. Sam Yaek Bang Yai Station
Suburban condo buildings and Kasemrad Rattanatibeth Hospital
Numerous casual Thai eateries within easy walking distance
10. Bang Phlu Station
Quiet residential area perfect for experiencing local community life
Traditional Thai markets and family-run businesses
11. Talad Bang Yai Station
Adjacent to Talad Bang Yai Market and major bus terminal
Next to the massive Central Westgate mall
12. Sai Ma Station
Growing residential and commercial development area
Mix of traditional and modern Thai lifestyle
13. Phra Nang Klao Bridge East
Eastern approach to the river with scenic views
Additional ferry connections to traditional riverside communities
14. Bang Rak Yai Station
Local temple complexes, residential condos and traditional Thai architecture
Peaceful area away from tourist crowds
15. Bang Rak Noi Station
Expanding suburban development with new housing projects
Local markets and community centers
16. Khlong Bang Phai Station (Terminal Station)
Purple Line's northern endpoint
Quiet suburban villages
Traditional commuter ferry filled with passengers at a pier in Bangkok, Thailand, getting ready to cross the Chao Phraya River. PHOTO: Thailand With Monchai
📝 Real-Life Travel Experience: My Bangkok to Nonthaburi Go-To Option
Whenever I visit my aunt in Nonthaburi, the MRT Purple Line transforms what could be a nerve-racking traffic nightmare from central Bangkok into a smooth 40-minute journey.
What makes my Bangkok to Nonthaburi transport route special to me is how it combines modern convenience with traditional Thai life. The Purple Line train offers straightforward, air-conditioned comfort with an affordable price.
💡 Expert Tips & Travel Hacks for Purple Line - Your Knowledge Upgrade
Timing & Crowds:
Avoid rush hours: Weekdays 7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM get extremely crowded
Best travel times: Mid-morning, early afternoon, and weekends for comfortable rides
Payment & Cards:
Buy stored value cards: Essential if staying in Bangkok more than a few days
Cash backup: Keep small bills for ticket machines during busy periods
Credit cards: Thai bank-issued cards and some international VISA/Mastercard are accepted
Accessibility & Comfort:
Family-friendly: All stations equipped with elevators, escalators, wheelchair access
Stay hydrated: Convenience stores near most stations, but no eating/drinking inside trains
Plan connections: For Don Mueang Airport, use Bang Son → SRT Red Line route
Local Insights:
Ferry combinations: Ministry of Public Health (+ bus/taxi) and Phra Nang Klao Bridge offer scenic river connections
Market timing: Visit Talad Bang Yai early morning for freshest selections
Shopping strategy: Central Northville Mall (Bang Krasor station) and Central Gateway Mall (Talad Bang Yai station) offers international and local brands
Man sitting in a traditional Thai 3-wheel pedal cab waiting for a passenger in Nonthaburi, Thailand. PHOTO: Thailand With Monchai
❓ Frequently Asked Questions: MRT Purple Line Bangkok
Q: What are the complete MRT Purple Line operating hours? A: Daily operation from 5:30 AM to midnight, with trains running every 4-6 minutes during peak hours. But, check station timetable to plan ahead.
Q: How long does the Purple Line take from Bangkok to Nonthaburi? A: Complete end-to-end journey takes approximately 40 minutes from Tao Poon to Khlong Bang Phai.
Q: Can I use the same card on Purple Line and Blue Line? A: Yes, both lines operate under the MRT system with compatible ticketing.
Q: Where does the Purple Line go exactly? A: From Tao Poon station in Bangkok through 16 stations to Khlong Bang Phai in Nonthaburi province.
Q: Is there a Purple Line route map available on-site? A: Yes, detailed route maps are posted in all stations and available through official MRT mobile apps.
Q: Is the Purple Line safe for tourists and families? A: Absolutely. Stations are well-lit, security-monitored, clean, and regularly patrolled.
Q: How crowded does the MRT Purple Line get? A: Weekday mornings (7-9 AM) and evenings (5-7 PM) are packed, but midday and weekends remain comfortable.
Q: Are there restrooms in Purple Line stations? A: Yes, most stations feature clean restrooms, with many connected to convenience stores.
Q: What's the cheapest way to travel Bangkok to Nonthaburi? A: MRT Purple Line offers the most cost-effective option at 17-42 THB, compared to taxis (200-400 THB) or private transport.
Q: Can I connect from Purple Line to Don Mueang Airport? A: Yes, transfer at Bang Son station to SRT Red Line for direct airport connection.
Thai fruit stand seller servicing a customer in Bangkok metro, Thailand. Look at those yummy oranges and coconuts. PHOTO: Thailand With Monchai
🏁 Your Gateway to Authentic Thailand: Why Choose MRT Purple Line
The MRT Purple Line might not appear on every Bangkok travel itinerary, but it absolutely should. This Bangkok to Nonthaburi transport route is clean, efficient, affordable, and offers direct access to authentic Thai experiences—local markets, traditional temples, and genuine community life at a slower, more authentic pace.
Whether you're an expat establishing life in Bangkok, a curious tourist eager to explore beyond standard attractions, or someone seeking authentic Thai experiences outside the city centers, the MRT Purple Line is your affordable ticket to discovery. Start your authentic Thai adventure on the Purple Line today.
MORE RESOURCES:
Complete Guide to Bangkok's BTS Skytrain 2025
Bangkok Airport Rail Link: Everything You Need to Know
Looking for Bangkok’s best second-hand markets? Check it out HERE.
Thailand e-Visa and Immigration Guide 2025
Explore more of Bangkok suburban neighborhoods using the MRT Pink & Orange Line
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Cheers! - Monchai
