Thailand pushes trans-ASEAN rail network to boost tourism

Authorities forecast number of visitors in 2025 to return to pre-COVID levels

20250121 train from BKK to Vientiane1

A train leaves Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal station in Bangkok for Vientiane, Laos, on July 19, 2024. (Photo by Shinya Sawai)

APORNRATH PHOONPHONGPHIPHAT

BANGKOK -- Thailand plans to tap into improving regional rail connections, particularly the affordable route eventually linking China to Malaysia, to attract millions more visitors this year, according to the head of the country's tourism authority.

The line between Bangkok and Vientiane, which was completed last July, helps connect travelers directly to the China-Laos high-speed train that runs from the Laotian capital through the southern Chinese city of Kunming.

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