The Blue Jasmine Train: Thailand’s Newest Luxury Land Cruise

Gone are the days when a train journey was just a way to get from one destination to another. The Blue Jasmine Train Thailand marks a new era of travel. It's a restored 1960s Japanese "Blue Train" reborn as a high-end "heritage land cruise”.

Launched in November 2025, the Blue Jasmine Train offers a 9-day journey looping from Bangkok through the UNESCO heritage sites of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai to the mountains of Chiang Mai. With only 37 guests, it offers a rare level of exclusivity with three cabin types, elevated Thai gastronomy by award-winning chefs, and evening entertainment like traditional dance under the stars.

At ₹5.4L to ₹11L, you are choosing an all-inclusive "slow travel" experience where the ride is just as important as the destination. If you want to handle the rest of your trip just as easily, you can customize your Thailand trip around it to fit your plans perfectly.

Now, follow this guide to know everything from the Blue Jasmine train schedule to costs and onboard features.

The Blue Jasmine Train Journey: Quick Details

• Duration: 8 Nights / 9 Days
• Capacity: Strictly limited to 37 guests per journey across 10 restored wagons
• The Route: Bangkok → Ayutthaya → Uthai Thani → Chiang Mai → Sukhothai → Bangkok
• Accommodation: 2 nights onboard the luxury train and 6 nights in handpicked heritage hotels (like the Montien Surawong and Bodhi Serene)
• Inclusions: All-inclusive gourmet meals (Thai & International), private guided excursions, entrance fees to UNESCO sites, luggage handling, and 24/7 butler service for Premium suites.
• 2026 Starting Prices: Approx. ₹5.4 Lakhs (Classic), ₹7.2 Lakhs (Premium twin), ₹9.8 Lakhs - ₹11 Lakhs (Premium Suite) per person
• Special Feature: Features over 2,000 Jim Thompson silk décor items and an onboard showroom.

What Is The Blue Jasmine Train?

The Blue Jasmine Train Thailand is a restored 1960s Japanese "Blue Train" reimagined as a boutique hotel on wheels. In a landmark collaboration with Jim Thompson (the legendary ‘House of Silk’), the train’s interiors are fitted with over 2,000 decorative elements, from silk curtains to bespoke bed runners, creating an atmosphere of "New Thailand" luxury.

It’s one of the best Bangkok to Chiang Mai luxury trains for those looking for an exclusive experience. Designed for max. 37 guests, this Thailand new train features 10 air-conditioned Japanese sleeper carriages that balance nostalgia with modern comfort.

Here is exactly what makes the onboard experience on this Thailand luxury train different from any other rail journey in Southeast Asia.

1. The First "Showroom on a Train"

In 2026, the train features the first-ever Jim Thompson Onboard Boutique.

• The Setup: There is a dedicated showroom area where you can browse the brand's iconic silk fashion and lifestyle collections while the train is in motion.
• The Tech: If you see a print or a bag you like, you simply scan a QR code to purchase it via an online portal. The best part? You don't have to carry your shopping with you; delivery is coordinated to meet you at the end of your 9-day journey.

2. The Panorama Lounge & Social Hub

Luxury travel can sometimes feel isolating, but the Blue Jasmine is designed for camaraderie. You’ll get:

• Wraparound Views: The Panorama Lounge is the heart of the train, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize the view of the central plains.
• The Bar: There is a full-service cocktail bar where mixologists serve signature drinks inspired by local Thai botanicals.
• The Balcony: One of the most sought-after spots on the train is the open-air viewing balcony at the rear. It’s the perfect place for photographers to capture the "money shot" as the tracks disappear into the distance.

3. Signature Onboard Gastronomy

While the Blue Jasmine train itinerary includes several off-train meals, the dining car experience is a major highlight. The culinary program is overseen by Chef Patipat Lakthong, a gold medalist in the Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs competition.

• Curated Menus: The kitchen focuses on "Elevated Thai Cuisine," featuring regional specialties like Northern Khao Soi or Ayutthaya-style river prawns.
• Exclusive Access: If you book a Premium Cabin or Suite, you have access to a secondary, more intimate dining car, ensuring a quieter, more private atmosphere for your meals.
• The "Welcome" Experience: The journey actually begins with a private welcome dinner and tour at the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter in Bangkok before you even board.

4. The Sensory Experience

It sounds like a small detail, but the developers actually created a signature "Blue Jasmine" scent that’s diffused throughout the carriages. It hits that sweet spot between luxury and home.

When you step back onto the platform after a humid afternoon exploring the ruins of Sukhothai, that cool, jasmine-scented air hitting you as you board is the exact moment you realize where your money went.

Where Does The Blue Jasmine Train Journey Start And End?

The Blue Jasmine Train Thailand follows a massive circular loop starting and ending in Bangkok. While the trip spans 9 days, you will only sleep on the train for 2 nights. The other 6 nights are spent in high-end heritage hotels to give you a break from the rails and a deeper connection to local life.

Route Summary at a Glance:

Bangkok (Start) → Ayutthaya (Ruins) → Uthai Thani (Riverside) → Chiang Mai (Mountains) → Sukhothai (Culture) → Bangkok (Farewell)

For first-timers, our guide on how to plan a Thailand trip from India is the perfect starting point to manage your visa and flights.

The Blue Jasmine Train Itinerary: 9-Day Journey

The Blue Jasmine train itinerary provides a seamless blend of rail nostalgia and local luxury.

The Outbound Leg: Bangkok to the North (Day 1-5)

Day 1: The Grand Welcome (Bangkok)

• Arrival in Bangkok with a private transfer to the Montien Hotel Surawong.
• The journey officially begins with an elegant welcome dinner and tour briefing at the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter.

Day 2: The Historic Departure (Ayutthaya)

• Boarding begins at the historic Hua Lamphong Station.
• Your first stop is Ayutthaya for a "Frog" Tuk-Tuk tour of UNESCO ruins and a gourmet lunch by a lotus pond.
• Disembark for an overnight stay at Uthai Heritage, a stunning boutique hotel in a repurposed colonial-style schoolhouse.

Day 3: Uthai Thani & Your First Night Aboard

• Morning traditional almsgiving at sunrise and a visit to the glittering Crystal Temple.
• After a rice barge lunch cruise, you board in the late afternoon for sunset cocktails as the train begins its climb north.
• Night 1 on Train: Enjoy sunset cocktails and dinner as you begin the climb into the northern mountains.

Day 4-5: The Rose of the North (Chiang Mai)

• Wake up to mountain views as you cross the Khun Tan bridge (Thailand’s highest rail point) on this Bangkok to Chiang Mai luxury train.
• Stay for two nights at a boutique hotel like Bodhi Serene. If you have extra time during your hotel stay, discover the best night markets and temples in the Old City in our Chiang Mai travel guide.
• Highlights: A visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary and a private mountaintop sunset dinner with a live mini-orchestra.

The Return Leg: Heritage & The Final Stretch (Day 6-9)

Day 6: The Ancient Capital (Sukhothai)

• A scenic 4.5-hour rail journey from Chiang Mai with lunch served onboard.
• Upon arrival, visit an ancient temple followed by an outdoor barbecue and traditional Thai dance under the stars.
• Overnight stay at the Sukhothai Heritage Resort.

Day 7: Craftsmanship & Night 2 Aboard

• Explore Sukhothai Historical Park (UNESCO) by bicycle or shuttle.
• The afternoon is dedicated to local artisans: pottery workshops and a visit to a traditional goldsmith.
• Night 2 on Train: Your final night sleeping on the rails as the train moves back toward the capital.

Day 8-9: The Riverside Farewell (Bangkok)

• Early morning return to Bangkok.
• After a serene Chao Phraya river cruise, enjoy a farewell gala dinner at Siri Sala (a private Thai villa).
• One final night stay at the Montien Hotel before your private airport transfer on Day 9.

Between exploring ruins and boarding the train, make sure to check out the best things to do in Bangkok for a memorable experience.

The Blue Jasmine Train Schedule 2026

The Blue Jasmine operates as a private charter, meaning it doesn't run daily. For 2026, the departures are strategically timed during Thailand's best weather windows (the cool dry season and a brief mid-year slot).

Each journey is a 9-day itinerary, always departing on a Saturday. Here are the Blue Jasmine train journey dates for 2026:

• 24 January 2026 – 01 February 2026
• 21 February 2026 – 01 March 2026
• 11 July 2026 – 19 July 2026
• 21 November 2026 – 29 November 2026
• 12 December 2026 – 20 December 2026

These dates are specifically chosen to coincide with the best time to visit Thailand, ensuring you enjoy the northern mountains in cool weather rather than the summer heat.

Cabin Guide: Choose Your Space on the Blue Jasmine

The Blue Jasmine is a land cruise, meaning your cabin isn't just where you sleep but your private sanctuary during the day. Since the train is a reimagined vintage 1960s Japanese sleeper, space is tight, but the styling is world-class.

Your Blue Jasmine train ticket price includes one of three cabin categories:

1. The Classic Cabin: The Social Choice

The Classic Cabin is for the traveler who wants the full 9-day curated experience without the five-star price hike. It’s cozy, functional, and deeply nostalgic.

• The Room: Approximately 3 square meters. By day, you have a plush sofa; by night, the staff converts it into comfortable bunk beds (roughly 2 meters long). You have a small sink, vanity mirror, and reading lamps.
• The Bathroom: You’ll use shared facilities. There is a high-end WC and shower at the end of each carriage, maintained frequently by the onboard crew.
• Dining & Drinks: You have full access to the main dining carriage and the bar car. Meals are gourmet Thai fusion, and local soft drinks/water are included.
• Cost: Starts at THB 195,000 (approx. ₹5.4L) per person based on double occupancy

2. The Premium Twin: The Balanced Choice

The Premium Twin is positioned at the rear of the train, meaning there’s almost zero foot traffic passing your door. It’s quieter and feels significantly more exclusive.

• The Room: Similar in size to the Classic but with upgraded finishes. Crucially, these cabins feature en-suite bathrooms (though more compact than the Suites).
• The Bathroom: While still shared, you are sharing the facilities with far fewer passengers than in the Classic carriages.
• Exclusive Perks: You gain privileged access to the Panorama Lounge and the open-air viewing balcony which is the best spot on the train for photography.
• Premium Dining: You eat in a separate, intimate dining wagon reserved exclusively for Premium and Suite guests, ensuring a "private club" atmosphere.
• Cost: Starts at THB 257,000 (approx. ₹7.1L) per person.

3. The Premium Suite: The Gold Standard

There are only two of these on the entire train. If you want a "hotel room on wheels," this is the only category that truly delivers that.

• The Room: At 6 square meters, it is double the size of the other cabins. It features a full double bed (no bunks) and two large picture windows for panoramic views of the Thai countryside.
• Private En-suite: This is the only cabin with a completely private bathroom, including a separate toilet and a walk-in shower.
• Personal Butler: You have a dedicated butler at your beck and call. They handle your luggage, coordinate your excursions, and can even arrange for private in-cabin dining if you want a quiet night.
• Cost: Starts at THB 310,000 (approx. ₹8.6L) and can reach ₹11L depending on the season and single supplements.

Please Note: Suite prices peak in December due to the high demand for the "Cool Season" weather in Northern Thailand.

What’s Included In Your Blue Jasmine Ticket?

In this Thailand new train, almost every logistical detail is handled for you from the moment you land in Bangkok, such as:

• Accommodation: 2 nights aboard this Thailand luxury train and 6 nights in hand-picked boutique heritage hotels (e.g., Uthai Heritage, Bodhi Serene).
• Gastronomy: All meals are included, featuring the best food in Thailand such as regional specialties (like Northern Khao Soi), and international gourmet options, with vegetarian and vegan menus available upon request.
• Excursions: All guided tours, including private tuk-tuks in Ayutthaya, elephant sanctuary visits in Chiang Mai, and UNESCO site entries in Sukhothai.
• Transfers: Includes private chauffeur pick-up from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or Don Mueang (DMK) airports to your hotel on Day 1, and a return drop-off at the end of the journey on Day 9.
• Service: English-speaking guides throughout the trip and dedicated butler service for Premium/Suite guests.
• Special Events: Private mountaintop classical concerts and traditional dance performances.

How To Book the Blue Jasmine?

The Blue Jasmine train Thailand booking is handled through the official DTH Travel portal. You can also secure The Blue Jasmine train Thailand tickets via specialized luxury rail agents.

• The Official Source: Visit DTH Travel for the Blue Jasmine train Thailand booking or check the Blue Jasmine Train website to inquire about remaining 2026 berths.
• Luxury Rail Agents: If you prefer a local touch, Agencies like LuxuryTrains.in assist with the Blue Jasmine train Thailand tickets from India and can assist with currency conversion and flight add-ons.
• Booking Window: Because the train only holds 37 passengers per trip, it is highly recommended to book at least 6 months in advance. A 30% deposit is typically required to hold your spot.

Know Before You Go: Pro-Tips for Blue Jasmine Journey

Here are some essential tips for your Blue Jasmine Train journey, keeping you prepared:

1. Book in advance: With only 37 guests per trip, you need to secure the Blue Jasmine train Thailand tickets at least 6 months in advance. That means you’ve to book today to secure your spot for the July, November, and December 2026 journeys.
2. Payment Terms: A 30% deposit is typically required at confirmation, with the final balance due 60 days before your departure.
3. Connectivity: High-speed Wi-Fi is available in all cabins and social areas, though it may be intermittent while passing through northern mountain tunnels.
4. Luggage: Space in cabins is tight, so the crew provides a full luggage service where your main suitcases are moved directly between heritage hotels while you keep a small overnight bag on board.
5. Clothing & Footwear: Pack breathable linens for humid daytime tours, "Smart Elegant" attire for gala dinners, and stylish slip-on shoes for temple visits. Don't forget a pashmina or light jacket for cool northern evenings and a small overnight bag for your 2 nights on the train.
6. Weather: If traveling in December or January, bring a light jacket or pashmina, as northern temperatures in Chiang Mai can drop to a crisp 15°C - 18°C after sunset.
7. Health: Complimentary bottled water is provided throughout, but if you are sensitive to motion, consider packing standard motion sickness remedies for the vintage rail segments.

For a smoother journey, keep these Thailand travel tips in mind, covering everything from currency exchange to local etiquette at sacred temples.

The Blue Jasmine Train: Is It Worth It?

If you’re deciding whether to book for 2026, look past the price tag and focus on the type of experience you want. This isn’t just a train ride; it’s a fully managed cultural immersion.

Travelers who value hidden UNESCO sites and authentic local craftsmanship over standard, fast-paced luxury will find the Blue Jasmine a perfect fit. Considering the Blue Jasmine train ticket price is all-inclusive of hotels, meals, and private excursions, it is widely considered the gold standard for "slow travel" in Southeast Asia.

With only four of the Blue Jasmine train journey dates left for 2026, berths are filling fast! If this sounds like your kind of adventure, now is the time to secure your spot!