The old Hua Hin railway station is perhaps one of the most surprising and photogenic places in the city. Hua Hin may be best known for its beaches, markets and resorts, but this charming wooden station transports you to another era. Its colourful facades, colonial influences and royal history make it a place you should not miss during your visit.
Read this article in DutchHistory of the historic Hua Hin railway station
The moment you step onto the grounds of the old station you immediately feel why this is such a special place. The station was built in 1911, when the railway line from Bangkok was extended farther south. The current wooden station building, with its colonial details and striking red colour, was constructed in 1926 on the orders of King Rama VI. From the very beginning the station played an important role in the development of Hua Hin, first as a quiet coastal town and later as a favourite holiday destination for Bangkok residents and for the royal family, who often stayed at the summer palace, Mrigadayavan Palace, north of the city.
Phra Mongkut Klao Pavilion, the royal waiting room
One of the most remarkable and well known parts of the station is the royal waiting room, the Phra Mongkut Klao Pavilion. This pavilion, built in a blend of Thai elegance and colonial charm, was designed specifically for the royal family. It is small but refined, with beautifully crafted details.
The new Hua Hin railway station
For more than a hundred years the old station was a busy hub for travellers and trains heading south. That daily bustle changed in 2023, when Thailand modernised its railway network and introduced double tracks and faster routes. Right next to the old station the new Hua Hin Railway Station opened.
The modern building forms a striking contrast with the historic station. It is bright, spacious and designed entirely for efficient train travel, with large glass façades, wide platforms and modern infrastructure. The old station remains preserved as a monument on the opposite side of the former tracks, reminding visitors of Hua Hin’s rich railway history.
A place where the past continues to live
Although the old railway station is no longer in use, it remains one of the most atmospheric places in Hua Hin. As you walk past the colourful facades you quickly notice that this station is still a true symbol of the city. With its traditional platform and nostalgic atmosphere, the place feels almost like a film set. It is no surprise that the station is so popular with photographers.
Hua Hin as a perfect stopover on the way south
There is plenty to see and do in and around Hua Hin. It is a versatile destination that is often unfairly overlooked. Hua Hin makes a wonderful stopover on the way to the southern coastal regions or the islands on the east coast, such as Koh Tao, Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Samui. It is also an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area, from Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park to the impressive Kui Buri National Park, where you may be lucky enough to spot wild elephants.
This part of Thailand is also perfect to explore with a rental car. Choosing a car with full insurance coverage gives complete peace of mind. Whatever happens, whether it is your fault or not, you are always fully covered.
