1881
145 years ago
OpeningTH
Paknam Railway opens in Siam
Paknam Railway
Bangkok
July 10, 1881
Summary
Thailand's first railway line began service between Bangkok and Paknam.
Full Story
The Paknam Railway, Siam's inaugural rail line, opened on July 10, 1881, running 21 km from Bangkok to the mouth of the Chao Phraya River. Built under King Chulalongkorn with Danish engineering assistance, it employed small steam tank locomotives and wooden passenger cars. The line facilitated trade and travel, helping modernize the kingdom while avoiding full colonial control. It operated until 1959 and symbolized the start of Thailand's extensive rail network that would later connect to Malaysia and beyond.
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Quick Facts
- Date
- July 10, 1881
- Event Type
- Opening
- Country
- TH
- Years Ago
- 145
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