The Khuntan Railway Tunnel, nestled within Doi Khun Tan National Park, is a stunning engineering feat surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes. This historical tunnel, an integral part of Thailand’s railway heritage, attracts visitors for its scenic beauty and unique ambiance.
The Khuntan Railway Tunnel, located in the serene Doi Khun Tan National Park, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into both Thailand’s rich railway history and its stunning natural beauty. This 1,200-meter-long tunnel, completed in 1916, is the longest railway tunnel in Thailand and showcases remarkable engineering skills of its time. Surrounded by lush greenery, the tunnel provides an enchanting backdrop for photography and nature walks, making it a popular attraction for hikers and railway enthusiasts alike. The journey to reach the tunnel is as rewarding as the destination, with scenic trails that wind through the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy the fresh mountain air and immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere that Doi Khun Tan National Park has to offer. Additionally, the park serves as an ideal spot for picnics and relaxation amidst nature. The Khuntan Railway Tunnel also serves an important role in the local community, reflecting the historical significance of the railway in linking remote areas with the rest of the country. This landmark is not just a tunnel; it is a testament to Thailand’s vibrant history and natural wonders that invites exploration and appreciation. Make sure to plan a visit to the Khuntan Railway Tunnel and experience the remarkable blend of history and nature that this unique location has to offer.
Attractions
6 miles
0.00 miles
0.52 miles
3.93 miles
Khuntan Railway Tunnel is perched on a picturesque hilltop overlooking Doi Khun Tan National Park, Thailand
Yes, you can explore more about Khuntan Railway Tunnel, including its history, cultural significance, and upcoming events, by visiting its official website at http://www.trekthailand.net/north6/index.html.
The Doi Khuntan National Park straddles a mountain range separating the provinces of Lampang and Lamphun. The park has an 8 km trail leading to the top (1,373 meters above sea level), but the trail’s starting point, at the Khuntan railway station, is where the park’s most famous attraction is. It is Thailand’s longest railway tunnel. The tunnel is 1,352 meters blasted through granite and it was a very costly project in terms of human sacrifice. It is said that 1,000 construction workers had died by the time the tunnel was opened for service. The construction started in 1907 and was completed in 1918 and workers lost their lives due to work-related accidents, malaria, and tigers.The project started under the supervision of German Emile Eisenhofer (his ashes are at a shrine at the tunnel entrance dedicated to all those that died during the construction), and was completed by Krommaphra Kamphaengphet, a Thai engineer. Today, the tunnel entrance and the quaint station building are very popular as backdrops for selfies.
The railway route Bangkok–Chiang Mai had been designed to avoid the Khun Tan Mountains, a barrier between Lampang and Lamphun. The tunnel was built ease trade barriers between the northern and central provinces.
This morning I took the train from Chiang Mai to the pretty station of Khun Tan, about an hour from Chiang Mai. This station is at the entrance of the the Doi Khun Tan national park and the entrance of the tunnel. To avoid my mistake, and to experience the tunnel, then a train ride to Lampang, also called Nakhon Lampang, is required. I travelled on the air-conditioned, special express train 8 which left Chiang Mai at 8.50am for 50 baht, and the a quick return on the second class express 51, which left at 11.05am for 33 baht. Great value for the experience. The Khun Tan station is the highest station in Thailand at 578 metres above sea level.