Sawankhalok Railway Station

Nestled in the picturesque Sawankhalok District, Sukhothai Province, lies a hidden gem for railway enthusiasts – Sawankhalok Station. This Class 3 railway station offers an intriguing blend of tradition and innovation that sets it apart from other stations. Situated 487.14 kilometers (302.7 miles) away from Bangkok Railway Station, this quaint station boasts a distinct feature that captures the attention of visitors right upon arrival – its unconventional signalling system. Unlike most stations which rely on lighted poles or semaphores to guide trains along their tracks, Sawankhalok uses traditional signs as signals instead. The sight of these unique wooden symbols adds an old-world charm.

But what truly makes this signal system remarkable is not just its aesthetics; it’s also how it operates manually. Dedicated staff members are responsible for carefully adjusting and positioning each sign according to train schedules and movements—a true testament to precision craftsmanship handed down through generations. Interestingly enough, this distinctive signalling method is shared only with Khlong Maphlap railway station—the preceding stop on the Northern Line—making both locations even more special within Thailand’s extensive rail network.