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The rapid express night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes just a
bit longer given the number of stops made, leaving at 22:00 and
arriving in Chiang Mai at 12:30 the next day. I had the lower berth,
which lets you open the window to both get some cool night air and
glance out the window if you don't mind raising up to do so (it was
quite hot when I took the un-air conditioned night train about three
weeks ago, and the person in the upper berth complained about how hot
it was having no window to open and relying only on the oscillating
fan for ventilation.) The only negatives was that by sleeping with the
window open you end up with a variety of leaves and small insects on
your bedding, and I was often awakened by the numerous station stops
and the jarring of the train as it leaves the station. It was nice
watching the sunrise reflected in the paddy fields, and the section of
jungle about an hour outside of Chiang Mai was quite scenic. If a
person were to spend 4 days in Chiang Mai, I'd suggest a 2-day/1-night
trek in the Doi Inthanond National Park (arranged through Top North
Tours), which includes elephant riding, bamboo rafting and a night in
a Karen hill tribe village; you will do about six hours of hiking over
the two days (approx. 18 kilometers), which is a workout but was
manageable for someone in so-so physical condition (like myself).

USC