Bangkok Bus Terminal (Borommaratchachonnani), commonly known as New Southern Bus Terminal, is one of the three main long-distance bus stations serving Greater Bangkok. (The other two being Ekkamai Bus Terminal and Mo Chit 2 bus terminal) Managed by The Transport Company, Ltd., (TCL), it's the main spot for those who are traveling by bus to and from many provinces in southern Thailand (including nearby provinces of Bangkok).
In 1989, it was moved to Borommaratchachonnani Road near present CentralPlaza Pinklao, due to the traffic situation around the station. And again to present location in 1994.
That is why the station has many names, including "Bangkok Bus Terminal (Taling Chan)" and "Southern Bus Terminal". Since the location has been relocated many times, therefore popularly referred to as "New Southern Bus Terminal" by Thais. Not to be confused with another station that used to be on Borommaratchachonnani Road near CentralPlaza Pinklao still in service but reduced to only van and minibus segment. The old station often known as Bangkok Bus Terminal (Pinklao) or Old Southern Bus Terminal. The two stations are approximately 5 km (3 mi) apart.
The current station operated on November 1, 2007. It operates like an airport, the only those with tickets can enter the paid area to board.[2][3]
Layout & facilities
The station covers an area of 37 rai (about 11 acres).[1]
The main station building is an air-conditioned building with a total of 4 floors, called SC Plaza.[2]
M floor: parking, shops, employment agency, café, book stalls, banking service
G floor: platform 1–24, ticket counters, taxi and minibus service, shops and convenience stores, banking service, fitness club
1st floor: platform 25–98, ticket counters, shops and convenience store, fast food restaurants, banking service, Muslim prayer room, room for Buddhist monk