How to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
Why visit Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai is Thailand’s northernmost city, an intriguing fusion of new and old. Its hundreds of temples, striking Old City and delicious local dishes tell the story of Chiang Mai’s culture and history. On the other hand, its cafe culture, friendly coworking spaces and nightlife attract digital nomads from across the globe.
Surrounded by mountains, the city offers plenty of adventures with nature. But if you can, we recommend travelling to Chiang Mai in time for one of its many festivals — like Loy Krathong (Lantern Festival) in November and Songkran (Water Splashing Festival) in April.
What are the 3 ways to travel from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai?
There are 3 ways to travel the 190 kilometre (118 miles) distance from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. You can choose between the bus, private transport and flight via Bangkok. The journey takes 3 hours to 11 hours 30 minutes and the quickest way is by private transport. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 260 THB ($7.90).
Where to stay in Chiang Mai?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Chiang Mai at the bottom of this page.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai by Bus
Green Bus is the most popular bus company in both Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. They operate 2 different types of buses for your convenience: VIP and express.
You can buy your tickets online or at the bus station before boarding the bus. Ticket prices from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai start at 260 THB ($7.90) for the express bus and 391 THB ($11.90) for the VIP bus. Travel time takes about 3 hours 20 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes.
We recommend booking in advance as tickets sell out quickly, especially during holidays and peak season.
Departure and arrival stations
Green Bus departs from Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1, located in the city centre just next to the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar.
Finally, the bus completes its journey at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3. From this terminal, you can easily reach the Old City in just 5 minutes.
You can check the schedules below so that you can plan your trip ahead.
Bus schedules from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
VIP buses feature bigger and more comfortable seats, plus they have a toilet on board. Express buses, on the other hand, make a stop halfway through the journey for a bathroom break.
Keep in mind that this extra stop increases the travel time by 15-30 minutes. The VIP buses rarely stop along the way, so you can get to Chiang Mai a bit quicker.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai by Flight via Bangkok
Taking a flight from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is not really a practical option. This is because all flights on this route make a stopover in Bangkok. Total travel time can take around 4 hours to 11 hours 30 minutes.
There are multiple airlines that offer trips from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, such as AirAsia, NokAir, Thai Airways, and Thai Lion Air. A one-way ticket from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai starts from 2,000 THB ($61).
Flights depart from Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport, which is a 20-minute taxi ride from the city centre. Outside Chiang Mai Airport (CNX), there are buses, taxis, tuk-tuks, and songthaews that can take you to the Old City.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai by Private Transport
A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
Rates start from 3,815 THB ($115) for a 4-seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s just about 954 THB ($29) per person. Travel time is around 3 hours to 3 hours 30 minutes.
Private Transport Options from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
Best places to stay in Chiang Mai
Rimping Village - Treating Yourself
Chiang Mai can be tiring exploring all of the temples and going on day trips, so there’s nothing better than coming back to a luxurious and beautiful hotel. Rimping Village feels like a mini resort nestled in the middle of Chiang Mai.
The exceptional breakfast served in the gardens each morning is likely to be one of the highlights of your trip. What a way to start the day! Then go for a dip in their beautiful outdoor swimming pool or head back to your spacious room.
- Stunning swimming pool
- Luxurious rooms and design
- Beautiful garden
- Exceptional free breakfast
Private rooms start from $88 per night.
POR Daowadung - Mid Range
Everything about POR Daowadung feels like a top-quality luxury hotel. Whether it’s the ultra-modern but comfortable designs of the rooms or the outdoor swimming pool and sunloungers actually in the pool!
The hotel is in a great location, every room has its own balcony and a delicious breakfast is included every morning. Can you ask for much more from an accommodation?
- Great value for money
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Beautiful design
- Delicious free breakfast
Private rooms start from $44 per night.
Chada Mantra Hotel - Budget Friendly
The star of the show at Chada Mantra Hotel has to be its outdoor swimming pool, which is extremely refreshing after a day spent exploring the city. Located within Chiang Mai Old City, just 700m from the Pae gate, this hotel is perfectly located.
The hotel offers free breakfast, wifi in all rooms and common areas, as well as an onsite bar. Here you’ll find beautiful clean rooms with city views and very comfortable beds. The staff are well known to be extremely helpful, always going the extra mile to assist their guests in any way possible.
- Beautiful swimming pool
- Perfect location
- Comfortable beds
- Free breakfast
Private rooms start at $28 per night
Asa Hotel - Budget Friendly
It’s hard to believe that Asa Hotel is a budget-friendly accommodation, but a night here will cost you less than $30 for two people. The hotel is ultra-modern with a beautiful outdoor swimming pool and sun loungers for you to enjoy.
The staff are incredibly friendly and will help you with anything. The hotel also offers free coffee, tea and water in glass bottles to reduce the use of plastic. Here you’re a 15-minute walk from the Old Town.
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Ultra-modern
- Great staff
- Free coffee, tea and water
Private rooms start from $27 per night.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
What is the distance from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai?
The distance from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is 190 kilometre (118 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai?
The fastest way to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is by private transport and takes 3 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai?
The cheapest way to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is by bus with ticket costs starting from 260 THB ($7.90).
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
