What to expect when visiting 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.
4 ways to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
There are 4 ways to travel the distance of 695 kilometers (432 miles) from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by bus (8 hours 55 minutes to 12 hours 30 minutes), private Transport (9 hours), train (10 to 14 hours) and flight (1 hour 30 minutes). The journey duration ranges between 1 hour 30 minutes to 14 hours and the quickest way is by flight. The lowest priced tickets start from 268 THB ($8) for the train.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.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train
There are numerous trains travelling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai from morning to evening.
Tickets for a 3rd class seat start from 268 THB ($8). However, we don’t think many people want to book a seat on a train ride that lasts about 10 to 14 hours.
Thanks to the airconditioned sleeper berths, you can sleep your way throughout the longest part of the journey. Not only is it a budget-friendly way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, but it is also better for the environment and an amazing way to travel.
Train prices start from 268 THB ($8), about the same price as the cheapest plane tickets. If you add up the costs of baggage and the taxi to/from the airports, this will still be a cheaper option, though.
Also during high season, flight tickets can get more expensive, making the train a more interesting option to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
Departure from Bangkok
To go from Bangkok to Chiang Mai via train, you need to go to Hua Lamphong Train Station. You can either hop on the MRT, hail a taxi or a tuk-tuk to reach this train station from downtown Bangkok. Travelling to the train station from Bangkok centre will likely take around 15 minutes, depending on the traffic and your location.
Train schedules from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
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Trains can be the cheapest option if you book a 3rd-class seat for as low as 268 THB ($8). But it won’t give the same level of comfort that the 2nd-class berths and 1st-class tickets can offer. Tickets for first-class berth start at 1,655 THB ($49).
We recommend booking your tickets online through BookAway. Their site is intuitive, provides a clear picture of what you can expect, and offers great customer service. If you’re eying the best deals, you might occasionally find slightly cheaper tickets on Baolau.
Arrival in Chiang Mai
The train arrives at Chiang Mai Railway Station which is located 15 minutes away from the city centre. You can arrange for transportation from the train station to your hotel upon arrival. There are also taxis, songthaew or tuk-tuk that you can ride to go to the centre.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Bus
Travelling by bus can also be a good alternative to the plane if you travel on a budget.
Although it doesn’t come with a bed, It is a bit faster than the train and the cost starts at 684 THB ($20).
Given this length of time, we recommend leaving Bangkok in the evening so you can rest throughout the journey. Once you arrive in Chiang Mai in the morning, you can go sightseeing.
Since many locals and tourists travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, several buses are available from morning to evening. The whole journey takes around 8 hours 55 minutes to 12 hours 30 minutes depending on the number of stops the driver makes for toilet and meal breaks.
Departure from Bangkok
Buses depart from Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak – Mochit). The taxi drive to Mochit terminal from Bangkok centre just takes about 20-30 minutes.
The table below shows an overview of the different bus companies.
Bus schedules from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
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Arrival in Chiang Mai
All buses arrive at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 2. This terminal is located about 4 km east of Chiang Mai Old Town. At the bus terminal, you can find several buses, minivans, and taxis that go to the Chaing Mai Old City.
Most buses offer VIP tickets, which usually feature reclining seats, more legroom, and an onboard toilet. Keep in mind that the offerings of VIP buses vary per company.
Booking bus tickets around Khao San Road
Booking your bus trip with your hotel or with a travel agency in the Khao San Road area is also possible. You will see countless travel agencies offering tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
However, tickets are usually more expensive compared to booking online.
Also be aware that some of the companies’ drop-off areas can be unofficial bus stops outside the city centre (for example: on the side of a highway or main road). This means you may need to take another taxi or tuk-tuk to reach your destination. Therefore, make sure to ask where the bus drops off passengers prior to booking your ticket.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Flight
Flying to Chiang Mai from Bangkok is the fastest option.
Airlines that operate along this route include Vietjet Air, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air, Air Asia, and Thai Airways.
These low-cost airlines offer many flights daily with prices starting as low as 730 THB ($22) if you book in advance. Otherwise, expect to pay around 1,000 THB ($30) for a direct flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
You can also book flights by Thai Airways, but they are typically more expensive.
For the best flight offers, we recommend checking Skyscanner.
Airports in Bangkok
Some flights depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), located east of Bangkok which is 45 minutes away from the centre.
You can also book a flight from Don Mueang Airport (DMK). This airport is about a 30-minute drive from Bangkok city centre.
Chiang Mai Airport
All flights land at Chiang Mai Airport (CNX). Chiang Mai centre is just a 15-minute trip by car from the airport. You can also take public buses, taxis, songthaew, and tuk-tuk to go around the city.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Private Transport
A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
Rates start from 11,628 THB ($345) for a 9-seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s just about 1,292 THB ($39) per person. Travel time is around 9 hours.
Private Transport options from Bangkok 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bangkok to Chiang Mai
What is the distance from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
The distance from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is 695 kilometers (432 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
The fastest way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is by flight and takes 1 hour 30 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
The cheapest way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is by train with ticket costs starting from 268 THB ($8).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Bangkok 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!
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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.
