Thailand Bangkok

How to get fromChiang Mai to Bangkok

In this in-depth route guide, you can compare the best ways to travel the 695 kilometers (432 miles) from Chiang Mai to Bangkok. Our team of indpendent travel experts researched each route — breaking down each option by travel time, price, and comfort. Plus, we’ll share the best booking options to help you get the best deal.

Written by Maarten - Trip Planning ExpertReviewed by Abegail - Travel WriterLast updated: June 23, 2024

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Why visit Bangkok?

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is one of the most visited cities in the world. There’s something about the constant buzz and energy floating through its streets at all hours of the day, giving it the name of the city that never sleeps!

Its main attractions include the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho. But ancient temples aren’t the only reason people flock to this vibrant city. From jam-packed shopping areas to mouthwatering street food and the wild nightlife of Khao San Road, there are so many things you can do in Bangkok.

What are the 4 ways to travel from Chiang Mai to Bangkok?

There are 4 ways to travel the 695 kilometers (432 miles) from Chiang Mai to Bangkok. You can choose between the bus, private transport, train and flight. The journey takes 1 to 16 hours and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by train with tickets starting at 272 THB ($8.10).

Transport

Duration

Pricing

Transport Options

Train

9h 50m - 14h

From 272 THB ($8.10)

Book Tickets

Bus

9h 30m - 16h

From 648 THB ($19.30)

Book Tickets

Flight

1h - 1h 30m

From 700 THB ($21)

Private Transport

From 11,659 THB ($345)

Book Tickets

Where to stay in Bangkok?

Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Bangkok at the bottom of this page.

Chiang Mai to Bangkok by Train

Duration: 9h 50m - 14h

Costs: 272 THB ($8.10)

Duration: 9h 50m - 14h

Costs: 272 THB ($8.10)

Travelling via train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is the slowest option. The good thing about this is you can choose from several trains travelling from Chiang Mai to Bangkok daily. You can also save a night of accommodation if you take an overnight train.

Departure station

Trains depart from Chiang Mai Railway Station, about 6 km from the centre of Chiang Mai. You can hail a taxi, songthaew or tuk-tuk to take you to the train station from your hotel.

We recommend taking a night train on a 2nd class berth with air-conditioning for a more comfortable journey.

Train schedules from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

Chiang Mai

Third Class Seat Fan

Don Mueang

06:30

13h 38m

20:08

15:30

13h 23m

04:53

17:00

12h 43m

05:43

Thai Railway

From 272 THB ($8.10)

Chiang Mai

Third Class Seat Fan

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

06:30

13h 55m

20:25

15:30

13h 40m

05:10

17:00

13h

06:00

Thai Railway

276 THB ($8.20)

Chiang Mai

Second Class Seat Fan

Don Mueang

06:30

13h 38m

20:08

15:30

13h 23m

04:53

17:00

12h 43m

05:43

Thai Railway

457 THB ($13.60)

Chiang Mai

Second Class Seat Fan

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

06:30

13h 55m

20:25

15:30

13h 40m

05:10

17:00

13h

06:00

Thai Railway

464 THB ($13.80)

Chiang Mai

Second Class Seat

Don Mueang

08:50

9h 50m

18:40

Thai Railway

662 THB ($19.70)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai

Second Class Seat

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

08:50

10h 5m

18:55

Thai Railways

669 THB ($19.90)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai

Second Class Seat

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

08:50

10h 5m

18:55

Thai Railway

669 THB ($19.90)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai

Second Class Sleeper

Don Mueang

15:30

13h 23m

04:53

17:00

12h 43m

05:43

18:00

12h 33m

06:33

Thai Railway

951 THB ($28)

Chiang Mai

Second Class Sleeper

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

15:30

13h 40m

05:10

17:00

13h 10m

06:10

18:00

12h 50m

06:50

Thai Railways

958 THB ($29)

Chiang Mai

Second Class Sleeper

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

15:30

13h 40m

05:10

17:00

13h

06:00

18:00

12h 50m

06:50

Thai Railway

958 THB ($29)

Chiang Mai

Second Class Sleeper

Don Mueang

18:00

12h 32m

06:32

Thai Railways

1,236 THB ($37)

Get Your Tickets

Show 6 more operator(s)

Arrival station

After a 13 to 14-hour journey, the train will arrive at Hua Lamphong Train Station, about 5 km from the centre. The travel time is about 15 minutes depending on traffic. To get to your hotel in Bangkok, you can take a taxi, tuk-tuk, MRT, BTS or bus.

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 eyeing the best deals, you might occasionally find slightly cheaper tickets on Baolau.

Train tickets are sold up to 90 days before departure. Book your ticket in advance because train tickets tend to sell out fast!

Chiang Mai to Bangkok by Bus

Duration: 9h 30m - 16h

Costs: 648 THB ($19.30)

Duration: 9h 30m - 16h

Costs: 648 THB ($19.30)

We suggest taking a night bus to catch up on some rest and ensure you are ready to explore the Capital City when you arrive.

It’s worth noting that the bus won’t provide you with a bed as the night train does. If you want more comfort, book a VIP bus, which comes with reclining seats.

Departure and arrival stations

All buses depart from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 2, about 4 km east of Chiang Mai Old Town. There are several buses, minivans, and taxis that could take you to the terminal.

The buses arrive at Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak – Mochit). From here, you can take a 20 to 30-minute taxi to Bangkok city centre.

The table below shows an overview of the different bus companies operating from Chiang Mai to Bangkok.

Bus schedules from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3

Express

Mochit

08:30

10h 55m

19:25

11:00

10h 55m

21:55

18:00

10h 55m

04:55

Sritawong Tour

648 THB ($19.30)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade)

Economy

Bangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 2)

12:45

10h 10m

22:55

Viriyatour

682 THB ($20)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade)

Standard

Bangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 2)

07:30

10h 30m

18:00

Cherdchai Tour

682 THB ($20)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade)

Economy

Bangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 2)

10:00

10h

20:00

18:40

10h

04:40

19:45

10h

05:45

20:20

10h

06:20

Bangkok Buslines

702 THB ($21)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3

Standard

Mochit

10:00

10h 30m

20:30

18:40

9h 30m

04:10

19:45

10h 30m

06:15

20:20

10h 30m

06:50

Bangkok Buslines

709 THB ($21)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade)

Premium Economy

Bangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 2)

20:15

11h 15m

07:30

Budsarakham Tour

800 THB ($24)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade)

Standard

Bangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 2)

20:30

11h

07:30

21:00

11h

08:00

Budsarakham Tour

800 THB ($24)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade)

VIP 32 Seats

Bangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 2)

19:10

10h

05:10

20:00

10h

06:00

Bangkok Buslines

820 THB ($24)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3

Express

Mochit

19:10

9h 30m

04:40

20:00

10h 30m

06:30

Bangkok Buslines

827 THB ($25)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3

Express 44

Mochit

09:00

10h

19:00

13:30

10h

23:30

18:10

10h

04:10

20:10

10h

06:10

21:10

10h

07:10

Sombat Tour

830 THB ($25)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3

Standard

Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak - Mochit)

07:30

10h

17:30

Khao San Tara Tour

857 THB ($26)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3

Super VIP

Mochit

19:30

11h

06:30

20:45

9h 45m

06:30

Sritawong Tour

927 THB ($28)

Get Your Tickets

Fang

Standard

Bangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 2)

16:15

15h 15m

07:30

16:45

15h 15m

08:00

Budsarakham Tour

961 THB ($29)

Get Your Tickets

Chai Prakan

Standard

Bangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 2)

17:15

14h 15m

07:30

17:45

14h 15m

08:00

Budsarakham Tour

961 THB ($29)

Get Your Tickets

Ban Tha Ton (Phiang Luang 1 School)

Standard

Bangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 2)

15:30

16h

07:30

16:00

16h

08:00

Budsarakham Tour

988 THB ($29)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade)

VIP 24 Seats

Bangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 2)

20:05

10h

06:05

Bangkok Buslines

1,092 THB ($33)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3

VIP 24 Seats

Mochit

20:05

10h

06:05

Bangkok Buslines

1,102 THB ($33)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3

VIP 33 Seats

Mochit

07:30

10h

17:30

20:30

10h

06:30

Sombat Tour

1,109 THB ($33)

Get Your Tickets

Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3

VIP 20 Seats

Mochit

19:00

10h

05:00

21:30

10h

07:30

Sombat Tour

1,109 THB ($33)

Get Your Tickets

Show 14 more operator(s)

Chiang Mai to Bangkok by Flight

Duration: 1-1.5 hours

Costs: 700 THB ($21)

Duration: 1-1.5 hours

Costs: 700 THB ($21)

Flying from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is the quickest option because it only takes 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes. Also, flights offered by low-cost carriers don’t cost much more than taking the bus or train.

There are several airlines operating on this route which include Vietjet Air, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air, Air Asia, and Thai Airways. These low-cost carriers offer several flights daily with prices starting at 700 THB ($21).

We recommend checking Skyscanner for the best flight offers:

Check Flights on Skyscanner

Chiang Mai Airport

All flights depart from Chiang Mai Airport (CNX). The airport is just a 15-minute drive from the centre. There are numerous buses, taxis, songthaew, and tuk-tuks that could take you to Chiang Mai Airport.

Airports in Bangkok

Flight arrival is either at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK. These airports are just a 30-45 minute car drive from the Bangkok city centre.

We suggest booking a flight in advance to avoid last-minute price increases. If you are able to book a promo flight, it can even be incredibly cheaper.

TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.

Chiang Mai to Bangkok by Private Transport

Duration: 9h

Costs: 11,659 THB ($345)

Duration: 9h

Costs: 11,659 THB ($345)

A private transfer is convenient when travelling in a group from Chiang Mai to Bangkok.

Rates start from 11,659 THB ($345) for a 9-seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s about 1,296 THB ($39) per person. Travel time is around 9 hours.

Private Transport options from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

VIP

VIP Minivan 9 PAX

Price per person = 1,296 THB ($39)

Glassflower

11,659 THB ($345)

Get Your Tickets

Best places to stay in Bangkok

Bangkok is a big and bustling city with each neighbourhood offering something different to the next. Covering nearly 1600 km² and offering over a thousand accommodation options, it can be slightly daunting picking where to stay. Here is a quick rundown of our favourite areas to stay in Bangkok:

Khao San Road — is one of the most famous areas in Bangkok, known for its party reputation. This area attracts a lot of backpackers that are looking for cheap accommodation and a place to party.
Sukhumvit — has a more relaxed nightlife, centred around sophisticated restaurants and rooftop bars as opposed to travellers dancing on tables. It’s a great jumping-off point to explore the jam-packed city, thanks to the good connections via public transport.
Riverside — along the Chao Phraya River, you’ll find an area rich in history and culture, hosting many of the popular sights of Bangkok, including the Royal Palace and Wat Pho – the Reclining Buddha.

Check out our favourite accommodations in Bangkok:

dusitD2 Samyan - Treating Yourself

dusitD2 Samyan is one of the most unique hotels in Bangkok with its tiered appearance overlooking the city. You can take a refreshing dip in their sky swimming pool and enjoy the panoramic views. Or head to the gym and take them in whilst working up a sweat.

The floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the hotel create a bright and modern feel. The rooms are stunning, and decorated to an extremely high standard. This is one of the best hotels in Bangkok.

One of the coolest buildings in Bangkok
Rooftop swimming pool
Onsite gym
Bright and modern rooms

King rooms start from $110 per night.

Check Available Rooms

The One Smart Living - Treating Yourself

The One Smart Living offers incredible value for money. The rooms are beautiful and feel extremely luxurious. You won’t want to leave your room it’s so nice!

It’s a great choice if you want to be close to the airport, but not so close that you’re constantly hearing planes above your head. The staff are incredibly helpful and super friendly. It’s hard to fault this place.

Great value for money
Close to the airport
Helpful staff
Beautiful rooms

Double rooms start from $50 per night.

Check Available Rooms

Naga Residence - Mid Range

Naga Residence feels less like a hotel and more like a home — just a very beautifully designed home that’s exceptionally clean. The rooms are very spacious and all of them have a private balcony overlooking the city.

There’s also an onsite gym, garden and terrace area for you to enjoy. And when you venture out of the hotel there are plenty of restaurants, shops and cafes nearby.

Huge rooms
Exceptionally clean
Private balcony
Onsite gym

Double rooms start from $37 per night.

Check Available Rooms

Phranakorn-Nornlen - Mid Range

It will be hard to find another hotel in Bangkok like Phranakorn-Nornlen. This hotel is like a piece of art, with every room decorated differently and boasting a unique theme. Make sure to pick your room wisely.

The staff takes your stay here to another level. They are incredibly friendly and helpful. They’ll give you great recommendations for the local neighbourhood which is full of cosy cafes and local restaurants.

Unique design and rooms
Incredible staff
Nice local neighbourhood
Very clean

Double rooms start from $33 per night.

Check Available Rooms

Greenery Hostel - Budget Friendly

As you’ve probably already guessed, Greenery Hostel has a green theme both inside and outside. It actually creates a really tranquil vibe inside a busy city.

The rooms are simple but great value for money. Plus there are nice chill-out spaces throughout the hostel with a swing, games and comfy chairs. It’s in a great location, close to lots of Bangkok’s attractions.

Great value for money
Relaxing chill-out areas
Good location
Free cancellation

Private rooms start from $21 per night.

Check Available Rooms

Frequently Asked Questions about Chiang Mai to Bangkok

What is the distance from Chiang Mai to Bangkok?

The distance from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is 695 kilometers (432 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Chiang Mai to Bangkok?

The fastest way to get from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is by flight and takes 1 hour.

What is the cheapest way to get from Chiang Mai to Bangkok?

The cheapest way to get from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is by train with ticket costs starting from 272 THB ($8.10).

Rounding it up

We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Chiang Mai to Bangkok. 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!

About the author(s)

Maarten

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.

Abegail

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.

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