Chiang Mai to Bangkok

How to Get From Chiang Mai to Bangkok

4Options
1hFastest
$8.10From
MaartenAbegailWritten by Maarten · Reviewed by Abegail

Train · Bus · Flight · Private Transport

Bangkok is Thailand's capital, about 589 kilometres (366 miles) south of Chiang Mai. It's a sprawl of gilded temples, street food and canals. Flying is the quickest way, taking 1-1.5 hours. By rail and road, the train is the cheapest way to get from Chiang Mai to Bangkok at $8.10 (270 THB). The bus costs more and can take longer.

DISTANCE

Distance from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

Chiang Mai and Bangkok are about 589 km (366 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 692 km by road. The quickest way to get from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is by taking the flight, which takes around 1-1.5h.

~589 km
Straight-line distance
~692 km
Route distance
1h
Fastest
COMPARE

4 ways to travel from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

There are four ways to travel from Chiang Mai to Bangkok. You can choose between the train, bus, flight, and private transport. The journey takes 1h–9h 50m and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by train with tickets starting at $8.10 (270 THB).

Train5 departuresDuration9h 50m+Pricefrom$8270 THB

Chiang Mai to Bangkok by Train

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 schedule from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

12h43mThai RailwayThird Class Seat FanChiang MaiDon Mueang06:3015:3017:00From $8270 THBTickets
13hThai RailwayThird Class Seat FanChiang MaiKrung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station06:3015:3017:00From $8270 THBTickets
12h43mThai RailwaySecond Class Seat FanChiang MaiDon Mueang06:3015:3017:00From $14450 THBTickets
13hThai RailwaySecond Class Seat FanChiang MaiKrung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station06:3015:3017:00From $14455 THBTickets
9h50mThai RailwaySecond Class SeatChiang MaiDon Mueang08:50$20650 THBTickets
Show all 11 companies
10h5mThai RailwaysSecond Class SeatChiang MaiKrung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station08:50$20660 THBTickets
10h5mThai RailwaySecond Class SeatChiang MaiKrung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station08:50$20660 THBTickets
12h33mThai RailwaySecond Class SleeperChiang MaiDon Mueang15:3017:0018:00From $29940 THBTickets
12h50mThai RailwaysSecond Class SleeperChiang MaiKrung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station15:3017:0018:00From $29940 THBTickets
12h50mThai RailwaySecond Class SleeperChiang MaiKrung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station15:3017:0018:00From $29940 THBTickets
12h32mThai RailwaysSecond Class SleeperChiang MaiDon Mueang18:00$371,220 THBTickets
Available atBookaway

Stations

Map of stations
Click to explore
From
To

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!

Bangkok
Bus30 departuresDuration9h 30m+Pricefrom$19640 THB

Chiang Mai to Bangkok by Bus

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 schedule from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

10h55mSritawong TourExpressChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3Mochit08:3011:0018:00$19640 THBTickets
10h10mViriyatourEconomyChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (ArcadeBangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 212:45$21670 THBTickets
10h30mCherdchai TourStandardChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (ArcadeBangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 207:30$21670 THBTickets
10hBangkok BuslinesEconomyChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (ArcadeBangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 210:0018:4019:4520:20$21690 THBTickets
9h30mBangkok BuslinesStandardChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3Mochit10:0018:4019:4520:20$21700 THBTickets
Show all 19 companies
11hBudsarakham TourStandardChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (ArcadeBangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 220:3021:00$24790 THBTickets
11h15mBudsarakham TourPremium EconomyChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (ArcadeBangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 220:15$24790 THBTickets
10hBangkok BuslinesVIP 32 SeatsChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (ArcadeBangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 219:1020:00$25810 THBTickets
9h30mBangkok BuslinesExpressChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3Mochit19:1020:00$25810 THBTickets
10hSombat TourExpress 44Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3Mochit09:0013:3018:1020:1021:10$25820 THBTickets
10hKhao San Tara TourStandardChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak - Mochit07:30$26840 THBTickets
9h45mSritawong TourSuper VIPChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3Mochit19:3020:45$28910 THBTickets
14h15mBudsarakham TourStandardChai PrakanBangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 217:1517:45$29950 THBTickets
15h15mBudsarakham TourStandardFangBangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 216:1516:45$29950 THBTickets
16hBudsarakham TourStandardBan Tha Ton (Phiang Luang 1 SchoolBangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 215:3016:00$30970 THBTickets
10hBangkok BuslinesVIP 24 SeatsChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (ArcadeBangkok Bus Terminal Chatuchak (Mo Chit 220:05$331,080 THBTickets
10hBangkok BuslinesVIP 24 SeatsChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3Mochit20:05$331,080 THBTickets
10hSombat TourVIP 33 SeatsChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3Mochit07:3020:30$331,100 THBTickets
10hSombat TourVIP 20 SeatsChiang Mai Bus Terminal 3Mochit19:0021:30$331,100 THBTickets
Available atBookaway

Stations

Map of stations
Click to explore
From
To
Bangkok
FlightDuration1+Pricefrom$21700 THB

Chiang Mai to Bangkok by Flight

Flying from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is the quickest option because it only takes 1-1.5 hours. 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 $21 (700 THB).

We recommend checking Skyscanner for the best flight offers:

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
Bangkok
Private Transport1 departureDuration9hPricefrom$34511,400 THB

Chiang Mai to Bangkok by Private Transport

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

Rates start from $345 (11,400 THB) for a 9-seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s about $39 (1,280 THB) per person. Travel time is around 9h.

Private Transport options from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

9h$345 (11,400 THB)
Glassflower
VIP Minivan 9 PAX
$345 (11,400 THB)
$39 (1,280 THB) per person
Available atBookaway
Bangkok

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STAY

Our favourite 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
Treat Yourself

dusitD2 Samyan

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 (3,650 THB) per night.

Check availability
The One Smart Living
Treat Yourself

The One Smart Living

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 (1,660 THB) per night. 

Check availability
Naga Residence
Mid-Range

Naga Residence

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 (1,220 THB) per night.

Check availability
Phranakorn-Nornlen
Mid-Range

Phranakorn-Nornlen

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 (1,100 THB) per night.

Check availability
Greenery Hostel
Budget

Greenery Hostel

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 (690 THB) per night.

Check availability

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

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.

Rounding it up

That's the full picture for getting from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, roughly 589 kilometres (366 miles) apart. In all, there are 4 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $8.10 (270 THB). The quickest trip takes 1h.

Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the distance from Chiang Mai to Bangkok?

The distance from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is 589 kilometres (366 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 1-1.5h.

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 270 THB.

About the Authors

Maarten
Maarten

Founder & Trip Planning Expert

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
AbegailReviewer

Travel Writer

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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