Thailand Bangkok

How to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok

In this in-depth route guide, you can compare the best ways to travel the 500 kilometers (311 miles) from Mae Sot 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: March 27, 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 3 ways to travel from Mae Sot to Bangkok?

There are 3 ways to travel the 500 kilometers (311 miles) from Mae Sot to Bangkok. You can choose between the bus, private transport and flight. The journey takes 50 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 505 THB ($14.90).

Transport

Duration

Pricing

Transport Options

Bus

8h 10m

From 505 THB ($14.90)

Book Tickets

Flight

50m

From 4,239 THB ($125)

Book Tickets

Private Transport

From 8,952 THB ($265)

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.

Mae Sot to Bangkok by Bus

Duration: 8h 10m

Costs: 505 THB ($14.90)

Duration: 8h 10m

Costs: 505 THB ($14.90)

When you’re done taking in the nature of Mae Sot, you can board the night bus to Bangkok. The bus from Bangkok to Mae Sot is the cheapest option to travel this distance.

The only problem you may run into with such an early arrival is that you might not be able to check into your hotel room for a few hours.

Luckily, most hotels offer a holding room to drop your bags off. This way, you can already go out for some breakfast and explore the area while you wait for your room to be ready.

Departure and arrival station

Buses coming from Mae Sot Bus Station arrive at Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak – Mochit). From the terminal, it takes about an hour by bus or just 15 minutes by taxi to reach the city centre.

If you prefer to take the bus, you can check Google Maps for the local bus schedule.

Bus schedule from Mae Sot to Bangkok

Mae Sot

Standard

Mochit

20:50

8h 10m

05:00

Sasanan Tour

505 THB ($14.90)

Get Your Tickets

Buses are equipped with reclining seats, air conditioning and an onboard toilet. While boarding, you will also be provided with a blanket and a little snack & drink.

Mae Sot to Bangkok by Flight

Duration: 50 minutes

Costs: 4,239 THB ($125)

Duration: 50 minutes

Costs: 4,239 THB ($125)

Mae Sot Airport is only a 10-minute ride from the city centre. We recommend arranging a transfer through your hotel or guesthouse.

Pre-pandemic, Nok Air used to offer five flights from Mae Sot to Bangkok. The last time we checked (April 2022), there are only three flights in a day.

Flights depart at 9:55, 12:40, and 17:05 from Mae Sot and arrive at Don Mueang Airport. Airfares start from 4,239 THB ($125) for a flight that takes around 50 minutes.

From Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to the city centre, it takes about 30 minutes by taxi or 50 minutes by train.

Check Flights on Skyscanner

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

Mae Sot to Bangkok by Private Transport

Duration: 8h

Costs: 8,952 THB ($265)

Duration: 8h

Costs: 8,952 THB ($265)

A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Mae Sot to Bangkok.

Rates start from 8,952 THB ($265) for a 7-seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s about 1,279 THB ($38) per person. Travel time is around 8 hours.

Private Transport options from Mae Sot to Bangkok

Standard

Standard Minivan 7 PAX

Price per person = 1,279 THB ($38)

Kanokwan Travel

8,952 THB ($265)

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 Mae Sot to Bangkok

What is the distance from Mae Sot to Bangkok?

The distance from Mae Sot to Bangkok is 500 kilometers (311 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok?

The fastest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok is by flight and takes 50 minutes.

What is the cheapest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok?

The cheapest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok is by bus with ticket costs starting from 505 THB ($14.90).

Rounding it up

We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Mae Sot 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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