How to get from Pai 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.

There are 4 ways to travel the 130 kilometers (81 miles) from Pai to Chiang Mai. You can choose between the bus, minivan, private transport and Motorbike. The journey takes 2 hours 50 minutes to 4 hours and the quickest way is by private transport. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by motorbike with tickets starting at 100 THB ($2.90).

Renting a motorbike is the best way to enjoy the ride from Pai to Chiang Mai. The drive allows you to travel at your own pace and take in all the sights along the way.

The rental fee for motorbikes starts at 100 THB ($2.90) per day and the ride usually takes 3 to 4 hours.

The road from Pai to Chiang Mai, however, can be extremely dangerous. It has 762 hairpin turns, which can be quite challenging if you are not an experienced driver.

We had very good experiences with renting a bike at Bamboo Bikes Chiang Mai. Another popular shop that we recommend is the Aya Service. To see more information about these two companies, visit our page from Chiang Mai to Pai.

For Motorbike rental in Pai, unfortunately, we don’t have any recommendations.

Important Things to Remember When Renting a Motorbike

• You need an international or Thai driver’s license (motorbike category) to drive a motorbike in Thailand. Keep this document with you at all times as this can also serve as your ID at random checkpoints along the road.
• Be sure to wear your helmet at all times, for safety purposes and to obey Thai laws.
• Motorbikes have a full tank of fuel when you pick them up from the shops and you are required to return them with a full tank.
• Be mindful of the fuel level throughout the journey so that you don’t run out in the middle of the mountains.
• All vehicles larger than a motorbike have priority. This means you have to give way to buses, trucks, minivans, and cars along the road. Always stay on the left side of the road.
• Always drive with care. Driving through the twists and turns can be exhilarating and fun, but be sure to tone down on the adrenaline and prioritize safety.

Although there are several local buses in Pai, it is not easy to find a bus departing from Pai to Chiang Mai. We suggest taking a minivan for a trip that takes around 3 hours 20 minutes to 4 hours.

Government-regulated Prempracha offers hourly minivan trips starting at 07:00 until 17:00. A seat costs 215 THB ($6.30). Aya Service also offers trips every other hour from 08:31 to 15:30 for 241 THB ($7.10).

Departure and arrival stations

The Prempracha minivans depart from Pai Bus Station which is located within the city centre of Pai. On the other hand, the Aya Service minivan departs from Aya Service Office along Chalsongkram Road.

The Prempracha minivans arrive at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade Bus Station), located 5km northeast of the Old City in Chiang Mai. On the other hand, Aya Service heads to Aya Service Office Srimongkol Road, about 5km east of Old City of Chiang Mai.

From these arrival points, you can take a songthaew or taxi to explore Chiang Mai. If you want to go to Chiang Mai Old City, it will just take a 15-minute ride.

The bus is an affordable way to get from Pai to Chiang Mai. Bus fares start from 244 THB ($7.20) and the journey takes around 3 hours 55 minutes.

The bus company that operates on this route is Prempracha Transport.

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

Rates start from 3,662 THB ($110) for a 4-seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s just about 916 THB ($27) per person. Travel time is around 2 hours 50 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes.