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.
2 ways to get from Pai to Chiang Mai
There are two ways to travel the distance of 130 km (81 miles) from Pai to Chiang Mai: by minivan (3-4 hours) and motorbike (3-4 hours). The journey takes between 3-4 hours and the quickest way is by minivan. The lowest priced tickets start from 100 THB ($2.80) for the motorbike.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.
Pai to Chiang Mai by Motorbike
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 ($2.80) per day and the ride usually takes 3-4 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.
Pai to Chiang Mai by Minivan
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 the 3-4 hours of journey.
Government-regulated Prempracha offers hourly minivan trips starting at 07:00 until 17:00. A seat costs 215 THB ($6.00). Aya Service also offers trips every other hour from 08:31 to 15:30 for 210 THB ($5.50).
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.
Minivan schedules from Pai to Chiang Mai
- 24/7 customer support
- 24/7 customer support
Prempracha and Aya Service are both well-known companies for the Pai to Chiang Mai route. However, some travellers have complained that their drivers tend to drive too fast.
Tip: Due to the endless number of turns along the Pai to Chiang Mai route, many people suffer from motion sickness. We recommend taking an anti-motion sickness tablet before making this trip to prevent any queasiness.
Our favourite 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 Pai to Chiang Mai
What is the distance from Pai to Chiang Mai?
The distance from Pai to Chiang Mai is 130 km (81 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Pai to Chiang Mai?
The fastest way to get from Pai to Chiang Mai is by minivan and takes 3-4 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Pai to Chiang Mai?
The cheapest way to get from Pai to Chiang Mai is by motorbike with ticket costs starting from 100 THB ($2.80).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Pai 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.
