Chiang Mai to Myawaddy
Myawaddy is a charming town in Myanmar that borders Mae Sot in Thailand. It’s known for its picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere. Getting to Myawaddy from Chiang Mai may seem like an adventure, but with the right information, it’s a simple process. In this blog post, we will share all the details you need to know to get from Chiang Mai to Myawaddy.
Chiang Mai to Myawaddy by Bus via Mae Sot
Step 1:
The first step of getting to Myawaddy is by traveling to Mae Sot. Fortunately, this isn’t a complicated process as there are direct Greenbuses to Mae Sot from Chiang Mai. The bus trip is scheduled to take about 6 hours and 45 minutes, covering a distance of 361 km. The buses depart from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3, and you can choose between the express and VIP options.
Schedule:
Chiang Mai | Mae Sot | Company | Service |
13:30 | 20:15 | GreenBus | VIP 24, Express |
Step 2:
Once you arrive at Mae Sot, you’ll need to cross the border into Myawaddy. The border is accessible via Friendship Bridge between Myanmar and Thailand. Friendship Bridge Number 1 is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. It’s essential to note that there are restrictions on crossing the border, and you should have all the necessary documentation to do so.
After crossing the border, you’ll need to find transportation to the center of Myawaddy. You can take a collective taxi from the Mae Sot border to the city center, which is only a 20-minute drive. The collective taxi costs between 25-30 baht, and it’s a convenient option as it’ll drop you off at your destination.
Final Words
One thing you should consider when traveling to Myawaddy is the season. Monsoon season starts in June and runs through September. Heavy rainfall can make the roads dangerous to navigate, and it’s advisable to avoid traveling during this period. The best time to travel is between November and March when the weather is dry, and the temperatures are mild.
Another essential thing to consider is the currency exchange. Myanmar uses the Burmese Kyat, and it’s advisable to exchange some money before taking the trip. You can exchange currency at the Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 or at the border itself. It’s crucial to note that Jayaraj Immigration Checkpoint, which is situated on the Myanmar side, doesn’t have any exchange booths, so exchange your currency before crossing the border.