Chiang Mai to Mae Sai
Planning a trip to Mae Sai? Located on the border with Myanmar, Mae Sai is a beautiful and unique destination for travelers. It has a border crossing that is very popular among backpackers. But how do you get there? In this blog post, we’ll explore your options for getting from Chiang Mai to Mae Sai. Read on for all the details!
Best Option: Chiang Mai to Mae Sai by Bus
The cheapest and most popular option for traveling from Chiang Mai to Mae Sai is via the GreenBus bus. The journey takes approximately five hours and ten minutes, and tickets cost 322 THB per person (which equates to around $10 USD). Buses depart twice daily, so you can choose a morning or afternoon ride, whatever suits your schedule.
Here’s the schedule:
| Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 | Mae Sai | Price | Company |
| 8:00 | 13:10 | 322 THB | GreenBus |
| 12:30 | 17:40 | 322 THB | GreenBus |
Greenbus can be booked online at 12go. It’s important to book your tickets in advance as seats fill up quickly, especially during peak season (November-January).
What to expect on the bus ride? The Greenbus buses are air-conditioned, and they sometimes get really cold. Be sure to bring along an extra layer or two just in case! Also, don’t forget that the journey will take several hours (usually around 5-6 hours depending on traffic), so it’s best to bring snacks and drinks with you onboard just in case you get hungry or thirsty during the ride. Also, if you’re prone to motion sickness, bring some motion sickness medication with you.
Chiang Mai to Mae Sai by Taxi
If you’re looking for a faster way to get from Chiang Mai to Mae Sai, consider booking a taxi. While more expensive than taking the bus (taxi fares start at 4300 THB), the journey takes far less time—just under five hours—and allows you more flexibility in terms of departure and arrival times. The taxi can also take you directly from the Chiang Mai Airport, or any address in the city. Keep in mind, however, that not all taxis accept credit cards or international currencies, so it’s best to book a taxi online and rest assured that a car will be waiting for you on the day of travel.
Is Mae Sai Worth Visiting?
Mae Sai is located in Chiang Rai Province and is the most northern point in Thailand. It’s the kind of place where adventure meets culture and where you can expect to experience things that aren’t even available in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Have fun at Mae Sai Market, take a jeep up to a local hill tribe village, explore on two wheels with a bike tour at Doi Tung Mountain, or admire some of the breathtaking nature views from Phahee Mountainview Cafe and Camp.
If you’re looking for entertainment early in the morning, you should definitely visit Wat Phra That Doi Wao, which has beautiful views over the river into Myanmar. The best way to really engage with Mae Sai is to spend enough time digesting every aspect of what it offers.
You never know what kind of surprise awaits you there!
Chiang Mai to Mae Sai Map
The distance between Chiang Mai and Mae Sai is around 250 kilometers by road.
No matter which method of transportation you choose, it’s essential that you take safety precautions when traveling to Mae Sai. Make sure that all of your belongings are secure while you’re en route; never leave any items unattended at bus stations.
Final Words
Whether traveling by bus or taxi, getting from Chiang Mai to Mae Sai is easier than ever thanks to modern transportation options! Whichever option you choose—bus or taxi—it’s important that travelers stay aware of their surroundings and practice safe travel habits at all times when exploring new destinations. With these tips in mind, there’s no reason why your trip from Chiang Mai won’t be both fun and stress-free!
