Chiang Mai to Phuket
Are you looking for the best way to travel from Chiang Mai to Phuket? I’ve got you covered! There are a few different options available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at them so you can decide which is best for your needs.
Chiang Mai to Phuket: What Options Do You Have?
The quickest and most convenient way to get from Chiang Mai to Phuket is by plane. The flight takes about two hours, much faster than any other method of transportation. It is, however, the most expensive option, with tickets ranging from 3,000 to 3,500 THB depending on the airline and season. If you’re in a hurry, then flying might be your best choice.
If flying isn’t an option, taking a bus might be worth considering. There are direct GreenBus buses from Chiang Mai to Phuket that take around 24 hours of travel time and cost around THB 2,100. The biggest downside is the lengthy travel time—it’s a long haul! But if you have plenty of time on your hands and don’t mind spending a day on the road, then this could be an economical way to go.
Taking the train is another viable option if you want to get from Chiang Mai to Phuket without breaking the bank or spending too much time in transit. You will have to make several transfers (in Bangkok and Surat Thani), but overall it should take around 24 hours and cost 2,000 THB. It’s not always comfortable or convenient, but it’s nice because you can sleep on the train.
Alternatively, if you’re limited on time and need something faster than a bus, then grab a taxi and watch as your dream vacation destination comes into view in no time! But be warned: it won’t come cheap, with prices starting from 17,197 THB. And it will also take around 21 hours.
Below, I will describe how each option works and what the schedules and prices are.
Cheapest option: Chiang Mai to Phuket by Bus
Price: 2,107 THB
Travel time: 25 hours
Greenbus Company is a new one-stop shop for the best deal. With a 25-hour journey, you will arrive refreshed and ready to go after napping away under a provided blanket! Not only do their buses come equipped with a toilet, but also a few free meals and USB charging ports—essential in this digital age.
Click here to see the latest timetables and prices.
Luckily, the seats recline far back, allowing you to really stretch out after taking off from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 at 15:00 before landing safely into Phuket Bus Terminal 2 at 15:40. So start packing, but keep in mind that the baggage allowance is 20 kg per passenger.
Fastest option: Chiang Mai to Phuket by Flight
Price: 2,988 THB
Travel time: 2 hours
For an exciting and efficient way to travel from Chiang Mai to Phuket, consider taking a flight! There are numerous options for direct flights, such as Thai AirAisa, Thai Vietjet. There are also many connecting flights by Nok Air. Prices start at THB 2,988—not too bad for a trip of only 1 hour and 45 minutes! If you’re the organized type, plan to arrive early—check-in usually opens 2 hours before the flight. Flights to Phuket depart from CNX Chiang Mai Airport and arrive at HKT Phuket Airport.
Click here to see the latest timetables and prices.
And don’t forget your valid ID or passport when boarding your flight—it’s a must for domestic flights!
Chiang Mai to Phuket by Train and Bus
Price: 2,000 THB
Travel time: 24 hours
You can’t make the entire journey by rail, but a whopping amount of the distance can be covered via train, and all you have to do is change trains in Bangkok. Start by taking the train that departs Chiang Mai (any train daily from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.). When you arrive in Bangkok, you have to change trains and head to Surat Thani train station, where you can catch either a bus or minivan that will take you all the way to your destination—Phuket.
The entire journey takes around 24 hours and is fairly affordable at only 2,000 THB. Be sure to enjoy the stunning views of Thailand during this incredible journey!
Chiang Mai to Phuket by Taxi
Price: 17,197 THB
Travel time: 21 hours
Although it might seem possible to travel from Chiang Mai to Phuket by taxi, we do not recommend attempting the journey. The ride would easily be over 24 hours and would not only create discomfort but also increase the risk of road accidents. If you are set on making this trip, consider breaking it into a series of routes. When planning an itinerary for long-distance travel, take time to check for alternative methods of transport that streamline the voyage without robbing you of sleep or sacrificing comfort. You will save yourself from exhaustion and enjoy your travels more if you plan ahead!
Final Words
There you have it. We believe that taking the bus is the best option if you are a budget traveler and value your comfort. If you’re in a hurry and want to save time, take a flight instead.
No matter which method of transport you choose, getting from Chiang Mai to Phuket can be quite an adventure. So take some time to consider your options carefully before making your decision and booking tickets—whether it be by plane, bus, or train/bus combo—so that you can enjoy every moment of this amazing journey and enjoy the waterfalls of Phuket, lovely beaches, and picturesque cliffs!
