Pai to Chiang Mai
The distance between Pai and Chiang Mai is approximately 130 kilometers or approximately 80 miles. Though it’s a relatively short distance, it can take up to 3 hours to cover by road depending on the mode of transportation and weather. Pai is located in the northernmost part of Thailand and is greatly appreciated for its rich culture and pleasant climate. When traveling from Pai to Chiang Mai you are bound to come across some stunning scenery along the way, making for an unforgettable journey.
Pai to Chiang Mai by Minivan
- Price: 200-240 THB
- Travel time: 3-4 hours
- AC: yes
- WC: no
The most popular way to get from Pai to Chiang Mai is by taking a direct minivan by Prempracha or Aya Service.
The journey from Pai to Chiang Mai by minivan takes around 3-4 hours and costs just 240 THB per seat. Luckily, all minivans come equipped with air conditioning so you can enjoy a pleasant ride.
Be aware that the road from Pai to Chiang Mai includes winding roads and sharp curves. Although motion sickness isn’t common among passengers, it’s highly recommended that travelers take some medicine in advance just in case.
Additionally, there will be a stop for a break on the way so you can use the restroom or grab something to eat.
To ensure an enjoyable experience aboard minivans, customers should always check in at least 30 minutes before departure time. In addition, luggage weight is limited to 15 kg per person so make sure that your bags don’t exceed this limit prior to boarding. The reason for such a small limit is the limited space inside the minivan, they don’t have a dedicated luggage compartment like large buses.
When traveling by minivan it’s important to keep safety in mind – especially when going over winding roads and sharp curves! Make sure that you wear your seatbelt at all times during your journey and try not to move around too much while the vehicle is in motion.
We also recommend taking a neck pillow with you, this will make the journey more comfortable.
Pai to Chiang Mai Prempracha Minivan Schedule
| Pai | Chiang Mai | Company |
| 7:00 | 10:55 | Prempracha |
| 8:00 | 11:55 | Prempracha |
| 9:00 | 12:55 | Prempracha |
| 10:00 | 13:55 | Prempracha |
| 11:00 | 14:55 | Prempracha |
| 12:00 | 15:55 | Prempracha |
| 13:00 | 16:55 | Prempracha |
| 14:00 | 17:55 | Prempracha |
| 15:00 | 18:55 | Prempracha |
| 16:00 | 19:55 | Prempracha |
| 17:00 | 20:55 | Prempracha |
Pai to Chiang Mai Aya Service Minivan Schedule
| Pai | Chiang Mai | Company |
| 09:30 | 13:10 | Aya Service |
| 10:30 | 14:10 | Aya Service |
| 13:30 | 17:10 | Aya Service |
| 14:30 | 18:10 | Aya Service |
| 15:30 | 19:10 | Aya Service |
As you see, there are departures every hour, with the earliest bus departing at 07:00, and the latest at 17:00.
Pai to Chiang Mai Map
As we already shared in the Chaing Mai to Pai guide, the road between Pai and Chiang Mai is one of the most scenic drives in Thailand, but it’s also treacherous. With 762 turns, driving this route can be a challenge even for experienced drivers.
To start, know that anything bigger than a motorcycle has the right of way. If you are traveling by motorbike, you’ll have to make room on the road for other vehicles including buses, lorries, minivans, and cars. Drive cautiously and only on the left side of the road at all times along this route.
Additionally, keep in mind that these roads are incredibly narrow at times and the turns are sharp. It’s important to drive with care in these conditions as over-accelerating can cause accidents or loss of control easily. If you feel like you’re getting too much adrenaline rush while driving through mountainous winding roads, then take a moment to slow down and focus on safety before proceeding further.
Another option if you don’t want to risk it is taking a minivan described above instead of your own car as minivan drivers know the road well and are used to driving in such conditions.
