Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, the northern riverside city, is known for its traditional markets and glorious old temples. It’s easy to fall in love with its picturesque downtown, perfect for the long walks, and wonderfully clean air. Take a short bike trip from the city to the countryside, and you will find yourself in densely rainforested scenery.

Located around 700 km up north of Bangkok, Chiang Mai is a popular cultural hub, included in every Thailand traveler’s to-do list. The Bangkok to Chiang Mai route is undoubtedly one of the most popular routes in Thailand.

There are several ways you can get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai: bus, train, plane, and taxi. Below, we will describe what is the cheapest to the most expensive options, feature schedules, and tips on how to book the tickets.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai Train

The cheapest option

• Price: from 278 THB for a class 3 fan seat
• Transport type: Class 3 fan, 2nd class fan seats only, 2nd class sleeper AC, 1st class AC/sleeper
• Companies: Thai Railways
• Travel time: 10.5 – 13.5 hours

Getting from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train is a slow but very enjoyable journey. The scenery along the route is stunning, especially during the daytime when you can appreciate beautiful mountain landscapes on both sides of the tracks as you’re approaching Chiang Mai.

To catch the train in Bangkok, head to either Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (also known as Bang Sue Grand Station) or Don Mueang Station.

In Chiang Mai, all the trains arrive at Chiang Mai Train Station, which is about 2.2 km from Chan Klang Road and the Night Bazaar area, and approximately 3.3 km from Thae Pae Gate in the old town.

Thai Railways offers different classes and types of trains. You have options like Class 3 fan seats, 2nd class fan seats only, and 2nd class sleeper AC, with prices starting from 278 THB.

If you plan to travel with a bicycle, some trains accommodate bicycles if there’s space in the freight car. Trains #109 (14:15), #13 (20:05), and #51 (22:30) are suitable for bicycle transport, whereas Trains #7 (09:05) and #9 (18:40) do not have freight cars for bicycles.

Night Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Train #9 departing at 18:40 is recommended for a night journey, allowing you to arrive early in Chiang Mai the following day for a full day’s activities. This train uses new carriages introduced in November 2016.

Train #9 has a closed toilet system, different from the previous open toilet design in older trains. This modern system collects waste, enabling toilet use even when the train is parked at the station. The train cars can reach a maximum speed of 120 km/h but operate at speeds between 90-100 km/h. Every seat is equipped with power plugs, making it convenient for charging devices during the trip.

Moreover, there is a convenience system in one train car for wheelchair users, adhering to international standards. The train carriages are manufactured by CNR Changchun Railway Vehicles Co., Ltd (Changchun Factory), People’s Republic of China.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai Train Schedule

Currently, there are 5 daily trains:

Bangkok	Chiang Mai	Train Number	Type
9:05	19:30	7	Special Express
14:15	4:05	109	Rapid
18:40	7:15	9	Special Express
20:05	8:40	13	Special Express
22:30	12:10	51	Express

Bangkok to Chiang Mai Bus

The popular option

• Price: 651 – 1,000 THB
• Transport type: express, VIP 33, VIP 42, VIP 44, Standard, Gold Class
• Companies: Bangkok Busline, Sombat Tour, Sritawong Tour, Transport Co, Nakhonchai Air, Bangkok Travel Plus, Tara Tour and Travel, Cherdchai Tour
• Travel time: 10 – 12 hours

The bus trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes from 10 to 12 hours.

Getting the bus to Chiang Mai from Bangkok is very simple, affordable, and comfortable enough to uphold you through the long journey. It’s also a relatively safe way of transport. 

To head from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by bus, you’ve got various companies to choose from, all offering different levels of comfort and amenities. The journey takes around 10 to 12 hours.

You can opt for different classes like express, VIP 33, VIP 42, VIP 44, Standard, or Gold Class, with prices ranging from 651 to 1,000 THB.

Several companies like Bangkok Busline, Sombat Tour, Sritawong Tour, Transport Co, Nakhonchai Air, Bangkok Travel Plus, Tara Tour and Travel, and Cherdchai Tour operate on this route.

All these buses are equipped with air conditioning and provide blankets for your comfort during the journey. Some also offer complimentary water and snacks on board. They typically make stops along the way for restroom breaks and to give you the option to purchase additional snacks if needed.

Keep in mind that in the highest seasons (for example, during the Thai festivals such as Songkran in April or Khao/Ok Phansa in July/October) it is advisable to book bus tickets in advance.

If you can afford to pay some extra bit, go for the VIP of First Class coaches that have more space both for your legs and elbows. But even the lowest-priced buses from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (starting from 651 THB) are comfortable enough to sleep throughout the whole trip.

Bangkok to Chiang Bus Schedule

There are lots of departures throughout the day: 06:00, 07:00, 07:25, 08:00, 09:00, 10:00, 10:15, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 16:00, 18:00, 18:10, 18:30, 18:30, 18:45, 18:50, 19:00, 19:35, 19:40, 19:50, 20:00, 20:01, 20:10, 20:16, 20:25, 20:31, 20:35, 20:45, 20:46, 20:50, 21:00, 21:15, 21:30, 21:39, 21:45, 22:20, 22:35

Bangkok to Chiang Mai Flight

The fastest option

• Price: from 1,200 THB
• Transport type: flight
• Companies: Thai Air Asia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai Vietjet, Thai Airways, Bangkok Air
• Travel time: 1 hour 10 min

The large distance between Bangkok and Chiang Mai will likely encourage many travelers to opt for a flight because it’s so fast compared to trains and buses. A direct flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai will take around 60 to 70 minutes, and even when you consider the time it will take to get to and from the airport terminal, it will still be considerably faster compared to the trains or buses. Of course, the downside of traveling by air, is a slightly higher price, however, if you can find a flight on one of Thailand’s low-fare airlines, the price won’t appear to be that terrible.

Flight tickets can be as cheap as 1,200 THB, and there are more than 50 departures daily, every day. We would personally choose a flight since it’s also the safest way of travel.

Flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai depart from both airports – DMK Don Mueang Airport and BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai Taxi

The most personalised option

• Price: from 8,000 THB
• Transport type: economy, SUV, van
• Companies: Firstplan Transport Services, BangkokTaxi24, Thailand Limo by Datum, Jed Yord, Glassflower, MCC VAN
• Travel time: 8 – 10 hours

Although it’s pricier, taxi offers direct and comfortable transportation from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Several companies like Firstplan Transport Services, BangkokTaxi24, Thailand Limo by Datum, Jed Yord, Glassflower, and MCC VAN provide this service, offering different vehicle types such as economy, SUVs, and vans. The prices usually start from 8,000 THB.

One of the best things about traveling by taxi is that you can arrange for a taxi pick-up directly from locations such as the airport, bus station, train station, or your hotel in Bangkok. The taxi will then take you straight to your hotel in Chiang Mai. It’s a more personalized and direct travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Travel to Chiang Mai

How to book the tickets?

Since the Bangkok to Chiang Mai route is extremely popular among tourists, it’s advisable to book at least a day in advance in order to avoid any inconveniences. If you wish to save time and nerves from dealing with street tourist agencies, we recommend booking the tickets online via 12go. They have all the companies present at it, and all types of transport, so there will be plenty of ch

What is the best way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

The best way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai depends on your travel budget and how fast you need to be in Chiang Mai. There are several public transport options available, including:

Flight: This is the quickest and most convenient option, but it is also the most expensive. Flights take around 1 hour.

Train: This is the most affordable option than flying, and it is also a great way to see the countryside. Trains take between 10 and 14 hours.

Bus: This is another cheap option. Buses take between 10 and 12 hours.

How much does it cost to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

The cost of travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. A flight will typically cost between 1,200 and 2,000 baht, while a train ticket will cost between 278 and 1,100 baht. A bus ticket will cost between 651 and 1,000 baht, and a taxi will cost from 8,000 baht.

What time should I book my tickets?

We recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak season (December to February). This will ensure that you get the best price and that you have a seat.

What should I pack for my trip?

The weather in Chiang Mai is hot and humid year-round, so it is important to pack light, breathable clothing. You should also pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. If you are planning on doing any hiking or sightseeing, you should also pack comfortable shoes and a rain jacket.

What are the must-see attractions in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in Chiang Mai, including:

Wat Phra Singh: This is one of the most important temples in Chiang Mai. It is home to a revered Buddha statue that is said to have been brought from India by King Mangrai in the 14th century.

Wat Chedi Luang: This was once the largest temple in Chiang Mai. It was destroyed by an earthquake in 1560, but it has since been rebuilt.

Doi Suthep: This is a mountain that is sacred to the people of Chiang Mai. You can take a cable car to the top of the mountain for stunning views of the city.

Night bazaar: This is a great place to buy souvenirs and local handicrafts. It is open every night from 6 pm to midnight.

Where should I stay in Chiang Mai?

There are many hotels and guesthouses to choose from in Chiang Mai. Generally, the old city is a great place to stay if you want to be close to the action. If you are on a budget, you can also find some great deals on guesthouses outside of the old city.