| Flight Bangkok - Chiang Mai ฿ 778–7,379 1h 10m – 1h 20m | |
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| Bus Bangkok - Chiang Mai 9h 30m – 13h | |
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| Train Bangkok - Chiang Mai ฿ 883–1,862 10h 17m – 14h 20m | |
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| Flight Don Mueang Airport - Chiang Mai ฿ 649–1,470 1h 5m – 1h 25m | |
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Bangkok and Chiang Mai are two famous cities in Thailand, with many attractive tourist destinations and unique cultural features of each locality. Getting from one city to the other is also very convenient, with many transportation options available for travelers. In this article, we will explore the options for traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, from traditional modes of transportation to the most advanced and convenient ones.
Getting to Northern Thailand: Transportation Options and Tips
Chiang Mai, the former capital of the Lanna kingdom, is nestled in a basin of woodlands and mountains in northern Thailand. This charming city is adorned with ancient wats and chedis, some of which date back to the 13th century. Forest monasteries are tucked away in the hills, while colourful markets burst with locally made OTOP products and delicious Northern Thai cuisine, including the unforgettable khao soi.
The locals are welcoming and friendly, and the city offers endless choices to create unforgettable experiences, whether you are visiting for just two days or a month-long trip. Chiang Mai has plenty to offer, including temples, museums, galleries, and waterfalls, as well as quaint coffee shops, epic clothing malls, and a unique nightlife scene that caters to both party-goers and music enthusiasts.
back to menu ↑Tips for Traveling to Chiang Mai: Getting There and Getting Around
Traveling overland to Chiang Mai is both easy and convenient. The city is well-connected to major provincial centers of Thailand via numerous buses. If you are traveling from the capital city, you can take Route #1 Bangkok-Chiang Rai, which will bring you as far as Lampang. From Lampang, you will need to switch to Route 11 Lampang-Chiang Mai, which will take you all the way to your destination. Alternatively, you can take the northern line of the state railway of Thailand, which covers a 751 km long stretch from Hua Lamphong station in Bangkok to Chiang Mai. The duration of the journey depends on the mode of transport you choose, but typically takes between 9 and 14 hours.
back to menu ↑The Best Way to Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Bus
Traveling by bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a convenient, affordable, and comfortable option for the long journey. Chiang Mai-bound buses depart from the Northern and Northeastern Bus Terminal (Mochit), with many companies such as Bangkok Busline and Siam FirstNew Viriya providing departures throughout the day. Most buses leave after 8 pm and arrive early in the morning the next day.
However, during peak seasons such as Thai festivals like Songkran in April or Khao/Ok Phansa in July/October, it is advisable to book in advance. The bus prices vary depending on the level of comfort, with VIP coaches being the most comfortable option, offering 24 seats and ample space for both your legs and elbows, starting at 800 THB. However, even the cheapest buses from Bangkok (starting at 500 THB) are comfortable enough to sleep through the journey. Mochit Bus Terminal may seem enormous, but there is plenty of staff to assist passengers in finding their way. You will be greeted at the entrance and directed to the appropriate platform.
Traveling by bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is an easy, affordable, and comfortable way to make the long journey. Buses bound for Chiang Mai depart from the Northern and Northeastern Bus Terminal (Mochit) in Bangkok. With a variety of companies serving the route, such as Bangkok Busline, Siam FirstNew Viriya, and others, you have plenty of options with departures throughout the day. Most buses leave after 8 pm and arrive early in the morning the following day.
During peak seasons, such as Thai festivals like Songkran in April or Khao/Ok Phansa in July/October, it is recommended to book in advance. Prices for buses vary depending on the level of comfort. For extra comfort, you can opt for VIP coaches with 24 seats (starting from 800 THB) which provide ample space for both your legs and elbows. However, even the cheapest buses from Bangkok (starting from 500 THB) are comfortable enough to sleep through the whole journey. The Mochit Bus Terminal is enormous, but there is plenty of staff available to help passengers find their way. You will be guided right from the entrance to the right platform, so you don’t need to worry about getting lost.
back to menu ↑Tips for a Comfortable Train Journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Traveling overnight by train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a quintessential Thailand experience. As tickets, especially lower berths, tend to sell quickly, it is best to book in advance. The journey takes about twelve hours, slightly longer than the bus, but is significantly more comfortable. The first and second-class compartments are well-equipped with seats that fold out into bunk beds, although the top bunk may be cramped for those who are claustrophobic. Second-class sleepers are available in both fan and AC options, so it’s worth checking before booking. For those who want to travel in style, the 1st class single sleeper offers privacy, but costs over 2000 THB per person. If you opt for 2nd class fan seats (around 600-650 THB), be aware that it may not be the most comfortable option, as for an extra 100 THB, you can get a fan sleeper, and for an additional 200 THB, an AC sleeper.
Alternatively, you may want to consider traveling by day, as the route is filled with scenic beauty, taking you through mountainous regions and sprawling countryside that seem untouched by civilization when viewed from the train’s windows.
Pro tip: Food vendors constantly patrol the carriages, providing plenty of snacks and refreshments. However, selling alcoholic beverages on the train is illegal.
back to menu ↑Exploring Your Options: How to Take a Private Taxi to Chiang Mai
You can leave for Chiang Mai directly from your hotel at any time of the day, making it a convenient option for those traveling in a group of friends. A 9-seater Toyota Commuter costs THB 13,200 and takes approximately 9 hours to travel between the two cities. The roads are generally smooth, with gas stations featuring clean restrooms and convenience stores along the way. Moreover, the scenery is breathtaking, making the journey a pleasant one.
back to menu ↑From Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Plane: A Complete Guide
Considering that several low-cost carriers offer tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai for as little as THB1000 and transport you to your destination in just 1½ hours, it might be worthwhile to fly between the two cities instead of spending the entire night traveling overland.
Thai Lion Air, an affiliate of Lion Air headquartered in Indonesia, operates up to 10 round-trip flights daily between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Depending on the date and time of your travel, airfare starts from THB1000 and can go up. The busiest periods usually sell out well in advance, but even a few days before your intended travel date, there are deals available for under THB2000. The ticket price includes 15 kg of checked luggage and 7 kg of carry-on luggage. Flights depart from Bangkok Don Mueang Airport as early as 8:55 am and as late as 9:50 pm, with eight other departure times in between.
Lion Air is located at Don Mueang International Airport in the north of Bangkok. To reach the airport, you can take the airport shuttle buses A1 or A2. A1 departs from Morchit bus terminal, while A2 starts at Victory Monument, stopping at Sanam Pao, Ari, Saphan Kwai, and Morchit BTS stations (THB30). Morchit BTS station is also served by A1. The travel time can range from 60 to 80 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, there are commuter trains available between Hua Lamphong train station and Don Mueang airport, which take approximately 50 minutes and operate from 4:20 am until 10:25 pm. The trains are a reliable option for transportation.
Chiang Mai International Airport is a major entry point to Northern Thailand and is among the four busiest airports in the country. The airport operates daily domestic and international flights to and from destinations such as Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Seoul, and more. Being located just two kilometers from the city center, flying into Chiang Mai is a convenient option that doesn’t require much time or money to get to your hotel.
It’s worth noting that many hotels in the city offer free airport transfers, but you’ll need to arrange this in advance. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, songthaew, or tuk-tuk to reach the city center. Although the fare may seem a bit high given the short distance, it’s still quite affordable at around THB150.
Pro tip: Chiang Mai Airport serves as a hub for Kan Air, a domestic airline that offers flights to some of the most breathtaking destinations in northern Thailand, including Pai and Mae Hong Son. If you’re not up for a long and winding road trip from Chiang Mai, flying to these towns is definitely worth considering.
To get around Chiang Mai, most of the city’s attractions can be found within the walls of the Old City. Bicycles are the most convenient way to explore and can be rented from nearly every guesthouse. However, it’s important to check the brakes as the city’s fleet of bicycles may not be in the best condition. The rental cost for an ordinary bike with a fixed gear typically ranges from THB50 to THB100.
Another option is to rent a scooter, motorcycle, or car, which can be found in various shops throughout the city. This gives you the freedom to explore Chiang Mai and its surrounding areas at your own pace, but be prepared to leave your passport as a security deposit when renting. Take extra caution when riding a motorcycle or scooter to Doi Suthep, the city’s picturesque peak, as the winding road and stunning views can be dangerous for inexperienced riders.
Songthaews are large trucks with benches in the back and are good for trips within the city, with fares ranging from THB20 to THB40 per ride. The red and white ones are ideal for short distances, while the yellow ones can take you to neighboring Northern provinces but may require some negotiation. Tuk-tuks are more expensive than songthaews and may be a good option for a unique experience, but their prices, noise, pollution, and safety records may not make them a viable option for every trip.
Taxis are also widely available in Chiang Mai, but unlike the meter taxis in Bangkok, they do not use meters. Be sure to negotiate the fare before the ride to avoid being overcharged.
back to menu ↑Where to stay
In recent years, the cost of accommodation in Chiang Mai has increased, and it’s become difficult to find a decent option for THB300. A more realistic figure for a budget room in a guesthouse within the walls is around THB1000. While staying within the Old City offers convenience and proximity to many attractions, there are other good options available.
If you’re on a tight budget, consider looking for affordable accommodation just east of the Old City in Thanon Tha Phae, near the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. Thanon Nimmanhaemin, with its numerous bars and restaurants, is also easily accessible from the western part of the Old City. For those with their own transportation, lodging outside the city center is a great choice, offering a more relaxed countryside feel and catering to the needs of city veterans.
back to menu ↑Activities
While in Chiang Mai, it’s worth exploring some unique activities to spice up your visit. You may likely visit several temples, go hiking and trekking, or even try white-water rafting or rock climbing. However, you can add some extra flavor to your stay by enrolling in a massage class and learning the basics of Thai massage, volunteering at one of the elephant camps (beginning with Elephant Nature Park), observing the production of colorful Chiang Mai parasols, and taking a stroll down Thanon Ratchadamnoen on Sunday evening when it becomes a hub of local commerce, culture, cuisine, and people-watching.
Pro tip: Chiang Mai is renowned for its colorful festivals. If possible, schedule your trip to participate in some of these festivals. During the first weekend of February, the Flower Festival is held, and the city transforms into a gorgeous blooming garden. Songkran falls on April 12-14, with revelers dousing each other (and passersby) with water along the city moat. Loi Krathong, one of Thailand’s most beautiful festivals, is known as Yi Peng in Chiang Mai. Thousands of illuminated lanterns float in the night skies over the city, creating an unforgettable sight.
back to menu ↑Must-try foods on a road trip to Chiang Mai
If you have a car, there are two routes to take to get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok. The quicker and shorter route involves going to Nakhon Sawan, turning left before entering the city, and taking highway number 1. This route will take you through Khamphaeng Phet, Tak, and Lampang. If you are a fan of pizza, stop in Lampang and visit the Riverside restaurant. However, it’s better to avoid the elephant park between Lampang and Chiang Mai if you want to interact with elephants in a more ethical manner. After covering a total distance of approximately 700 kilometers, you will arrive in Chiang Mai.
The second route is slightly longer but offers smaller roads that take you through vast forests. Drive up to Nakhon Sawan, then take highway 117 to Phitsanulok. Continue on highway 11, passing through Lampang and eventually reaching Chiang Mai. In Phitsanulok, you have two options. If you turn right towards Phetchaboon, you will pass through the “Switzerland of Thailand,” a picturesque area with many relaxing resorts. In Phetchaboon, you can visit Khao Koh, a mountain where your car will slowly roll uphill at one particular spot. Turn off the engine and enjoy the unique experience. If you turn left, you can visit Sukhothai, a city renowned for its historical park. Rent a bicycle at the park entrance and explore the well-preserved 700-year-old temple ruins.
If you decide to take the bus, it will take approximately 10 hours, while the train will take about 14 hours. Taking an overnight bus or train can help save the cost of one night’s hotel stay. While many airlines fly to Chiang Mai, you would miss out on a beautiful road trip if you opt for air travel. We recommend taking the plane back, particularly if you’re heading south towards the islands.
back to menu ↑The best night markets in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a city with countless attractions, and even if you stay for several months, you won’t be able to see them all. In this guide, we’ll highlight some lesser-known things to do in addition to the popular tourist activities. But first, let’s start with the must-do activities recommended by locals. It’s said that you must try three things in Chiang Mai: Khao Soi, a delicious rice noodle dish with a variety of ingredients, visit Boo Sang to see the colorful handmade umbrellas, and visit Wat Doi Suthep, a temple located on a mountain.
Wat Doi Suthep is less crowded on weekdays and offers stunning views of the golden chedi on sunny days. If you take one of the red songtaew taxis, be aware that the fare for the trip down the mountain is higher than the trip up.
Khao Soi is a noodle dish with thin yellow curry, similar to the Massaman style, and is a popular soup-like specialty. It’s mixed with crispy and boiled egg noodles and typically served with shallots, banana, lime, and pickled cabbage. Those who can’t handle spicy food should avoid the oil-fried ground chilies. Coconut milk is often used to balance the spiciness. Khao Soi can be ordered with chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian option.
Boo Sang is a village near San Pathong that has been producing paper umbrellas and painting them for over 200 years. It’s a fascinating process, and at the umbrella factory on the right side of the junction, you can witness every step of the production. The Sa paper used is made from the bark of the mulberry tree. They also paint beautiful designs on mobile phone covers and clothes. If you have a bag, t-shirt, or shorts you want to make unique, bring them along so you don’t have to buy something there. The village of Baan Tawai near Hang Dong is similar to Boo Sang, with many souvenirs and wooden furniture. It’s cheaper than the night bazaar in the city, but we prefer Boo Sang.
The Chinese-style Wororot Market is located near the Narawat Bridge over the River Ping. On Sundays, there is a large street market inside the old city from 7 p.m. until midnight. On Saturdays, the walking street market (called Thanon Khon Doen) is on Wualai Road. The night bazaar opens every day in the early afternoon and closes at night, selling various items that require negotiation on price.
Don’t expect original Louis Vuitton handbags or Versace jeans. Many shops sell the same things, so you can ask for a price and then check other stores. There’s a Chinese Money Changer shop about 50 meters from Tha Phae road, which usually offers the best exchange rates in town. If you reach the end of the night bazaar, cross the junction at Phantip Plaza and continue for another 300 meters. Behind the large hotel on the left side, you’ll find the 3D street art museum “Art in Paradise.” Bring your camera to capture the 300+ paintings on the ground, walls, and ceiling, and snap some amazing and funny pictures.
If you are an animal lover, don’t miss the chance to visit Care For Dogs in Hang Dong District or the Elephant Nature Park in Mae Taeng. The park may be pricey, but it’s worth it to see happy elephants living without hooks, chains or fences. You can even swim with them in the river and brush their backs. For an adrenaline rush, try white-water rafting or bamboo rafting down the river. If you’re looking for a relaxing swim, check out the Grand Canyon Chiang Mai, a hidden gem with clear water and few crowds.
For those who can drive a scooter or rent a car, try the scenic loop from Chiang Mai to Hang Dong, Samoeng, and Mae Rim, which offers stunning views, strawberry fields, a hidden cave, and various activities like bungee jumping and ATV rentals. And if you’re feeling adventurous, explore Wat Doi Suthep on your own by going up the mountain. Always wear a helmet, drive carefully, and never drink and drive!
back to menu ↑Must-try dishes in Chiang Mai: From Khao Soi to Sai Oua
Chiang Mai boasts a plethora of dining options, with some claiming there are more pubs and restaurants than residents in the city. Here are a few noteworthy eateries we recommend:
Taste from Heaven, located inside the old city, is a vegetarian restaurant that many hail as the best in the north. The owner speaks excellent English and the restaurant also offers cooking classes.
The Dukes, on the other side of the river between Narawat bridge and the old iron bridge, serves up the biggest pizza in town along with fantastic spare ribs. The portions are huge and no starters are necessary. Another branch can be found on the night bazaar road next to McDonald’s.
Mix Bar and Restaurant, located at the end of Nimman Hemmin Soi 1, serves not only delicious food, but also boasts beautiful presentation.
For the best breakfast in town, head to Smoothie Blues, located on the corner of Soi 6 opposite Tesco Express. However, be warned that their mango “Smoothie Blues” may be addictive.
Japanese food Thai-style can be found at Sumo Sushi, located in the small soi between Nimman Hemmin Soi 11 and 13. It is reasonably priced and a few meters away from the beer factory, which offers a huge selection of imported beers. Further down the street towards Soi 9 is a Japanese Yakiniku Grill where diners can prepare their own food on the built-in table grill.
Yummy Pizza, located on Canal Road, may be a bit outside the city, but it is well worth the trip for its tasty food and occasional live music. The owner is also a great resource for all things related to Muay Thai boxing.
Finally, Khao-Mao Khao-Fang, formerly known as the Rainforest Restaurant, is one of the most beautiful restaurants in Chiang Mai, situated on road 3044. It’s recommended to sit near the lake for a tranquil dining experience, as the waterfall on the other side can be quite noisy after a while. The restaurant also offers food inside its air-conditioned coffee shop.
back to menu ↑Exploring the Spiritual Side of Chiang Mai: Top Temples to Visit
There are numerous temples in Chiang Mai, in addition to Wat Doi Suthep which is situated on the mountain. Within the old city, you can find Wat Phra Sing, while near Chiang Mai University, there is Wat U-Mong which boasts caves and a vast fish pond. Another beautiful temple is Wat Doi Kham located near the night safari, which is often overlooked by tourists. On a clear day, visitors can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the city from this temple.
back to menu ↑From Handmade Crafts to Designer Fashion: Chiang Mai’s Diverse Shopping Scene
On the superhighway, you’ll find Central Festival, a massive new shopping mall. If you prefer convenience, Robinson Airport Plaza is also a great option. Maya tends to be packed with university students.
If you’re staying in the city for an extended period, it’s best to rent a place rather than opting for hotels or guesthouses. You can find air-conditioned studios for around 100 euros per month, but condominiums in the city or Nimman Hemmin areas are much pricier. Renting a house in a housing estate, which usually includes amenities like security, pool, gym, and clubhouse, is a better choice, as the rent for houses is typically less than that of apartments.
Be aware that the Zoo and the Night Safari charge tourists double the entrance fee. We advise against supporting such behavior and recommend avoiding such places.
Most areas of the city can be viewed on Google Streetview, allowing you to explore them from your computer.
If you have the time, consider visiting Chiang Rai, which is home to two beautiful temples: Wat Rong Khun (the white temple) and Baan Dam (the black house). Both are well worth seeing, but the drive takes about four hours by car. If you plan to spend the night in Chiang Rai, Le Meridien Hotel offers an excellent Sunday brunch.
