Bangkok to Chiang Mai and back

Get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and back

Bangkok and Chiang Mai are two of Thailand’s most popular destinations, offering a wealth of culture, history, and natural beauty. That’s why most people who arrive in Bangkok will look for ways to continue their trip to Chiang Mai in the north of Thailand. If you’re looking for an unforgettable stay in Thailand, traveling to Chiang Mai. In this guide, we’ll explore the various options to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (and back), including buses, trains, flights, and more.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai by bus: budget-friendly and comfortable (our favorite)

Taking the bus is a budget-friendly and comfortable option. There are several companies operating daily services between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, with journey times ranging from 9 to 12 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• Busses usually depart from Mo Chit Bus Terminal in Bangkok to Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 2 and 3 and vice versa.
• Cheapest tickets are found at the company counters at these stations and usually (outside major holidays) there is always seat availability.
• Book online, or check estimated prices and timetables in advance on the website “12goAsia” – they are a middleman and charge a commission if you buy with them, but it can be more convenient or provide information.
• Some buses have onboard amenities such as a movie and Wi-Fi.
• All busses offer ‘bus comfy seats (lay down and sleep), toilet, a blanket, USB charging ports, water bottle, small food and an actual food stop halfway the journey.
• Air-conditioning in busses can be chilly, so it’s recommended to bring something warm inside.

We personally love the bus, as it is usually faster than the train, offers a more direct connection and dims all the lights in the bus during the night. Busses have a ‘bus attendant’ who assists the bus driver and welcomes you on the bus (like a flight attendant, but then on a bus).

Train travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Traveling by train is another popular option, offering a more leisurely pace with opportunities to take in the scenery (mostly during daylight or mornings). The trains usually offer 3-classes to choose from and you can drive during the night or during the day:

• Third class seating is cheapest, but offers no beds and no AC. Usually the windows are open for fresh air. It can be an amazing local experience, with stunning views, but also a more exhausting journey.
• Second class offers either adjustable seats or bunkbeds and AC or non-AC for a more convenient price.
• First class offers more luxury with less bunkbeds and the room for a slightly higher price.
• Tickets are sold at the train station or online and in our experience it can be better to buy tickets well ahead in advance. In this case checking prices, timetables and booking via the official Thai Railways website (or 12goAsia).

Some people prefer the train over the bus, but we think the train is slower, makes many stops along the way and always has bright lights on in the wagons – making it less convenient. If you travel during the night, air-conditioning is not as necessary as during a warm day.

Flying from Bangkok to Chiang Mai: the quickest option

For those with a tighter schedule or seeking a quicker option, flying is the way to go. Bangkok’s Airports offers numerous daily flights to Chiang Mai International Airport.

• Flight duration: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• Prices vary depending on the airline and time of booking.
• Domestic airlines like Thai Airways, Air Asia, and Nok Air operate daily services.
• Chiang Mai Airport is about 5-10 minutes away from the Old Town, so it’s super conveniently located without much travel time.

Other Options

Don’t forget to consider other modes of transport and stops along the way:

• Rent a car or motorbike and drive yourself
• Take a bus with multiple stops for exploring smaller towns en route
  • Visit Ayutthaya (amazing old temples), visit Phitsanulok (culture and nature), visit Sukhothai (amazing old temples, less touristy)
• Look into private transfers or shared minivan services, especially if traveling in a group.
  • We can help you with this around Chiang Mai and northern Thailand (more info)

Remember to plan ahead, check schedules and prices, and book your preferred method of transport well in advance – especially around big Thai holidays and events. Happy travels from Bangkok to Chiang Mai!