You can get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train, bus, flight, and rental car.
The cheapest option is by train, which costs about USD 7 and takes 12-15 hours.
The bus is the most popular option, presenting an affordable and convenient alternative for all travelers!
The fastest way is by flight, which takes about one hour.
Drawing on my extensive experience navigating Thailand’s many transportation options, I provide expert advice for travelers looking to explore the country efficiently.
This article focuses on the journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, offering practical tips to ensure a comfortable and memorable trip.
Transportation Options
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | ~12 hrs | $18 to 29 |
| Train | 12-15 hrs | $7 to 14 |
| Flight | ~1 hr | $30 to 100 |
| Rental Car | 9 hrs | – |
1. Flight
Journey Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes
There are more than 50 daily flights. The estimated traveling time is one hour and ten minutes.
The flight cost varies from $30 to $100, depending on how early you book your ticket. You are more likely to get pretty good rates if you book ahead of time.
Flights depart from both airports in Bangkok and arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport, located just a 10-minute drive from the city center.
Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air are more affordable, taken from Don Mueang Airport. Occasionally, there are great deals with Thai Smile, Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways, and Thai Vietjet Air at Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Most budget carriers have luggage restrictions, so it is recommended to double-check baggage allowance.
2. Sleeper Train
Journey Duration: 12-15 hours
Multiple trains travel daily between Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station and Chiang Mai Station. The journey takes around twelve to 15 hours, although delays are common.
Third-class tickets cost only USD 7, while second-class tickets cost around USD 14. These seats have a carriage with fans. The third-class compartments have wooden benches, which is not a good idea for a 15-hour journey, given that the seats are not always allocated. Air-conditioned carriages are a little more expensive.
Bunks are in the sleeping carriage if you prefer to travel at night. There are also beds available in the air-conditioned carriages at a higher price.
Train tickets are available at all major train stations, or you can buy them from agents or online. I highly recommend getting your ticket a day before your trip or several days if your trip coincides with any major holiday.
Train Schedule
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 02:32pm | 04:05am | 12h 18m | $7 |  |
| 08:22pm | 08:40am | 12h 18m | $9 | |
| 10:47pm | 12:10pm | 12h 18m | $8 | |
| 02:15pm | 04:05am | 12h 35m | $7 | |
| 08:05pm | 08:40am | 12h 35m | $9 | |
| 10:30pm | 12:10pm | 12h 35m | $8 | |
| 08:22pm | 08:40am | 12h 18m | $14 | |
| 10:47pm | 12:10pm | 12h 18m | $13 | |
| 02:15pm | 04:05am | 12h 35m | $12 | |
| 08:05pm | 08:40am | 12h 35m | $14 | |
| 10:30pm | 12:10pm | 12h 35m | $13 | |
3. Bus
Journey Duration: ~12 hours
Buses depart from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Station and arrive at Arcade Bus Station in Chiang Mai. The trip takes around twelve hours.
Multiple services are available, both during the day and at night. There are two major levels of services: regular and VIP.
In the regular services, first-class tickets of government buses are available for approximately $16.50, which offers a high level of comfort with air-conditioning and toilets on board.
The regular or second-class government bus costs $13.50.
Private operators run VIP buses, and their fare reaches up to $27. The reclining seats, onboard toilets, a pillow, a blanket, a light snack, and bottled water are the comforts of this service.
4. Rental Car
Journey Duration: ~9 hours
Lastly, renting a car is a fantastic option for travelers seeking flexibility and the freedom to explore at their own pace.
You can rent a car from numerous agencies located at the airport or throughout downtown Bangkok. The journey covers approximately 700 kilometers and typically takes about 9 hours.
The route via Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) is the most direct, offering scenic views and ample opportunities to stop at local attractions.
Costs for car rentals vary but expect to pay around USD 30 to USD 70 per day, depending on the car model. When renting, ensure you have a valid driving license and consider additional insurance for peace of mind. Lastly, it’s advisable to start early to avoid heavy traffic leaving Bangkok and enjoy a more leisurely drive.
Best day tours in Chiang Mai
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a train?
Currently, five direct trains operate daily.
How long is the train?
The train ride takes between 12 and 15 hours, depending on the train you take.
How long is the bus?
The bus takes around 12 hours.
Can I fly?
Yes, direct flights between Bangkok (DMK) and Chiang Mai (CNX) take around 1 hour. Traveling by plane is the fastest way to get between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Leave a Reply