Chiang Mai is well connected with Phuket. You can get from Phuket to Chiang Mai by bus, flight, bus+train, and rental car.
Chiang Mai is a culturally diverse and exciting region with a fascinating blend of impressive mountains, beautiful flora and fauna, ancient temples, and cosmopolitan shopping streets! It is also an important cultural center where you can experience the local way of life.
The city’s gorgeous landscape and vibrant cultural pulse combine to create a truly unique atmosphere that is only enhanced by the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside.
You can stroll Thapae Walking Street to explore the city and shop for stylish local handmade products.
And if you’re more into exploring the culture and heritage, you might visit temples such as That Doi Suthep. This temple features murals depicting magical creatures and is considered one of the most important landmarks in all of Chiang Mai.
Additionally, Chiang Mai offers natural beauty and scenic views that are not to be missed!
But there is also something for the foodies in Chiang Mai! The local restaurants boast authentic Lanna Cuisine!
To experience local tastes and traditions, visit traditional markets or dine at ethnic restaurants. And you can’t leave without trying durian – the king of fruit!
Experience one of Asia’s most beautiful regions with a trip to Chiang Mai!
Traveling between Phuket and Chiang Mai is easy, and you can choose between a bus, flight, bus+train, and rental car!
Check our guide for the best options to travel from Phuket to Chiang Mai.
Tip: We offer detailed information about transportation in Thailand for all main tourist destinations, like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, and Pattaya.
How far is Chiang Mai from Phuket?
The distance fromPhuket to Chiang Mai is 949.5 miles or 1528 kilometers.
Transportation Options from Phuket to Chiang Mai
The following table outlines all transportation options from Phuket to Chiang Mai:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus from Phuket to Chiang Mai | 24 hours 35 minutes | USD 63 |
| Flight from Phuket to Chiang Mai | 2-4 hours | – |
| Bus + Train from Phuket to Chiang Mai via Bangkok | +24 hours | – |
| Rental Car | 20 hours 20 minutes | – |
Getting to Chiang Mai from Phuket
1. Bus from Phuket to Chiang Mai
Journey Duration: 24 hours 35 minutes
The first way to travel from Phuket to Chiang Mai is by taking a long bus ride!
You can travel on a VIP bus operated by Green Bus, which takes a little over 24 hours to get from Phuket to Chiang Mai. It’s quite a long journey, but taking this bus is the cheapest option, costing only USD 63!
Quite often, long-distance buses offer the lowest prices, and that’s why budget travelers go for this choice.
These buses usually take multiple breaks and make bathroom and lunch stops along the way.
This is a higher-class bus which offers a more comfortable travel experience. You can enjoy air-conditioning, reclining seats, Wi-Fi, and a bathroom.
There is one departure daily which you can take from the Phuket Bus Terminal 2 and arrive at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3.
Book your ticket online, so you don’t miss the only bus trip of the day!
Phuket to Chiang Mai VIP Bus Schedule:
- 01:00 PM to 01:35 PM (Next Day): VIP Bus to Chiang Mai from Phuket
Total price: USD 63
2. Flight from Phuket to Chiang Mai
Journey Duration: 2-4 hours
The direct flight is the second and most popular option from Phuket to Chiang Mai!
Although it is more expensive than a road trip, traveling by plane is the fastest way to get from Phuket to Chiang Mai. Prices for a plane ticket always vary, depending on the season and day you are traveling, but occasionally you can get promotional tickets for more or less the price of a train or a bus ticket!
Planes from Phuket to Chiang Mai depart approximately eight times a day, but this is subject to change once again, depending on the season.
So, check in advance and book your tickets from Phuket to Chiang Mai on time!
3. Bus + Train from Phuket to Chiang Mai via Bangkok
Journey Duration: +24 hours
If you prefer to travel by public transport, you can take a train from Phuket to Chiang Mai, but you first need to take a bus to Surat Thani because there isn’t a rail line that runs directly between the two cities.
Upon arriving in Surat Thani, you can change to a train that will take you to Bangkok. Finally, you must take one last train connecting Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
This might seem a bit complicated, but some people prefer to travel this way since it is much cheaper!
The trip can take up to 25 hours, depending on your chosen train.
Keep in mind that if you choose this route, you will need to purchase individual tickets for each train and bus, which means you will need to allow time for delays and transfers.
To avoid traveling for two days due to missed rides, it is crucial to look at the schedules and plan your trip in advance.
Prices change depending on the season and time of day. Therefore, carefully check before making a reservation to ensure you get the best deal. If you don’t mind a little adventure, this is still a more affordable and practical alternative for getting from Phuket to Chiang Mai.
Bookaway
On Bookaway, you can check all available transportation options from Phuket to Chiang Mai. It is a reliable and easy-to-use platform for comparing prices & schedules and making a booking online.
4. Driving with Rental Car from Phuket to Chiang Mai
Journey Duration: 20 hours 20 minutes
Renting a car is the final option for getting from Phuket to Chiang Mai!
By renting a car, you can travel and explore at your tempo while driving to Chiang Mai and arrive much faster.
Driving the distance takes about 20 hours, but keep in mind any stops you might want to make.
Furthermore, renting a car in Phuket is incredibly affordable, with daily rates starting at only about USD 25. This makes it one of the most cost-effective and convenient ways to travel from Phuket to Chiang Mai!
Remember to bring all the required documentation to rent a car to travel from Phuket to Chiang Mai. And, of course, prepare for the long journey ahead!
Best day tours in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
The following widget shows some of the best tours in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct train from Phuket to Chiang Mai?
Since Phuket lacks a train station, there isn’t a direct train that runs from Phuket to Chiang Mai. You can take a train from Surat Thani to Bangkok and another from Bangkok to Chiang Mai if you prefer to travel by rail.
How far is Chiang Mai from Phuket by plane?
The air distance from Phuket to Chiang Mai is 748 miles or 1204 kilometers.
How long does it take to get from Phuket to Chiang Mai?
Depending on the mode of transportation you select, the time it takes to get from Phuket to Chiang Mai can change. The total travel time can be either 2 or 25 hours.
What is the most popular transport from Phuket to Chiang Mai
The best and most popular way to travel from Phuket to Chiang Mai is by plane.
What is the fastest way to get from Phuket to Chiang Mai?
The fastest way to get from Phuket to Chiang Mai is by plane. This journey usually takes about 2 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Phuket to Chiang Mai?
The cheapest way to get from Phuket to Chiang Mai is by bus. Buses on longer routes such as this one are usually cheaper. This option costs USD 63.
More Routes from Phuket
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