Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Bangkok
Chiang Mai
Thu, Jun 18
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2 Passengers
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Bangkok to Chiang Mai Destination Reviews

JM
Jakob M
The Food at the stop in the Night was terrible and there was thankfully a 7/11 next to the Food Station. The busdrivers were unfriendly but they drive is Safe to Chiang Mai. And the Bus was dripping water from the AC onto the seat. The yelling Lady at the stop was very annoying.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Bus Super VIP Bus, Sritawong Tour (Sritawong Tour), Jun 15, 2026
MO
Martin O
Some people got a complete ticket by mail, I did not for some reason.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Train #13 2nd Class Sleeper AC, Thai Railways (การรถไฟแห่งประเทศไทย), Jun 14, 2026
DU
Dilara U
Scam, Bus never arrived.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Bus Super VIP, Sritawong Tour (Sritawong Tour), Jun 14, 2026
KK
Katie K
Rude train conductor and top bunk sucks. Was a challenging getting up and down to the bed. Bright lights on throughout the evening until the morning also.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Train #109 2nd Class Sleeper AC, Thai Railway (การรถไฟแห่งประเทศไทย), Jun 13, 2026
PV
Paola V
The bus departed a bit late but we still arrived on time! I booked a First class bus from Bangkok Mochit station to Chiang Mai. And then a gold class/normal class for the way back For both trips everything was smooth, they provided snacks like a sandwich, chips and water. They also were super attentive. The AC was on the whole trip so it didn't felt hot inside, and they provide blankets to everyone in case you're cold. Toilets had what needed and there was reclining seats with screens (which I didn't used but seemed to work fine). I was able to sleep for most part of the trip, as they turned off the lights and made it comfortable for the passengers. The staff at the desk were also very helpful and spoke well English. Differences betweent the normal and First class is: First class: -You get your individual seat without having to share row. -seats feel more premium as they have a tray table, but on both classes they recline, have screens, usb port, snacks and blankets. -Toilets are better on the first class as they are a bit bigger/cleaner. Basically the only big difference is the individual seat (without having to share row). But otherwise they're mostly the same. Would definitely recommend if you're thinking of traveling by bus through Thailand!
Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Bus First Class, Nakhonchai Air (นครชัยแอร์), Jun 12, 2026
AK
Aristea K
To be honest I didn’t have high expectations of a 10 hour bus journey however I was blown away by the service and quality of the journey. I was travelling by myself so I was a little nervous but I felt so safe the entire time. We were provided with water and snack and at the lunch spot we could exchange our ticket for free lunch which was delicious. The seats fully reclined back and I slept majority of the journey. I enjoyed it so much would definitely do again.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, Bangkok Busline (บางกอกบัสไลน์), Jun 12, 2026
CM
Carla M
Everything was perfect, the only thing that would have been better, is a digital ticket instead of first go to the office to pick-up the paper ticket. That takes a lot of time. But the train, the trip, the service, Everything was excellent.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Train #9 2nd Class Sleeper AC, Thai Railways (การรถไฟแห่งประเทศไทย), Jun 9, 2026
LR
Lucky R
The overnight train service was fun experience that one should do. Book early to get bottom seat cos they go very fast. We had upper bunk, it was still fun. The train staffs were very kind and helpful. Booking through 12Go was easy however, theres one hassle that you have to pick up ticket physicall at their office.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Train #9 2nd Class Sleeper AC, Thai Railways (การรถไฟแห่งประเทศไทย), Jun 9, 2026
DF
Dirk F
All was good. Perfekt. Buy and order Tickets. Get Ticket and check in.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Train #9 2nd Class Sleeper AC, Thai Railways (การรถไฟแห่งประเทศไทย), Jun 9, 2026
AB
Aiden B
Noisy & too cold. Difficult to have family of 4 together with random tickets.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Train #13 1st Class Sleeper AC, Thai Railway (การรถไฟแห่งประเทศไทย), Jun 5, 2026
4.4
23562 customer reviews
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Bangkok to Chiang Mai Schedule

TypeOperatorClassDeparture TimeArrival TimePriceRating
Flight
Thai Vietjet
Economy
00:00
01:25
$52.11
  4.5
Flight
Spring Airlines
Economy
02:35
20:20
$234.21
Flight
Spring Airlines
Economy
02:55
20:10
$168.81
Flight
Cebu Pacific
Economy
03:25
00:20
$277.98
Flight
Cebu Pacific
Economy
04:00
00:35
$205.77
Flight
Bangkok Airways
Economy
05:15
10:40
$313.95
  4.7
Flight
Bangkok Airways
Economy
05:45
10:40
$286.61
  4.7
Flight
Bangkok Airways
Economy
06:05
10:40
$277.39
  4.7
Flight
Bangkok Airways
Economy
06:30
10:40
$265.41
  4.7
Flight
Thai Vietjet
Economy
06:50
10:15
$146.24
  5.0
Bus
Transport Co
Standard
07:25
00:46
$18.25
  4.5
Flight
Bangkok Airways
Economy
07:45
10:40
$448.02
Flight
Bangkok Airways
Economy
08:05
09:25
$45.46
  4.7
Flight
Thai Vietjet
Economy
08:25
10:15
$177.74
Bus
Nakhonchai Air
Gold Class
08:45
18:53
$21.29
  4.4
Train
Thai Railways
2nd Class AC seats only
09:05
19:30
$17.14
  4.5
Bus
Viriya Tour
Intercity
09:50
20:00
$18.25
  3.8
Flight
Bangkok Airways
Economy
10:10
10:40
$296.14
Flight
Bangkok Airways
Economy
10:30
10:40
$452.17
Flight
Thai Vietjet
Economy
10:50
12:15
$100.66

Is Chiang Mai worth it?

Chiang Mai offers a range of attractions and experiences that appeal to various travelers.

Cultural Sites: Notable temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang showcase historic architecture and are central to understanding local traditions.

Nature and Outdoor Activities: The surrounding mountains provide opportunities for hiking and visiting elephant sanctuaries, such as the Elephant Nature Park.

Dining: Explore local cuisine at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar or try khao soi, a regional noodle dish.

Transportation: Songthaews (shared taxis) and tuk-tuks are common, with fares typically starting around 30 THB ($1).

Water Safety: It is advisable to drink bottled water, as tap water is not considered safe for consumption.

Cost of Living: Generally affordable, with budget accommodations starting at around 500 THB ($14) per night.

Chiang Mai's blend of culture, nature, and affordability makes it a worthwhile destination.

What are 5 facts about Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions. Here are five key facts:

  1. Temples: Chiang Mai is home to over 300 Buddhist temples, with Wat Phra That Doi Suthep being the most famous. It offers panoramic views of the city.
  2. Loi Krathong Festival: This annual event in November features floating lanterns and beautifully lit krathongs on the Ping River, attracting many visitors.
  3. Night Bazaar: The city's night bazaar offers a wide range of handicrafts, street food, and souvenirs, ideal for evening exploration.
  4. Transportation: Songthaews (red trucks) and tuk-tuks are popular local transport options. Fares typically range from 20 to 100 THB ($0.60 to $3).
  5. Water Safety: Tap water is not recommended for drinking. It is best to use bottled water, which is widely available throughout the city.

How to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Travelling between Bangkok and Chiang Mai is possible by Flight, bus, train, van and taxi. Flight guarantees the fastest travel on this route. Bus is the slowest option.

The most expensive ticket will cost you USD 468.42 if you go by taxi; to keep it budget-friendly, opt for a train which will set you back mere USD 8.46.

How long does it take to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

It can take you anywhere between 2 and 18 hours to travel between Bangkok and Chiang Mai depending on the means of transport you choose.

Flight is the fastest way to travel between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Flight will bring you to your destination in 1h 15m. Bus does a much slower job and take about 17h 21m to reach Chiang Mai.

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

Travelling between Bangkok and Chiang Mai can be as cheap as USD 8.46 if you opt for a Thai Railway (การรถไฟแห่งประเทศไทย) train and as expensive as USD 468.42 if you buy a Gosafe Transport (โกเซฟ ทรานสปอร์ต) taxi ticket.

Here is the list of how much you can expect to pay travelling by each means of transport available for this route.

How many trips per day are there between Bangkok and Chiang Mai ?

  • 58 from Bangkok to Chiang Mai starting from 06:00 Mochit until 21:30 Mochit
  • 21 from Bangkok to Chiang Mai starting from 14:15 Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station until 22:47 Don Mueang
  • 5 by Bus+Van from Bangkok to Chiang Mai starting from 06:00 Bangkok Town Transfer until 19:00 Bangkok Town Transfer
  • 8 from Bangkok to Chiang Mai starting from 00:00 Bangkok Town Transfer until 00:00 Bangkok Town Transfer

Check above for a bus, train, flight and ferry timetable from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

What mode of transportation is the best one for my route?

Flights

Flying is the fastest and often the most expensive way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, but with a bit of luck you can score very good deals for as little as USD 63.21.

Things to remember: Note that some of the airlines may have restrictions on checked luggage weight or require paying extra for check-in, choosing seats or transportation of oversized luggage.

If opting for a flight, calculate the time you will spend getting to and from the airports as well as the waiting time before your flight, getting through immigration in case of an international flight and recovering your checked luggage.

In certain cases all these procedures can add no less than 5 hours to your total travel time.

Airlines flying between Bangkok and Chiang Mai

Air Astana, Austrian Airlines, Bangkok Airways (บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส), Cathay Pacific Airways, China Airlines, EL AL, Etihad Airways, EVA Airways, Finnair, Garuda Indonesia, Gulf Air, Japan Airlines, KLM, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Thai AirAsia (แอร์เอเชีย), Thai AirAsia (แอร์เอเชีย), Thai AirAsia (แอร์เอเชีย), Thai Airways, Thai Airways, Thai Vietjet (ไทยเวียดเจ็ทแอร์), Turkish Airlines, Vietnam Airlines

Bus

Travelling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai overland will inevitably take longer but in many cases it is the cheapest option if you opt for a bus.

Things to remember: For a more comfortable ride opt for a higher-class bus wherever possible. These buses usually have soft reclining seats and are equipped with air-conditioning and on-board toilets.

They often include water, snacks or a light lunch into your ticket price and make bathroom stops en-route.

Companies operating bus routes between Bangkok and Chiang Mai

Bangkok Busline (บางกอกบัสไลน์), Budsarakham Tour (บุษราคัมทัวร์), Cherdchai Tour North, Kittikarn Tour, Montanatip, Nakhonchai Air (นครชัยแอร์), Next Step Journey, Sritawong Tour, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Tour with Thai (ที ดับบลิว ที ทัวร์วิทไทย), Transport Co (บริษัท ขนส่ง จำกัด), Van2Travel Train, Viriya Tour (วิริยะทัวร์)

Taxi

Some travellers consider taxi to be the most convenient form of overland transport thanks to flexible departure times, a possibility to choose the size of the car you need, and a hassle-free door-to-door service.

Things to remember: If you are planning to make detours during your trip, discuss it with your driver or service provider in advance as it may affect the price.

Companies offering charters between Bangkok and Chiang Mai

Easyride Services, Gosafe Transport (โกเซฟ ทรานสปอร์ต), Smile On Transport, Than Car Service (ธาน คาร์ เซอร์วิส)

Train

Train is a often a great choice for long-haul travel especially if you opt for a night sleeper train with berths which will allow you to sleep all your journey through. To make the most of your train journey, choose the class of your ticket wisely.

Note that there are air-conditioned and fan-only carriages; private compartments for 2 or 4; hard and soft seats.
Though the upper class you get the smoother is your journey, often second class air-conditioned or fan-only sleepers are a good money saving alternative.

What is the most popular transport to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

There is a choice of transportation means any time of the day with flight remaining the most popular option due to their reasonable pricing and comfort.

Out of 1000 travellers who bought tickets for this route

Transportation from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Facts about the transport from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Cheapest Transport$9
Fastest Transport1h 15m
Earliest Departure6:00 AM
Latest Departure10:47 PM
Departures per day92
Distance868 kilometers
Transport CompaniesBangkok Airways, Bangkok Busline, Budsarakham Tour, Cherdchai Tour North, Easyride Services, Gosafe Transport, Kittikarn Tour, Montanatip, Nakhonchai Air, Next Step Journey, Smile On Transport, Sritawong Tour, Tara Tour and Travel, Thai AirAsia, Thai AirAsia, Thai AirAsia, Thai Airways, Thai Railway, Thai Railways, Thai Vietjet, Than Car Service, Tour with Thai, Transport Co, Van2Travel Train, Viriya Tour