How to get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok
Learn how to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai: practical tips for a hassle-free trip
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Nestled in the mountainous region of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a city known for its ancient temples, world famous night markets, mountainous landscapes and traditional Thai culture. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Thailand, and getting here is straightforward thanks to its well connected transport network. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting to Chiang Mai from Bangkok, and reaching the spiritual heart of Thailand.
1. By Air
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
The main way to reach Chiang Mai is by flying, arriving at the Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) around 3km north of the city centre. The airport handles both domestic and international flights, and is the most convenient option for most travellers. Taxi’s, Grab and songthaews are all available at the airport to take you to your accommodation. A taxi to the city centre takes around 15 mins and costs approximately 150 THB (£3.50).
International Flights
Chiang Mai is well-connected to several major cities across Asia, including Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Kuala Lumpur.
Bangkok (BKK and DMK)
Frequent flights operate between Chiang Mai and Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK). Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways and low-cost carriers like AirAsia and Nok Air all offer multiple daily flights. For those travelling from other international destinations, such as Europe or the US, connecting flights through Bangkok, Singapore or KL are usually required.
Domestic Flights
Chiang Mai has excellent domestic connections, with several flights daily to and from major Thai cities, including Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Rai and Surat Thani.
2. By Train
Chiang Mai Railway Station
The Chiang Mai Railway Station is a major hub in Northern Thailand, located about 5km southwest of the Old City. It’s easily accessible by tuk-tuk, taxi or local buses.
Train Routes to Chiang Mai
From Bangkok
The most popular train route to Chiang Mai originates from Bangkok’s Don Mueang and Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Stations. The journey is famous, as the train passes through rolling hills, dense rainforest and rural villages.
Sleeper Train from Bangkok
Of all the trains from Bangkok, this is the fastest service, typically taking around 11-14 hours. A popular option is to take the sleeper train, leaving Bangkok in the evening and arriving early in Chiang Mai, ready to start exploring. For more detailed information on how to catch the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, check out our guide here. It’s a fun and memorable experience in itself!
Booking Tickets
Tickets can be booked online via the State Railway of Thailand website, although we highly recommend 12GoAsia for all public transport bookings in South East Asia. Booking in advance, especially for sleeper berths, is recommended as these do sell out in peak season.
From Other Thai Cities
Chiang Mai is accessible by train from other major cities such as Phuket, Surat Thani and Khon Kaen, albeit with much longer travel times and potential changes in trains. These routes are less used by tourists due to the convoluted travel experience and the ease of getting to Chiang Mai affordably from elsewhere.
3. By Bus
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal (Arcade Bus Station)
The Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station is the main hub for long-distance bus travel in Northern Thailand, located about 1.5km east of the Old City.
Bus Routes to Chiang Mai
From Bangkok
Buses from Bangkok to Chiang Mai are frequent, with departures from both Mo Chit Northern Bus Terminal and Ekkamai Eastern Bus Terminal. The journey usually takes around 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. We highly recommend booking bus tickets in advance through 12.Go Asia.
VIP Buses
These have reclining seats, air conditioning and sometimes onboard entertainment like TVs. They are really comfortable for overnight travel, and many buses have charging ports and even Wi-i. The cost is around £18 per person for a one way trip.
1st & 2nd class buses
Used less by tourists and more by the locals, these buses are more economical with fewer amenities and basic seating arrangements. Because the drive up to Chiang Mai is so long, we’d recommend paying for the VIP bus for a more comfortable journey.
From Other Thai Cities
Chiang Mai is well-connected by bus to other major cities such as Phuket, Chiang Rai and Lampang. The availability and frequency of buses vary, with some routes requiring changes or transfers.
4. By Car
Driving to Chiang Mai
Travelling to Chiang Mai by car gives you the flexibility to explore Northern Thailand at your own pace. The city is reached via the Asian Highway 11 (AH11), which connects Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
From Bangkok
The most direct route from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is via Route 1 (Phahonyothin Road), which becomes Route 11 as you move northward. The distance is around 700km, and the drive takes around 9-11 hours. The route is on well maintained highways, some with toll sections for which you need a toll card or some change. There are plenty of rest areas and service stations along the highway for food, fuel and restroom pit stops.
From Other Regions
Chiang Mai is also accessible by road from other parts of Thailand, such as Phuket, Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son. These road trips have stunning scenic drives through breathtaking mountains, forests and rural landscapes.
Car Rentals
Car rentals are available in Chiang Mai and major cities like Bangkok. International and local rental companies may be able to offer one way rentals. You’ll need a valid driver’s licence (an International Driving Permit is recommended for foreigners), and typically a credit card for deposits.
Driving Tips
Thailand is one of the few countries in the world that drives on the left side of the road. Google Maps, Waze and Maps.me all work excellently here too. Road conditions can vary in rural areas, but are generally in good condition.
5. Local Transport in Chiang Mai
Once you arrive in Chiang Mai, getting around the city is easy and straightforward:
Tuk-Tuks and Songthaews
These are the most common modes of transport for short distances. Songthaews are shared pickup trucks with benches, operating on set routes. They are extremely common all over Chiang Mai and Thailand in general, and you simply hop on and hop off.
Scooter Rentals
Renting a scooter is a popular option for exploring the city and its outskirts independently. Always wear a helmet and drive safely.
Ride-Hailing Apps
Grab is available in Chiang Mai, providing a convenient and reliable alternative to traditional tuk-tuks and songthaews. Fare prices are agreed up-front and the ride isn’t shared with anyone else.
