How to Get to Chiang Rai, Thailand:
A Complete Guide
Your complete guide to reaching Chiang Rai: Everything you need to know
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The ancient city of Chiang Rai, tucked away into the far northern reaches of Thailand, is becoming less of a hidden gem as the years tick by. Word is getting out about its majestic landscapes, world-class temples and bold food scene. Sitting in the far north in the country, you might be wondering about the best way to reach this far-flung corner of Thailand. Here’s our guide on how to get to magical Chiang Rai – everything you need to know.
By Air
Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI)
The easiest and quickest way to get to Chiang Rai is by flying into Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI). The airport is only around 10km from the city centre and is served by both domestic and international flights. Thai Airways, AirAsia and Nok Air all have daily flights from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, with a short flight time of around 1 hour 20 minutes. China and Laos also offer flights to Chiang Rai, but flying from further afield will most likely involve a stop-over in Bangkok.
On arrival at Chiang Rai, you can most easily reach the city centre by taxi. They’re available at the airport, and the journey to the centre takes around 15-20 minutes. Grab is also available in Chiang Rai. Car rentals are available at the airport for those wanting to explore the region at your own pace.
By Bus
Travelling by bus is a popular and budget-friendly way to reach Chiang Rai from other parts of Thailand. The city is well-connected by a network of long-distance buses that operate regularly.
From Bangkok
Several bus companies offer daily services from Bangkok to Chiang Rai. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours. Buses range from cheaper, standard buses to VIP options with comfortable seating and on-board toilets. We recommend booking with 12GoAsia for a hassle free journey.
From Chiang Mai
If you’re travelling from Chiang Mai, buses to Chiang Rai are frequent and only take about 3-4 hours. This is a very popular way to reach Chiang Rai, with a short journey time and without the hassle of flying. Again, we recommend booking with 12GoAsia for a hassle free journey.
By Car
Driving to Chiang Rai is a wonderful option for those who enjoy road trips. It also gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and stop at scenic spots along the way.
From Bangkok
The drive from Bangkok to Chiang Rai covers a distance of around 800km and takes roughly 12 hours, depending on traffic and stops. The most common route is via Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) and Highway 32. The journey takes you through several provinces, including Ayutthaya, Nakhon Sawan and Phayao, with plenty of opportunities to explore the sights they have to offer.
From Chiang Mai
The drive from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is shorter and more scenic. Covering a distance of about 180km, the journey takes around 3-4 hours via Route 118. This route winds through the mountains and has stunning views of the lush northern Thai landscape. The roads in Thailand are generally in good condition, except for back roads through quiet, more remote villages.
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By Train
While there is no direct train route to Chiang Rai, you can take a train to Chiang Mai and then continue the journey by bus or car. The train journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a popular option, offering a comfortable and scenic ride through northern Thailand. We cover this in more detail in our Guide to Getting to Chaing Mai and our full guide on How to get the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
Things to Do
where to stay
