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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 695 kilometre distance from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.

There are 4 ways to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. You can choose between the train, bus, private transport, flight. The most affordable option is by train, starting from $8. The fastest route is by flight (1h 30m).

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Transport	Duration	Price	Best For
FlightFastest	1h 30m	($730)	--
Bus	8h 55m	($20)	--
Private Transport	9h	($347)	--
TrainBudget	14h	($8)	--

Flight

Fastest

Duration

1h 30m

Price

$730

Best For

Popularity

Bus

Duration

8h 55m

Price

$20

Best For

Popularity

Private Transport

Duration

Price

$347

Best For

Popularity

Train

Budget

Duration

14h

Price

Best For

Popularity

Route Overview

BangkokChiang Mai695 km

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Train

10-14hFrom ~$8

There are numerous trains travelling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai from morning to evening.

Tickets for a 3rd class seat start from $8. However, we don’t think many people want to book a seat on a train ride that lasts about 10-14h.

Thanks to the airconditioned sleeper berths, you can sleep your way throughout the longest part of the journey. Not only is it a budget-friendly way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, but it is also better for the environment and an amazing way to travel.

Train prices start from $8, about the same price as the cheapest plane tickets. If you add up the costs of baggage and the taxi to/from the airports, this will still be a cheaper option, though.

Also during high season, flight tickets can get more expensive, making the train a more interesting option to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Departure from Bangkok

To go from Bangkok to Chiang Mai via train, you need to go to Hua Lamphong Train Station. You can either hop on the MRT, hail a taxi or a tuk-tuk to reach this train station from downtown Bangkok. Travelling to the train station from Bangkok centre will likely take around 15 minutes, depending on the traffic and your location.

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From ~$8 · 10-14h

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Bus

8h 55m - 12h 30mFrom ~$20

Travelling by bus can also be a good alternative to the plane if you travel on a budget.

Although it doesn’t come with a bed, It is a bit faster than the train and the cost starts at $20.

Given this length of time, we recommend leaving Bangkok in the evening so you can rest throughout the journey. Once you arrive in Chiang Mai in the morning, you can go sightseeing.

Since many locals and tourists travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, several buses are available from morning to evening. The whole journey takes around 8h 55m - 12h 30m depending on the number of stops the driver makes for toilet and meal breaks.

Departure from Bangkok

Buses depart from Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak – Mochit). The taxi drive to Mochit terminal from Bangkok centre just takes about 20-30 minutes.

The table below shows an overview of the different bus companies.

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From ~$20 · 8h 55m - 12h 30m

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KEY LOCATIONS

Departure & Arrival Stations

Bangkok

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

Why Visit Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is Thailand's northernmost city, an intriguing fusion of new and old. Its hundreds of temples, striking Old City and delicious local dishes tell the story of Chiang Mai's culture and history. On the other hand, its cafe culture, friendly coworking spaces and nightlife attract digital nomads from across the globe.

Surrounded by mountains, the city offers plenty of adventures with nature. But if you can, we recommend travelling to Chiang Mai in time for one of its many festivals — like Loy Krathong (Lantern Festival) in November and Songkran (Water Splashing Festival) in April.

TRUST

How We Research

Every route on GeckoRoutes is independently researched and regularly verified.

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ROUTES RESEARCHED

Every route is personally traveled and documented by our team, covering Southeast Asia's most popular and off-the-beaten-path connections.

STAY

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.

Treat Yourself

Rimping Village

Chiang Mai can be tiring exploring all of the temples and going on day trips, so there's nothing better than coming back to a luxurious and beautiful hotel. Rimping Village feels like a mini resort nestled in the middle of Chiang Mai.

The exceptional breakfast served in the gardens each morning is likely to be one of the highlights of your trip. What a way to start the day! Then go for a dip in their beautiful outdoor swimming pool or head back to your spacious room.

Stunning swimming pool

Luxurious rooms and design

Beautiful garden

Exceptional free breakfast

Private rooms start from $88 per night.

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Mid-Range

POR Daowadung

Everything about POR Daowadung feels like a top-quality luxury hotel. Whether it's the ultra-modern but comfortable designs of the rooms or the outdoor swimming pool and sunloungers actually in the pool!

The hotel is in a great location, every room has its own balcony and a delicious breakfast is included every morning. Can you ask for much more from an accommodation?

Great value for money

Outdoor swimming pool

Beautiful design

Delicious free breakfast

Private rooms start from $44 per night.

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Budget

Chada Mantra Hotel

The star of the show at Chada Mantra Hotel has to be its outdoor swimming pool, which is extremely refreshing after a day spent exploring the city. Located within Chiang Mai Old City, just 700m from the Pae gate, this hotel is perfectly located.

The hotel offers free breakfast, wifi in all rooms and common areas, as well as an onsite bar. Here you'll find beautiful clean rooms with city views and very comfortable beds. The staff are well known to be extremely helpful, always going the extra mile to assist their guests in any way possible.

Beautiful swimming pool

Perfect location

Comfortable beds

Free breakfast

Private rooms start at $28 per night

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Budget

Asa Hotel

It's hard to believe that Asa Hotel is a budget-friendly accommodation, but a night here will cost you less than $30 for two people. The hotel is ultra-modern with a beautiful outdoor swimming pool and sun loungers for you to enjoy.

The staff are incredibly friendly and will help you with anything. The hotel also offers free coffee, tea and water in glass bottles to reduce the use of plastic. Here you're a 15-minute walk from the Old Town.

Outdoor swimming pool

Ultra-modern

Great staff

Free coffee, tea and water

Private rooms start from $27 per night.

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How to Get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Related Routes in Thailand

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Train

Departure from Bangkok

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Bus

Departure from Bangkok

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Departure & Arrival Stations

Why Visit Chiang Mai?

How We Research

Private Transport

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Flight

Airports in Bangkok

Chiang Mai Airport

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Traveller Reviews

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Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Rimping Village

POR Daowadung

Chada Mantra Hotel

Asa Hotel