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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 130 kilometre distance from Pai 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 Pai to Chiang Mai. You can choose between the minivan, bus, motorbike, private transport. The most affordable option is by minivan, starting from $7. The fastest route is by private transport (2h 50m).

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Transport	Duration	Price	Best For
Private TransportFastest	2h 50m	($108)	--
MinivanBudget	3h 20m	($7)	--
Bus	3h 55m	($7)	--
Motorbike	4h	($100)	--

Private Transport

Fastest

Duration

2h 50m

Price

$108

Best For

Popularity

Minivan

Budget

Duration

3h 20m

Price

Best For

Popularity

Bus

Duration

3h 55m

Price

Best For

Popularity

Motorbike

Duration

Price

$100

Best For

Popularity

Route Overview

PaiChiang Mai130 km

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Minivan

3h 20m - 4hFrom ~$7

Although there are several local buses in Pai, it is not easy to find a bus departing from Pai to Chiang Mai. We suggest taking a minivan for a trip that takes around 3h 20m - 4h.

Government-regulated Prempracha offers hourly minivan trips starting at 07:00 until 17:00. A seat costs 215 THB. Aya Service also offers trips every other hour from 08:31 to 15:30 for $7.

Departure and arrival stations

The Prempracha minivans depart from Pai Bus Station which is located within the city centre of Pai. On the other hand, the Aya Service minivan departs from Aya Service Office along Chalsongkram Road.

The Prempracha minivans arrive at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade Bus Station), located 5km northeast of the Old City in Chiang Mai. On the other hand, Aya Service heads to Aya Service Office Srimongkol Road, about 5km east of Old City of Chiang Mai.

From these arrival points, you can take a songthaew or taxi to explore Chiang Mai. If you want to go to Chiang Mai Old City, it will just take a 15-minute ride.

Ready to book your minivan?

From ~$7 · 3h 20m - 4h

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Bus

3h 55mFrom ~$7

The bus is an affordable way to get from Pai to Chiang Mai. Bus fares start from $7 and the journey takes around 3h 55m.

The bus company that operates on this route is Prempracha Transport.

Ready to book your bus?

From ~$7 · 3h 55m

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KEY LOCATIONS

Departure & Arrival Stations

Pai

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 Pai to Chiang Mai

Related Routes in Thailand

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Minivan

Departure and arrival stations

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Bus

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Departure & Arrival Stations

Why Visit Chiang Mai?

How We Research

Motorbike

Important Things to Remember When Renting a Motorbike

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Private Transport

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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