Mae Sot to Bangkok

How to Get From Mae Sot to Bangkok

3Options
50mFastest
$15From
MaartenAbegailWritten by Maarten · Reviewed by Abegail · Updated 1 week ago

Bus · Flight · Private Transport

Bangkok lies 390 kilometres (242 miles) southeast of Mae Sot, on the Chao Phraya river. Thailand's capital pulls in travellers for its temples, markets and street food. Flying is the quickest way, taking 50 minutes. By road, the bus is the cheapest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok at $15 (495 THB). A private transfer costs far more and takes about as long.

Distance from Mae Sot to Bangkok

Mae Sot and Bangkok are about 390 km (242 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 492 km by road. The quickest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok is by taking the flight, which takes around 50 minutes.

~390 km
Distance
~492 km
Road distance
50m
Fastest
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3 ways to travel from Mae Sot to Bangkok

There are three ways to travel from Mae Sot to Bangkok. You can choose between the bus, flight, and private transport. The journey takes 50m–8h 10m and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at $15 (495 THB).

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Mae Sot to Bangkok by Bus

8h 10mFrom $15 (495 THB)

When you’re done taking in the nature of Mae Sot, you can board the night bus to Bangkok. The bus from Bangkok to Mae Sot is the cheapest option to travel this distance.

The only problem you may run into with such an early arrival is that you might not be able to check into your hotel room for a few hours.

Luckily, most hotels offer a holding room to drop your bags off. This way, you can already go out for some breakfast and explore the area while you wait for your room to be ready.

Departure and arrival station

Buses coming from Mae Sot Bus Station arrive at Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak – Mochit). From the terminal, it takes about an hour by bus or just 15 minutes by taxi to reach the city centre.

If you prefer to take the bus, you can check Google Maps for the local bus schedule.

Bus schedule from Mae Sot to Bangkok

All services arrive at Mochit
Sasanan TourStandard8h 10m
20:50
$15
495 THB

Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.

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Map of stations
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Booking Tip

Buses are equipped with reclining seats, air conditioning and an onboard toilet. While boarding, you will also be provided with a blanket and a little snack & drink.

Mae Sot to Bangkok by Flight

50 minutesFrom $125 (4,155 THB)

Mae Sot Airport is only a 10-minute ride from the city centre. We recommend arranging a transfer through your hotel or guesthouse.

Pre-pandemic, Nok Air used to offer five flights from Mae Sot to Bangkok. The last time we checked (April 2022), there are only three flights in a day.

Flights depart at 9:55, 12:40, and 17:05 from Mae Sot and arrive at Don Mueang Airport. Airfares start from $125 (4,155 THB) for a flight that takes around 50 minutes.

From Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to the city centre, it takes about 30 minutes by taxi or 50 minutes by train.

TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.

Flight tickets are available on Skyscanner.

Mae Sot to Bangkok by Private Transport

8hFrom $265 (8,775 THB)

A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Mae Sot to Bangkok.

Rates start from $265 (8,775 THB) for a 7-seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s about $38 (1,254 THB) per person. Travel time is around 8h.

Kanokwan Travel
Standard Minivan 7 PAX
$265 (8,774 THB)
$38 (1,253 THB) per person

Private Transport tickets are available on Bookaway.

STAY

Our favourite places to stay in Bangkok

Bangkok is a big and bustling city with each neighbourhood offering something different to the next. Covering nearly 1600 km² and offering over a thousand accommodation options, it can be slightly daunting picking where to stay. Here is a quick rundown of our favourite areas to stay in Bangkok:
  • Khao San Road — is one of the most famous areas in Bangkok, known for its party reputation. This area attracts a lot of backpackers that are looking for cheap accommodation and a place to party.
  • Sukhumvit has a more relaxed nightlife, centred around sophisticated restaurants and rooftop bars as opposed to travellers dancing on tables. It’s a great jumping-off point to explore the jam-packed city, thanks to the good connections via public transport.
  • Riverside — along the Chao Phraya River, you'll find an area rich in history and culture, hosting many of the popular sights of Bangkok, including the Royal Palace and Wat Pho – the Reclining Buddha.
Check out our favourite accommodations in Bangkok:
dusitD2 Samyan
Treat Yourself

dusitD2 Samyan

dusitD2 Samyan is one of the most unique hotels in Bangkok with its tiered appearance overlooking the city. You can take a refreshing dip in their sky swimming pool and enjoy the panoramic views. Or head to the gym and take them in whilst working up a sweat. 

The floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the hotel create a bright and modern feel. The rooms are stunning, and decorated to an extremely high standard. This is one of the best hotels in Bangkok. 

  • One of the coolest buildings in Bangkok
  • Rooftop swimming pool
  • Onsite gym
  • Bright and modern rooms

King rooms start from $110 per night.

Check availability
The One Smart Living
Treat Yourself

The One Smart Living

The One Smart Living offers incredible value for money. The rooms are beautiful and feel extremely luxurious. You won't want to leave your room it's so nice!

It's a great choice if you want to be close to the airport, but not so close that you're constantly hearing planes above your head. The staff are incredibly helpful and super friendly. It's hard to fault this place.

  • Great value for money
  • Close to the airport
  • Helpful staff
  • Beautiful rooms

Double rooms start from $50 per night. 

Check availability
Naga Residence
Mid-Range

Naga Residence

Naga Residence feels less like a hotel and more like a home — just a very beautifully designed home that's exceptionally clean. The rooms are very spacious and all of them have a private balcony overlooking the city. 

There's also an onsite gym, garden and terrace area for you to enjoy. And when you venture out of the hotel there are plenty of restaurants, shops and cafes nearby. 

  • Huge rooms
  • Exceptionally clean
  • Private balcony
  • Onsite gym

Double rooms start from $37 per night.

Check availability
Phranakorn-Nornlen
Mid-Range

Phranakorn-Nornlen

It will be hard to find another hotel in Bangkok like Phranakorn-Nornlen. This hotel is like a piece of art, with every room decorated differently and boasting a unique theme. Make sure to pick your room wisely. 

The staff takes your stay here to another level. They are incredibly friendly and helpful. They'll give you great recommendations for the local neighbourhood which is full of cosy cafes and local restaurants. 

  • Unique design and rooms
  • Incredible staff
  • Nice local neighbourhood
  • Very clean

Double rooms start from $33 per night.

Check availability
Greenery Hostel
Budget

Greenery Hostel

As you've probably already guessed, Greenery Hostel has a green theme both inside and outside. It actually creates a really tranquil vibe inside a busy city. 

The rooms are simple but great value for money. Plus there are nice chill-out spaces throughout the hostel with a swing, games and comfy chairs. It's in a great location, close to lots of Bangkok's attractions. 

  • Great value for money
  • Relaxing chill-out areas
  • Good location
  • Free cancellation

Private rooms start from $21 per night.

Check availability

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

Why Visit Bangkok?

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is one of the most visited cities in the world. There’s something about the constant buzz and energy floating through its streets at all hours of the day, giving it the name of the city that never sleeps!

Its main attractions include the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho. But ancient temples aren't the only reason people flock to this vibrant city. From jam-packed shopping areas to mouthwatering street food and the wild nightlife of Khao San Road, there are so many things you can do in Bangkok.

Rounding it up

That's the full picture for getting from Mae Sot to Bangkok, roughly 390 kilometres (242 miles) apart. In all, there are 3 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $15 (495 THB). The quickest trip takes 50m.

Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the distance from Mae Sot to Bangkok?

The distance from Mae Sot to Bangkok is 390 kilometres (242 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok?

The fastest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok is by flight and takes 50 minutes.

What is the cheapest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok?

The cheapest way to get from Mae Sot to Bangkok is by bus with ticket costs starting from 495 THB.

About the Authors

Maarten
Maarten

Founder & Trip Planning Expert

Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

Abegail
AbegailReviewer

Travel Writer

Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She's loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand's beaches also have a special place in her heart.

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