Buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
A bus is by far the most popular way for locals and international tourists to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. It's also the cheapest way to travel. So carriages can feel crowded during the peak season from November to March.
Greenbus, Greenbus Express, and Greenbus VIP offer numerous daily services from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1. It's possible to purchase a ticket at the station, but you could be queuing for hours as it's a demanding route for residents. Instead, check the timetable, reserve a seat, and take advantage of the best deals online.
- Cheapest bus ticket: $6.50 (฿229)
- Most expensive bus ticket: $10 (฿338)
- Quickest bus duration: 3 hours and 20 minutes
- Longest bus duration: 8 hours and 5 minutes
- First bus departure: 7 AM
- Last bus departure: 6 PM
Flights from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Although it's possible to travel by plane from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, there are other recommended modes of transport. Flights require the most hassle, take the most time, and cost more than a private transfer.
No direct flight flies from Chiang Mai Airport to Chiang Rai Airport. Instead, you must board an indirect service with Nok Air or Thai Asia with a layover at Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok. From Chiang Rai Airport, you can reach downtown with a 15-minute taxi or by boarding the shuttle bus for ฿28.
Including the flight, airport transfer, security checks, and checking luggage, the overall journey will take between 6.5 and 7.5 hours. You can also expect to pay between $65 and $95 (฿2240-฿3300).
Tours from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Tours are a favored mode of transport for tourists traveling from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. The times and schedules are set in stone, so it requires little to no planning, ideal when you want to remain in the laid-back vacation spirit.
Several tour companies operate on this route, departing from Chiang Mai between 7 AM and 8 AM and returning home around 8 PM to 9 PM. Many will even stop at landmarks along the journey. The downside is that you'll have to pay for a round trip, even if you want to stay overnight and appreciate the plethora of cultural attractions.
The tour lasts around 12 to 14 hours, and you can expect to pay between $65 and $100 (฿2240-฿2445).
Daytrip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
If you prioritize comfort, convenience, speed, or safety on your adventure from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, your search for a means of transportation ends with Daytrip. A private door-to-door service can transport you between the cities in a clean, sanitized vehicle with modern conveniences in only 3 hours and 20 minutes.
Daytrip is perfect if you're searching for a flexible service that lets you create your unique road trip without the headache of driving. Our optional sightseeing package allows you to explore sites en route, such as the elegant White Temple. Or you could visit the oasis at Botanical Tweechol while your professional driver waits outside and minds your suitcases!
- Seats from: $28 (฿965)
- English-speaking driver
- Flexible timetable
- Complimentary bottled water
- Equipped for kids, pets, groups, or those with limited mobility
- 24/7 customer support
- Free cancellation 24 hours before departing