What is the cheapest way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

The overnight bus is typically cheapest — VIP buses depart from Mo Chit (Northern Bus Terminal) for 500–700 THB and arrive after approximately 9–10 hours. Budget airlines (AirAsia, Nok Air) frequently have sales with fares from 400–700 THB when booked in advance. The overnight train (second class sleeper) is around 600–900 THB and a comfortable option.

How long does the flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai take?

About 1 hour 10 minutes in the air. Adding airport transfer time (45–60 minutes each end), security, and boarding, door-to-door takes 4–5 hours total. Chiang Mai Airport is conveniently close to the city — 15 minutes by Grab.

Which train is best for Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Train 9 (departs Hua Lamphong at 18:00, arrives Chiang Mai at 07:15) is the most popular overnight service. Train 13 (departs 18:30) is also recommended. Book first or second class sleeper berths at least 2 weeks ahead through the State Railway of Thailand website (railway.co.th) or at Hua Lamphong station.

Is the overnight train to Chiang Mai comfortable?

Second class sleeper air-conditioned berths are comfortable for most travellers — you get a fold-down bed with pillow, blanket, and a curtain for privacy. First class has private two-berth cabins. The train journey is scenic and relaxed; arrive at Chiang Mai refreshed having slept. A dining car serves meals and snacks.

Can I take a bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Yes. Overnight VIP buses depart from Mo Chit (BTS Mo Chit, then walk or taxi) and Ekkamai bus terminals. The journey takes 9–10 hours. Good operators include Nakhonchai Air and Transport Co. VIP buses have reclining seats with good legroom; some have blankets and snacks. Arrive at Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal and take a songthaew or Grab into town.

How to Get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

The 700km journey north is one of Thailand's most popular routes, with multiple good options to suit every budget and schedule.

Quick Answer

What is the best way from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Fly if your time is limited and budget allows (1 hour, from 800 THB with budget airlines). Take the overnight train if you want a classic Thai travel experience and want to save a night's accommodation (9 hours, from 600 THB). Take the overnight bus for the cheapest option (9–10 hours, from 500 THB). Avoid daytime bus or minivan travel — 9 hours is long for a day journey.

Option 1: Fly

Multiple airlines serve the Bangkok–Chiang Mai route daily: Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and Thai Smile. Flights depart from both Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports. Budget airlines from Don Mueang have fares from 400–1,200 THB when booked in advance. Fare comparison on Google Flights or Skyscanner gives a full picture of options.

Best for: travellers on tight schedules, families with young children, those who struggle with overnight transport.

Option 2: Overnight Train

The overnight sleeper train from Hua Lamphong Station is a genuinely enjoyable way to travel. Trains depart in the early evening and arrive in Chiang Mai the following morning. The second class air-conditioned sleeper is comfortable and includes bedding. The dining car serves Thai food and cold drinks.

Book through railway.co.th at least 2 weeks in advance, especially for popular weekend trains. Second class sleeper costs 650–950 THB; first class (private cabin) is 1,200–1,600 THB.

Save on Accommodation

The overnight train and bus both arrive in Chiang Mai early morning, effectively covering a night's accommodation cost. Many budget travellers factor this into their decision — a 700 THB train ticket vs a 700 THB train ticket plus a 500 THB hostel bed for a daytime flight makes the overnight option significantly cheaper.

Option 3: Overnight Bus

Overnight VIP buses depart Mo Chit and Ekkamai bus terminals from around 17:00–21:00. Journey time is 9–10 hours depending on the route and stops. VIP class buses have wide reclining seats (some services have lie-flat seats). Nakhonchai Air is a popular well-regarded operator. Tickets can be bought at the terminal or through operators' websites. Arrive at Chiang Mai Arcade — take a red songthaew into town for 20–30 THB per person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Option 1: Fly

Best for: travellers on tight schedules, families with young children, those who struggle with overnight transport.

Option 2: Overnight Train

Book through railway.co.th at least 2 weeks in advance, especially for popular weekend trains. Second class sleeper costs 650–950 THB; first class (private cabin) is 1,200–1,600 THB.

Option 3: Overnight Bus

How to Get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

What is the best way from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Option 1: Fly

Option 2: Overnight Train

Option 3: Overnight Bus

Further reading

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

What is the best way from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

Option 1: Fly

Option 2: Overnight Train

Option 3: Overnight Bus

Further reading

Frequently Asked Questions