Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Chiang Rai
Chiang Mai
Wed, Mar 19
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Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Schedule

TypeOperatorClassDeparture TimeArrival TimePriceRating
Taxi
Firstplan Transport Services
Economy 3pax
Any time
+3h 30m
$97.94
  5.0
Bus
GreenBus
Express
07:00
10:45
$6.41
  4.3
Bus
GreenBus
Express
07:30
11:15
$6.41
  4.3
Bus
GreenBus
VIP
08:00
11:20
$9.65
  4.5
Flight
Thai Vietjet
Economy
08:25
13:35
$153.23
Bus
GreenBus
Express
08:45
13:55
$7.86
  5.0
Bus
GreenBus
Express
09:30
16:05
$9.35
  4.3
Flight
Thai AirAsia
Economy
09:55
14:35
$91.10
Flight
Thai Airways
Economy
10:15
16:25
$77.17
Bus
GreenBus
VIP
10:45
14:05
$9.65
  4.5
Bus
GreenBus
Express
11:15
15:00
$6.41
  4.3
Bus
GreenBus
Express
11:45
15:30
$6.41
  4.3
Bus
GreenBus
Express
12:15
16:00
$6.41
  4.3
Bus
GreenBus
Express
12:45
16:30
$6.41
  4.3
Bus
GreenBus
Express Combo
13:10
16:10
$6.41
  4.0
Bus
GreenBus
Express
13:30
17:15
$6.41
  4.3
Flight
Thai AirAsia
Economy
13:55
18:20
$138.88
Bus
GreenBus
Express
14:15
18:00
$6.41
  4.3
Bus
GreenBus
Express
14:45
18:30
$6.41
  4.3
Bus
GreenBus
Express
15:15
19:00
$6.41
  4.3

Can you drink the water in Chiang Mai?

Drinking tap water in Chiang Mai is not recommended due to potential contamination and varying water treatment standards. Most locals and visitors rely on bottled or filtered water, which is widely available and affordable. To reduce waste, consider using refill stations found throughout the city for purified water. In restaurants, always confirm whether the water provided is safe for drinking. Boiling tap water can make it safe, but it may still have a taste that some find unpleasant. Additionally, when brushing teeth or washing fruits and vegetables, many prefer to use bottled or filtered water to minimize risks. Staying hydrated is important in Chiang Mai’s tropical climate, so keep clean water accessible at all times.

Is Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai better for tourists?

Choosing between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai depends on your travel preferences, as each offers unique attractions.
  • Chiang Mai: Known for its bustling city vibe, it features famous temples like Wat Phra Singh, markets, and a mix of historical and modern attractions. The city also serves as a hub for trekking and cultural activities like cooking classes.
  • Chiang Rai: A quieter destination, it boasts iconic landmarks such as the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Blue Temple, alongside a serene atmosphere. It’s ideal for those seeking a more relaxed experience or nature-focused trips.
Both cities provide rich cultural experiences, but Chiang Mai is better suited for diverse activities, while Chiang Rai offers tranquility and unique artistic landmarks.

Is Chiang Mai fun for non drinkers?

Yes, Chiang Mai is enjoyable for non-drinkers due to its wide range of activities beyond nightlife. Explore historical sites like Wat Chedi Luang and Doi Suthep, or immerse yourself in local culture at cooking classes and handicraft workshops. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Elephant Nature Park or trek in the surrounding mountains. The city’s numerous cafes and tea houses provide cozy spaces for relaxation and socializing, while night markets like the Sunday Walking Street offer shopping and street food experiences. Chiang Mai’s festivals, such as Yi Peng (Lantern Festival), are also highlights that don’t involve alcohol. For wellness seekers, yoga studios, meditation retreats, and spa treatments abound. Whether you prefer cultural, nature-based, or wellness activities, the city caters to a variety of interests.

Transportation from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Facts about the transport from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Cheapest Transport$8
Fastest Transport1h 20m
Earliest Departure7:30 AM
Latest Departure6:00 PM
Departures per day219
Distance67 kilometers
Transport CompaniesAEC 168 Transport and Travel, BangkokTaxi24, Firstplan Transport Services, Freedom Tour Taxi Service, Glassflower, Go2Trip, GreenBus, Jed Yord, Kanokwan Travel, Lanna Expert Driver, Smart En Plus, Thai AirAsia, Thai Airways, Than Car Service

Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Destination Reviews

JS
The bathroom was disgusting. It should have been cleaned before we boarded.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus VIP, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Mar 3, 2025
O
smooth and fast
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus VIP, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Feb 12, 2025
PE
VIP bus had our seats reserved as chosen. Seats are wide and allow to recline, with foot rest. Comfortable ride overall. The bus departed exactly on time. The AC is strong so I recommend light long sleeve available. One small water bottle provided per seat.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus VIP, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Feb 5, 2025
AP
It was good service, punctual and they also offered us snacks and water. Only thing to complain about: this was the only bus I have taken in Thailand without a USB port which was a bit annoying, after a whole day of tourism my phone battery died but that’s alright.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus VIP, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jan 25, 2025
RA
The ride was totally satisfying, although I didn‘t take the VIP Bus. The annoying thing was that I paid for an insurance I didn‘t want and the fare was unexpectedly higher than I thought. I feel tricked.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jan 25, 2025
AL
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. Bus was comfortable, got seats next to each other, staff seemed organised. Lost 1 star because left around 20 mins late and a fair few mosquitos on the bus. Stopped once for 10 minutes. Would book with this company again.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jan 21, 2025
GF
Everything was good
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jan 18, 2025
ED
The bus broke down, we had to walk on the highway
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jan 16, 2025
MB
Great - on time and water / a snack provided.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus VIP, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jan 14, 2025
MG
Bus super old and bumpy
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jan 10, 2025
4.4
2588 customer reviews
5
54%
4
29%
3
12%
2
5%
1
0%

How to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

When you want to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, you have a few options to consider. Traveling between these destinations is possible by different means of transport:

  • Flight
  • Bus
  • Taxi

If you’re looking for a quick trip, it’s recommended that you use Taxi. However, if you’d rather take your time with a slower, more affordable travel option, you can book a Flight ticket.

The cost of travel will depend on the means of transport you choose for your trip. A taxi ticket is the most expensive option - it will cost you about USD 240.15. If you want to save on transportation, it’s better to take a bus as a bus ticket costs as low as USD 7.35.

How far is Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai?

If you’re traveling by land, it’s important to know the distance from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. Your trip will be a total of 42 miles (67 km). The flying distance is 42 miles (67 km).

How long does it take to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai?

The travel time from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai can vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. All things considered, the whole journey should take from 2 to 26 hours.

How much does it cost to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai?

The cost of the trip from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai varies according to what means of transport you choose for your journey. The most affordable operator is GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)): travelling by bus expect to pay as low as USD 7.35 for your ticket.

However, if you’re after more upscale travel . The most expensive variant is to opt for a taxi - a one-way taxi ticket can cost as much as USD 240.15.

Here is a chart of the average ticket prices and transportation options available from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai:

  • Bus tickets - USD 7.35 to USD 14.19;
  • flight price: USD 132.70 - USD 194.16. From Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai starting from 08:50 Chiang Rai Airport until 16:10 Chiang Rai Airport

You can order a taxi, too - an estimated cost of the ride is from USD 51.10 to USD 240.16.

How many trips per day are there between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai?

Depending on your choice of transportation, the number of daily trips varies.

  • 26 by flight from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai starting from 08:50 Chiang Rai Airport until 16:10 Chiang Rai Airport
  • Buses start plying the route from 07:30 - you can also take a bus as late as 18:00. There are 22 available bus trips every day.
  • Taxis are a good option to consider for this route, too. Book a cab to take you from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai any time of the day.

Which means of transport is the best for the route?

Buses

Taking a bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is cheaper than flying. Quite often, a long-distance bus is the cheapest transportation option. Buses normally make bathroom and/or lunch stops along the way.

Things to remember before opting for a bus ride:

  • If possible, make sure to choose higher-class buses for a more comfortable travel experience. Such buses often have an air conditioning system, soft reclining seats, Wi-Fi, bathrooms, etc.
  • As with plane tickets, buses are better booked in advance so that you can secure a good seat.
  • While booking a bus, keep in mind that delays are possible. Yet it still pays to get to the bus station at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure.

Taxi

Catching a cab is the easiest way to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. It allows you to tailor-make your trip, plan all the detours and see all the places you want. You can choose the type and the size of your car as well to be as comfortable as you'd like to.

Depending on the route, it might cost as much as USD 51.10.

Things to remember: It's a good idea to follow the route on Google Maps or any other GPS navigator..

The most popular transport from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

How to choose the most convenient way of travel from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai? In order to make your choice of transportation easier, we asked 1000 users to range their preferences for this route. Here are the results of the poll:

  • 80% decided to go for a bus.
  • 14% chosen flight
  • 6% decided to catch a taxi.