Find out all you need to know about traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. From the best transport options, timetables, how to book tickets, what to expect, and more!
No doubt, Bangkok is the perfect starting point when you arrive in Thailand, and it’s easy enough from there to travel all around the country.
A must is the journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. It’s seriously a rite of passage when it comes to backpacking Southeast Asia.
However, getting there can take quite a lot of time, which means prepare for the fabulous (sarcasm) overnight journey. This is unless you’re willing to fork out money for a flight, something which we backpackers often can’t afford.
I have been lucky, or unlucky, enough to travel this route numerous times, allowing me to test each type of transportation.
My personal favorite and most popular is the overnight train, since you can still get a pretty decent night’s sleep. There are numerous departures daily, and it takes 13 to 14 hours, so splurging $25.00 for an AC sleeper is necessary!
Apart from the popular train journey, there is also an overnight bus. However, this can take a long time.
So, let’s break these down into different transport types to determine what is best for you.
How To Get From Bangkok To Chiang Mai: All Transport Options Explained
🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia 🚗
Need A Quick Answer?
If you perhaps don’t have time to read this entire guide on getting to Chiang Mai, no worries, here are my top tips:
The easiest & best way is taking a train: I recommend booking in advance for a seamless experience. Book now with 12Go Asia.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai: Top hostel choices for backpackers in Chiang Mai include The Common Hostel (dorms start from $13.00) and Stay With A Hug Poshtel (dorms start from $6.50)
For Foodies: Take a Chiang Mai cooking class with a market tour. Book now with GetYourGuide, which has over 900 positive reviews!
Best Chiang Mai Day Trip: A day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park is a must-do. Book here via GetYourGuide.
1. Book A Flight To Chiang Mai
So, if I’m honest, taking a flight is probably the easiest and quickest option. There are plenty of daily departures from Don Mueang Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Unfortunately, both these airports are quite far away from the popular backpacker hangout of Khao San Road. Then, if you add in the actual cost of getting to the airport, plus the flight itself, it can become very pricey.
Saying that, if you are short on time, flying is your best option.
Getting To Don Mueang Airport From Khao San Road
You’ll first need to get from the city to Don Mueang Airport, about 30 kilometers from the chaos of Khao San Road. Luckily, this is easy enough to do by bus.
Alternatively, you can just get a taxi or even use the Grab mobile app, which is my personal go to (make sure to get a Thailand sim card so you can use Grab!).
Don Mueang Airport is Bangkok’s no frills airport, so keep your expectations in check. This is where you’ll find the budget airlines like Air Asia, Thai Lion Air, and Nok Air.
Flights are pretty damn affording, costing around $50.00 (not including luggage). Thai Lion Air makes 10 return flights daily to Chiang Mai alone!
Getting To Suvarnabhumi Airport
If instead, you need to travel to Suvarnabhumi Airport, this is again 30km from Khao San Road, though in the other direction.
You can easily travel there by:
- Taxi
- Rail Link
- Grab
Suvarnabhumi Airport is for sure the nicer airport in Bangkok, and you’ll find Thai Airways and Bangkok Air fly to Chiang Mai Airport daily for around $100.00.
Just be aware that it costs, quite ridiculously, a lot more to fly from Suvarnabhumi, as the airlines are way nicer and thankfully include snacks and baggage.
Chiang Mai International Airport To Your Hotel
Once you arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport, you’ll need to get to your accommodation in the city center, 2km away.
If you’re staying anywhere fancy, chances are they’ll include a free transfer. Though, best to email them before arriving to confirm.
Alternatively, it’s crazy easy to get a tuk-tuk from the airport to the center for about $4.80 / 150 THB, just be aware you can’t fit many bags inside.
Otherwise, taxis are everywhere, and Grab cars are easy enough to book. However, personally, my favorite is booking a private transfer so there’s no hassle and someone’s waiting for me when I arrive.
2. Take An Overnight Train From Bangkok To Chiang Mai
No doubt the overnight train to Chiang Mai is a rite of passage when backpacking Southeast Asia, so if you’re feeling adventurous go ahead!
Just keep in mind it does take a while, at around 13 to 14 hours. Though slowly, they’ve been upgrading and getting new trains (at the moment, this is just trains #9 and #10).
You’ll depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station in Bangkok.
To get the 9km there, simply take a taxi or Grab car. No doubt there’ll be others heading that way as well, so split the fare and make new mates.
How To Book Your Train Tickets To Chiang Mai
Okay, I need you to look me in the eyes when I say this…
PLEASE BOOK TRAIN TICKETS IN ADVANCE
And if you want first class tickets, read that again in the voice of that one scary teacher from school.
No, but seriously, this is an insanely popular route that does sell out.
I recommend using 12.Go Asia to book your ticket as it’s just so straightforward. I’ll always use them in Southeast Asia, and I love how you can check out reviews before deciding which to book!
The main options for the overnight train to Chiang Mai are:
- First Class Ticket
- Second Class Ticket
The difference is that the first class shares a 2 berth cabin (so you’ll be with a stranger if traveling alone), and the second class has rows of bunks along the train carriage with privacy curtains.
If you’re on a budget, second class is your best bet, and you’ll see plenty of other backpackers on this journey.
Also, be aware that even though the top bunk is cheaper, it also means less space, which will be a problem if you’re tall.
For the second class, there is the option of an AC carriage or fan carriage. Prices start from $25.00 when booked through 12.Go Asia,
My Experience Taking The Overnight Train To Chiang Mai
On a recent trip to Thailand, I decided that if I survived the bus, I could do the Chiang Mai overnight sleeper train. We booked a 2nd class AC ticket, perfect if you’re on a bit of a budget.
Arriving at the station, our train was smack bang on time. Due to the crowds, walking down the pathway with our luggage was tight. However, soon enough, we found our spot on the right-hand side of the train.
My partner has the upper berth, and I have the lower. The beds are not set up yet, as it’s still quite early. Instead, we both sit on the lower berth, which is currently made into two seats facing each other with a table in the middle.
We have an easy dinner of snacks from 7/11 while we watch lights zip past and the bustle each time the train stops. Soon enough, we notice the train attendant making their way down the carriage, converting the seats into beds.
We head to the toilet to brush our teeth and get ready for bed. Surprisingly, the bathroom is extremely clean, even after a few hours into the journey (don’t worry, it’s still good in the morning).
Toilet paper and soap are always available, and the ground is even fairly dry (a rarity in bathrooms on this side of the world).
I don’t mind the rocking of the train while falling asleep. Though I prefer complete darkness, so having the main lights on all night isn’t the best.
There’s a curtain that provides privacy, but it is not thick enough to block out the light. My partner on the top bunk also says it was quite hot up there with the curtain shut.
We actually arrived in Chiang Mai 1 hour earlier than planned. I have read that this doesn’t often happen, and it’s more common to be delayed.
I would definitely do this journey again. However, if I were to want a decent night’s sleep, I would book a private 1st class cabin.
🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia 🚗
3. Book An Overnight Bus From Bangkok To Chiang Mai
Another good choice if you’re on a tight budget, is the bus. There are essentially two different bus options here: either the government bus or the ‘VIP’ / deluxe bus.
Both types of buses depart from Mo Chit Bus Terminal (the Northern Terminal) in Bangkok.
To get here from Khao San Road, it’s best to use a taxi or Grab car, which should cost around $8.00. Keep in mind, traffic can be pretty ridic, so best to head off a bit earlier.
You’ll arrive in Chiang Mai at the Arcade Bus Station. From here, you’ll easily be able to find plenty of public songthaews, which cost 20 THB per person. Though as a foreigner, you’ll likely be charged more (I was charged 50 THB).
Important tip: Be careful with your luggage on night buses in Southeast Asia. There’s a common scam where the bus assistant climbs into the luggage area during the night and goes through all the bags. Make sure to put all important items, such as cash, electronics, passports, etc, in your carry on bag. Also, it always helps to use a padlock just as a deterrent.
Booking Your Bus Ticket
Tickets prices generally range from $15.00 to $25.00 / 500 – 800 THB, depending on the type of bus you decide.
Now, it’s worth noting that the government bus is the cheaper option. Though for good reason. Basically, it’ll make stops in every other town for passengers. It also takes longer, being at least 12 hours.
In contrast, the so called ‘VIP’ buses are a more comfortable direct journey with a couple of food/toilet breaks along the way. Generally, they are a bit more spacious, allowing for a slightly more comfortable journey.
Just be aware of the fake ‘VIP’ bus tickets sold on Khao San Road by many travel agencies. Book through a reliable website such as 12.Go Asia, where you can check reviews and find out what is included.
My Experience Taking The Bus To Chiang Mai
As I’m a creature of habit, of course I booked my ticket over on 12.Go Asia. I can report it was easy as to collect the ticket from the station 1 hour before the bus departed.
I’d been searching the web and found this overnight ticket about a week prior for $16.75 / 558 THB. This did mean a little bit of a wait around after check out from my hostel.
Lined up at the departure time, the bus attendant put my main bag underneath the bus. Then I wandered up to my aisle seat on the second story, next to a local Thai gentleman.
The chairs are fairly roomy, and there was plenty of extra space. Perfect since I don’t like I am being squished into a stranger. There is also a decent recline, thank god.
Luckily for me, there’s no noisy music playing or TV with local movies. This is a super common thing on buses in Asia.
We stop a couple of times during the night for a toilet break and your average 1 am ‘dinner’ break. There’s a toilet on board, and we were also surprisingly given a drink and snacks at the start.
I think for the price, the bus is amazing value for money, especially considering all the little extras.
4. Splash Out On A Taxi
I seriously don’t know why, maybe you’re keen on some freedom and have some Baht to burn, then go hire a taxi.
Essentially, the bonus is you’ll be able to leave your hotel at any time of the day and arrive whenever you whenever in Chiang Mai.
It’ll be a bit quicker than a bus as well, generally taking around 9 hours. In terms of price, a 9 seater Toyota Commuter taxi will cost about $400.00 with a driver. If you’re keen on something smaller, a 4 seater will set you back around $300.00.
If you are traveling in a group in Southeast Asia, this could work out kind of affordable, maybe. Honestly, just book a flight, bus, or train.
Where To Stay In Chiang Mai?
Honestly, just stay within the Old City when you are in Chiang Mai. This is definitely the best location for a short period, or if this is your first time visiting.
On my most recent trip, I stayed at Moon Dragon Hotel right in the heart of Old City. The rooms were super clean and modern, and bonus, there’s a pool to chill in!
The location is pretty damn good too. You can walk to tons of pretty temples, great shops, yummy food spots, and the famous Sunday Night Market, of course.
For all those sweet things to do here, check out my 3 days in Chiang Mai itinerary!
A modern and upscale hostel. From $13.00 per night including a fab breakfast. BOOK NOW |
Chiangmai Midpoint Activity Hostel A favorite with travelers. A hostel with all the amenities, from $6.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
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My favorite place to stay right in the heart of the city. Private rooms start from $45.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12Go Asia 🚗
Things To Do In Chiang Mai
Now there are so many things to do in Chiang Mai worth checking out:
Elephant Sanctuary: One of the most popular things to do here is to visit one of the elephant sanctuaries. There are so many to choose from, but you’ll want to book somewhere ethical. I recommend checking out my post on the best ethical elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai.
Cooking Class: Chiang Mai is just one of those cities where you need to take a cooking class. I had a blast at my vegetarian cooking class with Arom Dii! It was nice and chill since it was just us and one other couple.
Night Market: I absolutely love the Sunday night market in Chiang Mai. They’re always a delicious foodie experience with great souvenir shopping. There are so many stalls here! I literally work my itinerary around making sure I’m here on a Sunday night.
Temple Hopping: The Old Town in Chiang Mai is covered in incredible temples. A quick map search will show you just how many. I really like Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Chiang Man, and Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan.
FAQs About How To Travel To Chiang Mai From Bangkok
What is the best way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
If you’re short on time, the best way to get to Chiang Mai is flying. However, if you aren’t in a rush, take the overnight sleeper train for an authentic experience.
Is the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai worth it?
I love taking the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. It’s a great experience and you’ll have a comfortable sleep. Plus, you’ll save on a night’s accommodation.
Round Up: What Is The Best Way To Travel From Bangkok To Chiang Mai?
No doubt, hopefully you now see how many choices you have when traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
No matter if you’re honeymooning in Bangkok, backpacking around Khao Sam Roi Yot‘s beaches, or just chilling out, you gotta take that overnight trip up North.
Pick your ride, bus, train, plane, or even a private taxi, just don’t forget the snacks!
LIKE IT? PIN IT!
Want more Thailand Inspiration? Check out….
- 3 WEEKS IN THAILAND ITINERARY
- COST TO TRAVEL THAILAND & MY BUDGET
- BACKPACKING THAILAND TRAVEL TIPS
- SLEEPER TRAIN FROM BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI
- ALL WAYS TO TRAVEL BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI EXPLAINED
- BACKPACKING BANGKOK TRAVEL TIPS
- BANGKOK TO KOH TAO TRANSPORT GUIDE
- DAY TRIP TO AYUTTHAYA FROM BANGKOK
- 2 DAYS IN BANGKOK ITINERARY
- BEST HOSTELS ON KHAO SAN ROAD
- TRANSPORT GUIDE: KHAO SAN ROAD TO SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT
- TRANSPORT GUIDE: KHAO SAN ROAD TO DON MUEANG AIRPORT
- CAMBODIA TO THAILAND: HOW TO TRAVEL SIEM REAP TO BANGKOK
- THAILAND TO LAOS BORDER CROSSING
- BEST HOSTELS IN CHIANG MAI
- CHIANG MAI TO LUANG PRABANG TRANSPORT GUIDE
- ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE WITH ELEPHANT NATURE PARK IN CHIANG MAI, THAILAND
- A NIGHT AT THE CHIANG MAI SUNDAY MARKETS, THAILAND
- CHIANG MAI AIRPORT TO OLD TOWN
- BEST AND MOST ETHICAL ELEPHANT SANCTUARIES IN CHIANG MAI
- BACKPACKING CHIANG MAI TRAVEL TIPS
- 3 DAYS IN CHIANG MAI ITINERARY
- BEST CHEAP EATS IN CHIANG MAI
- BEST COOKING CLASSES IN CHIANG MAI FOR VEGETARIANS
- VISITING THE WHITE TEMPLE IN CHIANG RAI
- BACKPACKING KOH PHANGAN TRAVEL TIPS
- AWESOME BEACHES IN KOH PHANGAN
- THE BEST KOH TAO SNORKELING TOURS
- VISITING KOH NANG YUAN
- BACKPACKING KOH TAO TRAVEL TIPS
- TAKING THE FERRY FROM KOH PHANGAN TO KOH TAO
- KRABI TO KOH PHI PHI TRANSPORT GUIDE
- HOW TO GET FROM AO NANG TO RAILAY BEACH
- BACKPACKING KOH PHI PHI TRAVEL TIPS
- KOH PHI PHI VIEWPOINT HIKE TIPS
- TRANSPORT GUIDE: PHUKET TO KOH LANTA
- BACKPACKING KOH LANTA TRAVEL TIPS
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Interesting post, last time when i travelled from Chiang Mai to Bangkok I also booked it on 12go.
I did this train journey in 2013 and I’m so glad I did it that way! I did my research beforehand and decided that overland was the best way. The sunrise from the back of the train was to die for… most definitely go 1st class!
Heaps of options!!! I have been to Suvarnabhumi airport and I don’t think I’m ever going to be able to pronounce it haha. The buses look nice! Good tip about padlocks!!
Super comprehensive list! I have only taken the plane but thought the train would be nice to do one day to see more of the scenery. Taxi is something I wouldn’t have thought of! Thanks!
I wish I had seen this last year, before our trip! We initially considered the night train for the experience, but I found the information about taking it so intransparent… We ended up splurging on a flight, which was super comfy and by far the quickest way to do it! We only had a short time in Thailand, so it was time over cost efficiency ;)
I just discussed a trip to Chiang Mai with some friends yesterday and this guide comes in really handy. Thank you so much!
Great overview! I think that with trains, it can always be a gamble not knowing who you share a cabin with, maybe they’ll be your new friend or just plain creeps or no bother at all. I definitely prefer flying anywhere longer than 5 hours by car/bus. Can’t wait to visit Chiang Mai one day!
Good tip about the night thieves. We’ll be in SEA later this year.
I wish I had taken a plane instead of the overnight train! I am not a budget traveler, but I thought sleeping on a train would be fun. (I should note I have a bug phobia) Before we even left the station, a cockroach came crawling into my cabin. I didn’t sleep a wink. On the bright side, I was traveling solo and had the whole sleeping cabin to myself. Although, I wanted to sleep in the top bunk, away from the cockroaches, haha, and the attendant wouldn’t make up the top bed for me, insisting that I use the bottom bunk. It was a loooong night!
I had no idea it was so easy to book buses, tuktuks etc. with an app now! It sounds like that would make your journey much less stressful
Your photos are always so beautiful Tasha! I love the way you can make the madness in front of the train, and the inside of a bus look so good! :)
You have such skills.
This type of post is so helpful! It’s what I look for every time I’m about to travel somewhere new, because I’m the type of person who likes to plan my entire route in advance (then I wing it once I arrive at my destination).Thank you for being so detailed! I love the idea of the train and would probably pick that as my option. :)
SUCH a useful post – we’re currently in Australia but keen to backpack Asia next and find the info quite overwhelming but this is so factual yet not bombarding with info! Your photography is stunning, making me want to go to Thailand even more now!
I did not know trains were that cheap! $25 for a sleeper coach is a great deal. I am certainly gonna look up this option the next time I am in Bangkok. Very informative post.
Yes I think it’s the best way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Wow, train prices can be just $25?! I had no idea though I wouldn’t want to spend 13-14 hours on a train. Thanks for doing the research on the various options for us.
Yeah it’s super cheap especially for such a long journey. Though it’s super comfortable so time flies
When we were traveling from Chiang Mai to Bangkok we took a night bus because train tickets were sold out. I wish we took a day train instead, perhaps could see a lit bit of a scenery. Great post! I had no idea how much taxi cost. $300 for that long drive is not bad at all.
Yeah I’ve done the overnight bus as well. Though next time I’ll definitely be doing the train!
I did the flight but probably because I was lazy and didn’t research the other options. I think the bus and train both are doable and would have saved me money.
When I took the sleeper train just 6 years ago, we had to physically get to the station to buy tickets (first come first serve) – we didn’t have the luxury of buying tickets online! I’m glad it’s become more convenient these days ;-) Oh, the good ol’ days! I miss Thailand so much!!
So many options! Who knew?! Love this post and your site in general. I’m a big fan of a girl chasing her dreams.
Thanks for all the transport tips – I’m now hungry to get back to Thailand! :)
This was a fun read. In 1999 I tried to take a tuk-tuk from Khao San Road to the airport. That didn’t work well at all! I also took the train to Chiang Mai and back. Fun to remember my adventures.
I had no idea there were so many options! Lots of great tips and advice here.