How to Get from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai
Contents
Leaving behind the towering stone faces of Bayon and the jungle-choked ruins of Angkor for the misty mountains of northern Thailand marks a transition from ancient imperial grandeur to the laid-back, creative pulse of the old Lanna Kingdom. The journey bridges the dusty plains of Cambodia and the cooler, teak-forested highlands of Thailand.
Flying is the practical way to travel between the two. The UK Foreign Office reports that land borders and crossings between Cambodia and Thailand remain suspended,[1] so the overland route through Poipet and Bangkok is not an option at the moment. You can compare flights and book through GoAsia.cc.
Siem Reap to Chiang Mai by Flight
The schedules on AirAsia's Siem Reap to Chiang Mai page show connecting itineraries via Bangkok, through Don Mueang or Suvarnabhumi, on Thai AirAsia, Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways.[2] In its sample for 9 November 2026, same-day journeys took from about 4 hours 50 minutes to just over 6 hours including the layover in Bangkok, while other itineraries had an overnight layover and took well over 13 hours.[2]
Connections and Self-Transfers
Some of the listed itineraries are marked as self-transfers, which means you are on separate tickets, must collect your bags in Bangkok and re-check them, and are not protected if the first flight is late.[2] Choose a single ticket with a comfortable layover where you can. Fares vary by airline and date, so compare current prices on the airlines' own sites.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Route | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Flight | One stop in Bangkok[2] | From about 4h 50min including the layover[2] |
| Overland | Not possible while the land border is suspended[1] | Not applicable |
Tips for Traveling from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai
- Check Visa Requirements: Check the entry rules for Thailand for your passport before you head to the airport. Many nationalities receive visa-exempt entry, but rules change.
- Airport Transfers: The Siem Reap Angkor International Airport is outside the city, so leave your hotel with plenty of time before your flight.
- Currency Exchange: US dollars are widely used in Siem Reap, but you will need Thai Baht in Chiang Mai. There are ATMs and exchange booths at the airport.
- Book in Advance: Flights fill up during the high season and around festivals such as Songkran and Loy Krathong. Booking early on GoAsia.cc helps secure a better fare.
- Arrival in Chiang Mai: The airport is close to the Old City. A fixed-price airport taxi or a ride-hailing app such as Grab are the easiest ways to your hotel.
Timetable
| Flight Siem Reap - Chiang Mai $ 65.70–421.25 2h 9m – 1days 4h 37m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai, including current prices and schedules.
Flying with a connection in Bangkok is the practical option while the land border is suspended. Fares vary by airline and date, so compare current prices and book early.
Flying is the fastest way. In the sample AirAsia shows for 9 November 2026, the quickest same-day journeys took from about 4 hours 50 minutes including a layover in Bangkok.
In AirAsia's sample for 9 November 2026, same-day connections took from about 4 hours 50 minutes to just over 6 hours, and itineraries with an overnight layover took well over 13 hours.
Flights depart from Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI), which lies outside the city, so plan extra time for the transfer from your hotel.
The schedules on AirAsia's route page show connecting itineraries via Bangkok. Check the airlines' own sites for any nonstop service before you book.
Not at the moment. The UK Foreign Office reports that land borders and crossings between Cambodia and Thailand remain suspended.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO): Cambodia travel advice: Warnings and insurance. Retrieved October 17, 2026.
- [2] AirAsia: Flights from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai. Retrieved October 18, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.