How to Get from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son
Compare the minivan and private transfer from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son, with the two Prempracha routes, prices and travel times for this mountain drive.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Contents
The journey from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son is one of the great mountain drives of Northern Thailand. The road climbs through winding passes and lush jungle into highlands where the air is cooler and the pace slows. Mae Hong Son sits in a quiet valley near the Myanmar border, with a lakeside town at its heart.
Leaving Chiang Mai behind, you soon climb into the clouds. Whether you choose a local minivan or a private car, the trip is a highlight of any northern itinerary, though anyone prone to motion sickness should prepare for the bends.
Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son by Bus
The public minivan is the most popular and cheapest way to tackle the mountain roads. Prempracha Transports runs two routes from Chiang Mai Arcade bus terminal: Route 612 via Pai and Pang Mapha, and Route 170 via Mae Sariang and Khun Yuam.[1] On booking platforms, tickets cost about $10 to $11 (October 2026), minivans leave several times a day from early morning to mid-afternoon, and the ride takes from about 6 hours.[2]
Space for large luggage is limited in a minivan, so travel light. If you are sensitive to motion, take a motion sickness tablet about 30 minutes before departure. You can book your seats on GoAsia.cc to secure your preferred departure.
What to Expect on the Minivan
The ride is famous for its views and its intensity. The road snakes through the mountains, with glimpses of deep valleys and forested ridges. Services stop at roadside stations along the way, where you can stretch your legs, use the restroom and grab a Thai snack or a coffee. Inside the van it is usually quiet, as passengers watch the scenery or try to nap through the turns.
Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son by Private Transfer
A private transfer is the comfortable option for families, small groups and photographers who want to stop at viewpoints the public vans pass by. On booking platforms, private cars cost about $147 to $290 (October 2026), depending on the vehicle, and the drive takes from about 3 hours, longer if you stop along the way.[2] You can choose from:
- Economy (2 passengers): A standard sedan for couples or solo travelers.
- SUV (4 passengers): A good choice for small families, with more power for the mountain climbs.
- Van and VIP Van (9 passengers): For larger groups, with plusher seats and more legroom in the VIP version.
The main advantage of a private car is control: you can ask the driver to adjust the air conditioning, pull over for a view or take a break when the bends start to wear on you.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (Minivan) | $10 - $11[2] | From 6h | Standard |
| Private Transfer (Economy/SUV) | $147 - $290[2] | From 3h | High |
| Private Van (9 passengers/VIP) | $147 - $290[2] | From 3h | Very High |
Tips for Traveling from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son
- Motion Sickness: Even if you do not usually get carsick, the bends can be a challenge. Bring ginger sweets or a remedy from the pharmacy.
- Book in Advance: In the cool season, minivans fill up with travelers heading to the mountains. Use GoAsia.cc to secure your tickets a few days ahead.
- Temperature Changes: Mae Hong Son is often cooler than Chiang Mai, especially at night and in the early morning. Keep a light jacket in your carry-on bag.
- Departure Point: Prempracha departures leave from Chiang Mai Arcade bus terminal. Check the route number and terminal on your booking, and arrive early to find your van and load your luggage.[1]
- Water and Snacks: Carry a bottle of water and a few snacks for the long stretches of mountain road where shops are scarce.
Timetable
| Bus Chiang Mai - Mae Hong Son $ 10.07โ11.25 6h โ 6h 5m | |
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| Taxi Chiang Mai - Mae Hong Son $ 146.56โ289.53 3h โ 7h | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son, including current prices and schedules.
The minivan is the cheapest option, at about $10 to $11 on booking platforms (October 2026). It runs several times a day through the mountain passes.
A private transfer is the fastest, from about 3 hours. Public minivans take from about 6 hours because of fixed routes and stops.
A private transfer takes from about 3 hours, longer if you stop along the way. The minivan takes from about 6 hours.
The road is paved but very winding. It can be physically taxing, so a professional driver in a minivan or private car is often easier than driving yourself if you are not used to mountain roads.
Yes, especially in the cool season when many travelers head north. Booking ahead secures your preferred departure time and vehicle type.
Yes. Minivans stop at roadside stations where you can find food, drinks and toilets. With a private transfer you can ask for stops whenever you like.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] Prempracha Transports: Stations and boarding points. Retrieved October 31, 2026.
- [2] 12Go: Chiang Mai - Mae Hong Son timetable. Retrieved October 31, 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.