How to Get from Chiang Mai to Pattaya
Fly nonstop from Chiang Mai to U-Tapao for Pattaya in about 1h 25m, or go by train and coach or private car. Compare times and prices.
Last updated: November 11, 2026
Contents
Trading the misty mountains of northern Thailand for the beaches of the Gulf of Thailand is a favourite change of scene. Chiang Mai is slow and cultural, Pattaya is beaches, seafood and neon nights. The journey south crosses the Lanna heartland, the central plains and the Eastern Seaboard.
Chiang Mai to Pattaya by Flight
Flying is the quickest way to reach the coast. Thai Lion Air, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways and Thai Vietjet fly nonstop from Chiang Mai (CNX) to U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport (UTP). The flight takes about 1 hour 25 minutes, and fares start at THB 2,018 (about $60).[1]
U-Tapao lies south of Pattaya, so allow time for the transfer to your hotel by taxi or shuttle.
Chiang Mai to Pattaya by Train and Coach
The Special Express DRC 8 leaves Chiang Mai at 07:30 and reaches Bangkok's Krung Thep Aphiwat station at 17:40.[2] Roong Reuang Coach sells coach tickets to Pattaya from Bangkok's Ekkamai and Mo Chit bus stations and from Suvarnabhumi Airport.[3] Plan for a full day of travel.
Chiang Mai to Pattaya by Private Transfer
A private car or van takes you from your hotel in Chiang Mai straight to your address in Pattaya, which suits groups, families and anyone with lots of luggage. On booking platforms, private vehicles cost from about $285 to $379 and the drive takes from about 11 hours 20 minutes (November 2026).[4]
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | From about $60[1] | About 1h 25m[1] | High |
| Private Transfer | $285 - $379[4] | From about 11h 20m[4] | Very High |
Tips for Traveling from Chiang Mai to Pattaya
- Book flights early: Nonstop flights to U-Tapao are fewer than the many flights to Bangkok. Book ahead in the cool season to get your preferred day.
- Know your Pattaya address: Pattaya is spread out. Jomtien is the quieter south end and Naklua the north end, so tell your driver or check the shuttle route.
- Prepare for the road: On the private transfer, pack water and snacks. Drivers will stop at the big fuel stations along the highway, which have clean restrooms and cafes.
Timetable
| Flight Chiang Mai - Pattaya $ 49.64 1h 30m | |
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| Taxi Chiang Mai - Pattaya $ 282.75–375.57 11h 20m – 12h | |
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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 Pattaya, including current prices and schedules.
A flight is usually the cheapest option, with fares from THB 2,018 (about $60) on AirAsia, much less than a private transfer.
Flying. The nonstop flight takes about 1 hour 25 minutes, against 11 hours or more by road.
A nonstop flight takes about 1 hour 25 minutes. A private transfer takes from about 11 hours 20 minutes.
Yes. Thai Lion Air, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways and Thai Vietjet fly from Chiang Mai to U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport, which avoids Bangkok.
It pays off for groups of up to 9 people or with a lot of luggage: you travel door to door and stop when you like.
Book flights a few weeks ahead, especially in the cool season, because direct flights to U-Tapao are limited.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] AirAsia: Cheap flights from Chiang Mai to Pattaya. Retrieved November 11, 2026.
- [2] State Railway of Thailand: SRT Timetable Matrix 2026: Northern Line inbound. Retrieved November 2, 2026.
- [3] Roong Reuang Coach: Buy Ticket: Search Route. Retrieved October 31, 2026.
- [4] 12Go: Chiang Mai - Pattaya timetable. Retrieved November 11, 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.