How to Get from Phuket to Chiang Mai
Compare flights, the VIP bus and private transfers from Phuket to Chiang Mai, with fares, travel times and airport arrival tips.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Contents
Trading the turquoise Andaman Sea for the misty hills of Northern Thailand is a big shift in any itinerary. Phuket is all salt air and limestone karsts; Chiang Mai offers old teak temples, night markets and a cooler highland climate. The journey spans almost the whole length of the country, from southern beach culture to the Lanna traditions of the north.
With that distance, the real choice is between a direct flight and a very long road trip. Compare the options and book through GoAsia.cc to secure your seat well in advance.
Phuket to Chiang Mai by Flight
Flying is by far the most popular way to bridge the gap, and it saves you a whole day compared with the road. Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, Thai Vietjet, Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways fly non-stop from Phuket (HKT) to Chiang Mai (CNX). The flight takes around 1 hour 55 minutes, and fares start at THB 2,281 (about $68).[1]
Departures run from early morning to evening. On a sample day in November, Thai Vietjet flies at 07:50 and 13:25, and Thai AirAsia at 09:00, 10:35 and 18:55.[1] Fares rise sharply around public holidays, so book early if you travel at New Year.
Phuket to Chiang Mai by Private Transfer
A private transfer gives you door-to-door service and your own schedule, which suits families and groups. It is a very long drive, though, and a trip of this length is worth treating as a road trip through the heart of Thailand.
Vehicle Classes and Comfort
You can book Economy or Comfort cars for up to 3 passengers, a Business sedan, a Mercedes S Class or a Premium Alphard, and 9-seat VIP vans for larger groups. On booking platforms, prices vary widely by vehicle class and reach about $620 for luxury vans (October 2026). Expect to be on the road for around 20 hours or more, longer with stops and traffic.[2]
Phuket to Chiang Mai by Bus
A VIP bus runs the full distance overnight. On booking platforms, a seat costs about $63 (October 2026), the bus leaves at 13:00 and the journey takes about 24 hours.[2] Comfortable reclining seats and the passing countryside make it a real overland adventure, but you give up a full day.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | From about $68[1] | About 2h | High |
| Private Transfer | Varies by vehicle, up to about $620[2] | About 20h or more | Luxury |
| VIP Bus | About $63[2] | About 24h | Medium |
Tips for Traveling from Phuket to Chiang Mai
- Book Flights Early: This is a busy route, and prices climb close to departure and at holiday peaks. Book a few weeks ahead for the lowest fares.
- Pack for the Cooler North: Chiang Mai is noticeably cooler than Phuket, especially in the evenings and in the cool season. Keep a light jacket in your carry-on.
- Luggage: Low-cost carriers set strict limits on cabin bags, and hand luggage on AirAsia must not exceed 7 kg. If you carry heavy souvenirs, add checked baggage when you book.[1]
- Arrival in Chiang Mai: At CNX, flat-rate taxis leave from Entrance 1 of the main terminal on floor 1, and airport shuttle buses to the Old City area cost 40 baht.[3]
Timetable
| Flight Phuket - Chiang Mai $ 40.36โ134.84 1h 55m โ 1days 4h 39m | |
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| Bus Phuket - Chiang Mai $ 62.79 1days 35m | |
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| Taxi Phuket - Chiang Mai $ 33.93โ619.62 2h โ 21h | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Phuket to Chiang Mai, including current prices and schedules.
A flight is usually the cheapest, with fares from THB 2,281 (about $68) when booked in advance. The VIP bus costs about $63 on booking platforms (October 2026) but takes about 24 hours.
A non-stop flight is the fastest, at around 1 hour 55 minutes. No road transport comes close.
A non-stop flight takes around 2 hours. The VIP bus takes about 24 hours, and a private car around 20 hours or more.
Yes. Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, Thai Vietjet, Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways fly non-stop between Phuket and Chiang Mai, with departures from early morning to evening.
Fly. The flight takes about 2 hours against about 24 hours by bus, and the fare is often similar to the bus ticket.
Phuket is tropical and humid, while Chiang Mai can be quite cool, especially at night or in the mountains around Doi Inthanon. Pack layers so you can adjust when you arrive in the north.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] AirAsia: Cheap Flights from Phuket to Chiang Mai. Retrieved October 31, 2026.
- [2] 12Go: Phuket - Chiang Mai timetable. Retrieved October 31, 2026.
- [3] Airports of Thailand (Chiang Mai International Airport): Airport Taxi and Airport Shuttle Bus - Chiang Mai International Airport. Retrieved October 20, 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.