Chiang Rai, located in northern Thailand, is famous for its White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), stunning landscapes, and rich Lanna culture. Situated 785 km (488 miles) north of Bangkok, Chiang Rai is accessible by flight, bus, train (via Chiang Mai), or private car. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.
Overview of Travel Options
Here are the main ways to get from Bangkok to Chiang Rai:
- By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Bus: The most affordable and direct land option.
- By Train + Bus (Via Chiang Mai): A scenic but longer journey.
- By Private Car or Taxi: The most flexible but time-consuming choice.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Rai.
Timetable
| Flight Bangkok - Chiang Rai ฿ 2,005–3,533 1h 25m – 1h 30m | |
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| Bus Bangkok - Chiang Rai ฿ 712–1,282 11h – 21h 35m | |
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| Taxi Bangkok - Chiang Rai ฿ 9,108–18,722 10h 30m – 11h 25m | |
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| Flight Don Mueang Airport - Chiang Rai ฿ 1,995–2,295 1h 15m – 1h 25m | |
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| Taxi Don Mueang Airport - Chiang Rai ฿ 11,880–13,200 11h 10m | |
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| Bus Bangkok - Mae Sai ฿ 765–1,195 12h – 22h 5m | |
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| Taxi Suvarnabhumi Airport - Chiang Rai ฿ 10,890–22,000 11h – 11h 35m | |
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By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Taking a direct flight from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is the quickest and easiest way to reach northern Thailand.
Key Details:
- Departure Airports:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – Full-service airlines.
- Don Mueang Airport (DMK) – Budget airlines.
- Arrival Airport: Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI).
- Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Price: 900–3,500 THB (~$25–$100 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
- Airlines:
- Thai Airways (full-service airline).
- Bangkok Airways (premium option).
- Thai VietJet Air, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, AirAsia (budget airlines).
- Flight Frequency: Over 20 daily flights from morning to evening.
Airport Transfer from Chiang Rai Airport to City Center
- Taxi: 15 minutes,
200 THB ($6 USD). - Grab (Ride-Hailing App): Similar pricing to taxis.
- Public Bus: 20–30 minutes,
20 THB ($0.60 USD).
Pros:
- Fastest way to reach Chiang Rai.
- Multiple flights available throughout the day.
- Affordable options with budget airlines.
Cons:
- Requires airport transfers in both Bangkok and Chiang Rai.
- Checked baggage fees apply on budget airlines.
Booking Tip:
For the best fares, book flights at least 2–4 weeks in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.
By Bus: The Most Affordable and Direct Land Option
For budget-conscious travelers, taking a bus from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes significantly longer than flying.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Bangkok Northern Bus Terminal).
- Some VIP buses offer hotel pickup in central Bangkok.
- Arrival Points:
- Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 (city center, near Night Bazaar).
- Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 (5 km outside town, used by some operators).
- Duration: 10 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
- Price: 500–1,200 THB (~$15–$35 USD).
- Bus Operators:
- Green Bus Thailand (most reliable and comfortable).
- Nakhonchai Air (good VIP bus service).
- Sombat Tour (popular for sleeper buses).
- Bus Types:
- VIP24 Buses (Luxury, only 24 seats, large reclining seats).
- First-Class Sleeper Buses (Reclining seats, blankets, meals included).
- Standard Buses (Cheaper, less comfortable).
- Departure Frequency: Hourly departures from morning to evening.
Pros:
- Cheaper than flights.
- VIP buses provide comfortable sleeper seats.
- Overnight buses save on accommodation costs.
Cons:
- Takes much longer than flying (10+ hours).
- Seats may be uncomfortable for very tall passengers.
Booking Tip:
For best comfort, choose a VIP sleeper bus. Use our online search form to compare schedules and book your ticket.
By Train + Bus (Via Chiang Mai): A Scenic but Longer Journey
There is no direct train from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, but you can take a train to Chiang Mai and then a bus to Chiang Rai.
Step 1: Take a Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- Departure Station: Bangkok Hua Lamphong Station (until mid-2024) or Krung Thep Aphiwat Station.
- Arrival Station: Chiang Mai Railway Station.
- Duration: 11 to 14 hours.
- Price:
- 1st Class Sleeper (Private Cabin): 1,500–2,000 THB (~$45–$60 USD).
- 2nd Class Sleeper (A/C): 900–1,200 THB (~$30–$40 USD).
- 3rd Class Seat: 250–400 THB (~$7–$12 USD).
- Recommended Trains:
- Special Express #9 (Best Sleeper Train, newest, most comfortable).
- Express #7 (Fastest daytime train, ~10 hours).
- Rapid #109, #13 (Cheaper, slower overnight trains).
Step 2: Take a Bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
- Bus Operator: Green Bus Thailand.
- Departure Point: Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal.
- Arrival Point: Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1.
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours.
- Price: 250–400 THB (~$7–$12 USD).
Total Duration: 14 to 18 hours.
Total Price: 1,200–2,500 THB (~$35–$75 USD).
Pros:
- Scenic train journey through northern Thailand.
- Sleeper cabins allow you to rest overnight.
Cons:
- Requires a transfer in Chiang Mai.
- Takes longer than direct bus or flight.
Booking Tip:
For the best experience, book a first-class sleeper on Special Express #9. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.
By Private Car or Taxi: The Most Flexible but Time-Consuming Choice
For travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is an option.
Key Details:
- Route: Bangkok → Chiang Rai via Highway 1.
- Distance: 785 km (488 miles).
- Duration: 10 to 12 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: 8,000–15,000 THB (~$250–$450 USD), depending on vehicle type.
- Taxi & Private Car Services:
- GrabCar.
- Private transfer companies.
Booking Tip:
For lower fares, book your taxi or private car in advance using our online search form.
