Pai, a small mountain town in northern Thailand, is known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and vibrant backpacker scene. Located about 850 kilometers north of Bangkok, Pai is a popular destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, waterfalls, and scenic valleys. Getting to Pai from Bangkok involves a combination of transport options, and this guide covers all of them, including travel times, costs, and 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 Pai:
- By Flight and Minivan: The fastest and most efficient option.
- By Bus and Minivan: A budget-friendly choice for overland travel.
- By Train and Minivan: A scenic route combining train and minivan travel.
- By Private Car or Taxi: The most flexible option for personalized travel.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best one for your journey from Bangkok to Pai.
Timetable
| Taxi Bangkok - Pai ฿ 13,125–20,900 12h – 14h | |
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| Taxi Suvarnabhumi Airport - Pai ฿ 14,960–17,765 14h | |
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| Taxi Don Mueang Airport - Pai ฿ 14,960–17,765 14h | |
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| Flight Bangkok - Chiang Mai ฿ 1,660–6,290 1h 15m – 6h | |
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| Bus Bangkok - Chiang Mai ฿ 651–1,016 8h 55m – 17h 21m | |
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| Taxi Bangkok - Chiang Mai ฿ 9,614–16,091 8h – 10h | |
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| Train Bangkok - Chiang Mai ฿ 278–1,138 10h 10m – 13h 50m | |
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| Flight Don Mueang Airport - Chiang Mai ฿ 1,377–2,185 1h 10m – 1h 20m | |
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| Taxi Don Mueang Airport - Chiang Mai ฿ 9,900–14,960 8h – 9h 25m | |
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| Taxi Suvarnabhumi Airport - Chiang Mai ฿ 8,800–24,024 9h – 10h | |
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By Flight and Minivan: The Fastest and Most Efficient Option
The quickest way to get from Bangkok to Pai is by flying from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, followed by a minivan ride to Pai. This combination reduces travel time significantly and provides a more comfortable experience.
Key Details:
- Step 1: Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
- Airports: Flights depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK) and arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
- Flight Duration: The flight takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Price Range: Flights typically range from 800 to 3,000 THB (~$25 to $90 USD), depending on the airline and booking time.
- Airlines: Popular airlines include Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, AirAsia, and Nok Air.
- Step 2: Take a Minivan from Chiang Mai to Pai.
- Departure Point: Minivans depart from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station.
- Duration: The minivan ride takes about 3 to 4 hours and includes over 762 winding turns through the mountains.
- Price Range: Minivan tickets cost around 150 to 300 THB (~$5 to $10 USD).
- Minivan Services: Popular services include Prempracha Transport and Aya Service.
Pros:
- The fastest option, combining a short flight and minivan ride.
- Multiple daily flights and frequent minivan departures.
- Convenient and ideal for travelers short on time.
Cons:
- More expensive than other options.
- The mountain road to Pai can be winding and may cause motion sickness.
Booking Tip:
It’s recommended to book your flight and minivan tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Use our online search form to compare flight and minivan schedules and secure your tickets.
By Bus and Minivan: The Budget-Friendly Overland Option
For budget travelers, taking a bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and then a minivan to Pai is a cost-effective way to make the journey. While this option takes longer, it is a great way to save money.
Key Details:
- Step 1: Take a Bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
- Departure Point: Buses depart from Mo Chit Bus Terminal in Bangkok.
- Arrival Point: Buses arrive at Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal.
- Duration: The bus ride takes about 9 to 12 hours, depending on the type of bus and road conditions.
- Price Range: Bus tickets cost between 400 to 900 THB (~$12 to $30 USD), depending on the class (VIP, first, or second class).
- Bus Services: Companies such as GreenBus and Sombat Tour offer comfortable, air-conditioned buses with reclining seats.
- Step 2: Take a Minivan from Chiang Mai to Pai.
- Duration: The minivan ride takes about 3 to 4 hours.
- Price Range: Minivan tickets cost around 150 to 300 THB (~$5 to $10 USD).
Pros:
- A budget-friendly option for those looking to save money.
- Buses are comfortable and often include overnight services, saving on accommodation.
- Multiple departures throughout the day.
Cons:
- Longer travel time due to the overnight bus journey.
- Minivans may be crowded and prone to motion sickness on the winding roads to Pai.
Onboard Experience:
Buses offer air-conditioned seating, and VIP services often include reclining seats, onboard restrooms, and blankets for overnight journeys. Minivans are smaller and faster but can feel cramped.
Booking Tip:
It’s advisable to book your bus and minivan tickets in advance, especially for overnight buses. Use our online search form to compare schedules and book your tickets.
By Train and Minivan: The Scenic Route
For travelers who enjoy a scenic and leisurely journey, taking the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai followed by a minivan to Pai is a great way to experience Thailand’s countryside.
Key Details:
- Step 1: Take a Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
- Departure Point: Trains depart from Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok.
- Arrival Point: Trains arrive at Chiang Mai Railway Station.
- Duration: The train ride takes about 11 to 14 hours, depending on the type of train.
- Price Range: Tickets range from 600 to 1,500 THB (~$18 to $45 USD), depending on the class (sleeper, first class, or second class).
- Train Services: Popular options include the overnight sleeper trains with air-conditioned bunks.
- Step 2: Take a Minivan from Chiang Mai to Pai.
- Duration: The minivan ride takes about 3 to 4 hours.
- Price Range: Minivan tickets cost around 150 to 300 THB (~$5 to $10 USD).
Pros:
- A scenic and relaxing train journey through the countryside.
- Comfortable sleeper cabins for overnight travel.
- Affordable for budget-conscious travelers.
Cons:
- The slowest option, with a long travel time.
- Minivan travel through the mountains can be uncomfortable for some.
Onboard Experience:
Trains offer various classes, including first-class sleepers with private cabins, second-class air-conditioned sleepers, and third-class seats for budget travelers. Sleeper trains are equipped with beds, restrooms, and food services.
Booking Tip:
It’s recommended to book your sleeper train tickets early, as they can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Use our online search form to compare train and minivan schedules and book your tickets.
By Private Car or Taxi: The Flexible and Direct Option
For travelers seeking a more flexible and personalized journey, hiring a private car or taxi from Bangkok to Pai is the best option. This method allows you to travel at your own pace and stop along the way for sightseeing.
Key Details:
- Duration: The drive from Bangkok to Pai takes about 12 to 13 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.
- Price Range: A private car or taxi costs between 7,000 to 12,000 THB (~$200 to $350 USD), depending on the vehicle and service provider.
Pros:
- The most flexible option, with door-to-door service.
- Ability to stop at attractions along the way, such as Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, or Chiang Mai.
- Ideal for families or groups traveling together.
Cons:
- More expensive than public transport options.
- Long travel time by road.
Booking Tip:
Private cars or taxis can be arranged through travel agencies or online platforms. Use our online search form to book a private car or taxi for a comfortable and personalized journey.
Final Tips for Traveling from Bangkok to Pai
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Pai is during the cool season from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
- Prepare for the Journey: The mountain road from Chiang Mai to Pai is winding, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, bring medication or sit in the front of the minivan.
- Book in Advance: Whether you’re flying, taking the bus, train, or hiring a private car, booking in advance ensures availability and the best prices. Use our online search form at the top of this page to compare all travel options and book your trip to Pai.
