How to get from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital, is a major travel hub for visitors coming from Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of northern Thailand. Located 700 km (435 miles) south of Chiang Mai, Bangkok is accessible by flight, train, bus, 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 Chiang Mai to Bangkok:

• By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
• By Train (Day or Sleeper Train): A scenic and budget-friendly alternative.
• By Bus: The cheapest but slower option.
• By Private Car or Taxi: The most flexible but expensive choice.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Chiang Mai to Bangkok.

Timetable

By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Taking a direct flight from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is the quickest and easiest way to travel, with multiple airlines operating daily flights between the two cities.

Key Details:

• Departure Airport: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
• Arrival Airports:
  • Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – Main international airport.
  • Don Mueang Airport (DMK) – Budget airlines hub.
• Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes.
• Price: 1,000–3,500 THB (~$30–$100 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
• Airlines:
  • Thai Airways (full-service airline).
  • Bangkok Airways (mid-range option).
  • AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air (budget airlines).
• Frequency: Over 30 daily flights, available from early morning to late evening.

Pros:

• Fastest way to reach Bangkok.
• Frequent departures throughout the day.
• Budget airlines offer cheap fares when booked in advance.

Cons:

• Requires airport transfers in both Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
• Checked baggage fees apply on budget airlines.

Booking Tip:

For the best fares, book flights at least 1–2 months in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.

By Train (Day or Sleeper Train): A Scenic and Budget-Friendly Alternative

For travelers who prefer a slow, scenic experience, taking a train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is a unique journey through Thailand’s countryside.

Key Details:

• Departure Station: Chiang Mai Railway Station.
• Arrival Station: Bangkok Hua Lamphong Station (until mid-2024) or Bang Sue Grand Station (new central station).
• Duration: 10 to 14 hours, depending on train type.
• Price:
  • 3rd Class Seat (Fan Only): 250–400 THB (~$7–$12 USD).
  • 2nd Class Seat or Sleeper (A/C): 600–1,000 THB (~$17–$30 USD).
  • 1st Class Sleeper (Private Cabin): 1,500–2,000 THB (~$45–$60 USD).
• Train Options:
  • Special Express #9 – Best sleeper train (newest, most comfortable).
  • Express #7 – Fastest daytime train (~10 hours).
  • Rapid #109, #13 – Cheaper, slower overnight trains.

Pros:

• More comfortable than buses (especially sleeper trains).
• Scenic countryside views.
• Sleeper cabins allow you to rest overnight.

Cons:

• Takes much longer than flying.
• Can be delayed due to track conditions.

Booking Tip:

For best comfort, book a 1st-class sleeper cabin or 2nd-class A/C sleeper. Use our online search form to check train schedules and book your ticket.

By Bus: The Cheapest but Slower Option

For budget-conscious travelers, taking a bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is the cheapest option, with VIP and sleeper buses offering a comfortable ride.

Key Details:

• Departure Points:
  • Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal (main bus station).
  • Private bus stations (some companies offer hotel pickup).
• Arrival Points:
  • Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Northern Bangkok) – Best for connections to MRT/BTS.
  • Ekkamai or Khao San Road (some VIP buses).
• Duration: 9 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
• Price: 400–1,200 THB (~$12–$35 USD).
• Bus Operators:
  • Nakhonchai Air (most comfortable).
  • Green Bus Thailand (reliable).
  • VIP24 Buses (luxury sleeper seats).
• Frequency: Departures every hour from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Pros:

• Cheaper than flights and trains.
• Comfortable reclining seats on VIP buses.
• Overnight buses save on accommodation costs.

Cons:

• Takes longer than flying (9+ hours).
• Road conditions and traffic can cause delays.

Booking Tip:

For best comfort, choose a VIP or sleeper bus. Use our online search form to compare schedules and book your ticket.

By Private Car or Taxi: The Most Flexible but Expensive Choice

For travelers who prefer privacy and convenience, hiring a private car or taxi is an option. This is ideal for families, groups, or those who want to stop at attractions along the way.

Key Details:

• Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel in Chiang Mai.
• Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel in Bangkok.
• Duration: 7 to 10 hours, depending on traffic.
• Price: 6,000–12,000 THB (~$175–$350 USD), depending on vehicle type.
• Taxi & Private Car Services:
  • Grab (ride-hailing app, slightly cheaper than taxis).
  • Private driver services from Chiang Mai.

Pros:

• Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
• More comfortable than buses and trains.
• Stops at attractions like Ayutthaya or Sukhothai (optional).

Cons:

• Most expensive land option.
• Traffic congestion may increase travel time.

Booking Tip:

For lower fares, book your taxi or private car in advance using our online search form.

Final Tips for Traveling from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

• Best Option for Speed: Flight (1h 10m, from 1,000+ THB).
• Best Option for Budget: Bus (400+ THB, 9+ hours).
• Best Option for Comfort: Sleeper Train (600+ THB, 12+ hours, beds available).
• Best for Adventure: Private car (7+ hours, customizable route).
• Book Early for Holidays: Flights, trains, and buses fill up quickly during Thai festivals and holidays.