How to get from Chiang Rai to Pai

Pai, known for its laid-back vibe, scenic mountains, and vibrant night market, is a charming town in Northern Thailand. Located 300 km (186 miles) southwest of Chiang Rai, Pai is accessible by bus, minivan, private car, or flight (via Chiang Mai). 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 Rai to Pai:

• By Bus + Minivan: The most affordable but longer option.
• By Private Car or Taxi: The fastest and most flexible choice.
• By Flight (via Chiang Mai): The quickest but most expensive option.
• By Motorbike: The most adventurous and scenic route.

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

Timetable

By Bus + Minivan: The Most Affordable but Longer Option

There is no direct bus from Chiang Rai to Pai, so travelers must first go to Chiang Mai and then take a minivan from Chiang Mai to Pai.

Key Details:

• Route: Chiang Rai → Chiang Mai (Bus) → Pai (Minivan).
• Duration:
  • Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai: 3.5 to 4 hours.
  • Chiang Mai to Pai: 3 to 4 hours.
  • Total Duration: 6.5 to 8 hours, including transfer time.
• Price: 600–800 THB (~$17–$23 USD), total for both legs.
• Bus Types (Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai):
  • Green Bus (A/C, comfortable seating, reserved seats).
• Minivan Types (Chiang Mai to Pai):
  • Aya Service (Popular with tourists, A/C, basic seating).
  • Prempracha Transport (More comfortable, fewer stops).
• Departure Points:
  • Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 (Near Night Bazaar).
  • Chiang Mai to Pai: Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal.
• Arrival Points:
  • Chiang Mai Bus Terminal.
  • Pai Bus Station (Near Pai Walking Street).
• Departure Frequency:
  • Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai: Every 1–2 hours from morning to evening.
  • Chiang Mai to Pai: Every 1–2 hours from morning to late afternoon.

Pros:

• Cheapest travel option (~600 THB total).
• Multiple departures throughout the day.
• Direct travel with a simple transfer in Chiang Mai.

Cons:

• No direct bus; requires a transfer in Chiang Mai.
• Long travel time (~7+ hours total).
• Minivans on Chiang Mai to Pai route are known for sharp curves and motion sickness.
• Limited luggage space on minivans.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose a Green Bus for Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai and a Prempracha Minivan for Chiang Mai to Pai. Use our online search form to check schedules and book your ticket.

By Private Car or Taxi: The Fastest and Most Flexible Choice

For travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Chiang Rai to Pai is the most convenient choice, especially for families and groups.

Key Details:

• Route: Chiang Rai → Chiang Mai → Pai (Direct via Highway 118 and 1095).
• Distance: 300 km (186 miles).
• Duration: 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
• Price: 6,000–10,000 THB (~$170–$280 USD), depending on car type and operator.
• Car Types:
  • Sedan (Up to 3 passengers, more affordable).
  • SUV or Van (Up to 6 passengers, more spacious).
• Scenic Stops Along the Way:
  • Mae Khachan Hot Springs – Relaxing hot spring area.
  • Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) – Famous artistic temple near Chiang Rai.
  • Mok Fah Waterfall – Beautiful waterfall between Chiang Mai and Pai.

Pros:

• Fastest travel option (~6 hours).
• Direct route, no need for transfers.
• Comfortable for families and groups.
• Flexible travel schedule and scenic stops along the way.

Cons:

• More expensive than buses and minivans.
• Winding mountain roads near Pai.

Booking Tip:

For the best rates, book your private car in advance using our online search form.

By Flight (via Chiang Mai): The Quickest but Most Expensive Option

There are no direct flights from Chiang Rai to Pai, but you can fly from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai and then take a connecting flight from Chiang Mai to Pai.

Key Details:

• Route: Chiang Rai → Chiang Mai (Flight) → Pai (Flight).
• Duration:
  • Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai (Flight): 1 hour.
  • Chiang Mai to Pai (Flight): 30 minutes.
  • Total Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours, including transfer time.
• Price: 3,000–7,000 THB (~$85–$200 USD), total for both flights.
• Airlines:
  • Thai AirAsia (Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai).
  • Wisdom Airways (Chiang Mai to Pai, limited service).

Pros:

• Fastest travel time (~3 hours total).
• Most comfortable and convenient option.

Cons:

• Most expensive option.
• Limited flight availability (only a few flights per week to Pai).
• Weather conditions can affect flights to Pai (mountainous area).

Booking Tip:

For better convenience, book your connecting flights in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options.

Final Tips for Traveling from Chiang Rai to Pai

• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus + Minivan (~600 THB, 7+ hours).
• Best Option for Speed & Flexibility: Private Car (~6,000 THB, 6+ hours).
• Best Option for Fastest Travel Time: Flight via Chiang Mai (~3,000 THB, 3+ hours).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Minivans, private cars, and flights sell out quickly during high season (November–February).
• Motion Sickness Alert: The road from Chiang Mai to Pai has 762 curves, so bring motion sickness tablets if necessary.