How to Get from Krabi to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of Northern Thailand, is famous for its temples, mountain landscapes, and vibrant night markets. Located 1,450 km (900 miles) north of Krabi, Chiang Mai is accessible by direct flight, bus + train, or private transfer. 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 Krabi to Chiang Mai:

• By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
• By Bus + Train: A scenic but much longer journey.
• By Private Car + Flight: A flexible but expensive option.

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

Timetable

By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Taking a direct flight from Krabi to Chiang Mai is the fastest and most hassle-free way to travel, with multiple departures available daily.

Key Details:

• Departure Airport: Krabi International Airport (KBV).
• Arrival Airport: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
• Duration: 1 hour 50 minutes (direct flight).
• Price: 1,500–4,500 THB (~$40–$130 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
• Airlines:
  • Thai AirAsia (Budget airline, cheapest fares).
  • Thai VietJet Air (Low-cost airline, limited flights).
  • Bangkok Airways (Premium service, higher price).
• Departure Frequency: Multiple direct flights daily.

Recommended Routes:

• Cheapest Option:
  • Thai AirAsia (~1,500 THB, 1 hr 50 min).
• Best Comfort Option:
  • Bangkok Airways (~4,000 THB, premium service, free lounge access).

Pros:

• Fastest travel time (~1 hour 50 minutes).
• No need for transfers or long bus/train rides.
• Multiple daily departures.

Cons:

• Prices can be high if booked last minute.
• Baggage fees apply for budget airlines.

Booking Tip:

For best prices, book your flight at least 2–3 weeks in advance. Use our online search form to check schedules and book your ticket.

By Bus + Train: The Scenic but Longest Journey

For budget-conscious travelers or those who enjoy scenic overland travel, taking a bus from Krabi to Bangkok, followed by an overnight train to Chiang Mai, is an option.

Key Details:

• Route: Krabi → Bangkok (Bus) → Chiang Mai (Train).
• Total Duration: 20 to 26 hours, depending on connections.
• Total Price: 1,200–2,000 THB (~$35–$60 USD), depending on class.

Step 1: Bus from Krabi to Bangkok

• Departure Point: Krabi Bus Terminal.
• Arrival Point: Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai).
• Duration: 10 to 12 hours.
• Price: 600–1,000 THB (~$17–$30 USD), depending on bus type.
• Bus Operators:
  • Lignite Tour (Comfortable and reliable).
  • The Transport Co. (Government-run, budget option).
• Bus Types:
  • VIP Bus (Reclining seats, A/C, toilet onboard).
  • Express Bus (Cheaper, fewer amenities, more stops).

Step 2: Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

• Departure Station: Bangkok Hua Lamphong Station (or Krung Thep Aphiwat).
• Arrival Station: Chiang Mai Railway Station.
• Duration: 10 to 14 hours, depending on train type.
• Price: 500–1,200 THB (~$15–$35 USD), depending on class.
• Train Types:
  • Special Express (Fastest, most comfortable, A/C sleeper berths).
  • Rapid Train (Slower, cheaper option).
• Popular Trains:
  • Train #9 (Overnight, best comfort, 12 hours).
  • Train #13 (Overnight, budget sleeper, 13+ hours).

Pros:

• Cheaper than flying (~1,200 THB total for bus + train).
• Overnight train saves on accommodation costs.
• Scenic views of Thailand’s countryside.

Cons:

• Very long journey (~20+ hours).
• Requires a transfer in Bangkok.
• Overnight train tickets sell out quickly.

Booking Tip:

For best comfort, book a VIP Bus + 1st Class Sleeper Train. Use our online search form to check schedules and secure your ticket.

By Private Car + Flight: The Flexible but Expensive Option

For travelers who prefer door-to-door service and flexibility, taking a private car from Krabi to Phuket, followed by a flight to Chiang Mai, is an alternative option.

Key Details:

• Route: Krabi → Phuket (Car) → Chiang Mai (Flight).
• Duration: 5 to 6 hours total.
• Total Price: 4,000–7,000 THB (~$115–$200 USD).

Step 1: Private Car from Krabi to Phuket

• Distance: 160 km (100 miles).
• Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours.
• Price: 2,000–3,000 THB (~$60–$90 USD), depending on car type.

Step 2: Flight from Phuket to Chiang Mai

• Duration: 2 hours.
• Price: 2,000–4,000 THB (~$55–$120 USD).
• Airlines:
  • Thai VietJet Air (Budget option).
  • Thai AirAsia (Frequent flights, low cost).

Pros:

• Faster than bus + train (~5 hours total).
• More flexible than direct flights from Krabi.

Cons:

• More expensive than other options (~4,000+ THB total).
• Requires two separate bookings.

Booking Tip:

For best prices, book your private car and flight in advance using our online search form.

Final Tips for Traveling from Krabi to Chiang Mai

• Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Direct Flight (~1,500 THB, 2 hours).
• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus + Train (~1,200 THB, 20+ hours).
• Best Option for Flexibility: Private Car + Flight (~4,000 THB, 5+ hours).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Flights, trains, and buses sell out quickly during high season (November–April).