How to get from Pai to Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai, home to the stunning White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the scenic Golden Triangle, is a must-visit destination in northern Thailand. Located 340 km (211 miles) northeast of Pai, Chiang Rai is accessible by bus + minivan, private car, or motorbike. 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 Pai to Chiang Rai:

• By Minivan + Bus: The most common and budget-friendly option.
• By Private Car or Taxi: The fastest and most convenient option.
• By Motorbike: The most adventurous but challenging option.

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

Timetable

By Minivan + Bus: The Most Common and Budget-Friendly Option

Since there is no direct bus from Pai to Chiang Rai, you’ll need to transfer in Chiang Mai.

Step 1: Take a Minivan from Pai to Chiang Mai

• Departure Point: Pai Bus Station or hotel pickup (for some operators).
• Arrival Point: Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal.
• Duration: 3 to 4 hours.
• Price: 150–250 THB (~$5–$8 USD).
• Minivan Operators:
  • Prempracha Transport (most reliable).
  • Aya Service.
• Departure Frequency: Hourly departures from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

Step 2: Take a Bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai

• Departure Point: Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal.
• Arrival Point: Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 (city center).
• Duration: 3 to 4 hours.
• Price: 250–400 THB (~$7–$12 USD).
• Bus Operators:
  • Greenbus Thailand (most reliable, comfortable VIP buses available).
• Bus Types:
  • Standard Bus (Cheaper, more stops).
  • VIP Bus (Larger seats, A/C, faster travel time).
• Departure Frequency: Every 1–2 hours from morning to evening.

Total Duration: 6 to 8 hours.

Total Price: 400–650 THB (~$12–$20 USD).

Pros:

• Budget-friendly option.
• Frequent departures.
• Safe and comfortable buses.

Cons:

• Requires a transfer in Chiang Mai.
• Can be tiring due to winding roads.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, book a VIP bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. Use our online search form to check schedules and book your ticket.

By Private Car or Taxi: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

For travelers who prefer a direct journey, hiring a private car from Pai to Chiang Rai is the quickest and most comfortable option.

Key Details:

• Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel in Pai.
• Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel in Chiang Rai.
• Duration: 5.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on road conditions.
• Price: 5,500–8,500 THB (~$150–$250 USD), depending on car type.
• Taxi & Private Car Services:
  • Hotel-arranged private drivers.
  • Local taxi companies.
  • Ride-hailing apps (Grab may not be available for long distances).

Pros:

• Fastest travel option (~6 hours).
• Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
• Comfortable for families and groups.

Cons:

• Much more expensive than buses.
• Limited availability (best to book in advance).

Booking Tip:

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

By Motorbike: The Most Adventurous but Challenging Option

For experienced riders, traveling by motorbike from Pai to Chiang Rai offers stunning mountain views and a thrilling ride.

Key Details:

• Route: Pai → Chiang Mai → Chiang Rai via Route 1095 & 118.
• Distance: 340 km (211 miles).
• Duration: 6 to 8 hours, depending on speed and stops.
• Motorbike Rental Price: 250–500 THB per day (~$8–$15 USD).
• Fuel Cost: 300 THB ($9 USD).
• Rental Shops in Pai:
  • Aya Service.
  • Vespai Rental.

Recommended Stops Along the Way:

• Chiang Dao – A scenic mountain area (~1-hour stop).
• Wat Tha Ton – A beautiful temple near the Myanmar border (~30-minute stop).
• Doi Mae Salong – A tea plantation village (~1-hour detour).

Pros:

• Most flexible option—stop at attractions along the way.
• Cheaper than a private car.

Cons:

• Requires riding experience—roads are winding and can be dangerous.
• Weather conditions may affect the journey.

Booking Tip:

Ensure your motorbike has a proper license plate and insurance. Use our online search form to compare rental options.

Final Tips for Traveling from Pai to Chiang Rai

• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Minivan + Bus (~400 THB, 6+ hours).
• Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Private Car (~5.5 hours, from 5,500 THB).
• Best Option for Adventure: Motorbike (~6+ hours, from 250 THB per day).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Minivans, buses, and rental cars sell out quickly during the high season (November–February).
• Motion Sickness Alert: The Pai to Chiang Mai route is winding, so bring motion sickness tablets if necessary.