En route, the B3 takes in Chotana Road, the location of both Chang Puak Bus Terminal and Rajabhat University, plus CMECC (Chiang Mai Exhibition and Convention Centre). The service utilises medium-range 23-seat buses which are air-conditioned.
The B3 is the third route launched by the city. The Arcade Bus Station is the terminus for B2 services from Chiang Mai Airport and the B1 route from Chiang Mai Zoo and Chiang Mai University.
Municipal authorities in Chiang Mai claim the first two bus routes have played an important role in reducing traffic congestion in the city. 12GO ASIA notes that while the buses do offer convenience, they usually run at 30-minute intervals.
Most travellers and commuters opt for the convenience of taxis, songthaews or tuktuks as they do not have to wait. For the budget conscious, the buses are a cheap option for getting from A to B on journeys that could cost up to THB200.
Chiang Mai adds new bus route to transport network
News in Asia
Transport authorities in Chiang Mai have added another urban bus route to the city’s public transportation options. Route B3 was officially inaugurated last week and links Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station and Provincial Hall (Sala Klang).