Chiang Mai to Pai

Chiang Mai to Pai

Chiang Mai
Pai
Sat, Dec 27
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Chiang Mai to Pai Destination Reviews

YL
Our driver had a very aggressive and dangerous driving. He overtaked without visibility and we were very scared several times. I absolutely do not recommend the company.
Chiang Mai to Pai, Bus Minivan, Prem Pracha (เปรมประชาขนส่ง), Dec 24, 2025
AJ
Excellent travel service! Unfortunately, we got stuck in traffic on the way from the hotel to the bus station. Tara Tour & Travel called us to ask where we were. Our taxi driver spoke to Tara and told them we would be about 5 to 10 minutes late. We arrived at 1:05p.m. and the minivan waited especially for us. However, we were the only passengers travelling from Chiang Mai to Pai. We can definitely recommend Tara Tour & Travel Service
Chiang Mai to Pai, Van Standard, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Dec 24, 2025
B
It was good no problems
Chiang Mai to Pai, Bus Minivan, Prem Pracha (เปรมประชาขนส่ง), Dec 24, 2025
DL
The dr
Chiang Mai to Pai, Van Standard, Aya Service (Aya Service), Dec 23, 2025
AS
The info says to wait at the reception 50 mins before the pick up time so I did and then the transfer arrived 30 mins after the pickup time. So it total i waited 1h40 mins with is ridiculous
Chiang Mai to Pai, Van Standard, Aya Service (Aya Service), Dec 22, 2025
NN
The ride was terrible. The driver was impatient and drove very fast through the curves without any consideration for the passengers. All of the passengers felt the same way. He made dangerous overtakes and ignored our repeated requests to slow down. Three passengers vomited during the ride, and when we asked him to stop for one passenger who felt very unwell and needed to throw up, he responded rudely and told us to use a bag instead. I must say that our first van ride to Pai was excellent — the driver was careful, skilled, and drove very smoothly. This time, however, the experience was bad. My partner and I got off the van feeling dizzy and extremely nauseous. It definitely made us think twice about taking another van to Pai.
Chiang Mai to Pai, Bus Minivan, Prem Pracha (เปรมประชาขนส่ง), Dec 22, 2025
HL
The driver was fast which I was happy about but the van was very tight and full and I didn’t have any leg room
Chiang Mai to Pai, Bus Minivan, Prem Pracha (เปรมประชาขนส่ง), Dec 22, 2025
AH
I feared for my life. We arrived an hour and ten minutes earlier than expected because we drove that fast. It was hell.
Chiang Mai to Pai, Bus Minivan, Prem Pracha (เปรมประชาขนส่ง), Dec 21, 2025
CD
The driver seemed angry the whole drive and his driving was erratic and scary
Chiang Mai to Pai, Bus Minivan, Prem Pracha (เปรมประชาขนส่ง), Dec 18, 2025
KT
Smooth, efficient, fast!
Chiang Mai to Pai, Bus Minivan, Prem Pracha (เปรมประชาขนส่ง), Dec 17, 2025
4.4
2817 customer reviews
5
56%
4
28%
3
11%
2
5%
1
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Chiang Mai to Pai Schedule

TypeOperatorClassDeparture TimeArrival TimePriceRating
Taxi
Firstplan Transport Services
Economy 3pax
Any time
+4h
¥16,068
  4.8
Van
Firstplan Transport Group Booking
Van 8pax
05:00
17:00
¥49,207
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
06:30
10:50
¥803
  4.3
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
07:30
11:50
¥803
  4.3
Van
Aya Service
Standard
08:00
12:00
¥854
  4.4
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
08:30
12:50
¥803
  4.3
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
09:30
13:50
¥803
  4.3
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
10:30
14:50
¥803
  4.3
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
11:30
15:50
¥803
  4.3
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
12:30
16:50
¥803
  4.3
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
13:30
17:50
¥803
  4.3
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
14:30
18:50
¥803
  4.3
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
15:30
19:50
¥803
  4.3
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
16:30
20:50
¥803
  4.3
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
17:30
21:50
¥803
  4.3
Bus
Prem Pracha
Minivan
18:30
22:50
¥803
  4.3

When should I go to Pai?

The best time to visit Pai is from November to February, during the cool and dry season. Temperatures range from 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring attractions like Pai Canyon and the hot springs. This period also coincides with the peak tourist season, so expect higher accommodation prices.

The rainy season, from June to October, brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds but also higher chances of road disruptions due to landslides. March to May can be quite hot, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F), and is less popular with tourists.

Consider planning your visit around November when the Loy Krathong festival takes place, offering a unique cultural experience.

Is it safe to arrive in Pai at night?

Arriving in Pai at night is generally safe, but plan your travel carefully. The road from Chiang Mai to Pai features winding mountain paths, which can be challenging to navigate in the dark. If traveling by bus, choose a reputable company with experienced drivers. Taxis or private transfers are also available but confirm arrangements in advance.

In town, Pai is considered safe, but like any destination, stay aware of your surroundings. Most accommodations and restaurants remain open until late, so you'll find places to eat and stay. It is advisable to inform your accommodation of your late arrival to ensure a smooth check-in. For additional safety, carry a flashlight and ensure your phone is charged.

How many passengers are allowed in a Pai taxi?

Taxis in Pai typically follow the same guidelines as those in other parts of Thailand, with most standard taxis accommodating up to four passengers. However, in Pai, many travelers opt for songthaews or tuk-tuks, which are common forms of transport. Songthaews can generally carry six to eight passengers, while tuk-tuks are more suitable for two to three passengers. When planning a trip, it is advisable to confirm passenger limits with the driver before starting your journey.

How to get from Chiang Mai to Pai

Travelling between Chiang Mai and Pai is possible by Bus, van and taxi. Taxi guarantees the fastest travel on this route. Taxi is the slowest option.

The most expensive ticket will cost you JPY 66,058 if you go by taxi; to keep it budget-friendly, opt for a bus which will set you back mere JPY 1,205.

How long does it take to get from Chiang Mai to Pai?

It can take you anywhere between 2 and 11 hours to travel between Chiang Mai and Pai depending on the means of transport you choose.

Taxi is the fastest way to travel between Chiang Mai and Pai. Taxi will bring you to your destination in 1h 25m. Taxi does a much slower job and take about 10h 30m to reach Pai.

How much does it cost to get from Chiang Mai to Pai?

Travelling between Chiang Mai and Pai can be as cheap as JPY 1,205 if you opt for a Prem Pracha (เปรมประชาขนส่ง) bus and as expensive as JPY 66,058 if you buy a Kim Transfers Thailand (Thailand Taxi Airport and Travel) taxi ticket.

Here is the list of how much you can expect to pay travelling by each means of transport available for this route.

How many trips per day are there between Chiang Mai and Pai ?

  • 15 from Chiang Mai to Pai starting from 06:30 Chiang Mai Arcade 2 until 17:30 Chiang Mai Arcade 2
  • 12 from Chiang Mai to Pai starting from 08:00 Chiang Mai Town Hotel Transfer until 14:30 Chiang Mai Town Hotel Transfer
  • 4 by Bus+Van from Chiang Mai to Pai starting from 08:30 McDonal star avenue Chiang mai until 15:00 McDonal star avenue Chiang mai
  • 52 from Chiang Mai to Pai starting from 00:00 Chiang Mai train station until 00:00 Chiang Mai train station

Check above for a bus, train, flight and ferry timetable from Chiang Mai to Pai.

What mode of transportation is the best one for my route?

Bus

Travelling from Chiang Mai to Pai overland will inevitably take longer but in many cases it is the cheapest option if you opt for a bus.

Things to remember: For a more comfortable ride opt for a higher-class bus wherever possible. These buses usually have soft reclining seats and are equipped with air-conditioning and on-board toilets.

They often include water, snacks or a light lunch into your ticket price and make bathroom stops en-route.

Companies operating bus routes between Chiang Mai and Pai

Prem Pracha (เปรมประชาขนส่ง)

Taxi

Some travellers consider taxi to be the most convenient form of overland transport thanks to flexible departure times, a possibility to choose the size of the car you need, and a hassle-free door-to-door service.

Things to remember: If you are planning to make detours during your trip, discuss it with your driver or service provider in advance as it may affect the price.

Companies offering charters between Chiang Mai and Pai

Andaman Shuttle, Aya Service, BangkokTaxi24, Easyride Services, Freedom Tour Taxi Service (Freedom Tour and Taxi Service), Go2Trip, Gosafe Transport (โกเซฟ ทรานสปอร์ต), Khamkhun Tour And Travel (ค้ำคูณ ทัวร์ แอนด์ ทราเวล), Kim Transfers Thailand (Thailand Taxi Airport and Travel), North Ride Go, Smart En Plus (สมาร์ท เอ็น พลัส), Smile On Transport, T Buddy Service Chiang Mai, Thailand Travel Taxi (ไทยแลนด์ ทราเวล แท็กซี่), Than Car Service (ธาน คาร์ เซอร์วิส), Torch

Van

Vans are a great alternative - or, in many cases - your only option - if you need to travel overland within one and the same province or neighbouring provinces or states. Vans ply the roads between Chiang Mai and Pai, too.

Things to remember: When travelling by van with huge luggage buying a separate seat for your suitcase or backpack is a good idea. Do not expect there is a roomy luggage compartment in a van - there is actually none and your fellow passengers are unlikely to appreciate your luggage stuck under their feet, alas.

Companies operating vans between Chiang Mai and Pai

Aya Service

What is the most popular transport to get from Chiang Mai to Pai?

There is a choice of transportation means any time of the day with Bus remaining the most popular option due to their reasonable pricing and comfort.

Out of 1000 travellers who bought tickets for this route

  • 75% opted for a bus
  • 12% bought a taxi ride
  • 12% took a van
  • 1% Other

Transportation from Chiang Mai to Pai

Facts about the transport from Chiang Mai to Pai

Cheapest Transport¥1,206
Fastest Transport1h 25m
Earliest Departure6:30 AM
Latest Departure5:30 PM
Departures per day83
Distance71 kilometers
Transport CompaniesAndaman Shuttle, Aya Service, BangkokTaxi24, Easyride Services, Freedom Tour Taxi Service, Go2Trip, Gosafe Transport, Khamkhun Tour And Travel, Kim Transfers Thailand, North Ride Go, Prem Pracha, Smart En Plus, Smile On Transport, T Buddy Service Chiang Mai, Tara Tour and Travel, Thailand Travel Taxi, Than Car Service, Torch