Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Chiang Rai
Chiang Mai
Sat, May 2
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Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Destination Reviews

SS
Samantha S
Was a little bit wary about using the bus for the first time in Thailand but really pleased 😊 Bus was spacious, snacks, reclining seats and water with a toilet on board. No problems at all on the journey from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. All on time and easy to navigate, would use again 👍
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus VIP, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Apr 25, 2026
MS
Monica S
The driver picked us up right on time and was very nice and friendly. He made stops at a café and a 7-Eleven so we could grab breakfast, which we really appreciated. During the trip, he also shared interesting information about the city on our way to our destination. Overall, a great experience!
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, taxi Economy 3pax, Thailand Travel Taxi (ไทยแลนด์ ทราเวล แท็กซี่), Apr 25, 2026
E
Ella
Punctual, but the bus seats very very uncomfortable compared to the first bus we were on. Also the air conditioning was full of soot - black fingers after trying to adjust the airflow. The bus had a very annoying beeping noise coming from the front (assuming this was a speed indicator and the driver was going to fast) but the beeping would go on for long period of time and made it impossible to sleep on the bus ride.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Apr 22, 2026
SM
Susan M
Avoid we had to chase confirmation of pickup by whats app. We were informed pick up 1pm to 1.30 we had to get our hotel to call they didn’t pick us up until 1.50 then drove like a maniac speeding and tailgating other cars to get to the pickup point for van did not feel safe at all. No apology for lateness
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Van Minivan, K Buddy (เค บัดดี้), Apr 19, 2026
KL
Kristina L
It was great. Pleaset driver, very fast. Personal Taxi from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. Just great.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Van Car + Minivan + Bus, Yortdoy Travel (ยอดดอย ทราเวล), Apr 10, 2026
KL
Kris L
Schedule on time, water, toilets, confortable seats .the trip is almost direct 2 stops at the beginning and then direct road
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus VIP, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Apr 2, 2026
LB
Ludovic B
Very comfortable and punctual
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus VIP, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Mar 31, 2026
SL
Sankueno L
Ce fut l’une des expériences la plus difficile que j’ai pu avoir dans ma vie. J’ai envoyé un message au préalable pour dire qu’avec mes amies nous avions deux bagages chacune 1 de moins de 20kg et un petit de moins de 7kg j’ai même envoyé une photo tout été ok pour nous prendre comme il était indiqué sur la facture. Mais à l’arrivée du chauffeur même pas un bonjour, le visage complètement fermé l’air énervé. On a du faire face a une personne grossière voir un peu agressive. Qui a voulu me laisser avec un sac de 5kg sur mes jambes pendant plus de 3h prétextant qu’on était 11 passagers et qu’on avait trop de bagages. Heureusement que j’ai pu m’arranger avec les autres voyageurs qui ont eu pitié de moi en mettant mon sac au sol sur le chemin. Mais on était totalement bloqué par les bagages qui nous entouraient mon ami a dû maintenir un bagage avec sa main pour qu’il ne tombe pas sur elle pendant tout le trajet et on ne pouvait pas bouger. Pour la fin de la course le chauffeur a au moins descendu nos bagages de la voiture et on s’est quitté sans même un au revoir. Je suis complètement déçue inquiète et j’hésite à prendre une course prochainement parce que j’ai l’habitude de prendre des chauffeurs avec 12go et c’est la 1ere fois que je fais fasse à ce genre de situation.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Van Van, So Good Airline Service and Travel, Mar 25, 2026
MC
Max C
Pros: The driver arrived early to pick us up from the hotel. The van was big and comfortable enough. Cons: The driver was scrolling through TikTok the whole time, if not on TikTok he was on YouTube. During the break in the trip he said we had 20 minutes, after 20 mins everyone was in the bus but we had to wait 15 more minutes for the driver while he was smoking. No communication from the company, because they picked us up from our hotel I expected a message to confirm pickup location like I have had before. Overall, the experience was fine.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Van Minivan, K Buddy (เค บัดดี้), Mar 22, 2026
CD
Chris D
Sat in row 1 and the air conditioning froze the wife and I. No way to control the temperature or airflow.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus VIP, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Mar 20, 2026
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4006 customer reviews
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Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Schedule

TypeOperatorClassDeparture TimeArrival TimePriceRating
Taxi
Torch
Economy 3pax
Any time
+3h 30m
$71.98
  5.0
Van
Yortdoy Travel
Sedan + Minivan
05:00
09:00
$18.46
Bus
GreenBus
Express
07:30
11:15
$8.77
  4.2
Bus
GreenBus
VIP
08:00
11:20
$13.29
  4.5
Flight
Thai Vietjet
Economy
08:25
22:50
$117.21
Bus
GreenBus
Express
08:45
12:30
$8.15
  4.3
Flight
Nok Air
Economy
09:20
14:00
$89.58
Bus
GreenBus
Express
09:45
13:35
$6.37
  4.0
Flight
Thai Airways
Economy
10:10
00:30
$137.58
Bus
GreenBus
Express
10:30
14:15
$8.15
  4.2
Flight
Thai Vietjet
Economy
10:50
10:15
$58.55
Bus
GreenBus
Express
11:15
15:05
$6.37
  4.0
Bus
GreenBus
Express
11:45
15:30
$8.15
  4.3
Bus
GreenBus
Express
12:15
16:00
$8.15
  4.2
Flight
Thai Lion Air
Economy
12:35
12:00
$65.19
Flight
Nok Air
Economy
12:55
17:40
$79.24
Bus
GreenBus
Express
13:15
17:00
$8.15
  4.2
Flight
Thai Airways
Economy
13:40
23:15
$96.02
Flight
Thai Airways
Economy
14:25
23:35
$151.63
Bus
GreenBus
Express
14:45
18:30
$8.15
  4.2

Can you drink the water in Chiang Mai?

Drinking tap water in Chiang Mai is not recommended due to potential contamination and varying water treatment standards. Most locals and visitors rely on bottled or filtered water, which is widely available and affordable. To reduce waste, consider using refill stations found throughout the city for purified water. In restaurants, always confirm whether the water provided is safe for drinking. Boiling tap water can make it safe, but it may still have a taste that some find unpleasant. Additionally, when brushing teeth or washing fruits and vegetables, many prefer to use bottled or filtered water to minimize risks. Staying hydrated is important in Chiang Mai’s tropical climate, so keep clean water accessible at all times.

Is Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai better for tourists?

Choosing between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai depends on your travel preferences, as each offers unique attractions.
  • Chiang Mai: Known for its bustling city vibe, it features famous temples like Wat Phra Singh, markets, and a mix of historical and modern attractions. The city also serves as a hub for trekking and cultural activities like cooking classes.
  • Chiang Rai: A quieter destination, it boasts iconic landmarks such as the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Blue Temple, alongside a serene atmosphere. It’s ideal for those seeking a more relaxed experience or nature-focused trips.
Both cities provide rich cultural experiences, but Chiang Mai is better suited for diverse activities, while Chiang Rai offers tranquility and unique artistic landmarks.

Is Chiang Mai fun for non drinkers?

Yes, Chiang Mai is enjoyable for non-drinkers due to its wide range of activities beyond nightlife. Explore historical sites like Wat Chedi Luang and Doi Suthep, or immerse yourself in local culture at cooking classes and handicraft workshops. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Elephant Nature Park or trek in the surrounding mountains. The city’s numerous cafes and tea houses provide cozy spaces for relaxation and socializing, while night markets like the Sunday Walking Street offer shopping and street food experiences. Chiang Mai’s festivals, such as Yi Peng (Lantern Festival), are also highlights that don’t involve alcohol. For wellness seekers, yoga studios, meditation retreats, and spa treatments abound. Whether you prefer cultural, nature-based, or wellness activities, the city caters to a variety of interests.

How to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Travelling between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai is possible by Flight, bus, van and taxi. Van guarantees the fastest travel on this route. Flight is the slowest option.

The most expensive ticket will cost you USD 244.09 if you go by taxi; to keep it budget-friendly, opt for a bus which will set you back mere USD 14.98.

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

It can take you anywhere between 3 and 9 hours to travel between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai depending on the means of transport you choose.

Van is the fastest way to travel between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. Van will bring you to your destination in 3h. Flight does a much slower job and take about 8h 45m to reach Chiang Mai.

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

Travelling between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai can be as cheap as USD 14.98 if you opt for a GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)) bus and as expensive as USD 244.09 if you buy a Easyride Services 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 Rai and Chiang Mai ?

  • 7 from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai starting from 07:30 Mae Sai until 15:00 Mae Sai
  • 32 from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai starting from 00:00 Chiang Saen until 00:00 Chiang Saen

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

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

Bus

Travelling from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai 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 Rai and Chiang Mai

GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว))

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 Rai and Chiang Mai

BangkokTaxi24, Easyride Services, Freedom Tour Taxi Service (Freedom Tour and Taxi Service), Go2Trip, Gosafe Transport (โกเซฟ ทรานสปอร์ต), Smart En Plus (สมาร์ท เอ็น พลัส), T Buddy Service Chiang Mai, Thailand Travel Taxi (ไทยแลนด์ ทราเวล แท็กซี่), Than Car Service (ธาน คาร์ เซอร์วิส), Torch (ทอช)

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 Rai and Chiang Mai, 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 Rai and Chiang Mai

K Buddy (เค บัดดี้), Pai Friendly Tour, So Good Airline Service and Travel

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

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

Out of 1000 travellers who bought tickets for this route

  • 31% took a van
  • 25% opted for a bus
  • 11% chosen Bus+taxi
  • 11% chosen Bus+Van
  • 11% chosen taxi+Van
  • 10% bought a taxi ride
  • 1% Other

Transportation from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Facts about the transport from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Cheapest Transport$15
Fastest Transport3h
Earliest Departure5:00 AM
Latest Departure6:00 PM
Departures per day39
Distance150 kilometers
Transport CompaniesBangkokTaxi24, Easyride Services, Freedom Tour Taxi Service, Go2Trip, Gosafe Transport, GreenBus, K Buddy, Pai Friendly Tour, Smart En Plus, So Good Airline Service and Travel, T Buddy Service Chiang Mai, Thai AirAsia, Thai AirAsia, Thailand Travel Taxi, Than Car Service, Torch, Yortdoy Travel