Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Chiang Rai
Chiang Mai
Wed, Dec 23
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Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Destination Reviews

JM
Juan M
Fantástic day with the elephants, everything was ok. People of the you was brilliant. Thank you for all
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jul 10, 2026
TH
Tessine H
The bed on the top were not comfortable at all. We couldn't sleep on them
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jul 9, 2026
FN
Fernando N
The transfer service was just excellent. The driver was really nice and we made a short break along the way. We made it to Chang Mai earlier than exepceted: 21:00 instead of 21:50. This was an excellent experience.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Van Van, So Good Airline Service and Travel, Jul 9, 2026
MK
Miroslav K
More then 40 min late and very poor cleanliness level of seats.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jul 4, 2026
AD
Agnes D
The overall experience was good. The only thing it was that the bus made an anoying sound we don't know why. First we thought it was because of the turn lights but then it was also because of the speed. We arrived on time and we departed on time
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jun 27, 2026
L
Laura
A massive thank you to our driver who drove back to the terminal after dropping us off when we realised we had left a bag. Very much appreciated. Ride was was on time, efficient and as described.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Van Minivan, K Buddy (เค บัดดี้), Jun 20, 2026
OL
Oscar L
Very good
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Van Van, So Good Airline Service and Travel, Jun 18, 2026
KP
Karen P
Bus had aircon . Comfortable seats that recline, toilet stop about halfway through. Excellent value
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jun 14, 2026
GA
Gaia A
Small break of 10 minutes. 1 bottle of water and a wet wipe pro person. Punctual and OK. I suggest it.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jun 2, 2026
VM
Victor M
Bus seats are very hard. Bus left 15 mins late. No instructions were given in English.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, Bus Express, GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), Jun 1, 2026
4.4
4130 customer reviews
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59%
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26%
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10%
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Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Schedule

TypeOperatorClassDeparture TimeArrival TimePriceRating
Taxi
Torch
Economy 3pax
Any time
+3h 30m
$70.30
  5.0
Van
Yortdoy Travel
Sedan + Minivan
05:00
09:00
$18.02
Bus
GreenBus
Express
07:30
11:15
$8.56
  4.2
Bus
GreenBus
VIP
08:00
11:20
$12.98
  4.5
Flight
Thai Vietjet
Economy
08:25
22:50
$117.21
Bus
GreenBus
Express
08:45
12:30
$7.96
  4.3
Flight
Nok Air
Economy
09:20
14:00
$87.35
Bus
GreenBus
Express
09:45
13:35
$6.22
  4.0
Flight
Thai Airways
Economy
10:10
00:30
$134.16
Bus
GreenBus
Express
10:30
14:15
$7.96
  4.2
Flight
Thai Vietjet
Economy
10:50
10:15
$57.09
Bus
GreenBus
Express
11:15
15:05
$6.22
  4.0
Bus
GreenBus
Express
11:45
15:30
$7.96
  4.3
Bus
GreenBus
Express
12:15
16:00
$7.96
  4.2
Flight
Thai Lion Air
Economy
12:35
12:00
$63.56
Flight
Nok Air
Economy
12:55
17:40
$77.27
Bus
GreenBus
Express
13:15
17:00
$7.96
  4.2
Flight
Thai Airways
Economy
13:40
23:15
$93.63
Flight
Thai Airways
Economy
14:25
23:35
$147.86
Bus
GreenBus
Express
14:45
18:30
$7.96
  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. Taxi guarantees the fastest travel on this route. Flight is the slowest option.

The most expensive ticket will cost you USD 176.19 if you go by taxi; to keep it budget-friendly, opt for a bus+taxi which will set you back mere USD 23.58.

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.

Taxi is the fastest way to travel between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. Taxi 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 23.58 if you opt for a Yortdoy Travel (ยอดดอย ทราเวล) bus+taxi and as expensive as USD 176.19 if you buy a Freedom Tour Taxi Service (Freedom Tour and Taxi Service) 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 ?

  • 1 by Bus+taxi from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai starting from 13:00 Chiang Rai Hotel Transfer until 13:00 Chiang Rai Hotel Transfer
  • 1 by taxi+Van from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai starting from 05:00 Chiang Rai Hotel Transfer until 05:00 Chiang Rai Hotel Transfer
  • 20 from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai starting from 00:00 Chiang Rai Hotel Transfer until 00:00 Chiang Rai Hotel Transfer

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), Mekong Transfer, North Ride Go, Smart En Plus (สมาร์ท เอ็น พลัส)

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, Yortdoy Travel (ยอดดอย ทราเวล)

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 Bus remaining the most popular option due to their reasonable pricing and comfort.

Out of 1000 travellers who bought tickets for this route

  • 84% opted for a bus
  • 9% took a van
  • 2% chosen Bus+taxi
  • 2% chosen taxi+Van
  • 1% Other

Transportation from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Facts about the transport from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Cheapest Transport$12
Fastest Transport3h
Earliest Departure5:00 AM
Latest Departure6:00 PM
Departures per day22
Distance150 kilometers
Transport CompaniesBangkokTaxi24, Easyride Services, Freedom Tour Taxi Service, GreenBus, K Buddy, Mekong Transfer, North Ride Go, Pai Friendly Tour, Smart En Plus, So Good Airline Service and Travel, Thai AirAsia, Thai AirAsia, Yortdoy Travel