4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest coaches from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Cheapest price
$21
Average price
$26
Fastest journey
10 h
Average duration
10 h 14 m
Buses per day
11
Distance
583 km
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Mai will cost around $26 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only $21.
Of the 11 buses that leave Bangkok for Chiang Mai every day 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct buses cover the 583 km distance in an average of 10 h 14 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 h .
The slowest buses will take 10 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
18-418-4
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bangkok to Chiang Mai among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of $20, and a flight costs an average of $29.
Distance: 583 km
Compare bus with
| Coach | Most popular Flight | Train |
|---|---|---|
$22 Average Price Cheapest | $76 Average Price | $56 Average Price |
12h 49m Average total duration 12h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 16m Average total duration Fastest 1h 16m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 13h 10m Average total duration 12h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Bangkok to Chiang Mai bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bangkok to Chiang Mai coaches for tomorrow, Sunday, 23 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:15 am Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 11h45 | 3:00 pm Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:00 am Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 10h30 | 5:30 pm Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:00 am Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 10h00 | 7:00 pm Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 0 changesdirect | |
 PHUKET TRAVEL 2 | 10:50 am Bangkok, Bus Terminal (South) | 14h51 | 1:41 am Chiang Mai Town | 0 changesdirect | |
 | 11:30 am Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 12h15 | 11:45 pm Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 0 changesdirect | |
 TARA TOUR & TRAVEL | 11:30 am Bangkok | 11h45 | 11:15 pm Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:50 am Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 10h30 | 10:20 pm Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:50 pm Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 12h15 | 1:05 am Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 18-4 | 1:00 pm Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 10h10 | 11:10 pm Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 1:35 pm Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 10h30 | 12:05 am Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 1:45 pm Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 10h00 | 11:45 pm Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
ThailandThailand
Buses from Bangkok to Chiang Mai run on average 16 times per day, taking around 12h 19m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $20 if you book in advance.
There are 16 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 06:00, the last at 22:45. The fastest coach covers the 583 km distance in 9h 5m.
Distance 583 km |
Average bus duration 12h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 |
Buses per day 16 |
Direct buses 16 |
Fastest bus 9h 5m |
First bus 06:00 |
Last bus 22:45 |
Bus providers: Bangkok Buslines, Bangkok Bus Lines, Cherdchai Tour North, Viriyatour, Tara Tour & Travel, Cherdchai Tour, Nakhonchaiair, Budsarakham, Budsarakam Tour, Phuket Travel 2 from Bangkok to Chiang MaiYou can travel by bus between Bangkok to Chiang Mai with Bangkok Buslines, Bangkok Bus Lines, Cherdchai Tour North, Viriyatour, Tara Tour & Travel, Cherdchai Tour, Nakhonchaiair, Budsarakham, Budsarakam Tour, Phuket Travel 2 for as low as $20. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Viriyatour
Budsarakham
Bangkok Buslines
Phuket Travel 2
Bangkok Bus Lines
Cherdchai Tour North
Tara Tour & Travel
Budsarakam Tour
Cherdchai Tour
Nakhonchaiair
How to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Bus: A Complete Guide 2025
Embark on an epic overland adventure from Bangkok to the cultural heart of the North by bus! The 700-kilometer bus journey to Chiang Mai is a traveler's rite of passage, offering an authentic way to experience Thailand's diverse landscapes and local life. Starting from THB 500, this 9-11 hour journey transforms travel time into an adventure itself. Choose from luxury VIP sleeper buses with lie-flat seats for overnight comfort, or daytime coaches with entertainment systems to watch the countryside unfold. As you leave Bangkok's urban sprawl behind, you'll witness Thailand's rural beauty, from rice paddies to mountain foothills, before arriving in Chiang Mai's temple-filled old city.
Why choose to take bus?
- Cost Efficiency: Bus travel provides exceptional value with tickets starting from 500 THB compared to flights at 1,000+ THB, offering 50%+ cost savings.
- Convenience: Buses depart from Bangkok's major terminal Mo Chit, arriving directly in Chiang Mai's city center.
- Overnight Options: VIP sleeper buses allow you to travel overnight, saving on accommodation costs while maximizing your time in both cities.
- Flexibility: Multiple departure times throughout the day, from morning express services to comfortable overnight coaches.
- Comfort: Modern VIP buses feature reclining seats, air conditioning, onboard toilets, and entertainment systems, making the 9-11 hour journey through Thailand's beautiful countryside a comfortable experience.
Booking Tickets
Booking through Omio simplifies the entire process: select Bangkok as departure city and Chiang Mai as arrival city, choose your preferred travel date, and compare all available operators, departure times, and prices in one convenient view. Filter options help narrow choices by price range, departure time, and bus operator.
After selecting your preferred service, enter passenger details and complete payment using major payment methods like credit cards, PayPal, or digital wallets. Digital tickets are delivered instantly via email or to app. The platform provides real-time journey updates and 24/7 customer support, ensuring a smooth booking experience from search to boarding.
Choosing Bus Providers
- Sombat Tour operates various types of overnight services with Supreme Class (VIP) buses featuring 20-seat configuration, massage chairs, and complimentary meals. Known for luxury Wiang Ping VIP 20 coaches with 1+1 seating, personal entertainment, and superior comfort for the 10-hour journey, with price from THB 1,131.
- NakornChai Air provides modern VIP services with comfortable air-conditioned coaches featuring spacious seating and onboard amenities. Known for reliable scheduling with journey times around 10 hours, it offers competitive pricing and professional service on this popular overnight route.
- Bangkok Busline operates efficient express services with modern coaches featuring comfortable seating and onboard facilities. Known for reliable service, competitive pricing from THB 594 and modern fleet, it provides good value for money on Thailand's busiest bus route.
Bus Classes and Types
Extensive overnight services cater to Thailand's most popular route:
- Standard Express - Comfortable coaches with AC and reclining seats
- VIP Buses - Enhanced comfort with 24 seats and extra legroom
- Super VIP - Premium experience with 20 seats and superior amenities
- First Class - Luxury service with fully reclining seats and meal service
Onboard Experience
Modern buses in Southeast Asia provide a comfortable travel experience with these standard amenities:
- Seating - Comfortable reclining seats with spacious legroom and individual air conditioning controls
- Connectivity - Complimentary WiFi (connection quality may vary) and power outlets for device charging
- Entertainment - Premium services include personal entertainment screens with movie selections
- Luxury Features - High-end buses offer massage functions and hot meal service
- Rest Stops - Regular 15-20 minute breaks at highway service areas for refreshments and restroom facilities
Note that:
- Buses normally don't have onboard toilets, so make use of rest stops.
- Bring light snacks as meal service isn't standard on most routes, though premium operators may provide complimentary refreshments.
- Specific amenities and service quality vary between different bus providers, so it's recommended to check individual operator offerings when booking.
Departing from Bangkok
The primary terminal that serves Thailand's most popular bus route:
- Mo Chit Terminal (Chatuchak Bus Terminal) - Main departure hub with multiple operators (Bangkok Bus Lines, Sombat Tour, Transport. Co), near Chatuchak Park
Most premium buses depart evening 6pm-10pm, arriving morning 5am-8am the next day.
Arriving in Chiang Mai
Centralized arrival point in Chiang Mai facilitates easy city access:
- Chiang Mai Bus Terminal (Arcade 2/3) - Main arrival terminal located 15-20 minutes ride from city center
Local transport to old city via red truck (songthaew) costs 20-30 THB per person or tuk-tuk for 100 THB per ride.
Bus Travel Tips
Make your Bangkok to Chiang Mai bus journey smooth with these practical tips:
- Book tickets in advance during peak periods (weekends, holidays)
- Arrive 30 minutes early at departure point for check-in procedures
- Bring a light jacket as buses can get cold with air conditioning
- Download offline entertainment as WiFi may be unreliable
- Keep important documents (ID, passport, tickets) easily accessible
Essentials to Bring:
- Light snacks and water bottle
- Phone charger and power bank
- Travel pillow and eye mask for comfort
- Small amount of Thai Baht notes for rest stop purchases
Thailand Travel Tips
Before leaving for Thailand, here are some travel tips:
Thailand Visa:
- Visa-free entry: Most countries get 30-60 days (US, UK, EU, Australia: 30 days by land, 60 days by air)
- Visa on arrival: Available for some countries (2,000 THB fee)
- Entry requirements: Passport valid 6+ months, proof of onward travel
Currency Used in Thailand:
- Thai Baht (THB/฿)
- Exchange rate: ~1 USD = 35-37 THB
- Best exchange: Super Rich money changers offer excellent rates
- ATMs: Abundant, but charge 220 THB foreign transaction fee
Payment Methods Accepted in Thailand:
- Cash: King in Thailand - essential for street food, markets, taxis, tuk-tuks
- Cards: Accepted in malls, hotels, upscale restaurants
- Digital payments: PromptPay, TrueMoney popular locally
- Rabbit Card: For BTS/MRT in Bangkok
Things to do in Chiang Mai
Nestled in northern Thailand's mountains, Chiang Mai offers a perfect blend of ancient tradition and modern charm:
Old City Temple Circuit:
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep - Visit the mountaintop temple offering breathtaking panoramic views and housing sacred 14th-century Buddha relics
- Wat Chedi Luang - Explore the massive partially ruined pagoda in the heart of the Old City
- Wat Phra Singh - Admire exquisite Lanna architecture in this beautifully preserved temple
- 300+ Buddhist Temples - Discover numerous spiritual sites within the ancient walls and moats
Nature & Adventure:
- Mae Sa Valley - Explore lush landscapes and visit ethical elephant sanctuaries
- Doi Inthanon National Park - Trek through mist-covered mountains to Thailand's highest peak and spectacular waterfalls
Culinary Experiences:
- Khao Soi - Savor the aromatic coconut curry noodle soup that defines northern Thai cuisine
- Nam Prik Noom - Try the distinctive fiery green chili dip unique to the region
- Cooking Classes - Participate in traditional cooking experiences to learn authentic techniques
Markets & Shopping:
- Sunday Walking Street Market - Browse the Old City's transformation into a vibrant handicraft bazaar
- Night Bazaar - Shop for local goods and souvenirs every evening
Cultural Immersion:
- Festival Timing - Experience Yi Peng Lantern Festival or Songkran water festival for authentic cultural celebration
- Temple Meditation Retreats - Join respectful meditation sessions with welcoming local monks
- Bamboo Rafting Excursions - Enjoy peaceful river adventures through scenic landscapes
Getting around Chiang Mai
Navigating Chiang Mai is straightforward with diverse transportation options, though the city lacks metro systems:
Local Public Transport:
- Songthaews (Red Trucks) - Most prevalent shared pickup trucks serving as informal buses (20-40 baht per ride) operating without fixed schedules—simply flag one down. But do discuss destination and price before boarding
Tourist-Friendly Options:
- Tuk-tuks - Convenient for short distances (starting 60-100 baht) available near tourist areas
- Traditional Taxis - Less common but found near tourist areas and airport with fixed rates
Airport Transfers:
- Airport Shuttle Bus - Affordable option (40 baht) running every 20-30 minutes
- Fixed-Rate Taxis - Reliable service (150-200 baht) for 15-20 minute journey
Ride-Hailing Services:
- Grab - Widely used ride-hailing service (starting around 60 baht) often more convenient than negotiating with drivers, and it accepts cards through the app, unlike most other transport options
Independent Exploration:
- Motorbike Rentals - Popular choice (200-300 baht daily) but requires international license
- Bicycle Rentals - Eco-friendly alternative (50-100 baht daily) perfect for exploring the compact Old City
Pro Tip:
- Most transportation requires cash payment except for Grab.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Bus Wrap up
Taking the bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of the most popular and budget-friendly ways to reach Northern Thailand's cultural heart! This journey (9-11 hours) offers fantastic value for money while taking you through Thailand's beautiful countryside. With VIP coaches featuring reclining seats and onboard facilities, you'll arrive refreshed and ready to explore.
Remember to book through reliable platforms like Omio for the best deals! Whether you choose day or night travel, this scenic route will be a memorable part of your Thai adventure. Safe travels and enjoy exploring beautiful Chiang Mai!
Frequently Asked Questions
Popular options include Chiang Rai and the White Temple (3-4 hours), Pai (3-4 hours), Mae Hong Son loop road trip, or day trips to elephant sanctuaries.
3-4 days allows time for temple visits, cooking classes, night markets, and day trips to surrounding mountains and villages.
Yes, you can buy tickets via Omio on the same day of travel, but booking in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
FAQs: Bangkok to Chiang Mai coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by coach. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chiang Mai, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
When departing from Bangkok, you have various coach station options to start your route from including Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal and Bangkok, Chakrabongse Rd - Khao San Road. When arriving in Chiang Mai, you can end your trip in coach stations like Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) and Chiang Mai, Nakhonchai Air.
Passengers board the coach most frequently from Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade), located away from the city centre.
- Bangkok Bus Lines
- 可在特定路线提供无障碍巴士
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
- Bangkok Bus Lines
- 包含一件行李，重量不超过20公斤
- Viriyatour
- 包含一件行李
- Budsarakham
- 每位乘客限带一件行李
- Bangkok Bus Lines
- 额外行李按每公斤收费
- Viriyatour
- 额外行李需付费
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bangkok and Chiang Mai
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Office
- 06:00-22:00
- Free public Wi-Fi
- Limited street parking available
- Street food vendors and local restaurants nearby
- Available on Chakrabongse Road
- Basic ramps available
- Available at nearby restaurants and shops
- Bus: 2, 15, 44, 511
- Boat: Phra Arthit Pier
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office- 05:00-22:00
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal
- Available at terminal parking lot, 20 baht per hour
- Food court and several local food vendors available inside terminal
- Available at designated taxi stand outside terminal
- Wheelchair ramps and elevators available
- Public restrooms available for 5 baht
- BTS: Mo Chit Station
- MRT: Chatuchak Park Station
- Bus: 3, 26, 77, 96, 104, 134, 136, 138, 145, 509, 522
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office- 04:00-22:00
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal
- Large parking area available for both short and long-term parking
- Food court and various food stalls available inside terminal
- Available at designated taxi stand outside terminal
- Wheelchair ramps, elevators
- Public restrooms available with fee
- Bus: 84, 91, 123, 124, 127, 146, 149, 170, 177, 183, 189, 515, 539
- Metro: NA
- Train: NA
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
- 04:00-22:00
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal
- Large parking area available for both short and long-term parking
- Food court and various food stalls available inside terminal
- Available at designated taxi stand outside terminal
- Wheelchair ramps and elevators available
- Public restrooms available with 5 THB fee
- BTS: Mo Chit Station
- MRT: Chatuchak Park Station
- Bus: 3, 26, 29, 34, 49, 52, 77
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office- 05:00-22:00
- Free parking available for passengers
- Local food stalls and small restaurants nearby
- Available at designated taxi stand
- Wheelchair accessible
- Available for passengers
- Bus: 34, 39, 59, 95, 503, 543
- Van: Various routes to Don Mueang
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office- 05:00-21:00
- Free Wi-Fi available
- Free parking available for cars and motorbikes
- Local food stalls and small restaurants nearby
- Available at designated taxi stand
- Wheelchair accessible
- Public toilets available
- Bus: Local songthaews, Red trucks
- Tuk-tuks available
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office- 05:00-21:00
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal
- Free parking available for both cars and motorcycles
- Food court and several local food vendors inside terminal
- Available at designated taxi stand outside terminal
- Wheelchair ramps and accessible facilities
- Public restrooms available with 5 baht fee
- Bus: R3, RTC Shuttle
- Songthaew: Red trucks from city center
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
- 05:00-22:00
- Free Wi-Fi available
- Free parking available for passengers
- Several local food stalls and small restaurants nearby
- Available in front of the station
- Wheelchair accessible
- Available free of charge
- Songthaew (Red Truck): Available from city center
- Bus: Local bus routes available
More options for your journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chiang Mai and Bangkok
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