Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are two enchanting cities in Northern Thailand, each offering unique attractions. Located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) apart, visiting both cities is a must for travelers seeking to explore the region’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and laid-back atmosphere. Here’s your complete guide on how to travel between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.
Read about:
• Distance from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
• Buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
• Private Car or Minibus Options
• Chiang Rai Bus Terminals
Distance from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
The journey from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai covers approximately 200 kilometers (125 miles) via a mainly single carriageway road. With no major highways connecting the cities directly, travel times can be longer than expected, especially if you get stuck behind slow-moving vehicles.
The lack of train service and the short distance make flying impractical, leaving road travel as the only viable option. Most tourists opt for buses, as they are affordable, convenient, and reliable.
Buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Greenbus Company is the primary bus operator for the Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai route (Read our Greenbus Review). Known for their modern, air-conditioned buses, Greenbus offers three classes of service:
- A-Class (Express): Basic, affordable option with A/C. Takes around 3h 45m.
- X-Class (Express): Slightly more comfort, onboard toilet. Takes around 3h 45m.
- V-Class (VIP): Highest comfort, more space, onboard toilet, water, and snacks. Takes around 3h 20m.
| Bus Class | Departures | Duration | Price (THB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-Class Express 🚌 | Frequent, from 7:00-17:00 | ~3h 45m | 271 |
| X-Class Express 🚌 | Frequent, from 8:00-14:00 | ~3h 45m | 370 |
| V-Class VIP 🚌 | Less frequent, 7:30-18:00 | ~3h 20m | 380 |
V-Class buses feature 3 seats per row (2+1 configuration), offering a spacious individual seat option for solo travelers. Booking in advance on 12Go.asia is recommended, especially for V-Class buses, to secure your preferred seat.
Boarding and Arrival Points:
- Buses depart from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade Bus Station). See Location on Google Maps.
- Buses arrive at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 in the city center. See Location on Google Maps.
Private Car or Minibus Options
For a more comfortable and personalized experience, consider booking a private chauffeured car or minibus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. This is an excellent option for families or groups of friends traveling together.
| Vehicle Type | Capacity | Duration | Price (THB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla Altis or similar 🚗 | 3 passengers | ~3h | 3,850 |
| Toyota Innova or similar 🚐 | 6-8 passengers | ~3h | 4,620 |
| Toyota Commuter or similar 🚐 | 9-12 passengers | ~3h | 4,950 |
Prices are per vehicle and include hotel pickup in Chiang Mai. Divide the cost among passengers for an affordable and flexible door-to-door option. Book in advance on platforms like 12Go for the best rates and availability.
Chiang Rai Bus Terminals
Chiang Rai has two main bus terminals:
- Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 (Old Bus Station): Located in the city center, this is the primary arrival point for buses from Chiang Mai. However, the station is undergoing redevelopment, so confirm with staff if buses are still stopping here during construction.
- Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 (New Bus Station): Situated further from the city center, this modern terminal serves long-distance routes to other cities and provinces.
Practical Travel Tips
- Luggage: Most buses allow one large bag and one small carry-on per passenger. Inform the driver if you have additional luggage, as a small fee may apply.
- Booking Tickets: Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays, to secure your preferred seat and avoid sold-out buses.
- Boarding Time: Arrive at the bus terminal at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for checking luggage and locating your platform.
- Refreshments: Most buses make a short rest stop halfway through the journey. Bring snacks and water for the ride, or purchase them at the terminal before boarding.
- Arriving in Chiang Rai: From the bus terminal, take a tuk-tuk, taxi, or songthaew (shared taxi) to your accommodation. Expect to pay around 100-150 baht for a tuk-tuk or taxi to the city center.
What to Do in Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai offers a laid-back atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and unique cultural attractions. Some must-visit spots include:
- White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): A contemporary, unconventional Buddhist temple with stunning white exteriors and intricate designs.
- Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten): A mesmerizing blue temple featuring intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere.
- Night Bazaar: A vibrant evening market offering street food, handicrafts, and live music.
- Singha Park: A vast park with beautiful gardens, tea plantations, and a small zoo.
- Doi Tung: A mountain range home to the Royal Villa, breathtaking gardens, and hiking trails.
How do you get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
The most popular and affordable way to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is by bus. Greenbus Company operates frequent services throughout the day, with fares ranging from 271 to 380 baht. For a more comfortable journey, book a private car or minibus, which can be cost-effective when traveling in a group.
With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and slower pace of life, Chiang Rai is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the bustling city of Chiang Mai. By following this comprehensive guide and travel tips, you can easily plan your journey and make the most of your time in this enchanting northern Thai city.
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