Chiang Mai To Bangkok

There are a number of ways to get from Chiang Mai to Bangkok including taking a bus, overnight train or taking a direct flight.

Overnight bus and train travel offer the most affordable options, with flights being the quickest and most efficient way to travel.

To travel by bus to Bangkok, head to the main bus terminal, Arcade Bus Station, which is located 3kms north-east of the old city. The journey from Chiang Mai to Bangkok can take anywhere between 12-15 hours. It is important for travellers to note that there are close to 60 transport companies that operate at Arcade station. All of these companies have different rates, schedules and travel on different routes.

Buses depart for Bangkok regularly throughout the day starting from as early as 6am and as late as 10pm. Tickets can cost anywhere from 300 THB for a basic bus up to 800 THB for a modern express bus with comfortable reclining chairs. VIP tickets often provide food and water for the trip, but travellers are welcome to bring their own food. Tickets can be purchased directly at the window of the operator you wish to use.

For train travel to Bangkok, head to the Chiang Mai Train Station which is located on Rot Fai Road, about 3kms east of Tha Pae Gate in the old city. There are three categories of train services accessible at the Chiang Mai Train Station. These include, from slowest to fastest (generally), the rapid, the express and the special express. The distinction between these categories is the speed of the trains. The prices cost between 300 THB for a basic upright seat to 1800 THB for a sleeper.

The trip to Bangkok can take between 12-15 hours, depending on the number of stops and any delays that are encountered. At the time of writing, the trains to Bangkok were scheduled at the following times:

• Rapid: 06.30am depart – arrive at 9.10pm (14hrs 40min)
• Special Express: 08.50am depart – arrive at 9.25pm (10hrs 35mins)
• Express: 3.30pm depart – arrive at 5.25am (13hrs 55mins)
• Special Express: 5.00pm depart – arrive at 06.15am (12hrs 15mins)
• Special Express: 6.00pm depart – arrive at 06.50am (12hrs 50mins)

There are over 50 direct flights from Chiang Mai to Bangkok each day and the flight time is only 1hr 15min in duration. Flights can cost anywhere between $60 – $150 AUD (return) depending on carrier and date chosen.

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