Bangkok to Chiang Mai Bus Schedule and Bus Fare
| Bus Operator |
First Bus |
Last Bus |
No.of Trip |
Depart Day |
Fare From |
| Bangkok Busline |
06:00 |
20:45 |
7 |
M T W T F S S |
THB 594 |
| Budsarakam |
18:30 |
20:00 |
6 |
M T W T F S S |
THB 693 |
| Cherdchai Tour North |
20:00 |
20:00 |
1 |
M T W T F S S |
THB 594 |
| Nakhonchai Air |
08:30 |
22:45 |
15 |
M T W T F S S |
THB 693 |
| Sri Tawong Tour |
07:00 |
18:00 |
8 |
M T W T F S S |
THB 594 |
| Tara Tour and Travel |
18:00 |
18:00 |
1 |
M T W T F S S |
THB 800 |
| Transport Co Ltd (999) |
07:25 |
20:00 |
8 |
M T W T F S S |
THB 594 |
Bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
| Cheapest Price | ฿ 594 |
| Distance | 861 km |
| Est. Duration | 11 hours 41 minutes |
| No. of Operator | 7 operators |
Popular Bus Company from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai
The Bangkok to Chiang Mai bus route offers an affordable and scenic journey, linking the nation’s bustling capital with the charm of the north. Chiang Mai, affectionately called the "Cultural Heart of the North," presents travelers with an extraordinary collection of experiences that establish it as an essential destination. From magnificent historic temples such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang to the bustling Night Bazaar and renowned Sunday Walking Street, Chiang Mai enchants visitors with its profound cultural legacy. The city's famous mountain landscapes, including Doi Suthep with its golden temple perched on the hillside, provide breathtaking views and spiritual experiences. Food enthusiasts will delight in the authentic Northern Thai cuisine, including khao soi and sai ua, while adventure seekers can explore nearby elephant sanctuaries, trekking trails, and the beautiful Doi Inthanon National Park. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, natural beauty, or culinary adventures, Chiang Mai delivers an unforgettable experience that perfectly complements your journey from Bangkok.
How to Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Bus
Organizing your journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai has become incredibly convenient with numerous bus services operating daily schedules. The transportation corridor linking these two prominent Thai destinations is well-developed and presents various comfort categories to accommodate different financial plans and travel preferences. How to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by bus encompasses selecting from multiple departure schedules throughout each day, with night bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai services being exceptionally favored among travelers seeking to economize on lodging expenses. The overnight bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai allows you to sleep during the journey and wake up refreshed in the northern capital. For those seeking premium comfort, first-class bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai options provide spacious seating, onboard amenities, and superior service. Many travelers specifically choose the Sombat tour bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai for its reputation for reliability and comfort, making it one of the most trusted operators on this route.
How many hours does it take to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
The travel duration from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by bus generally spans between 9 to 11 hours, varying based on your departure terminal, vehicle category, and roadway conditions. Most coaches embark from primary stations in Bangkok and navigate the well-constructed expressways heading northward through Thailand's central regions. Overnight buses from Bangkok to Chiang Mai typically take 10 to 11 hours, departing in the evening and arriving in Chiang Mai by early morning. Day services may take slightly less time, approximately 9-10 hours, as they avoid some of the late-night driving restrictions. First-class bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai services often provide more comfortable seating that reclines further, making the long journey more pleasant for passengers. The Sombat tour bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai maintains consistent timing and is known for punctuality, typically completing the journey within the standard timeframe while ensuring passenger comfort throughout the trip.
How Far is Bangkok to Chiang Mai
The traveling distance from Bangkok to Chiang Mai measures approximately 700 kilometers (435 miles) through the most efficient highway network. This considerable distance positions bus transportation as an economical selection for cost-conscious travelers interested in observing Thailand's countryside during their expedition. The pathway generally utilizes Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) northward through multiple provinces including Ayutthaya, Lopburi, and Phitsanulok before arriving at Chiang Mai. How to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai covers this significant distance through diverse landscapes, from urban areas to rural farmlands and eventually the mountainous terrain of Northern Thailand. The night bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai allows passengers to cover this distance while sleeping, making efficient use of travel time. Despite the considerable distance, modern highways and well-maintained roads ensure a smooth journey for all types of buses operating on this popular route.
Bus Services and Operators on the Bangkok to Chiang Mai Route
Several reputable bus companies operate the Bangkok to Chiang Mai route, each offering different service levels and amenities:
Bangkok Busline provides reliable service with comfortable seating and competitive pricing, making it a popular choice for budget travelers.
Budsarakam offers both standard and VIP services with good safety records and punctual departures.
Cherdchai Tour North specializes in northern routes and provides experienced drivers familiar with the terrain.
Nakhonchai Air is known for its premium services and air-conditioned buses with excellent comfort features.
Sombat Tour stands out as one of the most trusted operators, with the Sombat tour bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai being particularly renowned for reliability and customer service.
Sri Tawong Tour offers competitive rates and comfortable journey experiences.
Tara Tour and Travel Offers both daytime and overnight bus services from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, with a strong reputation for safety.
Transport Co Ltd (999) operates government buses with standardized services and affordable pricing.
Viriyatour rounds out the options with modern fleet and professional service standards, ensuring passengers have multiple quality choices for their journey.
Current Fare Ranges for Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Fares for the Bangkok to Chiang Mai bus route vary from ?590 to ?800, influenced by the type of bus and chosen drop-off point. Standard buses typically cost between ?590-650, while first-class bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai services command higher prices of ?700-800 due to enhanced comfort features. The night bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai generally falls in the mid-range pricing, around ?650-750, offering good value for money considering the overnight accommodation savings. Overnight bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai prices may vary slightly based on departure times and seasonal demand.
Premium operators like the Sombat tour bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai may charge at the higher end of the price range but justify the cost with superior service quality and reliability. Prices can fluctuate during peak travel seasons, holidays, and festivals, so booking in advance is recommended. The cost variation also depends on the specific boarding and arrival points selected, with some routes including additional stops that may affect pricing. How to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai affordably involves comparing different operators and booking times to find the best deals available.
Boarding Points in Bangkok
Bangkok offers several convenient boarding points for buses heading to Chiang Mai. The primary departure terminal is Mo Chit Bus Terminal (also known as Chatuchak Bus Terminal). This terminal serves as the main hub for northern routes and provides comprehensive facilities including ticket counters, restaurants, and waiting areas.
Khao San Road area also offers pickup points for backpacker-oriented services, providing convenient access for travelers staying in the budget accommodation district. Some operators provide hotel pickup services from central Bangkok areas, eliminating the need to travel to terminals. Victory Monument serves as another pickup point for certain bus companies, offering good public transport connections via BTS and bus services.
The Northern Bus Terminal at Mo Chit remains the most comprehensive option with the widest selection of departure times and bus operators. Travelers should be at the terminal a minimum of 30 minutes prior to departure to finalize check-in and board the correct bus. The terminal provides clear signage in both Thai and English to help international travelers navigate easily.
Arrival Points in Chiang Mai
Buses from Bangkok typically arrive at Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal, the city's main long-distance bus station located on Kaeo Nawarat Road. This terminal serves as the primary arrival point for most intercity buses and provides good connections to the city center via local transportation options including songthaews (red trucks), taxis, and tuk-tuks.
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (also called New Chiang Mai Bus Terminal) is another arrival point located slightly outside the city center but well-connected by public transport. Some premium services may arrive at different terminals or even offer city center drop-off points for added convenience.
The Arcade Bus Terminal offers various facilities including restaurants, shops, and money exchange services, making it convenient for arriving passengers. From either terminal, travelers can easily reach popular areas like the Old City, Nimman Road, or Night Bazaar area using local transport options. The terminals provide clear information boards and staff who can assist with onward travel arrangements.
Passengers who wish to disembark at intermediate stops along the route should inform staff on the day of travel. Passengers can check routes and timetables at Busonlineticket.
Easy Steps to Book a Bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Booking your bus service from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is straightforward through the Busonlineticket, which offers a comprehensive platform for comparing operators, schedules, and prices. The website allows you to search for available buses based on your preferred travel dates and times, whether you're looking for a night bus Bangkok to Chiang Mai or daytime services.
The online booking process is user-friendly, allowing you to select your departure point in Bangkok and arrival point in Chiang Mai, compare different operators including the popular Sombat tour bus choose your seating option for your journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. You can filter results by price, departure time, and bus type to find the perfect match for your travel needs.
Busonlineticket provides secure payment options and instant confirmation, eliminating the need to visit physical ticket counters. The platform also offers customer support to assist with any booking queries or changes. For those preferring traditional methods, tickets can also be purchased directly at bus terminals, though online booking is recommended during peak seasons to ensure availability. The website frequently offers promotions and discounts, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious travelers planning their journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
