Chiang Mai to Pai Bus Schedule and Bus Fare
| Bus Operator |
First Bus |
Last Bus |
No.of Trip |
Depart Day |
Fare From |
|---|
| Prempacha |
06:30 |
17:30 |
23 |
M T W T F S S |
THB 180 |
Bus from Chiang Mai to Pai
| Cheapest Price | ฿ 180 |
| Distance | 137 km |
| Est. Duration | 2 hours 54 minutes |
| No. of Operator | 1 operators |
Popular Bus Company from Chiang Mai to Pai
Bus to Pai from Chiang Mai
Bus to Pai from Chiang Mai offers one of the most scenic and convenient ways to reach the charming mountain town of Pai. This picturesque destination, nestled in the mountains of Mae Hong Son Province, has become a favorite among travelers seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life of Chiang Mai. Pai is renowned for its stunning natural hot springs, breathtaking viewpoints like Pai Canyon, vibrant night markets, and laid-back hippie atmosphere. The town offers incredible experiences, including bamboo rafting, elephant sanctuaries, and beautiful waterfalls such as Mo Paeng Falls. Nestled in the mountains, Pai offers a refreshing escape with its cool climate, vibrant arts scene, and budget-friendly stays—making it a favorite among backpackers, digital nomads, and nature enthusiasts.
Traveling from Chiang Mai to Pai by Bus
Traveling by bus to Pai from Chiang Mai is the most popular and economical transportation option for visitors. The route takes you through winding mountain roads with spectacular views of lush forests, traditional hill tribe villages, and terraced rice fields. Most travelers choose the bus service because it's reliable, affordable, and operates multiple times throughout the day. The journey offers glimpses of rural Thai life and stunning mountain scenery that makes the trip itself part of the adventure. Prempracha Transportation is the primary bus operator serving this route, providing comfortable minivan services that cater to both locals and tourists seeking to explore Northern Thailand's hidden gems.
Journey Duration: How Long Does it Take to Travel from Chiang Mai to Pai?
The bus from Chiang Mai to Pai typically takes approximately 3 hours to complete the journey, though travel time can vary depending on several factors. Road conditions, weather, and traffic congestion can impact the duration, especially during peak tourist seasons or rainy weather, when mountain roads become more challenging. The departure point in Chiang Mai and specific stops along the route also influence total travel time. During busy periods, such as holidays or festivals, expect slightly longer journey times due to increased traffic. The winding mountain roads require careful driving, which naturally extends the trip duration but ensures passenger safety throughout the scenic route to Pai.
Distance: How Far is Chiang Mai from Pai?
The distance between Chiang Mai and Pai covers approximately 137 kilometers, but don't let this relatively short distance fool you. The bus from Chiang Mai to Pai District navigates through mountainous terrain with over 762 curves and steep inclines that make the journey more challenging than typical highway travel. The route winds through the mountains of Mae Hong Son Province, ascending and descending through elevation changes that create the famous winding road experience. This mountainous landscape is what makes Pai so special, offering cooler temperatures and stunning natural beauty. The challenging terrain explains why the 137-kilometer journey takes about 3 hours rather than the 1.5 hours you might expect on flat highways.
Bus Operator Services for Chiang Mai to Pai Route
Prempracha Transportation serves as the main bus operator providing regular bus schedule from Chiang Mai to Pai services throughout the day. Their first departure begins at 06:30 a.m., with the final bus leaving at 5:30 p.m. The company operates buses approximately every hour, ensuring convenient scheduling for travelers with different itineraries. These comfortable minivans are well-maintained and driven by experienced drivers familiar with the mountain roads. Prempracha Transportation has built a reputation for reliability and safety on this popular tourist route, making them the preferred choice for both independent travelers and tour groups heading to Pai.
How Much is the Bus Ticket from Chiang?Mai to Pai?
The bus ticket price from Chiang Mai to Pai is remarkably affordable at just 180 Thai Baht for a minivan seat. This budget-friendly fare makes bus travel accessible to backpackers and budget-conscious travelers exploring Northern Thailand. The competitive pricing includes comfortable seating in air-conditioned minivans that can accommodate luggage and provide a pleasant journey experience. Compared to private taxi services or motorbike rentals, the bus option offers excellent value for money while ensuring safety and convenience. The 180 Baht fare represents one of the most cost-effective ways to travel between these two popular destinations in Northern Thailand.
Departure Point: Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)
The bus station from Chiang Mai to Pai is located at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 2, also known as Arcade Bus Station. This modern terminal serves as the main hub for intercity bus services to various destinations in Northern Thailand. Located on the outskirts of Chiang Mai city, the terminal is easily accessible by songthaew (red truck taxi), regular taxi, or tuk-tuk from the city center. The facility offers basic amenities including food stalls, restrooms, and waiting areas for passenger comfort. Arcade Bus Station is well-organized with clear signage in both Thai and English, making it easy for international travelers to navigate and find their designated boarding areas for Pai-bound buses.
Arrival Destination: Pai Bus Station
Upon reaching your destination, the bus to Pai from Chiang Mai arrives at Pai Bus Station, conveniently located in the heart of Pai town. This central location puts you within walking distance of most guesthouses, restaurants, and attractions that Pai has to offer. The bus station is small but functional, with basic facilities and easy access to local transportation options. From here, you can easily explore Pai's famous walking street, night market, and nearby attractions on foot or by renting a motorbike. The central location eliminates the need for additional transportation to reach most accommodations, making your arrival in Pai smooth and convenient.
How to Book Your Bus Service from Chiang Mai to Pai
Booking your bus to Pai from Chiang Mai is simple and convenient through the Busonlineticket website. This reliable online platform allows you to secure your seats in advance, ensuring guaranteed travel on your preferred departure time. The website offers a user-friendly interface where you can select your travel dates, compare schedules, and complete secure payment transactions. Whether you're planning a one-way trip or need return tickets for bus to Chiang Mai from Pai, the booking system accommodates both directions with the same reliable service. Advance booking is particularly recommended during peak tourist seasons, holidays, and weekends when buses tend to fill up quickly.
Busonlineticket website provides instant confirmation and digital tickets that you can present at the bus station, eliminating the hassle of waiting in queues or risking sold-out services on your travel day.
