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Pai to Chiang Mai from $4: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Pai, Thailand
to
Chiang Mai, Thailand

How to Get from Pai to Chiang Mai: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$4 - Mini VanBest price
81.4 milesDistance
2h 9m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Pai to Chiang Mai with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Prem Pracha
Drive
Average Duration
3h 
Estimated price
$4-7
Recommended
Company
Prem Pracha
Drive
Average Duration
3h 
Estimated price
$4-7
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 81.4 miles
Duration: 2h 9m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  9m
Estimated price
$14-22
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
2h  9m
Estimated price
$40-50
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  9m
Estimated price
$105-105
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Traveling From Pai to Chiang Mai

The journey from Pai to Chiang Mai offers a shift from Pai's laid-back, bohemian vibe to Chiang Mai's vibrant city life, showcasing bustling markets and rich cultural heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences filled with charm and culture.

Nimmanhaemin
• Trendy cafes and boutique shops line the streets.
• Popular with digital nomads for coworking spaces.
Old City
• Rich historical sites within ancient city walls.
• Vibrant local markets and street vendors abound.
Night Bazaar
• A bustling market perfect for night shopping.
• Great food stalls offering local and international cuisine.

Best Times To Visit Chiang Mai's Attractions

Knowing when to visit Chiang Mai's key attractions can enhance your experience.

Doi Suthep Temple
Early morning visits, around 6 AM, offer tranquility and fewer tourists.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed shopping experience without the weekend rush.
Elephant Nature Park
Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid large tour groups and enjoy peaceful interactions.

Chiang Mai Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chiang Mai experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making the best times to visit typically from November to February for comfortable temperatures. Understanding the weather patterns allows you to plan outdoor activities and cultural experiences accordingly.

Dining Recommendation

A must-try dish in Chiang Mai is Khao Soi, a rich coconut curry noodle soup topped with crispy noodles, best enjoyed at Huen Phen for an authentic experience. This vibrant eatery contrasts with Pai's cozy, laid-back cafes by offering a lively atmosphere and bold flavors that highlight local ingredients, immersing you in the region's culinary traditions.

Pai - Chiang Mai operators

Explore transport companies operating between Pai and Chiang Mai, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+66 53 492 999
Website
premprachatransports.com

Bus from Pai to Chiang Mai

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$4-7
Shuttle
Contact phone
063 158 1356
Website
glassflower.co.th

Shuttle from Pai to Chiang Mai

Average Duration
2h 9m
Estimated price
$105-105
Taxi
Contact phone
+66 82 196 7603

Taxi from Pai to Chiang Mai

Average Duration
2h 9m
Estimated price
$40-50

Pai to Chiang Mai: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Pai and Chiang Mai offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Enjoy a scenic journey as you drive 130.4 km from Pai to Chiang Mai, taking approximately 2 hours and 9 minutes to reach your destination. 💰 Prices for this car trip range from $14 to $22, offering flexibility for travelers with different budgets.
Average price
$14 - $22
🚌 Enjoy a convenient and comfortable journey from Pai to Chiang Mai by taking the direct bus service operated by Prem Pracha. 🌿 Sit back and relax as you travel through the beautiful landscapes of northern Thailand during the approximately 3-hour bus ride.
Departure Point
Pai station
Arrival Point
Chiang Mai station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at Pai bus station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure, as buses can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons; for a schedule of bus times, check out prempracha.com
• Enjoy the scenic route—keep your camera ready as the bus climbs through the mountainous terrain; you can also bring along snacks or local food for the trip, as there are limited stops during the journey.
• Upon arriving at Chiang Mai bus station, be prepared to navigate the station which can be busy; grab a complimentary map from the information desk, and consider taking a songthaew (red truck taxi) for a quick and affordable ride to your final destination within the city.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Pai to Chiang Mai.

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The distance between Pai and Chiang Mai in Thailand is approximately 85.3 km. By road, it is a distance of 131.0 km. The typical travel time by car from Chiang Mai to Pai is around 2 hours and 9 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Pai to Chiang Mai is by taking a mini van, which costs around $10 and takes approximately 3 hours. This mode of transportation is popular among budget travelers as it offers a reasonable price and a direct route between the two destinations. However, if time is of the essence, taking a taxi would be the most time-efficient option. Taxis can reach Chiang Mai from Pai in around 2 hours and 9 minutes, but they are more expensive with fares ranging from $40 to $55.
To travel from Pai to Chiang Mai without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to rent a car. The driving distance between Pai and Chiang Mai is approximately 130.4 km and takes about 2 hours and 9 minutes by car. Rental prices for cars vary but generally range from $14 to $22 per day, depending on the car size and rental company.
The distance between Pai and Chiang Mai is 85.3 km by road, which would take approximately 2 hours and 9 minutes to travel by car. However, if you prefer to travel without a car, the best option is to take a Mini Van. The Mini Van journey from Pai to Chiang Mai typically takes around 3 hours and costs approximately $10.
Yes, there is a direct link between Pai and Chiang Mai. There is a bus service operated by Prem Pracha that departs from Pai and arrives in Chiang Mai. The buses run hourly and operate every day, with the journey taking approximately 3 hours.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Chiang Mai. With over 1171 hotels to choose from, you can find something suitable for every budget and preference. Prices start at $27 per night for basic accommodations, but there are also luxurious resorts and boutique hotels available for those who want more amenities.