Bangkok, Bangkok Province to Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai from $13: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Bangkok to Chiang Rai: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$13 by trainBest price
688.9 kmDistance
3h 13m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bangkok to Chiang Rai 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.
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Traveling From Bangkok to Chiang Rai
The journey from Bangkok to Chiang Rai offers a fascinating contrast between the bustling urban energy of Thailand's capital and the serene, picturesque landscapes of northern Thailand.
Best Neighbourhoods in Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct charm and culture.
Old City
• Home to the iconic Wat Phra Kaew temple.
• Lively local markets and street food stalls.
Night Bazaar
• Famous for its vibrant night market atmosphere.
• Great selection of local handicrafts and food.
Rim Kok
• Scenic riverside views and quiet ambiance.
• Close to natural attractions and outdoor activities.
Best Times To Visit Chiang Rai's Attractions
Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Chiang Rai.
Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)
Early morning visits give you a peaceful experience before the crowds arrive.
Golden Triangle
Late afternoon is ideal for photography and stunning sunset views.
Baan Dam Museum (Black House)
Weekdays are less crowded, allowing for a more intimate exploration.
Chiang Rai Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Chiang Rai experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making November to February the ideal months to visit for cooler, more comfortable temperatures. Understanding the weather can help you plan activities—dry months are perfect for sightseeing, while the rainy season might offer lush landscapes but can limit outdoor plans.
Dining Recommendation in Chiang Rai
Don't miss trying Khao Soi, a rich and aromatic coconut curry noodle dish that showcases the distinct flavors of northern Thailand at a local favorite, Khao Soi Khun Yai. The relaxed atmosphere, paired with the use of fresh, local ingredients, creates a dining experience in Chiang Rai that feels more intimate and traditional compared to the vibrant food scene in Bangkok.
Bangkok - Chiang Rai operators
Explore transport companies operating between Bangkok and Chiang Rai, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+66 2 936 3256Website
https://www.sombattour.com/
Bus from Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal to Chiang Rai
Average Duration
11hEstimated price
$16-35Contact phone
1624Website
https://www.nakhonchaiair.com/view/
Bus from Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal to Chiang Rai
Average Duration
11h 49mEstimated price
$15-24Bus from Den Chai to Chiang Rai
Average Duration
3h 54mEstimated price
$6-9Contact phone
1348Website
http://bmta.co.th
Bus from Thai Airways Larnluang to Donmueng Terminal Floor 3
Average Duration
32mEstimated price
$1-2Contact phone
+66 2 030 4933Website
https://bangkokbusline.co.th/?lang_code=en
Bus from Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal to Chiang Khong
Average Duration
12h 50mEstimated price
$16-35Contact phone
1490Website
https://tcl99web.transport.co.th/Home
Bus from Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal to Chiang Khong
Average Duration
14h 35mEstimated price
$16-24Contact phone
1690Website
https://www.railway.co.th/
Train from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Den Chai
Average Duration
9h 24mEstimated price
$4-40Website
https://www.thaiairways.com/
Plane from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) to Chiang Rai (CEI)
Average Duration
1h 28mEstimated price
$40-120Website
https://www.vietjetair.com/
Plane from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) to Chiang Rai (CEI)
Average Duration
1h 25mEstimated price
$35-120Website
https://www.nokair.com/
Plane from Don Muang (DMK) to Chiang Rai (CEI)
Average Duration
1h 20mEstimated price
$30-120Website
https://www.airasia.com/
Plane from Don Muang (DMK) to Chiang Rai (CEI)
Average Duration
1h 23mEstimated price
$24-120Website
https://lionairthai.com/
Plane from Don Muang (DMK) to Chiang Rai (CEI)
Average Duration
1h 25mEstimated price
$30-130Bangkok to Chiang Rai: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Bangkok and Chiang Rai 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.
🚗 Embark on an exciting road trip from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, covering a distance of 488 miles, with picturesque landscapes awaiting along the way.
💰 Experience the flexibility of travel costs, ranging from $85 to $130 for a car journey that takes approximately 11 hours and 14 minutes, offering a blend of adventure and comfort.
Average price
$85 - $130
Useful tips for train travellers
• The route from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is primarily serviced by State Railway of Thailand (SRT) with trains such as the rapid and express services. Onboard catering services include snack and meal options that can be purchased from trolley services. Make sure to bring some cash as not all onboard services may accept card payments.
• The trains on this route generally offer several seating options including First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class typically provides a more spacious cabin and meal service, while Business Class offers reclining seats with limited meal service. Economy Class is more affordable with basic seating. Depending on your budget and comfort needs, choose accordingly for the best experience.
• Travel to Chiang Rai is usually offered by several operators, prominently including the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and Nok Air. While Nok Air primarily operates flights, for train travel you can visit the SRT website at railway.co.th to check schedules and book tickets. For bus connections, the Chiang Rai Bus Terminal website (chiangraibus.com) can help with local transport options.
🛫 Flying from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is convenient and quick, with a direct flight taking only 1 hour and 20 minutes from Don Muang Airport to Chiang Rai Airport.
💸 The prices for flights between Bangkok and Chiang Rai can range from $34 to $106, offering affordable choices for those looking to explore the beautiful northern city of Chiang Rai.
Departure Point
Don Muang Airport
Arrival Point
Chiang Rai Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with either Thai Lion Mentari, Nok Air, or Thai AirAsia, as they all offer competitive pricing and varied departure times from Don Muang Airport to Chiang Rai, typically around $34 to $106.
• Upon arriving at Chiang Rai Airport, familiarize yourself with the airport layout as it is relatively small but has limited signage; look for clear indicators directing you to ground transportation or ask airport staff for assistance to ensure a smooth transition to your next destination.
• Expect to pay around 150-200 THB for a taxi ride from Chiang Rai Airport to the city center; make sure to confirm the price before getting in, as it can vary slightly based on your exact destination within the city.
🚌 Traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Rai by bus is a convenient option, with services departing every four hours and taking approximately 11 hours to reach the destination. The bus journey is operated by Sombat Tour and offers a direct route from Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal to Chiang Rai.
🛣️ The distance of the route from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is around 923 km, and travelers have the option of a transfer in Chiang Mai. The total travel time including the transfer is 1 day and 3 hours. The bus service from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is a great way to see the beautiful scenery along the way.
💰 Prices for the bus between Chiang Rai and Bangkok typically range from $15 to $35, making it an affordable and efficient way to travel between these two popular cities in Thailand. Whether you choose to take a direct bus or opt for a transfer through Chiang Mai, the journey promises a memorable experience for travelers exploring the diverse landscapes of Thailand.
Departure Point
Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal station
Arrival Point
Chiang Rai station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before boarding the bus at Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal, arrive at least 30 minutes early to navigate through the terminal and ensure a good seat on the Sombat Tour bus, which is one of the main operators on this route. Check their schedule here: sombattour.com
• Pack snacks and beverages for the 11-hour journey as it is difficult to find stops with food on this bus route; however, there are stops for restroom breaks where you can stretch your legs.
• Upon arrival at Chiang Rai Bus Station, expect a busy atmosphere; use Google Maps to navigate to your accommodation or local attractions, and consider taking a local songthaew (shared taxi) for convenient and affordable transport around the city.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Bangkok to Chiang Rai.
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The cheapest way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is by bus. The bus ticket usually costs between $15 to $40 and the journey takes around 11 hours. This can be a budget-friendly option for travelers who are looking to save money on transportation. Just keep in mind that the travel time is longer compared to other modes of transport like flying or taking a train.
The fastest way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is to take the MRT to Suvarnabhumi Airport and then fly to Chiang Rai. This option typically takes around 3 hours and 1 minute. The cost of this journey can range from $27 to $110 depending on the airline and booking time. This option allows you to save a significant amount of time compared to other modes of transportation.
The distance between Bangkok and Chiang Rai is approximately 430 miles. If you choose to travel by road, the distance is slightly longer at 488.1 miles. This is an approximate measurement and may vary depending on the route taken. It is recommended to plan your journey accordingly and allow for additional travel time if necessary.
There are several options to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Rai without a car. The most convenient and affordable way is to take a bus. The journey takes around 11 hours and the ticket prices range from $15 to $40. Buses are comfortable and provide a scenic route through the countryside.
The fastest way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is by taking a domestic flight. Several airlines offer direct flights that take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The cost of a one-way flight ticket ranges from $30 to $100, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to check for flight availability and book in advance to secure the best fares.
You can choose from over 268 hotels in Chiang Rai, offering a variety of options for accommodation. Prices for hotels in Chiang Rai start at $8 per night, making it suitable for all budgets. Whether you prefer luxury resorts or budget-friendly guesthouses, there are plenty of choices available for your stay near Chiang Rai.
Yes, you can drive from Bangkok to Chiang Rai. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 488 miles, and it takes about 11 hours and 14 minutes to complete the journey. However, please note that driving conditions, traffic, and road closures may affect the travel time, so it's important to plan accordingly and check for any updates before embarking on the trip.
Yes, there is a direct bus service between Bangkok and Chiang Rai. The buses depart from Bangkok Mochit and arrive at Chiang Rai. The bus service operates every day, with buses departing every four hours. The journey from Bangkok to Chiang Rai by bus takes approximately 11 hours.
To catch the bus from Bangkok to Chiang Rai you will need to go to the Bangkok Mochit station. This is the main bus terminal in Bangkok and it is conveniently located near the Mo Chit BTS station on the Sukhumvit Line. Once you arrive at the station, look for the Sombat Tour counter and purchase your ticket to Chiang Rai. The buses usually depart on a regular schedule, so it is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your desired departure time.
The Bangkok to Chiang Rai bus services operated by Sombat Tour arrive at Chiang Rai station. This is the main bus station in Chiang Rai and is conveniently located in the city center. From there, you can easily access other parts of the city or find transportation to your accommodation. The station is well-equipped with facilities such as restrooms, shops, and food stalls for your convenience.
To get from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok to Chiang Rai you have a couple of options. The most convenient and fastest way is to take a domestic flight from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Chiang Rai International Airport. Several airlines offer flights between the two cities and the journey takes around 1.5 hours. Alternatively, if you prefer a more budget-friendly option, you can take a bus from Bangkok to Chiang Rai. The bus journey takes around 11 hours and prices range from $15 to $40 depending on the type of bus and the amenities provided.
Thai Lion Mentari, Nok Air, and Thai AirAsia are the airlines that offer flights between Bangkok and Chiang Rai. These airlines operate flights from Don Muang Airport in Bangkok to Chiang Rai Airport. Passengers have the option to choose from these airlines based on their preferences and schedules.
The fastest way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is by plane. There are several airlines, such as Thai Lion Mentari, Nok Air, and Thai AirAsia, that offer direct flights from Don Muang Airport in Bangkok to Chiang Rai Airport. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it the quickest option. The prices for flights between the two cities range from $28 to $101.
The quickest flight from Don Muang Airport in Bangkok to Chiang Rai Airport takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This flight is a direct route, so there are no layovers or transfers involved. The duration may vary slightly depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic.
The cost of a flight from Bangkok to Chiang Rai ranges from $28 to $101. The prices may vary depending on the airline, the time of year, and how far in advance the ticket is booked. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal on a flight from Bangkok to Chiang Rai.
The cost of a bus ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Rai ranges from $15 to $40, depending on the type of bus and the amenities provided. There are different operators and bus companies offering services between these two cities, so the prices may vary. It is recommended to check with various bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal.
The cost of driving from Bangkok to Chiang Rai can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll fees. On average, you can expect to spend around $85 to $130 for the journey. It's important to note that this estimate does not include any additional expenses such as accommodation or meals along the way. Additionally, the duration of the drive is approximately 9 to 10 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken.
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