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

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chiang Mai, Thailand
to
Pai, Thailand

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

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$4 by busBest price
80.8 milesDistance
2h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chiang Mai to Pai 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
Bus
Average Duration
3h 
Estimated price
$4-7
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 80.8 miles
Duration: 2h 8m

See more options

Company
self-drive
Drive
Average Duration
2h  8m
Estimated price
$14-22
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
2h  8m
Estimated price
$40-50
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  8m
Estimated price
$105-105
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chiang Mai to Pai

The journey from Chiang Mai to Pai takes you through stunning landscapes and offers a striking contrast between Chiang Mai's vibrant city life and Pai's serene, laid-back atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Pai

Pai's neighborhoods blend nature, culture, and a relaxed vibe for travelers.

Walking Street
• Lively night market with local crafts.
• Great food options, from street food to restaurants.
Pai Canyon
• Stunning views, especially at sunset.
• Perfect for hiking and exploring nature.
Chinese Yunnan Village
• Unique cultural blend with Chinese influence.
• Charming architecture and delicious Yunnanese cuisine.

Best Times To Visit Pai's Attractions

Visiting Pai at the right time enhances your experience of its attractions.

Pai Canyon
Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Waterfall
Go during the rainy season for a spectacular water flow, but visit on weekdays.
Hot Springs
Evenings provide a calming experience with fewer crowds and beautiful surroundings.

Pai Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Pai enjoys a tropical climate with a distinct dry season from November to February, ideal for travelers seeking pleasant temperatures and clear skies. However, the rainy season from May to October brings lush landscapes, so weather can significantly shape your experience depending on your preferences.

Dining Recommendation in Pai

Don't miss out on trying the local dish 'Khao Soi,' a creamy coconut curry noodle soup found at Café d’Details, which offers a rustic vibe and intimacy absent in the bustling eateries of Chiang Mai. The fusion of fresh local ingredients and the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Pai’s dining scene creates a delightful culinary experience that feels distinctly personal.

Chiang Mai - Pai operators

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

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

Bus from Chiang Mai to Pai

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

Shuttle from Chiang Mai to Pai

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
$105-105
Taxi
Contact phone
0988237385
Website
thebesttaxichiangmai.com

Taxi from Chiang Mai to Pai

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
$40-50
Contact phone
+66 94 620 5134
Website
taxikingdom.com

Taxi from Chiang Mai to Pai

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
$40-50
Contact phone
+66 061 494 6191
Website
grab.com

Taxi from Chiang Mai to Pai

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
$40-50

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

Traveling between Chiang Mai and Pai 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 a scenic road trip from Chiang Mai to Pai covering a distance of 81 miles in about 2 hours and 8 minutes. 💸 Experience the flexibility of prices ranging from $14 to $22 for a memorable journey through the picturesque countryside to reach the charming town of Pai.
Average price
$14 - $22
🚌 Experience a convenient and direct journey from Chiang Mai to Pai by bus with services departing hourly and operating daily. The enjoyable ride takes approximately 3 hours through scenic landscapes of Northern Thailand.
Departure Point
Chiang Mai station
Arrival Point
Pai station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance through the official websites of operators like Prem Pracha (prempracha.com), and also consider checking other options such as Green Bus (greenbusthailand.com) for real-time availability and pricing.
• On your bus trip, be prepared for winding roads and scenic views; keep your camera ready, but if you're prone to motion sickness, take precautions and sit towards the front of the bus for a smoother ride.
• Upon arriving at Pai station, there are several local transport options like tuk-tuks readily available outside; be ready to negotiate prices and consider downloading the Grab app for easier navigation and a reliable transport option around Pai.

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Chiang Mai and Pai is approximately 53 miles, or 80.8 miles by road. The travel time between the two cities can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By car, it typically takes around 2 hours and 8 minutes to reach Chiang Mai from Pai. Other modes of transportation such as bus or motorbike may have different travel times.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Chiang Mai to Pai is by taking a Mini Van, which costs $10 and takes approximately 3 hours. This option allows you to save money while still reaching your destination. However, if you prefer a quicker journey, taking a taxi is the most time-efficient option, although it is more expensive, costing between $40-$50 and taking around 2 hours and 8 minutes.
To travel from Chiang Mai to Pai without using public transportation, you can rent a car or hire a private taxi service. The driving distance is approximately 81 miles, and the journey takes around 2 hours and 8 minutes. Rental car prices range from $14 to $22, depending on the company and type of vehicle. This option gives you the freedom to explore the beautiful landscape at your own pace and make any desired stops along the way.
To travel from Chiang Mai to Pai without a car, the best option is to take a Mini Van. The journey usually takes around 3 hours and the cost is approximately $10. The Mini Vans are a popular and convenient mode of transportation for this route, offering comfortable seating and air conditioning. It is advisable to book tickets in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
Yes, there is a direct link between Chiang Mai and Pai. There is a bus service operated by Prem Pracha that departs from Chiang Mai and arrives in Pai. The buses run hourly and operate every day, with a journey time of approximately 3 hours. The buses depart from Chiang Mai station and arrive at Pai station, providing a convenient and direct means of transportation between the two destinations.
There are 181+ hotels available near Pai. Prices start at $9 per night, making it an affordable option for travelers. The hotels in Pai offer a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, allowing visitors to choose the option that best suits their preferences and budget. Whether you prefer to stay in the heart of the city or in a more secluded area surrounded by nature, there are plenty of options to choose from near Pai.

Trips from Chiang Mai