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Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai Province to Phuket, Phuket from $35: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chiang Mai, Thailand
to
Phuket, Thailand

How to Get from Chiang Mai to Phuket: 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.

$35 by busBest price
1219.9 kmDistance
4h 28m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chiang Mai to Phuket 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  28m
Estimated price
$59-194
Recommended
Company
Greenbus Thailand
Bus
Average Duration
24h  40m
Estimated price
$35-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1219.9 km
Duration: 4h 28m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
8h  3m
Estimated price
$62-261
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
25h  53m
Estimated price
$77-180
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
9h  5m
Estimated price
$86-231
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
6h  37m
Estimated price
$119-245
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
21h  42m
Estimated price
$170-250
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Traveling From Chiang Mai to Phuket

The journey from Chiang Mai to Phuket offers an intriguing contrast between the serene mountain landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the north and the vibrant beach life and tropical adventures awaiting in the south.

Best Neighbourhoods in Phuket

Phuket features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for travelers.

Patong Beach
• Bustling nightlife with vibrant bars and clubs.
• Beautiful beach perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
Old Phuket Town
• Rich in history with colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture.
• Charming cafes and local markets for authentic experiences.
Kata Beach
• Relaxed atmosphere ideal for families and couples.
• Great surfing conditions during the monsoon season.

Best Times To Visit Phuket's Attractions

Timing your visits to Phuket's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Big Buddha
Early morning visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
Phang Nga Bay
Plan for a weekday tour to enjoy the stunning scenery with less crowd.
Patong Beach
Visit in the late afternoon for a beautiful sunset and a lively atmosphere.

Phuket Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Phuket enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall, with the best time to visit typically falling between November and February for pleasant conditions. Knowing the weather patterns can help you plan your activities and avoid heavy rain that might impact your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Phuket

Don’t miss trying "Tom Yam Goong" at a beachfront restaurant, where the spicy and sour flavors of this famous Thai soup come alive with fresh seafood and herbs. This dining experience contrasts with Chiang Mai's northern specialties, offering vibrant coastal vibes and an array of local ingredients that reflect Phuket’s rich maritime culture.

Chiang Mai - Phuket operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
0-5326-6480
Website
https://www.greenbusthailand.com/

Bus from Chiang Mai to Phuket Bus Terminal 2

Average Duration
24h 40m
Estimated price
$35-60
Contact phone
+66 89 873 0008
Website
https://lomprayah.com

Bus from Surat Thani Airport to Phuket

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$16-50

Bus from Surat Thani Train station to Krabi Bus Terminal

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$24-35

Bus from Railay Beach to Phuket

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$19-30
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
1690
Website
https://www.railway.co.th/

Train from Chiang Mai to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal

Average Duration
10h 5m
Estimated price
$6-45

Train from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Surat Thani Train Station

Average Duration
9h 30m
Estimated price
$5-45
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.airasia.com

Plane from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Phuket (HKT)

Average Duration
2h 1m
Estimated price
$45-220

Plane from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Surat Thani (URT)

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$45-250
Website
https://www.nokair.com

Plane from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Phuket (HKT)

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$70-290

Plane from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Surat Thani (URT)

Average Duration
3h 37m
Estimated price
$75-340
Website
https://www.lionairthai.com

Plane from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Phuket (HKT)

Average Duration
3h 43m
Estimated price
$90-340

Plane from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Surat Thani (URT)

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$80-310
Website
https://www.vietjetair.com

Plane from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Phuket (HKT)

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$50-300
Website
https://www.thaiairways.com

Plane from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Phuket (HKT)

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$85-300
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Contact phone
+66 94 620 5134

Other from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai

Average Duration
3h 7m
Estimated price
$60-75

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

Traveling between Chiang Mai and Phuket 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 epic road trip from Chiang Mai to Phuket covering a scenic driving distance of 954 miles. The journey offers a perfect blend of urban landscapes, lush countryside, and charming villages along the way. 🌴 Plan for a road trip adventure that spans approximately 21 hours and 42 minutes, allowing for leisurely stops to savor local cuisines and cultural experiences. Delight in the freedom of the open road as you make your way from the bustling city of Chiang Mai to the tropical paradise of Phuket. 💰 Experience the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $170 to $250 for the journey by car, ensuring that travelers can choose the best route and accommodations that suit their preferences and budget. Enjoy the thrill of exploration and discovery as you navigate through the diverse landscapes of Thailand on this unforgettable road trip.
Average price
$170 - $250
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Chiang Mai to Phuket, covering a distance of 1,534 km over 1 day. Experience the beauty of Thailand's countryside as you travel towards your destination. 🚌 Upon arrival in Phuket, you can continue your journey with a bus ride to explore the local attractions and beaches. The bus from Chiang Mai to Phuket takes about 22 hours and 40 minutes, departing from Chiang Mai and arriving at Phuket Bus Terminal 2.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: The train service from Chiang Mai to Phuket primarily operates through the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). Catering services are limited on this route. Passengers can purchase snacks, beverages, and instant noodles from the train staff. Alternatively, consider packing your own food for the long journey, especially if traveling in lower classes where onboard catering might not be available.
• Seating Options: The available seating classes on the train from Chiang Mai to Phuket include First Class, Second Class Air-Conditioned, and Third Class. First Class offers more spacious cabins and private sleeping accommodations. Second Class features comfortable seats with air conditioning, while Third Class is the most economical, with fan service and less comfort. For a good balance between comfort and cost, opt for the Second Class Air-Conditioned seats, which provide a pleasant ride without breaking the bank.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Phuket's train station, keep in mind that there are no luggage storage facilities available. However, you can use restrooms and freshen up a bit before heading out. For convenience, head towards the bus station immediately outside the train station to catch local transportation, as there are no showers available at the station.
🛫 Experience a smooth and quick journey from Chiang Mai to Phuket with a direct flight that only takes 1 hour and 55 minutes. Several airlines including Bangkok Airways, Thai Vietjet Air, and Thai Lion Mentari offer convenient options for this route. 🏝️ Enjoy the aerial views as you fly from Chiang Mai to Phuket in approximately 4 hours and 28 minutes. Sit back, relax, and look forward to arriving at the stunning island destination. 💸 Prices for flights between Phuket and Chiang Mai can range from $59 to $194, providing travelers with various budget-friendly options to reach the tropical paradise.
Departure Point
Chiang Mai Airport
Arrival Point
Phuket Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with either Bangkok Airways or Thai Vietjet Air for a more comfortable experience, as they often provide better in-flight services on this route.
• Upon arriving at Phuket International Airport, it can be busy, so consider following the clearly marked signs to the taxi stand; the fare to Patong Beach or the city center typically ranges from 800 to 1,200 THB.
• To avoid any potential baggage delays, remember to label your luggage clearly, and check the flight status via the Airports of Thailand website: airportsthai.co.th
🌴 Enjoy the scenic journey as you travel directly from Chiang Mai to Phuket Bus Terminal 2. 🕒 The bus service operates daily, with one departure each day, and the total travel time is approximately 24 hours and 40 minutes. 🌅 Sit back, relax, and watch as you make your way from the bustling city of Chiang Mai to the beautiful beaches of Phuket. 💵 Prices for the bus ticket range from $35 to $60, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two popular destinations in Thailand.
Departure Point
Chiang Mai station
Arrival Point
Phuket Bus Terminal 2 station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Chiang Mai and Phuket is approximately 759 miles. By air, it takes around 4 hours and 22 minutes to travel between the two cities. Alternatively, if you choose to drive, it would take approximately 21 hours and 42 minutes. Taking a combination of a flight to Surat Thani and then a bus is another option, which would take around 7 hours and 53 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Chiang Mai to Phuket is by flying. It takes only 4 hours and 22 minutes and the cost ranges from $55 to $210. If you are on a budget, taking a bus is the cheapest option, but it takes significantly longer, around 24 hours and 40 minutes, and costs between $35 and $60.
The prices of a bus ticket between Phuket and Chiang Mai vary depending on the type of bus and the class of service. On average, the prices range from $35 to $60. It is recommended to book in advance to secure a more affordable fare. Additionally, prices may be higher during peak travel seasons.
To travel from Chiang Mai to Phuket without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 954 miles, and it takes about 21 hours and 42 minutes to drive from Chiang Mai to Phuket. The cost of renting a car for this journey ranges from $170 to $250, depending on the car rental company and any additional fees.
The best way to travel from Chiang Mai to Phuket without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 24 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $35 and $60. This is the most cost-effective option for those who don't have a car or prefer not to fly.
Yes, there is a direct link between Chiang Mai and Phuket. Greenbus Thailand operates a bus service that runs once daily, taking approximately 24 hours and 40 minutes to reach Phuket. The bus departs from Chiang Mai station and arrives at Phuket Bus Terminal 2. This is a convenient option for travelers who prefer a direct journey between the two cities.
The flight between Chiang Mai and Phuket typically takes around 1 hour and 49 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $59 to $204. It is recommended to check with different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deals.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Phuket. With over 3509 hotels to choose from, you're bound to find one that suits your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Phuket start at $13 per night, offering a range of options for all types of travelers. Whether you're looking for a luxury resort, a cozy guesthouse, or a budget-friendly hostel, Phuket has something to offer for everyone.

Trips from Chiang Mai