- Recommended
Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre
The main city museum covering Chiang Mai history, Lanna culture, architecture, and local traditions in a restored historic building.
Cheapest price
$23
Average price
$28
Fastest journey
9 h 5 m
Average duration
9 h 24 m
Buses per day
20
Distance
583 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Mai will cost around $28 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
Of the 20 buses that leave Bangkok for Chiang Mai on Mon, Jun 22, 20 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct buses cover the 583 km distance in an average of 9 h 24 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 5 m .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest buses will take 9 h 35 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.








TARA TOUR & TRAVEL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bangkok to Chiang Mai among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 24m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $20, and a flight costs an average of $37.
Distance: 362 miles (583 km)
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$22 Average price Cheapest | $70 Average price | $90 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 23m Average total duration 9h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 24m Average total duration Fastest 4h 24m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Bangkok to Chiang Mai:
A bus is $48 (€39) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai costing on average $70 (€57).
Other travel options to Chiang Mai take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 53m.
Tickets start at around $22 (€18) compared to roughly $90 (€74) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $68 (€56). The journey takes 9h 53m versus 8h 59m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Bangkok Bus Lines, Nakhonchaiair, Cherdchai Tour, Budsarakham, Viriyatour, Bangkok Buslines, Tara Tour & Travel, Cherdchai Tour North, Phuket Travel 2, Budsarakam Tour, Sritawong Tour, Transport Co., Sombat Tour, Nakhonchai Air, Tara Tour and Travel.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 07:23PM | Duration 10h08 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Viriyatour | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 11h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 08:26PM | Duration 10h11 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 12:00AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Tara Tour & Travel | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 04:00AM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator Budsarakham | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 06:50PM | Arrival Time 04:50AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 05:08AM | Duration 10h08 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Budsarakham | Departure Time 07:50PM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator Cherdchai Tour | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 06:02AM | Duration 9h47 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 08:35PM | Arrival Time 07:05AM | Duration 10h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 06:35AM | Duration 9h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 10:00PM | Arrival Time 07:30AM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 07:40AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 08:20AM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $27 |
The table below shows live departures for Bangkok to Chiang Mai buses for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 2:00 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 10h00 | 12:00 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 4:00 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 10h00 | 2:00 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 6:30 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 12h40 | 7:10 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 6:50 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 10h00 | 4:50 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 7:50 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 12h40 | 8:30 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:00 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 10h00 | 6:00 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
18-46 | 8:00 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 10h10 | 6:10 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:30 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 9h45 | 6:15 AM Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:35 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 10h30 | 7:05 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:45 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 10h00 | 6:45 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 9:50 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 9h30 | 7:20 AM Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 10:35 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 9h05 | 7:40 AM Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 10:45 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 9h40 | 8:25 AM Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 11:00 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 9h20 | 8:20 AM Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, June 22 | |||||
![]() | 6:00 AM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 10h00 | 4:00 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 9:15 AM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 10h08 | 7:23 PM Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 10:15 AM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 10h11 | 8:26 PM Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 10:15 AM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 11h45 | 10:00 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Buses from Bangkok to Chiang Mai run on average 16 times per day, taking around 9h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $20 (€16) if you book in advance.
There are 16 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:00, the last at 22:45. The fastest bus covers the 362 miles (583 km) distance in 9h 5m.
Distance 362 miles (583 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 (€16) |
Buses per day 16 |
Direct buses 16 |
Fastest bus 9h 5m |
First bus 6:00 AM |
Last bus 10:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Discover the best of Chiang Mai — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chiang Mai trip today.
The main city museum covering Chiang Mai history, Lanna culture, architecture, and local traditions in a restored historic building.
A well-curated museum on northern Thai daily life, crafts, festivals, and beliefs, useful for understanding Lanna identity before temple visits.
The leading regional museum for Lanna history, archaeology, Buddhist art, and the political development of northern Thailand.
The historic core inside the moat and remnants of the old walls, ideal for walking between temples, museums, cafés, and markets.
A fashionable district of boutiques, design spaces, and modern urban life, especially popular with younger travelers and digital nomads.
A busy walking area around Tha Phae Gate that serves as a gateway between the old city and newer commercial neighborhoods.
Northern Thai curry noodle soup with egg noodles, usually served with chicken or beef, plus pickled mustard greens and lime. It is Chiang Mai’s signature dish.
Fragrant Northern Thai herb sausage made with pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, and chili. A classic local specialty often eaten with sticky rice.
A Northern chili dip of minced pork and tomatoes, commonly served with fresh and blanched vegetables. It is a staple in traditional khantoke-style meals.
Famous casual spot specializing in classic Khao Soi and other Northern noodle dishes. Simple, local atmosphere and consistently popular with both locals and visitors.
Popular long-running restaurant in a teak house offering Thai classics in a charming garden setting. Good for visitors seeking a comfortable sit-down meal.
Well-known traditional Lanna restaurant serving Northern Thai specialties such as Sai Ua, Nam Prik, and Gaeng Hang Lay in a relaxed heritage-style setting.
Generally cheaper than Bangkok and many tourist hubs, with low food and transport costs; upscale hotels and fine dining cost more.
Tipping is not mandatory. Round up small bills for taxis, leave THB 20-50 at casual restaurants, or about 5-10% at nicer places if no service charge is added.
Official public transport app
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3, Chiang Mai -> Tha Phae Gate, Chiang Mai
Embark on an epic overland adventure from Bangkok to the cultural heart of the North by bus! The 700-kilometer bus journey to Chiang Mai is a traveler's rite of passage, offering an authentic way to experience Thailand's diverse landscapes and local life. Starting from THB 500, this 9-11 hour journey transforms travel time into an adventure itself.
Choose from luxury VIP sleeper buses with lie-flat seats for overnight comfort, or daytime coaches with entertainment systems to watch the countryside unfold. As you leave Bangkok's urban sprawl behind, you'll witness Thailand's rural beauty, from rice paddies to mountain foothills, before arriving in Chiang Mai's temple-filled old city.



Booking through Omio simplifies the entire process: select Bangkok as departure city and Chiang Mai as arrival city, choose your preferred travel date, and compare all available operators, departure times, and prices in one convenient view. Filter options help narrow choices by price range, departure time, and bus operator.
After selecting your preferred service, enter passenger details and complete payment using major payment methods like credit cards, PayPal, or digital wallets. Digital tickets are delivered instantly via email or to app. The platform provides real-time journey updates and 24/7 customer support, ensuring a smooth booking experience from search to boarding.
Extensive overnight services cater to Thailand's most popular route:
Modern buses in Southeast Asia provide a comfortable travel experience with these standard amenities:
Note that:
The primary terminal that serves Thailand's most popular bus route:
Most premium buses depart evening 6pm-10pm, arriving morning 5am-8am the next day.
Centralized arrival point in Chiang Mai facilitates easy city access:
Local transport to old city via red truck (songthaew) costs 20-30 THB per person or tuk-tuk for 100 THB per ride.
Make your Bangkok to Chiang Mai bus journey smooth with these practical tips:
Essentials to Bring:
Before leaving for Thailand, here are some travel tips:
Thailand Visa:
Currency Used in Thailand:
Payment Methods Accepted in Thailand:
Nestled in northern Thailand's mountains, Chiang Mai offers a perfect blend of ancient tradition and modern charm:
Old City Temple Circuit:
Nature & Adventure:
Culinary Experiences:
Markets & Shopping:
Cultural Immersion:

Navigating Chiang Mai is straightforward with diverse transportation options, though the city lacks metro systems:
Local Public Transport:
Tourist-Friendly Options:
Airport Transfers:
Ride-Hailing Services:
Independent Exploration:
Pro Tip:
Taking the bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of the most popular and budget-friendly ways to reach Northern Thailand's cultural heart! This journey (9-11 hours) offers fantastic value for money while taking you through Thailand's beautiful countryside. With VIP coaches featuring reclining seats and onboard facilities, you'll arrive refreshed and ready to explore.
Remember to book through reliable platforms like Omio for the best deals! Whether you choose day or night travel, this scenic route will be a memorable part of your Thai adventure. Safe travels and enjoy exploring beautiful Chiang Mai!

Popular options include Chiang Rai and the White Temple (3-4 hours), Pai (3-4 hours), Mae Hong Son loop road trip, or day trips to elephant sanctuaries.
3-4 days allows time for temple visits, cooking classes, night markets, and day trips to surrounding mountains and villages.
Yes, you can buy tickets via Omio on the same day of travel, but booking in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chiang Mai, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Bangkok to Chiang Mai buses use the Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal to Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 station pair, with some services arriving at Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai. Use this guide to compare Bangkok and Chiang Mai bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal is 8 km from Bangkok city centre. Public transport options include:
Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Food court and various food stalls available inside terminal
Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal. ATMs are several ATMs from major Thai banks.
Ticket office support is available at Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal.
Available at Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal: Wheelchair ramps and elevators available.
Bangkok, Minibus Station (Chatuchak) is 8 km from Bangkok city centre. Public transport options include:
Bangkok, Minibus Station (Chatuchak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Food court and several local food vendors available inside terminal
Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal. ATMs are several ATMs from major Thai banks.
Ticket office support is available at Bangkok, Minibus Station (Chatuchak).
Available at Bangkok, Minibus Station (Chatuchak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bangkok, Minibus Station (Chatuchak): Wheelchair ramps and elevators available.
Bangkok, Chakrabongse Rd - Khao San Road has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Street food vendors and local restaurants nearby
Free public Wi-Fi. ATMs are several ATMs from major Thai banks nearby.
Ticket office support is available at Bangkok, Chakrabongse Rd - Khao San Road.
Available at Bangkok, Chakrabongse Rd - Khao San Road: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bangkok, Chakrabongse Rd - Khao San Road: Basic ramps available.
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 is 3 km from Chiang Mai city centre. Public transport options include:
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Food court and several local food vendors inside terminal
Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal. ATMs are aTM machines from major Thai banks available.
Ticket office support is available at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3.
Available at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3: Wheelchair ramps and accessible facilities.
Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai is 3 km from Chiang Mai city centre. Public transport options include:
Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several local food stalls and small restaurants nearby
Free Wi-Fi available. ATMs are aTM machines available inside the station.
Ticket office support is available at Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai.
Available at Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai: Wheelchair accessible.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need