4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest buses from Bangkok to Chiang Rai
Cheapest price
$23
Average price
$27
Fastest journey
11 h
Average duration
11 h 34 m
Buses per day
11
Distance
688 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Rai 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 Rai will cost around $27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
Of the 11 buses that leave Bangkok for Chiang Rai on Fri, Nov 28, 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 28 the direct buses cover the 688 km distance in an average of 11 h 34 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 11 h .
On Fri, Nov 28 the slowest buses will take 12 h 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.
90-10
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Bangkok to Chiang Rai
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bangkok to Chiang Rai among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €18. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 23m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €18, and a flight costs an average of €21.
Distance: 427 miles (688 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight |
|---|---|
€18 Average price Cheapest | €41 Average price |
13h 57m Average total duration 13h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 23m Average total duration Fastest 1h 23m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Bangkok to Chiang Rai Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator Tara Tour & Travel | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 06:05AM | Duration 14h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator Budsarakham | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 12h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Cherdchai Tour | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Thaibus Tour | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 11h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Kasemthara Tour | Departure Time 06:40PM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 12h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 07:16PM | Arrival Time 07:05AM | Duration 11h49 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Cherdchai Tour | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 07:30AM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Budsarakham | Departure Time 07:40PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 12h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 07:44AM | Duration 11h49 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 07:30AM | Duration 11h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $27 |
Live departures
Bangkok to Chiang Rai bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bangkok to Chiang Rai buses for today, Thursday, November 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 TARA TOUR & TRAVEL | 9:00 AM Bangkok | 14h05 | 11:05 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 10:00 AM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 12h20 | 10:20 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 957-7 | 10:30 AM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 12h00 | 10:30 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:00 AM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 11h00 | 10:00 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 90-9 | 11:40 AM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 12h30 | 12:10 AM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:16 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 11h49 | 12:05 AM Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Rai | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 909-28 | 12:30 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 12h00 | 12:30 AM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:40 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 12h20 | 1:00 AM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:55 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 11h49 | 12:44 AM Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Rai | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:30 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 11h00 | 12:30 AM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:30 AM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 12h40 | 3:10 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:30 AM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 12h40 | 6:10 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bangkok to Chiang Rai by bus or flight
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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bangkok to Chiang Rai
ThailandThailand
Buses from Bangkok to Chiang Rai run on average 11 times per day, taking around 13h 27m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) if you book in advance.
There are 11 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 09:30, the last at 20:30. The fastest bus covers the 427 miles (688 km) distance in 11h 0m.
Distance 427 miles (688 km) |
Average bus duration 13h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 (€18) |
Buses per day 11 |
Direct buses 11 |
Fastest bus 11h 0m |
First bus 09:30 |
Last bus 20:30 |
Bus providers: Bangkok Bus Lines, Cherdchai Tour North, Kasemthara Tour, Cherdchai Tour, Bangkok Buslines, Thaibus Tour, Budsarakham, Sombat Tour, Nakhonchai Air from Bangkok to Chiang RaiYou can travel by bus between Bangkok to Chiang Rai with Bangkok Bus Lines, Cherdchai Tour North, Kasemthara Tour, Cherdchai Tour, Bangkok Buslines, Thaibus Tour, Budsarakham, Sombat Tour, Nakhonchai Air for as low as $22 (€18). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Budsarakham
Bangkok Buslines
Bangkok Bus Lines
Cherdchai Tour North
Thaibus Tour
Kasemthara Tour
Cherdchai Tour
Sombat Tour
Nakhonchai Air
Why book with Omio
Omio simplifies your travel planning across Southeast Asia by bringing together over 1,000 trusted travel companies on one comprehensive platform. Whether you're booking local trains, long-distance buses, or ferry tickets, Omio lets you compare options, prices, and schedules instantly to find the perfect journey for your needs. With convenient mobile tickets delivered straight to your phone and real-time travel updates keeping you informed every step of the way, you can travel with confidence knowing that dedicated customer support is always available when you need it. From discovering trending destinations to seamlessly connecting different modes of transport, Omio transforms complex multi-leg journeys into simple, stress-free bookings that let you focus on exploring incredible destinations in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Pros and cons of taking bus from Bangkok to Chiang Rai
Pros: Buses from Bangkok to Chiang Rai offer considerable cost savings compared to flights, with tickets ranging from 500-900 THB. The journey provides scenic views of Thailand's countryside with minimal luggage restrictions. Higher-end services feature amenities such as reclining seats, onboard toilets, refreshments, and WiFi. Buses typically depart from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) and arrive at Chiang Rai's central bus station, requiring minimal additional transfers to city centers.
Cons: The journey takes approximately 12-14 hours, significantly longer than a 1.5-hour flight. Overnight buses, while saving on accommodation, may reduce sleep quality. Delays are common due to traffic congestion leaving Bangkok and mountainous terrain approaching Chiang Rai. During peak holiday periods, advanced booking is essential as services can fill quickly. The final buses typically depart by early evening, limiting flexibility for late departures.
Things to do in Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai captivates visitors with its unique blend of contemporary art, ancient temples, and cultural diversity in northern Thailand. The iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) showcases stunning modern Buddhist architecture with intricate mirror work and surreal designs. The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) offers equally mesmerizing azure interiors and golden Buddha statues. Travelers can explore the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge along the Mekong River, and visit local hill tribe villages to experience traditional cultures. The vibrant Saturday Night Walking Street provides excellent shopping for handicrafts and street food. Adventure seekers can enjoy hot springs, tea plantations, and the mysterious Black House Museum showcasing dark art collections.
FAQs: Bus from Bangkok to Chiang Rai
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Rai 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 Rai, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal, which is located around 6.9 miles (11.2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2, located 3.5 miles (5.7 km) away from the city centre.
- Bangkok Bus Lines
- Wheelchair accessible buses available on select routes
- Thaibus Tour
- Wheelchair accessible buses available on select routes
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
- Bangkok Bus Lines
- One piece of luggage up to 20kg included
- Cherdchai Tour North
- Luggage included in fare; specific size/type not provided.
- Bangkok Buslines
- Luggage included in fare; specific size/type not provided.
- Bangkok Bus Lines
- Additional luggage charged per kg
- Cherdchai Tour North
- Excess luggage and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee
- Bangkok Buslines
- Excess luggage and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Bangkok to Chiang Rai
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Office
- 06:00-22:00
- Free public Wi-Fi
- Limited street parking available
- Street food vendors and local restaurants nearby
- Available on Chakrabongse Road
- Basic ramps available
- Available at nearby restaurants and shops
- Bus: 2, 15, 44, 511
- Boat: Phra Arthit Pier
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office- 05:00-22:00
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal
- Available at terminal parking lot, 20 baht per hour
- Food court and several local food vendors available inside terminal
- Available at designated taxi stand outside terminal
- Wheelchair ramps and elevators available
- Public restrooms available for 5 baht
- BTS: Mo Chit Station
- MRT: Chatuchak Park Station
- Bus: 3, 26, 77, 96, 104, 134, 136, 138, 145, 509, 522
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
- 04:00-22:00
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal
- Large parking area available for both short and long-term parking
- Food court and various food stalls available inside terminal
- Available at designated taxi stand outside terminal
- Wheelchair ramps and elevators available
- Public restrooms available with 5 THB fee
- BTS: Mo Chit Station
- MRT: Chatuchak Park Station
- Bus: 3, 26, 29, 34, 49, 52, 77
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
- 05:00-22:00
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal
- Free parking available for passengers
- Food court and several local food vendors inside terminal
- Available at designated taxi stand outside terminal
- Wheelchair ramps and assistance available
- Public restrooms available for small fee
- Local Bus: City routes
- Songthaew: Red trucks
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office- 06:00-22:00
- Free Wi-Fi available in terminal
- Free parking available for passengers
- Small food court and convenience store available
- Available at the station entrance
- Wheelchair accessible
- Free public toilets
- Local Bus: Route 1
- Songthaew (shared taxi)
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office- 06:00-18:00
- Free parking available for passengers
- Small local food stalls and vendors
- Available at terminal entrance
- Basic wheelchair access
- Basic facilities available
- Bus: Local songthaews and city buses
Most popular bus connections from Bangkok
More options for your journey from Bangkok to Chiang Rai
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chiang Rai and Bangkok
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