4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest buses from Chiang Mai to Bangkok
Cheapest price
$21
Average price
$22
Fastest journey
10 h
Average duration
10 h
Buses per day
9
Distance
583 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chiang Mai to Bangkok will cost around $22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $21.
Of the 9 buses that leave Chiang Mai for Bangkok on Fri, Nov 21, 9 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 21 the direct buses cover the 583 km distance in an average of 10 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 h .
On Fri, Nov 21 the slowest buses will take 10 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.
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chiang Mai to Bangkok
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chiang Mai to Bangkok among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €17. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €17, and a flight costs an average of €24.
Distance: 362 miles (583 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train |
|---|---|---|
€17 Average price Cheapest | €52 Average price | €45 Average price |
12h 20m Average total duration 11h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 18m Average total duration Fastest 1h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 12h 51m Average total duration 12h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Chiang Mai to Bangkok Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Cherdchai Tour | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 10h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 07:33PM | Duration 10h03 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Viriyatour | Departure Time 12:45PM | Arrival Time 01:15AM | Duration 12h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 06:40PM | Arrival Time 04:40AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 07:10PM | Arrival Time 05:10AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 05:05AM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 05:45AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 07:46PM | Arrival Time 05:09AM | Duration 9h23 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 08:05PM | Arrival Time 06:05AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 05:38AM | Duration 9h23 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator Bangkok Bus Lines | Departure Time 08:20PM | Arrival Time 06:20AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 06:01AM | Duration 9h31 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 08:51PM | Arrival Time 06:22AM | Duration 9h31 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 06:23AM | Duration 9h23 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator Nakhonchaiair | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $24 |
Live departures
Chiang Mai to Bangkok bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chiang Mai to Bangkok buses for tomorrow, Friday, November 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:30 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 10h30 | 11:00 AM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 1:45 AM Chiang Mai, Nakhonchai Air | 10h05 | 11:50 AM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:00 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 10h00 | 1:00 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:45 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 12h30 | 6:15 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:40 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 10h00 | 9:40 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:10 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 10h00 | 10:10 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:45 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 10h00 | 10:45 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:00 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 10h00 | 11:00 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:20 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) | 10h00 | 11:20 PM Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chiang Mai to Bangkok by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, 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 Chiang Mai to Bangkok
ThailandThailand
Buses from Chiang Mai to Bangkok run on average 16 times per day, taking around 11h 50m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $20 (€17) 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 31m.
Distance 362 miles (583 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 (€17) |
Buses per day 16 |
Direct buses 16 |
Fastest bus 9h 31m |
First bus 06:00 |
Last bus 22:45 |
Bus providers: Bangkok Bus Lines, Bangkok Buslines, Cherdchai Tour, Nakhonchaiair, Budsarakam Tour, Viriyatour, Budsarakham, Cherdchai Tour North, Viriya Tour, Sritawong Tour from Chiang Mai to BangkokYou can travel by bus between Chiang Mai to Bangkok with Bangkok Bus Lines, Bangkok Buslines, Cherdchai Tour, Nakhonchaiair, Budsarakam Tour, Viriyatour, Budsarakham, Cherdchai Tour North, Viriya Tour, Sritawong Tour for as low as $20 (€17). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Viriyatour
Budsarakham
Bangkok Buslines
Bangkok Bus Lines
Cherdchai Tour North
Budsarakam Tour
Cherdchai Tour
Nakhonchaiair
Viriya Tour
Sritawong Tour
How to get from Chiang Mai to Bangkok by Bus: A Complete Guide 2025
Planning to travel from Chiang Mai to Bangkok by bus? The bus journey offers an excellent way to experience Thailand's diverse landscapes and cultures. This 700-kilometer journey connects the temple-rich mountain city with Thailand's bustling capital, known for its street food, floating markets, and dynamic nightlife.
Starting from THB 500, these comfortable coaches offer various options including VIP sleeper services featuring lie-flat beds, personal entertainment systems, and attentive service. Whether you choose daytime buses to enjoy scenic countryside views or overnight services that maximize your time in both cities, this route provides convenient access to Bangkok's urban excitement. With professional drivers and modern safety standards, your bus journey from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is both comfortable and secure.
Why choose to take bus?
- Cost Efficiency: Bus tickets starting from 500 THB compared to flights at 1,000+ THB provide massive 50%+ savings for budget-conscious travelers.
- Convenience: Buses depart from Chiang Mai's central bus terminal, arriving directly at Bangkok's major terminal Mo Chit.
- Overnight Travel: VIP sleeper coaches let you travel while you sleep, saving on hotel costs and arriving refreshed in Bangkok.
- Flexibility: Multiple daily departures including express day services and comfortable overnight options to suit different travel preferences.
- Comfort: Modern VIP buses offer reclining seats, air conditioning, onboard facilities, and scenic mountain views during the 9-11 hour journey to Thailand's vibrant capital.
Booking Tickets
Booking through Omio simplifies the entire process: select Chiang Mai as departure city and Bangkok 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.
Choosing Bus Providers
- Sombat Tour dominates this route with luxury services featuring massage chairs, personal entertainment systems, and complimentary meals. It operates various types of buses, including premium 20-seat Wiang Ping coaches with 1+1 configuration and superior amenities.
- Transport. Co provides government-operated reliable services with standardized fleet and competitive pricing starting from THB 594. Featuring air-conditioned coaches with comfortable seating for the 9-11 hour journey, it offers dependable connections to Mo Chit Terminal with established safety standards.
- Bangkok Busline offers modern coach services with enhanced comfort features. Known for efficient service and competitive pricing, it features air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats and onboard amenities.
Bus Classes and Types
Comprehensive service levels for the capital-bound journey:
- Standard Express - Air-conditioned coaches with comfortable seating
- VIP Services - Enhanced comfort with spacious seating and premium amenities
- Super VIP - Luxury experience with 20 seats and massage chairs
- First Class - Top-tier comfort with 1+1 seating and comprehensive onboard services
Onboard Experience
Modern buses in Southeast Asia provide a comfortable travel experience with these standard amenities:
- Seating - Comfortable reclining seats with spacious legroom and individual air conditioning controls
- Connectivity - Complimentary WiFi (connection quality may vary) and power outlets for device charging
- Entertainment - Premium services include personal entertainment screens with movie selections
- Luxury Features - High-end buses offer massage functions and hot meal service
- Rest Stops - Regular 15-20 minute breaks at highway service areas for refreshments and restroom facilities
Note that:
- Buses normally don't have onboard toilets, so make use of rest stops.
- Bring light snacks as meal service isn't standard on most routes, though premium operators may provide complimentary refreshments.
- Specific amenities and service quality vary between different bus providers, so it's recommended to check individual operator offerings when booking.
Departing from Chiang Mai
Centralized arrival point in Chiang Mai that serves the capital route:
- Chiang Mai Bus Terminal (Arcade 2/3) - Main departure points with 60+ transport companies (like Bangkok Bus Lines, Sombat Tour, Transport. Co) and regular bus services 6am-10pm
Terminal 3 offers modern facilities include ticket office, cafes, restaurants, air-conditioned waiting areas, shops, ATMs and luggage services.
Arriving in Bangkok
Primary Bangkok terminal that bus services arrive in:
- Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Chatuchak Bus Terminal) - Most popular arrival point, near Chatuchak Park
From Mo Chit Terminal, access central Bangkok via MRT (Kamphaeng Phet station) or BTS (Mo Chit station), with comprehensive taxi and motorcycle taxi availability.
Bus Travel Tips
Make your Chiang Mai to Bangkok bus journey smooth with these practical tips:
- Book tickets in advance during peak periods (weekends, holidays)
- Arrive 30 minutes early at departure point for check-in procedures
- Bring a light jacket as buses can get cold with air conditioning
- Download offline entertainment as WiFi may be unreliable
- Keep important documents (ID, passport, tickets) easily accessible
Essentials to Bring:
- Light snacks and water bottle
- Phone charger and power bank
- Travel pillow and eye mask for comfort
- Small amount of Thai Baht notes for rest stop purchases
Thailand Travel Tips
Before leaving for Thailand, here are some travel tips:
Thailand Visa:
- Visa-free entry: Most countries get 30-60 days (US, UK, EU, Australia: 30 days by land, 60 days by air)
- Visa on arrival: Available for some countries (2,000 THB fee)
- Entry requirements: Passport valid 6+ months, proof of onward travel
Currency Used in Thailand:
- Thai Baht (THB/฿)
- Exchange rate: ~1 USD = 35-37 THB
- Best exchange: Super Rich money changers offer excellent rates
- ATMs: Abundant, but charge 220 THB foreign transaction fee
Payment Methods Accepted in Thailand:
- Cash: King in Thailand - essential for street food, markets, taxis, tuk-tuks
- Cards: Accepted in malls, hotels, upscale restaurants
- Digital payments: PromptPay, TrueMoney popular locally
- Rabbit Card: For BTS/MRT in Bangkok
Things to do in Bangkok
Bangkok, a city that never ceases to fascinate and attract millions of visitors each year, offers numerous fun things to do:
Temple & Palace Highlights:
- Grand Palace - Explore the magnificent complex of golden spires housing the revered Emerald Buddha, testimony to Thailand's royal heritage
- Wat Pho - Marvel at the enormous 46-meter gold-plated reclining Buddha in this historic temple
- Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) - Cross the Chao Phraya River to admire ornate porcelain-adorned spires catching morning light
- Traditional Long-tail Boat Tours - Navigate historic canals (klongs) to witness authentic local life along the waterways
Cultural & Natural Sites:
- Jim Thompson House - Gain insight into traditional Thai architecture and silk artistry
- Lumpini Park - Enjoy a lush urban respite complete with monitor lizards meandering along pathways
Culinary Adventures:
- Street Food Districts - Sample authentic pad thai, mango sticky rice, and tom yum goong along Yaowarat (Chinatown) and Khao San Road
- Michelin-Starred Restaurants - Experience high-end Thai cuisine alongside traditional street vendors
Shopping Experiences:
- Chatuchak Weekend Market - Browse an astonishing 15,000 stalls offering everything imaginable
- Luxury Malls - Shop at modern centers like Siam Paragon
- Floating Markets - Visit traditional markets like Damnoen Saduak for authentic local commerce
Entertainment & Culture:
- Traditional Performances - Attend Thai dance shows at Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre
- Nightlife Districts - Experience electric entertainment in Sukhumvit and Silom areas
- Festival Timing - Visit during Songkran (Thai New Year) in April or Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights) in November
Getting around Bangkok
Bangkok offers diverse transportation options to navigate its bustling streets efficiently:
Rail Transit Systems:
- BTS Skytrain - Public transportation system (25-52 baht per trip) operating 6am-midnight with trains every 3-7 minutes during peak hours
- MRT Subway - Underground train system (16-42 baht) complementing the BTS system
- Payment Cards - Rabbit Card (100 baht deposit) for BTS or MRT Yellow Line and Pink Line
River Transportation:
- Chao Phraya Express Boat - Scenic river transport (10-40 baht) avoiding traffic congestion while connecting major attractions
Ground Transportation:
- Bus Network - Extensive coverage (8-24 baht) serving areas unreached by rail systems
- Metered Taxis - Flag drop 35 baht, ensure drivers use the meter for fair pricing
- Grab - Reliable ride-hailing app with upfront pricing
- Motorcycle Taxis - Fastest option during heavy traffic (20-100 baht) but requires caution
Airport Connections:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport - Airport Rail Link (15-45 baht) reaches the airport in 30 minutes
- Don Mueang Airport - A1/A2 buses (30 baht) or metered taxis (350-400 baht including expressway tolls)
Chiang Mai to Bangkok by Bus Wrap up
Taking the bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is the smart way to travel from Northern Thailand's cultural gem to the country's vibrant capital! This popular route offers excellent value with comfortable coaches that make the 9-11 hour journey enjoyable. With multiple departure times and modern VIP buses, it's perfect for budget-conscious travelers who don't want to compromise on comfort.
Remember to book through reliable platforms like Omio for the best deals! The scenic journey through Thailand's beautiful countryside offers stunning views before reaching the bustling metropolis. Safe travels and enjoy exploring dynamic Bangkok!
Frequently Asked Questions
You can take day trips to Ayutthaya (1.5 hours), Kanchanaburi (2 hours), Pattaya (2 hours), and nearby provinces like Lopburi are popular.
4-5 days covers major temples, markets, street food, and cultural experiences in different districts of the capital.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chiang Mai to Bangkok 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 Bangkok, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
When departing from Chiang Mai, you have various bus station options to start your route from including Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3, Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Mai and Chiang Mai, Mae Kha (Soi Chaiyaphum 2). When arriving in Bangkok, you can end your route in bus stations like Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) and Bangkok, Chatuchak Minivan Terminal (Mo Chit Van Terminal).
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3, which is located around 3.1 miles (5 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2), located 6.9 miles (11.2 km) away from the city centre.
- Bangkok Bus Lines
- Wheelchair accessible buses available on select routes
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
- Bangkok Buslines
- Luggage included in fare; specific size/type not provided.
- Bangkok Bus Lines
- One piece of luggage up to 20kg included
- Budsarakham
- One piece of luggage per passenger
- Bangkok Buslines
- Excess luggage and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee
- Bangkok Bus Lines
- Additional luggage charged per kg
- Budsarakam Tour
- Excess luggage and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chiang Mai to Bangkok
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Office
- 05:00-21:00
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal
- Free parking available for both cars and motorcycles
- Food court and several local food vendors inside terminal
- Available at designated taxi stand outside terminal
- Wheelchair ramps and accessible facilities
- Public restrooms available with 5 baht fee
- Bus: R3, RTC Shuttle
- Songthaew: Red trucks from city center
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
- 05:00-22:00
- Free Wi-Fi available
- Free parking available for passengers
- Several local food stalls and small restaurants nearby
- Available in front of the station
- Wheelchair accessible
- Available free of charge
- Songthaew (Red Truck): Available from city center
- Bus: Local bus routes available
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
Most popular bus connections from Chiang Mai
More options for your journey from Chiang Mai to Bangkok
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bangkok and Chiang Mai
Most popular bus connections to Bangkok
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