- Must visit
Baan Dam Museum
Artist Thawan Duchanee’s black-themed compound of halls and collections. It offers a dramatic look at contemporary Thai art and symbolism.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 16
Cheapest price on Oct 16
$11
Average ticket price on Oct 16
$14
Fastest journey on Oct 16
3 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Oct 16
3 h 20 m
Buses on Oct 16
14
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai will cost around $14 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Fast buses
On Fri, Oct 16, we found 14 buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, including 14 direct services.
On Fri, Oct 16 the direct buses cover the 153 km distance in an average of 3 h 20 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
On Fri, Oct 16 the slowest buses will take 3 h 20 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.
16611:00 AM3h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 32:45 PMChiang Rai Bus Terminal 1$111One-way0 transfers- 1667:00 AM3h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 310:45 AMChiang Rai Bus Terminal 1$111One-way0 transfers
- 1665:00 PM3h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 38:45 PMChiang Rai Bus Terminal 1$111One-way0 transfers
- 1661:30 PM3h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 35:15 PMChiang Rai Bus Terminal 1$111One-way0 transfers
- 166112:45 PM3h40Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 34:25 PMChiang Rai Bus Terminal 1$111One-way0 transfers
- 1667:30 AM3h20Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 310:50 AMChiang Rai Bus Terminal 1$171One-way0 transfers
- 1666:30 PM3h20Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 39:50 PMChiang Rai Bus Terminal 1$171One-way0 transfers
- 16610:30 AM3h20Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 31:50 PMChiang Rai Bus Terminal 1$171One-way0 transfers
- 1669:00 AM3h20Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 312:20 PMChiang Rai Bus Terminal 1$171One-way0 transfers
- 16612:15 PM3h20Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 33:35 PMChiang Rai Bus Terminal 1$171One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
ThailandThailand
Buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 38m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $8 (€7) if you book in advance.
There are 11 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:00, the last at 19:00. The fastest bus covers the 95 miles (153 km) distance in 3h 20m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 95 miles (153 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 (€7) |
Buses per day 11 |
Direct buses 11 |
Fastest bus 3h 20m |
First bus 6:00 AM |
Last bus 7:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 09:20AM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 10:50AM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 03:35PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 12:45PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $17 |
Live departures
Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai buses for today, Thursday, October 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 166 | 10:30 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h20 | 1:50 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 12:00 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h20 | 3:20 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1661 | 12:45 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h40 | 4:25 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 4:00 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h20 | 7:20 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 5:00 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h45 | 8:45 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 6:15 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h45 | 10:00 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 6:30 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h20 | 9:50 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, October 16 | |||||
| 166 | 7:00 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h45 | 10:45 AM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 7:30 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h20 | 10:50 AM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 8:45 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h45 | 12:30 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 9:00 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h20 | 12:20 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Bus providers: Greenbus from Chiang Mai to Chiang RaiYou can travel by bus between Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai with Greenbus for as low as $8 (€7). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Greenbus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greenbus Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Greenbus Price
$8 (€7)
Greenbus frequency
14 a day
Complete guide to Chiang Rai
Things to do in Chiang Rai
Discover the best of Chiang Rai — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chiang Rai trip today.
- Recommended
Oub Kham Museum
Community museum preserving Lanna architecture, artifacts, textiles, and local history in a traditional wooden house near the old city.
- Recommended
Hall of Opium
Museum beside Wat Rong Khun presenting paintings and works by Chalermchai Kositpipat. A useful stop for context before or after the temple.
- Must visit
Chiang Rai Clock Tower
Central clock tower square designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat. A lively meeting point, especially in the evening when lights animate the area.
- Recommended
Huay Mae Sai Forest Park
Forest park on a hill west of town with short trails, giant trees, and quiet viewpoints. A local favorite for nature close to the city.
- Recommended
Doi Chom Thong Viewpoint
Scenic hill viewpoint above the city near the old temple area. Worth visiting for broad panoramas, fresh air, and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Sai Ua
Northern Thai pork-and-herb sausage with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf and chili. A classic Lanna snack often grilled fresh in local markets.
Khao Soi
Northern curry noodle soup with coconut milk, egg noodles and usually chicken or beef. Rich, aromatic and one of the region's signature comfort dishes.
- Gluten-free
Kaeng Hung Lay
Slow-cooked pork belly curry with ginger, garlic and turmeric, influenced by neighboring Myanmar. A beloved northern dish with deep savory flavor.
Favola at Le Meridien Chiang Rai
Riverside dining with refined Thai and Lanna dishes in an elegant resort atmosphere. Suitable for a quieter meal with polished service.
Barrab Restaurant
Popular casual spot for noodles, rice dishes and local specialties near the night bazaar area. Busy, affordable and convenient for everyday dining.
Pho Chai Restaurant
Casual local favorite for northern Thai dishes such as khao soi and sai ua. Simple setting, reliable flavors and a popular stop for traditional Lanna food.
Thai baht (฿)
Budget-friendly for Thailand: guesthouses, local meals, and short rides are cheap; upscale hotels and fine dining cost more but stay below Bangkok resort areas.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- ฿50-120 for street food or simple local meals.
- Mid-range
- ฿200-500 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- ฿800-1,500+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- ฿50-90 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not required, but appreciated. Round up small cafe or taxi bills, or leave about 5-10% at restaurants if no service charge is added.
Sawasdee by AOT
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- /**null**
- Day pass
- /**null**
To the city center
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 -> Chiang Rai Clock Tower, Chiang Rai
- Distance
- 0.9 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Public local bus fare and day-pass information was not confirmed from an official Chiang Rai operator or authority source, so fares are left null.
- At Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai Airport, app-based ride-hailing, taxi meter, and limousine pick-up are at the terminal; card or contactless acceptance is not stated on the official source.
FAQs: Bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chiang Mai 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai can start from as little as $8 (€7) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is $13 (€11) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is 3h 20m to travel the 95 miles (153 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai leaves at 6:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai leaves at 7:00 PM.
Yes, there are 11 direct buses a day from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai with Greenbus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, you can count on Greenbus for the best way to get you to Chiang Rai. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Chiang Mai , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 . When arriving in Chiang Rai , you can end your journey in bus stations like Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1, Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3, which is located around 1 miles (3 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai including taking a bus and flight.
No, the bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
No, luggage for the bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
Thailand uses the Thai Baht (THB) as its currency. Travelers often find it convenient to use cash for small purchases, markets, and transportation, while cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. Carrying some cash is advisable, but using cards can offer better security and exchange rates in urban areas.
In Chiang Rai, travelers should be cautious of common scams such as overpriced taxi or tuk-tuk fares and unsolicited tour offers that may lead to less reputable shops. It's advisable to agree on transportation prices beforehand and use reputable service providers. Additionally, travelers should remain vigilant with personal belongings in crowded areas and be cautious when exploring remote or less populated sites. Overall, practicing standard travel safety and staying aware of surroundings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Most Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai buses use the Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 station pair, with some services arriving at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2. Use this guide to compare Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chiang Mai
Arrival bus stations in Chiang Rai
Which Chiang Mai station do buses to Chiang Rai leave from?
Buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai leave from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3. The station is 2 miles (4 km) from Chiang Mai city centre at 192 Moo 10, Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road, Tambon Nong Pa Khrang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand.
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3192 Moo 10, Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road, Tambon Nong Pa Khrang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
City-centre transport
Getting to Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 from Chiang Mai city centre
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 is 3 km from Chiang Mai city centre. Public transport options include:
BusR1-Zoo · 13m · every ~6 min
R1-Zoo · 19m · $2 · every ~6 min
R1-Zoo · 31m · every ~6 min
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 bus station facilities and services
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food court and several local food vendors inside terminal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal. ATMs are aTM machines from major Thai banks available.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3: Wheelchair ramps and accessible facilities.
Which Chiang Rai station do buses from Chiang Mai arrive at?
Buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai most often arrive at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1. Some services arrive at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Chiang Rai arrival station.
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1773 Pahonyothin Road, Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
City-centre transport
Getting to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 from Chiang Rai city centre
Local buses and songthaews available
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 bus station facilities and services
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Local food stalls and small restaurants inside and around terminal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in terminal. ATMs are aTM machines from major Thai banks.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1: Ground level access, wheelchair friendly.
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2102 Moo 13, Phaholyothin Road, Robwiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
City-centre transport
Getting to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 from Chiang Rai city centre
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 is 5 km from Chiang Rai city centre. Public transport options include:
Local BusCity routes
SongthaewRed trucks
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 bus station facilities and services
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food court and several local food vendors inside terminal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal. ATMs are aTM machines from major Thai banks available.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2: Wheelchair ramps and assistance available.
More options for your journey from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai
Most popular bus connections to Chiang Rai
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