- Recommended
Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre
The main city museum covering Chiang Mai history, Lanna culture, and urban development in a restored historic building near the Old City center.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
Showing times and prices for Jun 09
Cheapest price
$11
Average price
$14
Fastest journey
3 h 20 m
Average duration
3 h 20 m
Buses per day
11
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chiang Rai 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 Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai will cost around $14 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Fast buses
Of the 11 buses that leave Chiang Rai for Chiang Mai on Tue, Jun 09, 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 09 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 Tue, Jun 09 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.
1667:30 AM3h45Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 111:15 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$111One-way0 transfers- 1664:00 PM3h45Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 17:45 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$111One-way0 transfers
- 1666:00 PM3h45Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 19:45 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$111One-way0 transfers
- 1668:30 AM3h45Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 112:15 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$111One-way0 transfers
- 1661:30 PM3h45Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 15:15 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$111One-way0 transfers
- 16610:00 AM3h20Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 11:20 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$171One-way0 transfers
- 16612:30 PM3h20Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 13:50 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$171One-way0 transfers
- 1662:30 PM3h20Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 15:50 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$171One-way0 transfers
- 1668:00 AM3h20Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 111:20 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$171One-way0 transfers
- 1666:30 PM3h20Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 19:50 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$171One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $8. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 48m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $8, and a flight costs an average of $66.
Distance: 95 miles (153 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$11 Average price Cheapest | $152 Average price | $23 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 18m Average total duration Fastest 3h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 32m Average total duration 6h 32m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is a bus with an average price of $11 (€9).
This is compared to other travel options from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai:
A bus is $141 (€115) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai costing on average $152 (€124).
The fastest way to travel from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 48m.
Other travel options to Chiang Mai take longer:
Flight takes on average 6h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $11 (€9) compared to roughly $23 (€19) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $13 (€10). The journey takes 3h 48m versus 3h 25m 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 Greenbus, Greenbus Thailand.
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.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 12:15PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 01:20PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | 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 Rai to Chiang Mai bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai buses for tomorrow, Tuesday, June 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 166 | 7:30 AM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 3h45 | 11:15 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 8:00 AM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 3h20 | 11:20 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 8:30 AM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 3h45 | 12:15 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 10:00 AM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 3h20 | 1:20 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 12:00 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 3h45 | 3:45 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 12:30 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 3h20 | 3:50 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 1:30 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 3h45 | 5:15 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 2:30 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 3h20 | 5:50 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 4:00 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 3h45 | 7:45 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 6:00 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 3h45 | 9:45 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 166 | 6:30 PM Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 3h20 | 9:50 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 prices and tickets Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai by bus or flight
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
ThailandThailand
Buses from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai run on average 13 times per day, taking around 3h 48m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $8 (€7) if you book in advance.
There are 13 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 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 (€7) |
Buses per day 13 |
Direct buses 13 |
Fastest bus 3h 20m |
First bus 6:00 AM |
Last bus 7:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Bus providers: Greenbus, Greenbus Thailand, Sombat Tour from Chiang Rai to Chiang MaiYou can travel by bus between Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai with Greenbus, Greenbus Thailand, Sombat Tour 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 Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
$8 (€7)
Greenbus frequency
16 a day
Greenbus Thailand
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
Greenbus Thailand frequency
9 a day
Sombat Tour
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
15h 55m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
Sombat Tour frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Chiang Mai
Things to do in Chiang Mai
Discover the best of Chiang Mai — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chiang Mai trip today.
- Recommended
Lanna Folklife Museum
A well-curated museum on northern Thai traditions, crafts, beliefs, and everyday Lanna life, useful for cultural context before temple visits.
- Recommended
MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum
A prominent contemporary art museum outside the old center, known for bold Thai modern works, rotating exhibitions, and a reflective mirrored facade.
- Must visit
Chiang Mai Old City
The historic walled center with moats, temples, guesthouses, and walkable lanes; the essential base for first-time visitors exploring heritage sites.
- Must visit
Tha Phae Walking Street
The famous Sunday market corridor and surrounding streets, lively for browsing, people-watching, and experiencing one of the city’s best-known evening walks.
- Recommended
Nimmanhaemin Road
A fashionable district known for design shops, creative spaces, and modern urban Chiang Mai energy, especially popular with younger travelers and remote workers.
Khao Soi
Northern Thai curry noodle soup with egg noodles, usually served with chicken or beef, topped with crispy noodles. It is the signature dish of Chiang Mai.
- Gluten-free
Sai Ua
Chiang Mai herbal sausage made with pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, galangal, and chilies. It is a classic Northern Thai street and market food.
- Gluten-free
Nam Prik Ong
A Northern Thai tomato and minced pork chili dip, commonly eaten with fresh and boiled vegetables. It is a staple of local family-style meals.
Khao Soi Khun Yai
Famous casual spot specializing in Chiang Mai-style Khao Soi with a loyal local and visitor following. Simple atmosphere and strong reputation.
Dash! Restaurant and Bar
Popular restaurant in a teak house serving Thai classics in a charming garden atmosphere. Good option for a comfortable sit-down dinner.
SP Chicken
Established local favorite known for grilled chicken, Som Tam, and simple Thai dishes. Busy, no-frills venue popular for affordable meals.
Thai Baht
Budget-friendly by regional standards. Street food and local transport are cheap; upscale hotels and fine dining raise costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- THB 50-120 for street food or simple local meals.
- Mid-range
- THB 200-500 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- THB 1,000-2,500+ per person at upscale venues.
- Coffee
- THB 50-90 for a café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not obligatory. Round up small bills, leave about 5-10% at nicer restaurants if no service charge, and tip hotel staff or drivers modestly for good service.
CM Transit by RTC
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 30 THB
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 -> Tha Phae Gate, Chiang Mai
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- RTC City Bus accepts cash onboard; prepare small change as card payment is not generally available on local buses and songthaews.
- Songthaews are common for short trips, but confirm the route and fare before boarding because prices can vary by distance and time.
FAQs: Bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chiang Rai 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai can start from as little as $8 (€7) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is $11 (€9) ; 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 Rai to Chiang Mai 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 Rai to Chiang Mai leaves at 6:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai leaves at 7:00 PM.
Yes, there are 13 direct buses a day from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai with Greenbus, Greenbus Thailand. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, you can count on Greenbus, Greenbus Thailand, Sombat Tour for the best way to get you to Chiang Mai. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Chiang Rai , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1, Ban Mai, AH2 / Highway 118 (Mae Suai), Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 . When arriving in Chiang Mai , you can end your journey in bus stations like Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1, which is located around 0 away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3, located 3 away from the city centre.
A trip to Chiang Mai from Chiang Rai is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai including taking a bus and flight.
No, the bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai.
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 Rai to Chiang Mai.
No, luggage for the bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai.
Since neither Chiang Rai nor Chiang Mai are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of Thailand and Thailand. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai among Omio's users.
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 Mai, travelers should be cautious of common scams such as overpriced tuk-tuk or taxi rides, especially when drivers refuse to use the meter. Beware of gem scams where sellers pressure buyers into purchasing fake or overpriced jewelry. Motorcycle rental scams are also frequent, so inspect vehicles carefully and document any existing damage before renting. Additionally, pickpocketing can occur in busy markets and crowded areas, so keep valuables secure. Always use reputable transportation and avoid accepting unsolicited offers for tours or services.
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 Rai to Chiang Mai
Chiang Rai
Chiang Mai
The major bus station for departures in Chiang Rai is Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 for your trip from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:00-22:00
Car connection
Pahonyothin RoadWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available in terminal
Parking
- Free parking available for passengers
Dining
- Local food stalls and small restaurants inside and around terminal
Taxis
- Taxis and tuk-tuks available at the terminal entrance
Accessibility
- Ground level access, wheelchair friendly
WC
- Public toilets available
Public transit options for Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1
- Local buses and songthaews available
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Address
102 Moo 13, Phaholyothin Road, Robwiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, ThailandTicket Office Hours
- 05:00-22:00
Distance to city center
5 kmCar connection
Phaholyothin RoadWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal
Parking
- Free parking available for passengers
Dining
- Food court and several local food vendors inside terminal
Taxis
- Available at designated taxi stand outside terminal
Accessibility
- Wheelchair ramps and assistance available
WC
- Public restrooms available for small fee
Public transit options for Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2
- Local Bus: City routes
- Songthaew: Red trucks
The major bus station for arrivals in Chiang Mai is Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 for your trip to Chiang Mai from Chiang Rai.
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:00-21:00
Distance to city center
3 kmCar connection
Chiang Mai-Lamphun RoadWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal
Parking
- Free parking available for both cars and motorcycles
Dining
- Food court and several local food vendors inside terminal
Taxis
- Available at designated taxi stand outside terminal
Accessibility
- Wheelchair ramps and accessible facilities
WC
- Public restrooms available with 5 baht fee
Public transit options for Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3
- Bus: R3, RTC Shuttle
- Songthaew: Red trucks from city center
Most popular bus connections from Chiang Rai
More options for your journey from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
Most popular bus connections to Chiang Mai
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