- Must visit
Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre
Excellent cultural museum explaining Lanna history, Buddhism, crafts, and Chiang Mai's development through well-curated exhibits.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 10
Cheapest price on Sep 10
$10
Average ticket price on Sep 10
$12
Fastest journey on Sep 10
3 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Sep 10
3 h 22 m
Buses on Sep 10
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 $12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $10.
Fast buses
On Thu, Sep 10, we found 11 buses from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, including 11 direct services.
On Thu, Sep 10 the direct buses cover the 153 km distance in an average of 3 h 22 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
On Thu, Sep 10 the slowest buses will take 3 h 30 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.
1666:00 PM3h45Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 19:45 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$101One-way0 transfers- 166110:25 AM3h30Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 11:55 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$101One-way0 transfers
- 1661:30 PM3h45Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 15:15 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$101One-way0 transfers
- 1664:00 PM3h45Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 17:45 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$101One-way0 transfers
- 16612:00 PM3h45Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 13:45 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$101One-way0 transfers
- 1666:30 PM3h20Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 19:50 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$161One-way0 transfers
- 16612:30 PM3h20Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 13:50 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$161One-way0 transfers
- 16610:00 AM3h20Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 11:20 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$161One-way0 transfers
- 1668:00 AM3h20Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 111:20 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$161One-way0 transfers
- 166110:25 AM3h30Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 11:55 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3$101One-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 an average ticket price of $13 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 4h 9m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $13, while a flight costs an average of $163.
Distance: 95 miles (153 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$13 Average price Cheapest | $163 Average price | $24 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 9m Average total duration Fastest 3h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration 2h 34m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 25m 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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is a bus with an average price of $13.
This is compared to other travel options from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai:
A bus is $151 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai costing on average $163.
The fastest way to travel from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 34m.
Other travel options to Chiang Mai take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 39m.
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 $13 compared to roughly $24 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $11. The journey takes 3h 39m 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 Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 12:15PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 01:20PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 10:25AM | Arrival Time 01:55PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator Greenbus | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $16 |
Live departures
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai buses for today, Wednesday, September 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 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 | |
| Thursday, September 10 | |||||
| 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 | |
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
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 Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
ThailandThailand
Buses from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 39m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $8 if you book in advance.
There are 12 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 39m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 |
Buses per day 12 |
Direct buses 12 |
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 Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 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
Bus providers: Greenbus from Chiang Rai to Chiang MaiYou can travel by bus between Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai with Greenbus for as low as $8. 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
Greenbus frequency
14 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
Chiang Mai National Museum
National museum with strong collections on Lanna kingdoms, archaeology, and northern Thai art, ideal for historical context.
- Recommended
Chiang Mai University Art Museum
University art museum with rotating contemporary exhibitions, strong regional programming, and a quieter local cultural atmosphere.
- Must visit
Tha Phae Gate Square
Walkable square at the east gate of the old city, busy with photos, pigeons, festivals, and access to markets and temples.
- Must visit
Chiang Mai Old City
The historic walled center of Chiang Mai, ideal for temple hopping, strolling moats, Sunday market, and everyday local life.
- Recommended
Nimmanhaemin
Trendy neighborhood around Nimmanhaemin Road with boutiques, design spaces, nightlife, and a modern side of Chiang Mai.
Khao Soi
Creamy Northern Thai curry noodle soup with egg noodles, pickled mustard greens, and chili oil. Chiang Mai’s signature dish, rooted in Lanna and Muslim influences.
- Gluten-free
Sai Ua
Northern Thai herb sausage made with pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, and chili. A classic Lanna street and market food with bold aroma.
- Gluten-free
Gaeng Hang Lay
Northern Thai pork curry simmered with ginger, tamarind, and garlic, usually without coconut milk. A staple Lanna dish known for rich, warming flavor.
Blackitch Artisan Kitchen
Established fine dining venue presenting Thai ingredients with modern technique. Stylish setting and tasting menus make it a standout special-occasion choice.
Ginger Farm Kitchen at The House
Upscale restaurant in a teak house specializing in refined Northern Thai cuisine. Elegant atmosphere, strong local reputation, and polished service.
Khao Soi Khun Yai
Legendary casual shop famed for rich Khao Soi. Expect a simple, local atmosphere and one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic noodle bowls.
Thai baht (฿)
Budget-friendly versus many tourist cities. Guesthouses, street food, and local transport are cheap; upscale hotels and fine dining cost more but stay reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- ฿50-120 for street food or simple local meals.
- Mid-range
- ฿200-450 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- ฿800+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- ฿50-90 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not mandatory. Round up small bills for taxis and cafes. In restaurants, leave 5-10% for good service if no service charge is added.
CM TRANSIT by RTC
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- ฿30
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 -> Tha Phae Gate
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- RTC City Bus is the main formal city bus; keep small cash as card or contactless payment is not reliably available onboard.
- Shared red songthaews are common but fares are usually negotiated and routes are flexible, so confirm the price before boarding.
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 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is $13 ; 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 12 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 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, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai.
No, the bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai has no accessibility options.
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
Most Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai buses use the Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 to Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 station pair. Use this guide to compare Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chiang Rai
Arrival bus stations in Chiang Mai
Which Chiang Rai station do buses to Chiang Mai leave from?
Buses from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai leave from Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1. The station is from Chiang Rai city centre at 773 Pahonyothin Road, Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand.
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.
Which Chiang Mai station do buses from Chiang Rai arrive at?
Buses from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai arrive at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3. Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 is 2 miles (4 km) from Chiang Mai city centre.
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 · $1 · 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.
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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