- 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 Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
zł92
Average ticket price on Sep 18
zł95
Fastest journey on Sep 18
13 h
Average journey duration on Sep 18
15 h 17 m
Buses on Sep 18
4
Distance
484 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Khon Kaen 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 Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai will cost around zł95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only zł92.
Fast buses
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 4 buses from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai, including 4 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct buses cover the 484 km distance in an average of 15 h 17 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 13 h .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest buses will take 17 h 33 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.
4:30 PM13h00Khon Kaen Bus Terminal5:30 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)zł921One-way0 transfers- 9:30 AM13h00Khon Kaen Bus Terminal10:30 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)zł921One-way0 transfers
ESAN TOUR4:30 PM17h33Khon Kaen Bus Terminal10:03 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)zł981One-way0 transfers- ESAN TOUR9:30 AM17h33Khon Kaen Bus Terminal3:03 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)zł981One-way0 transfers
- 4:30 PM13h00Khon Kaen Bus Terminal5:30 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)zł921One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 AM13h00Khon Kaen Bus Terminal10:30 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)zł921One-way0 transfers
- ESAN TOUR4:30 PM17h33Khon Kaen Bus Terminal10:03 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)zł981One-way0 transfers
- ESAN TOUR9:30 AM17h33Khon Kaen Bus Terminal3:03 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)zł981One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of zł93 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 5m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of zł93, while a flight costs an average of zł547.
Distance: 300 miles (484 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
zł93 Average price Cheapest | zł547 Average price | zł308 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
15h 27m Average total duration 14h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 2h 5m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 9h 11m 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 Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai is a bus with an average price of zł93.
This is compared to other travel options from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai:
A bus is zł455 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai costing on average zł547.
The fastest way to travel from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 5m.
Other travel options to Chiang Mai take longer:
Bus takes on average 14h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Khon Kaen and Chiang Mai including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Khon Kaen 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 zł93 compared to roughly zł308 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about zł215. The journey takes 14h 57m versus 9h 11m 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 Esarn Tour, Esan Tour, Sombat Tour, Phetprasert Tour.
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.
Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Esarn Tour | Departure Time 02:30AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price zł86 |
Operator Esan Tour | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 03:03AM | Duration 17h33 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price zł92 |
Operator Esarn Tour | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price zł87 |
Operator Esan Tour | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 10:03AM | Duration 17h33 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price zł92 |
Operator Esarn Tour | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price zł87 |
Live departures
Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai bus times
The table below shows live departures for Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai buses for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ESAN TOUR | 4:30 PM Khon Kaen Bus Terminal | 17h33 | 10:03 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 175-2 | 4:30 PM Khon Kaen Bus Terminal | 13h00 | 5:30 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, September 18 | |||||
| ESAN TOUR | 9:30 AM Khon Kaen Bus Terminal | 17h33 | 3:03 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:30 AM Khon Kaen Bus Terminal | 13h00 | 10:30 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Khon Kaen 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.
Fri
Sep 18
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Why should you book Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai buses with Omio?
Esarn Tour as well as Esan Tour, Sombat Tour, Phetprasert Tour and more offer buses services from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai.
Why book with Omio vs Esarn Tour?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Esarn Tour, but also compare tickets for the likes of Esan Tour, Sombat Tour or Phetprasert Tour to find the best option for your trip from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Esarn Tour with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai.
Why book with Omio over Busbud, Checkmybus or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Esan Tour, Sombat Tour or Phetprasert Tour to find the best option for your trip from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai
ThailandThailand
Buses from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai run on average 4 times per day, taking around 14h 57m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at zł85 if you book in advance.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 09:00, the last at 22:30. The fastest bus covers the 300 miles (484 km) distance in 12h 0m.
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 300 miles (484 km) |
Average bus duration 14h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price zł85 |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 12h 0m |
First bus 9:00 AM |
Last bus 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 1 day |
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: Esarn Tour, Esan Tour from Khon Kaen to Chiang MaiYou can travel by bus between Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai with Esarn Tour, Esan Tour for as low as zł85. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Esan Tour
About
Established in 2016 in Thailand, operates large buses with a capacity for 40 passengers from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station. The service includes luggage included in fare, excess luggage allowed for an additional fee, free onboard WiFi, and food options. Seat reservations and onboard bathrooms ensure a comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Esan Tour Duration
16h 12m
Cheapest Esan Tour Price
zł86
Esan Tour frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Luggage included in fare; specific size/type not provided.
Additional luggage
Excess luggage and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee
Amenities on board the bus
Seat reservation
Toilets
Esarn Tour
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Esarn Tour Duration
12h 0m
Cheapest Esarn Tour Price
zł85
Esarn Tour frequency
2 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 Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Khon Kaen 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 Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai can start from as little as zł85 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai is zł93 ; 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 Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai is 12h 0m to travel the 300 miles (484 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 Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai leaves at 9:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai leaves at 10:30 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai with Esarn Tour, Esan Tour, Sombat Tour, Phetprasert Tour. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai, you can count on Esarn Tour, Esan Tour, Sombat Tour, Phetprasert Tour for the best way to get you to Chiang Mai. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Khon Kaen and Chiang Mai and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chiang Mai from Khon Kaen is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 12h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Khon Kaen and Chiang Mai including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai for bus company Esan Tour.
No, the bus from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai has no accessibility options.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Khon Kaen 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 Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai:
- Esan Tour
- Luggage included in fare
- specific size/type not provided.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai:
- Esan Tour
- Excess luggage and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai with the following bus company: Esan Tour
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai.
Since neither Khon Kaen 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 Khon Kaen 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 Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai
Most Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai buses use the Khon Kaen Bus Terminal to station pair. Use this guide to compare Khon Kaen 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 Khon Kaen
Arrival bus stations in Chiang Mai
Which Khon Kaen station do buses to Chiang Mai leave from?
Buses from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai leave from Khon Kaen Bus Terminal. The station is 4 miles (7 km) from Khon Kaen city centre at 380 Prachasamoson Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Khon Kaen District, Khon Kaen 40000, Thailand.
Khon Kaen Bus Terminal380 Prachasamoson Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Khon Kaen District, Khon Kaen 40000, Thailand
City-centre transport
Getting to Khon Kaen Bus Terminal from Khon Kaen city centre
Khon Kaen Bus Terminal is 7 km from Khon Kaen city centre. Public transport options include:
BusBlue Route, Red Route · 9m · zł5 · every ~12 min
Blue Route, Red Route · 15m · zł5 · every ~12 min
Blue Route · 25m · zł5 · every ~22 min
Khon Kaen Bus Terminal bus station facilities and services
Khon Kaen Bus Terminal 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 aTMs from multiple banks available.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Khon Kaen Bus Terminal.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Khon Kaen Bus Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Khon Kaen Bus Terminal: Wheelchair accessible.
Most popular bus connections from Khon Kaen
More options for your journey from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chiang Mai and Khon Kaen
Most popular bus connections to Chiang Mai
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