- Recommended
Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre
The main city museum covering Chiang Mai history, Lanna culture, architecture, and local traditions in a restored historic building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
$25
Average price
$25
Fastest journey
13 h
Average duration
15 h 17 m
Buses per day
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 $25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $25.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Khon Kaen for Chiang Mai on Fri, Jun 19, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 19 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, Jun 19 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.
175-119:30 AM13h00Khon Kaen Bus Terminal10:30 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)$251One-way0 transfers- 633-154:30 PM13h00Khon Kaen Bus Terminal5:30 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)$251One-way0 transfers
ESAN TOUR4:30 PM17h33Khon Kaen Bus Terminal10:03 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)$261One-way0 transfers- ESAN TOUR9:30 AM17h33Khon Kaen Bus Terminal3:03 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)$261One-way0 transfers
- 175-119:30 AM13h00Khon Kaen Bus Terminal10:30 PMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)$251One-way0 transfers
- 633-154:30 PM13h00Khon Kaen Bus Terminal5:30 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)$251One-way0 transfers
- ESAN TOUR4:30 PM17h33Khon Kaen Bus Terminal10:03 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)$261One-way0 transfers
- ESAN TOUR9:30 AM17h33Khon Kaen Bus Terminal3:03 AMChiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade)$261One-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 prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 5m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a flight costs an average of $34.
Distance: 300 miles (484 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$24 Average price Cheapest | $88 Average price | $80 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
14h 45m Average total duration 14h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 1h 5m Onboard + 3h 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 $24 (€19).
This is compared to other travel options from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai:
A bus is $64 (€53) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai costing on average $88 (€72).
The fastest way to travel from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 5m.
Other travel options to Chiang Mai take longer:
Bus takes on average 14h 15m.
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 $24 (€19) compared to roughly $80 (€65) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $56 (€46). The journey takes 14h 15m 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 Esan Tour | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 03:03AM | Duration 17h33 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Esarn Tour | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator Esan Tour | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 10:03AM | Duration 17h33 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Esarn Tour | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $25 |
Live departures
Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai bus times
The table below shows live departures for Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai buses for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 175-11 | 9:30 AM Khon Kaen Bus Terminal | 13h00 | 10:30 PM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ESAN TOUR | 9:30 AM Khon Kaen Bus Terminal | 17h33 | 3:03 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 633-15 | 4:30 PM Khon Kaen Bus Terminal | 13h00 | 5:30 AM Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 2 (Arcade) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ESAN TOUR | 4:30 PM Khon Kaen Bus Terminal | 17h33 | 10:03 AM 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
Jun 19
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Jun 25
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 5 times per day, taking around 14h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) if you book in advance.
There are 5 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 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 (€18) |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 5 |
Fastest bus 12h 0m |
First bus 9:00 AM |
Last bus 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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, Sombat Tour, Phetprasert Tour from Khon Kaen to Chiang MaiYou can travel by bus between Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai with Esarn Tour, Esan Tour, Sombat Tour, Phetprasert Tour for as low as $22 (€18). 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 Duration
16h 12m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
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 Duration
12h 0m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
Esarn Tour frequency
2 a day
Sombat Tour
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 50m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€24)
Sombat Tour frequency
1 a day
Phetprasert Tour
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 50m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€16)
Phetprasert Tour frequency
3 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 daily life, crafts, festivals, and beliefs, useful for understanding Lanna identity before temple visits.
- Recommended
Chiang Mai National Museum
The leading regional museum for Lanna history, archaeology, Buddhist art, and the political development of northern Thailand.
- Must visit
Chiang Mai Old City
The historic core inside the moat and remnants of the old walls, ideal for walking between temples, museums, cafés, and markets.
- Recommended
Nimmanhaemin Road
A fashionable district of boutiques, design spaces, and modern urban life, especially popular with younger travelers and digital nomads.
- Recommended
Tha Phae Walking Street
A busy walking area around Tha Phae Gate that serves as a gateway between the old city and newer commercial neighborhoods.
Khao Soi
Northern Thai curry noodle soup with egg noodles, usually served with chicken or beef, plus pickled mustard greens and lime. It is Chiang Mai’s signature dish.
- Gluten-free
Sai Ua
Fragrant Northern Thai herb sausage made with pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, and chili. A classic local specialty often eaten with sticky rice.
- Gluten-free
Nam Prik Ong
A Northern chili dip of minced pork and tomatoes, commonly served with fresh and blanched vegetables. It is a staple in traditional khantoke-style meals.
Khao Soi Khun Yai
Famous casual spot specializing in classic Khao Soi and other Northern noodle dishes. Simple, local atmosphere and consistently popular with both locals and visitors.
Dash! Restaurant and Bar
Popular long-running restaurant in a teak house offering Thai classics in a charming garden setting. Good for visitors seeking a comfortable sit-down meal.
Huen Muan Jai
Well-known traditional Lanna restaurant serving Northern Thai specialties such as Sai Ua, Nam Prik, and Gaeng Hang Lay in a relaxed heritage-style setting.
Thai Baht
Generally cheaper than Bangkok and many tourist hubs, with low food and transport costs; upscale hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- THB 50-100 for street food or a simple local meal.
- 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 cafe coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not mandatory. Round up small bills for taxis, leave THB 20-50 at casual restaurants, or about 5-10% at nicer places if no service charge is added.
CM Transit by RTC Chiang Mai City Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 30 THB
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3, Chiang Mai -> Tha Phae Gate, Chiang Mai
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Cash is commonly used on local buses and songthaews, so carry small THB notes and coins. Card payment is generally not available on these vehicles.
- RTC city buses are the most structured public transport option and route details are available in the official app. For flexible trips, red songthaews are common but fares should be agreed before the旅
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 $22 (€18) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai is $24 (€19) ; 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 5 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
Khon Kaen
Chiang Mai
The major bus station for departures in Khon Kaen is Khon Kaen Bus Terminal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Khon Kaen Bus Terminal for your trip from Khon Kaen to Chiang Mai.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 04:00-22:00
Distance to city center
7 km
Car connection
Prachasamoson 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 accessible
WC
- Public restrooms available
Public transit options for Khon Kaen Bus Terminal
- Bus: Local songthaews and city buses
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 Khon Kaen.
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 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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