Bangkok and Chiang Mai are two of Thailand’s most vibrant and culturally significant cities. Every year, countless travelers explore this popular route, seeking everything from a quick weekend getaway to a longer, more immersive experience. If you are wondering how to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, there are several options to suit your budget, schedule, and sense of adventure. In this article, we will take a closer look at the different ways to make the journey, including flights, trains, and more. We will also discuss prices, travel times, and what you can expect to see and do along the way.
Why Is This Route So Popular?
One reason Bangkok to Chiang Mai is such a well-traveled corridor is because it connects Thailand’s bustling urban capital with its tranquil northern heartland. Bangkok offers modern high-rises, lively nightlife, and countless cultural attractions. Chiang Mai, on the other hand, is known for its ancient temples, lush mountains, and a laid-back atmosphere. Combining both cities gives visitors a wonderful taste of the diversity Thailand has to offer.
People often make the trip north to escape the heat of the capital and immerse themselves in the cooler climate of Chiang Mai. The city’s creative scene, vibrant markets, and access to nature draw tourists, digital nomads, and retirees alike. Whether you want to experience a fast-paced cosmopolitan environment or prefer a more relaxed pace, traveling between Bangkok and Chiang Mai will allow you to sample some of Thailand’s most iconic destinations.
Overview of Travel Options
When deciding how to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, you have several modes of transportation to choose from:
- Airplane – The fastest and arguably the most convenient method.
- Train – A scenic option that offers a more authentic travel experience.
- Bus – Generally cheaper than flying, but longer in duration.
- Car or Minivan – Ideal if you value flexibility, but can be time-consuming.
While buses and private cars are also viable ways to go, most travelers end up debating between flying and taking the train. These two methods stand out as the most common for international visitors and locals alike.
Flying from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
If you are looking for a quick and hassle-free method, flying is by far the best choice for traveling between these two cities. Several Thai and international airlines operate daily flights, making it simple to find a flight time that fits your schedule. The journey itself usually takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, which is significantly shorter than any land-based alternative.
Air tickets can be surprisingly affordable. If you book early or keep an eye out for promotions, you can often secure a ticket for well under a thousand Norwegian kroner (NOK). Low-cost airlines frequently run special offers, especially during off-peak travel seasons. Even outside promotional periods, a standard fare typically remains relatively reasonable for most travelers.
With such a short flight time, you can easily leave Bangkok in the morning and find yourself exploring Chiang Mai’s old city by lunch. This efficiency makes flying appealing to those with limited time or anyone wanting to minimize the inconvenience of long journeys.
Key Airports in Bangkok
Bangkok has two major international airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK). Both airports offer flights to Chiang Mai, so it’s worth considering the pros and cons of each:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Modern, large, and well-equipped with amenities. You can use the Airport Rail Link to travel to and from central Bangkok, which is relatively quick. Many major international airlines use Suvarnabhumi, but low-cost carriers also operate here.
- Don Mueang Airport (DMK): Smaller and more focused on budget airlines. Usually, you might find cheaper fares from here, but it can be a bit less convenient if you are staying in certain areas of Bangkok. However, Don Mueang is well-connected by taxis, Grab, and Bolt services.
If you care primarily about low airfare, you might want to check Don Mueang first. If you prefer a modern airport with excellent public transport connections, Suvarnabhumi might be the better choice.
Getting to and from Bangkok Airports
In Bangkok, it is usually simplest to grab a Bolt or Grab taxi directly from your hotel. Both services allow you to request a ride via a mobile app and pay either in cash or through the app, depending on your settings. This is often more straightforward than hailing a traditional taxi, as you can see an upfront fare estimate and do not have to worry about language barriers.
If you are flying out of Suvarnabhumi Airport, the Airport Rail Link (ARL) is another option. It connects the airport with several key stations in central Bangkok, including Makkasan and Phaya Thai. From these stations, you can switch to the BTS Skytrain or the MRT to reach other parts of the city.
At Don Mueang Airport, public transportation is more limited, but you can still catch a standard taxi or use ride-hailing apps easily. There are also shuttle buses that connect Don Mueang to several BTS or MRT stations, which can help you reach popular tourist areas for a low cost.
The Scenic Train Journey
Taking the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is an experience in its own right. While it is not as speedy as flying, it can be a rewarding adventure if you have the time. Trains usually depart from Hua Lamphong Station (Bangkok Railway Station) in central Bangkok, although there is ongoing work on a new main terminal, so keep an eye on changes.
The journey by train typically takes anywhere from 11 to 15 hours, depending on whether you choose an express train or a slower local service. This can be done as an overnight trip, saving you a hotel night and allowing you to wake up in Chiang Mai. Onboard facilities vary, but most express trains feature comfortable sleeper berths, air-conditioned carriages, and a dining car with basic meal options.
Arriving in Chiang Mai by train can be quite pleasant, with scenic views of the countryside rolling by as you approach. The train station in Chiang Mai is a short drive away from the old city, and you can use a tuk-tuk, taxi, Bolt, or Grab service to reach your final destination.
Getting to Hua Lamphong Station
Hua Lamphong Station is accessible by MRT (the city’s underground train). You can also take a taxi, Grab, or Bolt to reach the station from most parts of Bangkok. During peak traffic hours, expect some delays if you are traveling by road. If you prefer public transportation, the MRT is often a reliable way to avoid congestion.
After arriving at the station, purchasing tickets is straightforward, though you may want to buy them in advance if you plan to travel during busy periods (such as holidays and peak tourist season). Online booking options exist, but many travelers still buy tickets at the station counters.
Costs and Considerations
Generally speaking, flying is not necessarily more expensive than taking the train, especially if you manage to snag a discounted airfare from one of the many low-cost carriers. A typical train fare can range from cheaper seats in second-class non-air-conditioned carriages to more expensive sleeper berths. Despite some budget train tickets costing less, the difference between a comfortable sleeper ticket and a low-cost flight might not be that large.
Below is a simplified comparison table for an overview (approximate prices and times in Thai Baht, THB, and the equivalent for flights in USD):
| Transport | Typical Duration | Approx. Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | 1h 15min | 1,000-2,500 THB (under 100 USD if booked early) | Fast & convenient | Airport transfers needed |
| Train (Sleeper) | 11-15h | ~700-1,300 THB | Scenic & unique | Long travel time |
| Bus | 9-12h | ~500-1,000 THB | Relatively cheap | Comfort varies |
| Car / Minivan | 8-10h (self-drive or private transfer) | Varies widely | Flexible itinerary | Traffic and fatigue |
Other Transportation Methods
If you decide not to fly or take the train, you could consider:
- Bus: Buses from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Chiang Mai take around 9-12 hours and offer various classes, from VIP to standard. They can be comfortable but can also be subject to road traffic and occasional delays.
- Car/Minivan: Some travelers rent cars or hire private minivans for a road trip. This gives you the freedom to stop at smaller towns along the way, but it also means dealing with traffic and potential fatigue if you are the one driving.
While these alternatives can be more budget-friendly or flexible, most visitors find that flying or taking the train covers the key priorities of convenience, experience, and cost-effectiveness.
Arriving in Chiang Mai
No matter which mode of transport you choose, you will need to figure out how to get from the airport or train station to your final lodging in Chiang Mai. Both Grab and Bolt services operate in the city, and this is typically the easiest way to reach your accommodation.
If you arrive by air, Chiang Mai International Airport is conveniently located close to the city center. A quick ride from the arrivals area will usually take only 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. If you come by train, Chiang Mai Railway Station is also not far from the central tourist areas. Taxis, songthaews (red pickup trucks converted into shared taxis), and ride-hailing apps are readily available right outside the station.
Final Tips and Recommendations
When determining how to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, your decision will likely revolve around your priorities. For a short, effortless trip, flying is unbeatable. The convenience of modern airports, the wide range of flight schedules, and the possibility of snagging a cheap ticket (sometimes under a Norwegian thousand kroner) make air travel a top choice for many.
If you are seeking a more immersive Thai experience, however, the train can be very rewarding. You get a front-row seat to the ever-changing scenery, a chance to strike up conversations with fellow passengers, and that nostalgic feeling of drifting off in a sleeper berth and waking up in a new city.
In practical terms, using a ride-hailing service like Grab or Bolt is often the simplest way to connect between airports, train stations, and your accommodations. Thailand’s public transport options are growing, but can be confusing for first-time travelers. Having an app-based taxi service at your fingertips reduces the stress of navigating unknown routes, especially in busy areas like Bangkok.
Regardless of which method you choose, Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a journey that showcases Thailand’s diversity and hospitality. Whether you take the one-hour flight or embrace the slow rhythms of the train, you will find that each option offers its own unique set of advantages and memorable moments. Plan according to your time frame and budget, and you are sure to have an incredible experience discovering what both of these iconic Thai cities have to offer.