Options compared
| Option | Time | Typical price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | ~1 h 15 min (plus airports) | ~1,000–2,500 THB | Speed |
| Sleeper train (2nd class) | 11–13 h | ~900–1,500 THB | Experience, saving a hotel night |
| Sleeper train (1st class) | 11–13 h | ~1,500–2,500 THB | Private two-berth cabin |
| VIP bus | 9–10 h | ~600–900 THB | Budget |
Prices are typical for 2026 and vary with season and how early you book.
Flying
Budget airlines fly from Don Mueang (DMK), and full-service airlines from Suvarnabhumi (BKK), with dozens of flights a day. Chiang Mai Airport is just 10–15 minutes from the Old City. Watch for checked-baggage fees on low-cost tickets.
Search cheap flights to Chiang MaiThe overnight sleeper train
Long-distance trains to Chiang Mai leave from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (formerly Bang Sue Grand Station) in Bangkok, not the old Hua Lamphong station. The modern Special Express trains have air-conditioned carriages where seats fold into curtained bunks at night. Lower berths are wider and cost a little more. You wake up to mountains and jungle on the final stretch.
- Book on the official State Railway of Thailand D-Ticket site or at the station. Sleepers sell out in the high season and on holidays.
- Bring snacks and a jacket: the air conditioning is strong.
- Trains can run late; don’t book a tight onward connection.
Buses
VIP buses leave from the Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak, also called Mo Chit) with reclining seats, a toilet and snacks. Overnight buses save a hotel night but are less comfortable than the train. Choose established companies and keep valuables with you.
Driving
The 700 km drive takes 9–10 hours via Highway 1 and 11. It’s only worth it if you want to stop at Ayutthaya, Lopburi or Sukhothai on the way.
Stops on the way
Break the trip with a night in Ayutthaya (old capital, 1 hour from Bangkok) or Sukhothai (UNESCO-listed ruins). Trains and buses stop near both.
Find tours & tickets in BangkokArriving in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai station and the Arcade bus terminal are both a short Grab or songthaew ride from the Old City. Plan your stay with where to stay in Chiang Mai and start in Bangkok if you haven’t yet.
More Chiang Mai guides
- Chiang Mai travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Chiang Mai
- Chiang Mai itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 days
- Where to stay in Chiang Mai
- Best time to visit Chiang Mai
- Ethical elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai
- Chiang Rai day trip
- Yi Peng lantern festival
FAQ: Bangkok to Chiang Mai
What is the cheapest way from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
The bus, though budget flights booked early can be almost as cheap.
Is the night train to Chiang Mai worth it?
Yes, if you have time. It’s comfortable, scenic in the morning and saves a hotel night.
How far is Chiang Mai from Bangkok?
About 700 km by road.
Plan your trip to Chiang Mai
The trusted services we use to plan our own trips.
