Traveling across Thailand is always an adventure — from the beaches of Pattaya to the mountain air of Chiang Mai, this route shows how diverse Thailand really is. If you’re planning to go from Pattaya to Chiang Mai by bus, here’s everything you need to know — all options, routes, timings, and tips from my own travel experience.
I’m Chandan, a civil engineer based in Dubai and a traveler who has explored 18 countries, including many parts of Thailand. Let’s get started!
1. Can You Go Directly from Pattaya to Chiang Mai by Bus?
There is no single bus that goes directly from Pattaya to Chiang Mai. A few long-distance buses or van services operate directly, but most of the time, the route includes a stop or transfer in Bangkok.
So, you have two main options:
- Take a semi-direct bus from Pattaya to Chiang Mai (with a short stop or transfer on the way), or
- Go Pattaya → Bangkok → Chiang Mai by bus.
Either way, it’s a comfortable and affordable journey that lets you experience Thailand beyond the beaches.
2. Distance and Duration
The distance between Pattaya and Chiang Mai is about 780–830 kilometers, depending on the route.
Most buses take around 12 to 15 hours, including rest stops and possible transfers. If you travel overnight, you can sleep on the bus and reach Chiang Mai early in the morning.
3. Bus Options and Companies
1. Direct or Semi-Direct Buses
Some companies operate semi-direct services where you stay on the same bus or change once along the route (usually in Bangkok).
Typical details:
- Duration: Around 13–15 hours
- Price: 800–1,000 THB (about $22–27)
- Departure Point: Pattaya North Bus Terminal or private offices like Pannipa Pattaya Tour
- Arrival Point: Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station
These long-distance buses are usually VIP or First Class, with air-conditioning, reclining seats, blankets, snacks, and sometimes Wi-Fi.
Tip: Choose a night departure (around 6–8 PM). You’ll travel overnight and arrive in Chiang Mai around sunrise.
2. Connecting Bus via Bangkok
If no direct seats are available, you can go through Bangkok.
Step 1: Pattaya → Bangkok
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Fare: 150–250 THB
- Buses leave from Pattaya North Bus Terminal and arrive at Ekkamai, Mo Chit, or the Eastern Terminal in Bangkok.
Step 2: Bangkok → Chiang Mai
- Duration: 9–10 hours (overnight VIP bus)
- Fare: 600–900 THB
- Buses leave from Mo Chit Terminal in the evening and arrive at Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station the next morning.
This option gives you flexibility in timing and more frequency in schedules.
4. Popular Bus Companies
Some of the reliable companies operating these routes include:
- Roong Reuang Coach – known for comfort and service.
- Nakhonchai Air – operates high-quality VIP and Gold Class buses.
- Pannipa Pattaya Tour – often handles semi-direct Pattaya to Chiang Mai routes.
- Sombat Tour – runs long-distance routes across Thailand, sometimes with Pattaya–Chiang Mai connections.
- Sritawong Tour – another company known for northern routes.
All these companies are known for safe, clean, and air-conditioned buses with comfortable seats.
5. What to Expect on the Bus
- Rest stops: The bus stops every few hours for toilet and snack breaks.
- Comfort: VIP buses offer wide seats that recline almost flat.
- Snacks/Water: Most long-distance buses provide complimentary water and snacks.
- Air-conditioning: Bring a light jacket — the AC can get quite cold.
- Luggage: Big bags are stored below the bus; keep small essentials with you.
If you travel overnight, try to get a seat near the middle of the bus (less engine noise and smoother ride).
6. Travel Tips
- Book early if you’re traveling in high season (November–February).
- Bring neck pillow and blanket for overnight journeys.
- Carry snacks and power bank — charging points are not always available.
- Arrive early at the bus station (at least 30 minutes before departure).
- Use 12Go Asia or local ticket offices to check current schedules and book in advance.
7. Arrival in Chiang Mai
All long-distance buses arrive at Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal, located about 4 km from the Old City.
From there, you can take a Grab taxi, red songthaew, or tuk-tuk to reach your hotel.
It usually takes around 15–20 minutes to reach most guesthouses or hotels in the center.
8. My Experience and Recommendation
Traveling by bus from Pattaya to Chiang Mai is long but surprisingly comfortable. I personally like the overnight bus option, as you get to rest and wake up in the mountains.
If you have extra time and want to see more of Thailand’s countryside, this journey is a great choice. It’s affordable, safe, and gives you a real feel of local travel life.
For the best experience — book a VIP or Gold Class bus, bring your travel essentials, and enjoy the ride.
Going from Pattaya to Chiang Mai by bus is a classic Thailand journey — from coast to culture, beaches to mountains. Whether you take a direct or connecting route, the experience is part of the adventure.
If you prefer comfort and flexibility, book an overnight VIP bus, relax, and wake up in the charming city of Chiang Mai ready to explore temples, night markets, and the beauty of northern Thailand.
If you have any questions about my trip, don’t hesitate to ask them!
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