Thailand’s most popular travel route after Bangkok to Pattaya is definitely Bangkok to Chiang Mai. It connects the modern, busy capital with the calm mountain city in the north — giving travelers a perfect mix of city life and nature.

I’m Chandan, a civil engineer based in Dubai and a traveler who has explored 18 countries including many parts of Thailand. In this blog, I’ll explain how to go from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by bus and train — with all options, travel times, ticket prices, and a few personal tips to make your journey easy and comfortable.

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1. Distance Between Bangkok and Chiang Mai

The distance between Bangkok and Chiang Mai is around 700 kilometers (about 435 miles). Both bus and train routes are well-connected and used daily by locals and tourists. Depending on what you prefer — comfort, budget, or scenery — you can choose the best option for your trip.

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Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Bus

Taking a bus is one of the most popular and budget-friendly ways to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Bus Details:

• Distance: Around 700 km
• Duration: 9–10 hours (overnight)
• Price: 500–900 THB (around $14–25)
• Departure Point: Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Northern Bus Terminal)
• Arrival Point: Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station

There are several bus types available — from regular air-conditioned buses to VIP and First Class buses with comfortable reclining seats, air conditioning, snacks, and blankets.

Most travelers prefer to take the overnight bus that leaves Bangkok in the evening (around 6:00–9:00 PM) and arrives in Chiang Mai early next morning (around 5:00–7:00 AM).

You can easily book your ticket at the Mo Chit Bus Terminal or online through trusted Thai booking platforms.

Popular Bus Companies:

• Nakhonchai Air (Gold and First Class)
• Sombat Tour
• Transport Co. (Government-run buses)
• Greenbus Thailand

All these companies are known for clean, safe, and punctual services.

Tip: Try to book a VIP 24-seat bus — the seats are large, there’s more legroom, and they provide snacks, water, and sometimes a small meal stop.

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Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train

If you prefer a scenic and comfortable journey, the train is a fantastic option. It’s one of Thailand’s most beautiful train rides, especially if you take a daytime train to enjoy the countryside views.

Train Details:

• Departure Station: Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bangkok’s main railway station)
• Arrival Station: Chiang Mai Railway Station
• Distance: Around 700 km
• Duration: 10 to 13 hours depending on train type
• Price:
  • 3rd class (fan): around 300 THB
  • 2nd class AC sleeper: around 800–1,000 THB
  • 1st class sleeper: around 1,200–1,800 THB

The overnight sleeper trains are the most popular choice among travelers. You can sleep comfortably and arrive in Chiang Mai in the morning.

If you prefer scenic views, take a day train — it passes through beautiful landscapes, mountains, and rice fields.

Train Classes:

• 1st Class: Private cabin for 2 people, air-conditioned, comfortable beds.
• 2nd Class Sleeper (AC): Shared cabin, comfortable bunk beds, clean, and ideal for most travelers.
• 3rd Class: Basic seats, no AC — cheapest but not recommended for long travel.

Popular Trains:

• Train #9: Modern overnight train with AC sleepers (leaves around 6:40 PM, arrives around 7:15 AM).
• Train #7: Daytime express train (leaves 8:30 AM, arrives around 6:30 PM).

Tip: Book your train tickets early, especially for 1st or 2nd class sleepers — they sell out fast, especially during weekends and holidays.

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3. My Recommendation

If you’re on a budget, take the overnight bus from Mo Chit — it’s comfortable and easy.

If you want comfort and scenery, go for the overnight or daytime train. The sleeper train gives you both relaxation and a unique Thai travel experience.

Both options are safe and well-organized — it really depends on how you like to travel!

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4. Arrival in Chiang Mai

• Bus Arrival: Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station (around 4 km from the Old City).
• Train Arrival: Chiang Mai Railway Station (around 3 km from the Old City).

From either station, you can take a Grab taxi, red songthaew, or tuk-tuk to your hotel — it takes only 10–15 minutes to reach most areas in the city center.

Traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by bus or train is one of the most scenic and rewarding journeys in Thailand. Whether you choose the comfortable overnight train or the budget-friendly bus, you’ll enjoy the ride as much as the destination.

Chiang Mai welcomes you with cool mountain air, ancient temples, and laid-back vibes — a perfect contrast to Bangkok’s busy energy.

Whichever way you travel, plan ahead, book early, and enjoy the journey — because this route truly shows Thailand’s charm from south to north.

If you have any questions about my trip, don’t hesitate to ask them!

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