Flight (via Bangkok)
Most practical, easy connections
Flight + transfer
Smooth journey, minimal hassle
Bus (via Bangkok)
Cheapest, but long with transfer
Train combination
Multiple transfers, not practical
Quick answer: Travelling from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai offers multiple transfer methods. The fastest and most comfortable is a flight via Bangkok. For budget-conscious travellers you can go by bus/minivan, or combine bus + train for an adventurous over-land option. You can book tickets / flight to Chiang Mai easily online.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: approx. ~1 100 km by land via Bangkok.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Flight via Bangkok ~5-7 hours. | Bus/minivan ~18-26 hours. | Bus + train ~22-27 hours (via Aranyaprathet → Bangkok → Chiang Mai).
- 💰 Price range: Flight ~US$70-200 per person. | Bus/minivan ~US$40-75 per person. | Bus + train ~US$35-70 per person.
- ✈️ Best for speed & convenience: Flight via Bangkok (Siem Reap → Bangkok → Chiang Mai).
- 🚍 Best for budget & simplicity: Bus or shared minivan direct (via Bangkok) from Siem Reap → Chiang Mai.
- 🚆 Best for experience & slower pace: Bus + train route via Aranyaprathet and Bangkok → Chiang Mai.
Last updated in March 2026
From Siem Reap to Chiang Mai you can travel by plane, bus/minivan, train or private taxi.
The distance from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai is approximately 1,100 km via Bangkok. The fastest and most convenient option is a flight with a stopover in Bangkok, while buses and trains are popular among budget travelers.
Flights take about 5–7 hours and cost approximately $70–200 per person. Travel by bus or minivan via Bangkok takes around 18–26 hours. Train travel is also possible via Aranyaprathet and Bangkok in Thailand.
Tickets, flights and private transfers from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai can be searched and booked online in advance.
Chiang Mai is one of the most visited destinations in northern Thailand, known for its temples, mountains and relaxed atmosphere. From Chiang Mai, travelers can also continue to Pai or Nan.
How do I get from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai?
1. FLIGHT from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai
👉 Flight via Bangkok is the fastest and most convenient way from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who want to minimize travel time
- ✔️ Total travel time: ~6–10 hours (including transfer in Bangkok)
- ✔️ Cost: $100–250 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: high (two short flights with major airlines)
- ✅ Best Option: Flight to Bangkok + connecting flight to Chiang Mai
- 💡 Tip: Book flights early and allow time for airport transfers
The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai is by plane with a stopover in Bangkok. There are no direct flights between these cities, so all routes require at least one connection.
The total travel time is about 6–10 hours, depending on the layover in Bangkok. Airlines operating on this route include Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Thai Lion Air, Thai Airways, Nok Air and VietJet Air.
Flights depart from Siem Reap Angkor International Airport to Bangkok and continue to Chiang Mai International Airport. Flight prices typically range from $100–250 per person.
Flying saves many hours compared to overland travel and is the preferred option for most travelers. Flights can be easily searched and booked online in advance.
2. BUS / MINIVAN from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai
👉 Bus or minivan via Bangkok is a low-cost but long journey from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai.
- ✔️ Ideal for: budget travelers who don’t mind extended travel time
- ✔️ Total travel time: ~18–24 hours (with transfer in Bangkok)
- ✔️ Cost: $40–75 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: low to medium (seats, sleepers or vans)
- ✅ Best Option: Comfortable bus to Bangkok + sleeper bus to Chiang Mai
- 💡 Tip: Break the journey in Bangkok and book tickets online in advance
Traveling by bus or minivan via Bangkok is one of the most affordable ways to get from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai. This route has 2 steps: first travel from Siem Reap to Bangkok, then continue by bus to Chiang Mai.
The total travel time is approximately 18–24 hours, depending on the connection, traffic conditions and border crossing procedures. Modern buses offer reclining seats, sleeper berths and overnight services for longer journeys.
1. BOOK BUS TICKETS to Bangkok ➜
Bus and minivan tickets from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai via Bangkok cost approximately $40–75 per person. Departure and arrival points vary by company, and all details are shown when searching for tickets online.
Tickets can be booked online in advance, which is recommended during holidays and peak travel periods. Arrive at the departure point at least 30 minutes before departure and check the latest travel instructions before your trip.
2. BOOK TICKETS to Chiang Mai ➜
3. BUS + TRAIN from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai
👉 Bus + train via Poipet, Bangkok is the cheapest but longest way from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai.
- ✔️ Ideal for: budget travelers and train enthusiasts
- ✔️ Total travel time: ~22–27 hours (bus + 2 train transfers + border)
- ✔️ Cost: $20–80 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: low to medium (bus + basic seats or sleeper trains)
- ✅ Best Option: Bus to Poipet + trains via Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- 💡 Tip: Reserve sleeper train tickets early and plan border crossing time
Traveling by train from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai is possible, but there is no direct railway connection. The journey has 3 steps: a bus to Poipet, a train from Aranyaprathet to Bangkok, and another train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
First, travel by bus or minivan from Siem Reap to Poipet, which takes about 2–3 hours. After crossing the border into Thailand, continue to Aranyaprathet Railway Station, located a short distance from the border.
The train from Aranyaprathet to Bangkok takes about 5.5 hours and is one of the cheapest transport options in Thailand. From Bangkok, continue by train to Chiang Mai, a popular overnight route that takes approximately 12–14 hours.
Thai Railways offers seats and sleeper berths in different classes. For the best comfort, it is recommended to book a sleeper berth in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
The total travel time from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai is around 22–27 hours. Although slower than flying, it is a scenic and budget-friendly way to travel through Thailand.
BOOK TRAIN TICKETS to Chiang Mai ➜
4. TAXI / CAR from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai
👉 Private taxi/car via Bangkok is the most comfortable but most expensive way from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai.
- ✔️ Ideal for: groups or travelers wanting full flexibility and privacy
- ✔️ Total travel time: ~16–20 hours (with transfer in Bangkok)
- ✔️ Cost: $380–900 per vehicle
- ✔️ Comfort level: high (modern cars, SUVs or minivans with driver)
- ✅ Best Option: Private car transfer via Bangkok with flexible stops
- 💡 Tip: Split costs in a group and arrange both transfers in advance
A private car with a driver is the most comfortable way to travel from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai. The journey usually includes a transfer in Bangkok, with separate private vehicles for each leg of the route.
The total travel time is approximately 16–20 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing procedures. Companies such as Glassflower and SIMA Car operate on the Siem Reap–Bangkok route, while several Thai operators provide transfers from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
Modern sedans, SUVs and minivans are available for solo travelers, families and groups. The total cost of a private transfer ranges from approximately $380–900 per vehicle, depending on the type of car and number of passengers.
A major advantage is the flexibility of door-to-door service, allowing you to choose your departure point in Siem Reap and arrival location in Chiang Mai. Private transfers can be searched and booked online in advance.
❓ FAQ — Travel Route from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai
How to book tickets or flights from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai?
How long does it take to travel from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai?
Travel time ranges from about 5–27 hours, depending on the transport option.
What is the distance from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai?
The travel distance is approximately 1,100 km via Bangkok.
How much does it cost to get from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai?
Prices range from about $35 to $900, depending on the transport type.
What is the best way to travel from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai?
A flight via Bangkok is the fastest and most convenient option.
What is the cheapest transport option?
Buses and minivans via Bangkok are usually the cheapest way to travel.
Can you travel by train from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai?
Yes, via Aranyaprathet and Bangkok, but there is no direct train from Siem Reap.
Is there a direct flight from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai?
No, flights require a stopover, usually in Bangkok.
Where can you travel from Chiang Mai?
Popular destinations include Chiang Rai, Phayao and Luang Prabang.
How and where to book accommodation in Chiang Mai?
Search and book hotels, guesthouses and resorts online via Agoda.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Siem Reap to Chiang Mai
Traveling from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai covers about 1,100 km and you can travel by flight, bus, train or private car via Bangkok.
- Fly via Bangkok: The fastest option takes about 5–7 hours including the stopover.
- Choose Overnight Transport: Night buses and sleeper trains can save both time and accommodation costs.
- Cross the Border Early: Morning crossings at Poipet are often faster and less crowded.
- Book Flights in Advance: Early bookings usually offer the lowest fares on Bangkok connections.
- Consider the Train: Thailand’s overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is comfortable and popular.
- Prepare Travel Documents: Keep your passport and entry requirements ready for border procedures.
- Plan Your Arrival: Chiang Mai Airport, train station and bus terminals are well connected to the city center.
Tip: Flight, bus, train and private taxi tickets from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai can be searched and booked online in advance.