Bus
Best balance of price, comfort and frequent direct departures
Private car / taxi
Door-to-door transfer with flexible stops and higher comfort
Bus (standard)
Cheapest option with many departures and simple booking
Train
No railway connection between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
Quick answer: To travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, you can opt for a bus for an affordable and reliable service, a taxi for a faster and more comfortable direct transfer, or a private car for added convenience. The choice depends on your budget and comfort preferences. You can book tickets or private car to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai online.
At a glance:
- 📍 Travel distance: approx. 190 km.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Bus ~3–5 hours | Private Taxi/Car with driver ~3-5 hours.
- 💰 Price range: Bus ~US$ 8–14 per person | Private Taxi/Car with driver ~US$ 80–230 per car.
- 🚌 Bus: Cheapest option, with frequent departures and good comfort for the price.
- 🚕 Private Taxi/Car: Fastest and most convenient; ideal for groups, luggage, or if you prefer door-to-door service.
- 🏍️ Motorbike: You can rent a motorbike in Chiang Mai and travel on your own (IDP necessary).
Last updated in October 2026
Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: Which Transport Is Best?
| Transport | ⏱️ Time | 💰 Price | Comfort | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus / Minibus | 3–5 h | $8–12/person | ★★★★☆ | Most travelers |
| Private Car / Taxi | 3–5 h | $80–230/vehicle | ★★★★★ | Families & groups |
| Motorbike | 5–7 h | $10–15/person | ★★★☆☆ | Independent travelers |
Rating: ★★★★★ excellent ★★★★☆ very good ★★★☆☆ good.
Travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai by bus, private taxi or motorbike. The bus is the most affordable and popular option, while a private car offers more comfort and convenient door-to-door service. A motorbike is suitable for independent travelers who want to enjoy the scenic route.
How do I get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
1. BUS from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
👉 Bus is the most common and budget-friendly way to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
- ✔️ Best for: solo travelers and low-cost trips
- ✔️ Travel time: ~3–4 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $7–12 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: good (air-conditioned buses with comfortable seats)
- ✅ Best Option: GreenBus for reliable and frequent connections
- 💡 Tip: Book your ticket online in advance and arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Bring snacks and water for a more comfortable ride.
Traveling by tourist bus is the most popular and cheapest way to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. As there is no railway between these cities, buses are the main transport option.
GreenBus operates modern air-conditioned buses with comfortable seats. The journey takes about 3–4 hours, with tickets costing around $7-12 per person. Buses depart from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 and arrive at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 or Mae Sai.
Book your tickets online in advance and arrive at the bus terminal at least 30 minutes before departure. Minor delays are possible, especially during busy travel periods.
BOOK BUS TICKETS on 12go.asia ➜
| Bus Company | Departs in Chiang Mai | Arrives in Chiang Rai |
|---|---|---|
| GreenBus (VIP) | 06:00 | 09:20 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 07:00 | 10:45 |
| GreenBus (VIP) | 07:30 | 10:50 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 08:15 | 12:00 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 08:45 | 12:30 |
| GreenBus (VIP) | 09:30 | 12:50 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 10:00 | 13:45 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 10:30 | 14:15 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 11:00 | 14:45 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 11:30 | 15:15 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 12:00 | 15:45 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 12:45 | 16:25 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 13:15 | 17:00 |
| GreenBus (VIP) | 13:45 | 17:05 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 14:15 | 18:00 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 15:15 | 19:05 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 16:30 | 20:20 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 17:00 | 20:45 |
| GreenBus (Express) | 17:30 | 21:20 |
| GreenBus (VIP) | 18:00 | 21:20 |
Note: Selected bus departures. Schedules and arrival times may vary by travel date. Check your ticket for the exact departure and arrival terminals.
2. TAXI / MINIVAN from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
👉 Private taxi/minivan is the most comfortable and flexible way to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
- ✔️ Best for: groups, families, and travelers wanting door-to-door service
- ✔️ Travel time: ~3–5 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $80–230 per car
- ✔️ Comfort: high (modern cars, SUVs or minivans with driver)
- ✅ Best Option: Transfers with companies like Glassflower or Bangkok Taxi 24
- 💡 Tip: Share a minivan with others to lower the cost per person.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Ask for a short stop at a viewpoint or café along the scenic route.
A private taxi is the fastest and most comfortable transport option in Thailand from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. Companies such as Glassflower, Bangkok Taxi 24, GB Limousine, Kim Transfers Thailand, Gosafe Transport and others operate modern cars, SUVs and spacious minivans.
The journey takes about 3–5 hours and includes convenient door-to-door service. You can choose your departure point in Chiang Mai, including the city center, your hotel or Chiang Mai Airport, and travel directly to your accommodation in Chiang Rai.
Private transfers cost about $80-230 per vehicle, depending on the car type and number of passengers. Minivans are ideal for families or groups and can often be a cost-effective choice when the fare is shared. You can easily compare vehicles and book your private transfer online in advance.
BOOK TAXI / CAR with 12go.asia ➜
| Taxi Company | Travel Time | Vehicle Class |
|---|---|---|
| Torch | 3h | Economy (2 pax) |
| Torch | 3h | Economy (3 pax) |
| Freedom Tour Taxi Service | 3h | Comfort (3 pax) |
| Freedom Tour Taxi Service | 3h | SUV (4 pax) |
| Lanna Expert Driver | 3h | Comfort (3 pax) |
| Lanna Expert Driver | 3h | SUV (4 pax) |
| Lanna Expert Driver | 3h | Van (9 pax) |
| T Buddy Service Chiang Mai | 3h | Economy (3 pax) |
| Smart En Plus | 3h 30m | VIP Van (9 pax) |
| Firstplan Transport Services | 3h 30m | Economy (3 pax) |
| Firstplan Transport Services | 3h 30m | Van (10 pax) |
| Go2Trip | 3h | Van (9 pax) |
| AEC 168 Transport and Travel | 3h | Economy (3 pax) |
| Thailand Travel Taxi | 5h | Economy (3 pax) |
| Thailand Travel Taxi | 5h | SUV (4 pax) |
| Bangkok Taxi24 | 4h | Economy (2 pax) |
| Bangkok Taxi24 | 4h | SUV (4 pax) |
Note: Selected private transfer options. Travel times may vary depending on traffic, pickup location and stops along the way. Vehicle capacity refers to the listed passenger limit.
3. Book a Private Tour + Tickets in Chiang Rai
Another option is to join a private tour or day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. You can compare and book sightseeing tours, attractions and local experiences on the Klook platform.
Most tours include transportation, an English-speaking guide and visits to popular attractions such as the White Temple, Blue Temple and other highlights around Chiang Rai. Traveler reviews are also available to help you choose the best experience.
This is a great option if you prefer a hassle-free trip without arranging transport or tickets yourself. Some tours also visit less crowded places and hidden gems in northern Thailand.
❓ FAQ – Travel route from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
How long does it take to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
Travel takes about 3–5 hours by bus, minivan or private taxi.
What is the distance from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
The road distance between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai is about 190 km.
How much does it cost to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
Bus tickets cost about $7–12 per person, while private taxis cost around $80–230 per vehicle.
What private transfer options are available?
You can book private cars, SUVs or minivans with door-to-door service, ideal for families and groups.
Can you travel by train from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
No. There is no railway between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.
Are there direct flights from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
No. The only practical way to travel is by road, using a bus or private taxi.
Where can you travel from Chiang Mai?
Popular destinations include Pai, Nan and Mae Hong Son.
Can you take a private taxi to the Golden Triangle?
Yes. Private taxis are available from Chiang Mai to the Golden Triangle, with a travel time of about 6 hours.
How can you travel from Chiang Rai to Bangkok?
The fastest option is a direct flight. See how to travel from Chiang Rai to Bangkok for all transport options.
🧭 Popular travel routes from Chiang Mai:
If you’re planning your next trip from Chiang Mai, here are other popular routes you can take by bus / van, train, taxi, flight:
These are the most popular travel routes from Chiang Mai for visitors exploring Southern + Northern Thailand.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is available by bus, minivan or private taxi. The journey takes about 3–5 hours through the scenic mountains of northern Thailand.
- Best Option: GreenBus is the most popular and affordable way to travel.
- Book Early: Reserve tickets in advance during weekends and the high tourist season.
- What to Bring: Carry water, snacks and a light jacket for air-conditioned buses.
- No Train: There is no railway or direct flight between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.
- Private Transfer: Taxis offer the fastest door-to-door service for families or groups.
- Don’t Miss: Visit the White Temple and Blue Temple after arriving in Chiang Rai.
Tip: Bus tickets and private taxis from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai can be booked online in advance.
From Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai by bus, minivan or private taxi.
Travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai covers about 190 km. The most popular and cheapest option is a tourist bus or minivan, taking about 3–5 hours, with tickets starting at $7-12 per person. Private taxis provide a faster, more flexible door-to-door transfer for $80-230 per vehicle.
There are no trains or direct flights between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, so road transport is the only practical option. Bus tickets and private transfers can be booked online in advance. From Chiang Rai you can continue to Bangkok or check the weather in Chiang Rai before your trip.
Chiang Rai is one of northern Thailand’s most popular destinations, famous for the White Temple, mountain scenery and the Golden Triangle. From Chiang Mai you can also travel to Nan or Phayao by bus or private taxi.