1. Flights to Chiang Mai
2. Bus/Train to Chiang Mai
🎫 Tickets to Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the starting point for exploring northern Thailand.
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- Chiang Mai is the economic and tourist center of northern Thailand, it is about 700 km from Bangkok and has over 150,000 inhabitants. There are over 300 temples, including Wat Phra Singh of the 14th century. The city is an excellent starting point for excursions such as elephant, orchid, snakes or butterflies, or to Doi Inthanon Mountain (2565 m above sea level). The 1676-meter-high Doi Suthep Mountain is also a frequent destination with spectacular views of the city. Northern Thailand is mainly a mountain area with good climate. Chiang Mai City is one of the centers of digital nomads in Thailand. Chiang Mai has also an interantional airport and railway station. There are various way how you can travel from Saigon to Chiang Mai in Thailand – by land via Cambodia or travel by plane. The most cheapest option how to reach Chiang Mai from Vietnam is to travel by land, but this option takes a lot of time.
- Book your tickets + flights from Saigon to Chiang Mai online
From Saigon to Chiang Mai you can travel by plane, bus or bus+train.
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- Travel distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai in Thailand is 1215 km by plane and about 1500 km by road. The best and fastest way how to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai in Thailand is to travel by plane. There are direct flights (direct flights are limited) or flights with stopover in Bangkok. Direct flight from Saigon to Chiang Mai takes about 2 hours and flight with stopover in Bangkok takes about 5-11 hours. But you can also travel by land, by bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Cambodia (Phnom Penh or Siem Reap) + bus from Cambodia to Bangkok + by train or bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Travel by bus+train via Cambodia takes a lot of time, it is a good option only if you want to visit Cambodia. Travel by bus via Cambodia and Bangkok takes about 32-36 hours. You can book bus/train tickets or flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai (+bus tickets via Cambodia) online. From Chiang Mai you can also travel to Chiang Rai or Phayao by bus, minivan or car or you can take a minivan or car to Pai.
| Transfer Mode – Ho Chi Minh to Chiang Mai: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Plane (direct flight) | 1.5 hours | $40-130/pp |
| Tourist Bus / Van (via Cambodia) | 20-34 hours | $35-50/pp |
| Bus + Train (via Phnom Penh, Poipet) | 26 hours | $20-30/pp |
How to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai?
1. FLIGHTS from Ho Chi Minh City to to Chiang Mai
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- there are direct flights from Saigon to Chiang Mai or flights with stopover in Bangkok
- the best and fastest way how to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai in Thailand
- airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, VietJet Air, Nok Air, Air Asia, Thai Airways, Thai Lion Air, Bangkok Air
- flight time from Ho Chi Minh to Chiang Mai (with stopover) is approximately 5-8 hours
- the price of the one-way low-cost flight from Saigon to Chiang Mai is about $70-200/pp
- airport in Ho Chi Minh City in southern Vietnam: Tan Son Nhat Int. Airport
- airports in Bangkok: Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang Airport
- airport in Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai International Airport
- the plane is the fastest but sometimes can be the most expensive way of the transfer
- Book your flight from Saigon to Chiang Mai online on 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜
2. BUS + TRAIN from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai
A) From Ho Chi Minh City to Cambodia (Siem Reap, Phnom Penh)
If you want to travel by bus to Chiang Mai from Saigon, first you have to take a bus to Cambodia via Bavet border crossing. There are tourist buses or minivans from Saigon to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Travel by bus from Saigon to Phnom Penh in Cambodia takes about 6-7 hours.
B) From Cambodia or Vietnam to Thailand (Bangkok)
From Phnom Penh or Siem Reap you can travel by another bus to Bangkok in Thailand. Buses from Phnom Penh and Siem Reap go via Poipet border crossing. From Aranyaprathet (5 km from Poipet) you can also travel by train to Bangkok.
C) From Bangkok to Chiang Mai (bus, train, flight)
From Bangkok you can take anorther bus to Chiang Mai. Travel by bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes about 9-11 hours. Travel by bus via Cambodia to Thailand is the cheapest option of transfer, but it is not comfortable and takes a lot of time.
How to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
1. BUS from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
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- lots of buses all the day go on this route from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- travel distance from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is 700 km
- bus travel takes about 10-12 hours, comfortable, modern and air-conditioned buses
- bus companies Bangkok to Chiang Mai: Bangkok Busline, Lignite Tour (PK), New Viriya…
- price of the one-way bus ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is about $15-24/pp
- buses depart from the Mochit Bus Terminal in Bangkok
- you can check a schedule: Bangkok to Chiang Mai – Bus Timetable
2. TRAIN from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
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- about 8 trains of Thai Railways all the day go on this route from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- train travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes about 12-14,5 hours
- 1st + 2nd Class Sleeper, 2nd Class AC seats only, Class II Ladies Only, 3rd class aircon + nonaircon
- price of the one-way train ticket is about $22-33/pp, 1st Class Sleeper – $50/pp
- trains to Chiang Mai depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station or Don Mueang
- you can check current Thailand Railway Map + Thailand Train Schedule
3. FLIGHT from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
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- lots of airline companies operate on this route from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- airlines from Bangkok to Chiang Mai: Nok Air, Air Asia, Thai Airways, Thai Lion Air, Bangkok Air, Thai Smile
- to use a flight is sometimes cheaper then train connection
- flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes about 1-1.5 hour
- planes fly from Don Mueang Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok
- Book tickets or flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai online on 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜
Baolau – search, book, buy tickets + flights
– if you buy train tickets for Thailand at Baolau, you have to print these tickets!
– Baolau sells the train, bus, ferry e-tickets, flights mainly for Vietnam (+ tickets for Cambodia and Laos)
– bus tickets of various well-known companies (Futabus, Mai Linh, Hoang Long, TheSinh Tourist, Sapa Express…)
– ferry tickets for Vietnam, Cambodia…, eg. ferry to Cat Ba, ferry to Quan Lan, ferry to Phu Quoc, ferry to Phnom Penh…
– tickets for travel routes in Vietnam (Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai, Lao Cai to Hanoi, Hue to Ninh Binh…)
– you can choose a seat or berth in the train in Vietnam
– the price of tickets or flights is from the official price of transport company or airlines
– you can use online train e-ticket in your mobile phone in Vietnam (I recommend to print a ticket)
– read in the order any other information about ticket, read also frequently asked questions on Baolau
12go.asia – search, book, buy tickets + flights
– 12go.asia sells the train, bus, ferry e-tickets mainly to Thailand (also tickets for Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia, Cambodia)
– bus tickets for Vietnam, Thailand… (eg. Mai Linh, Hoang Long, TheSinhTourist, Hung Thanh…)
– ferry/boat tickets in Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, eg. ferry to Vung Tau, Koh Rong, Koh Phangan, Koh Kood, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Tao…
– tickets for the main routes in Thailand, eg: Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Bangkok to Surat Thani, Bangkok to Krabi…
– you can choose a seat or berth in the train in Vietnam
– information about 12go.asia read in article about transportation in Vietnam
– if you buy a train ticket in Baolau or 12go for tourist trains in Vietnam to Sapa (Orient Express, Sapaly…), you must pick it up at the station
❓ FAQ + TIPS – Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai:
1. How to book and buy tickets or flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai?
2. How long does it take to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai?
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- Travel by bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai (via Cambodia) takes about 32-36 hours.
- Travel by bus+train from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai (via Cambodia, Bangkok) takes about 30-40 hours.
- Travel by plane (direct flight) from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai takes about 2 hours.
3. What is the travel distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai?
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- Travel distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai is about 1215 by plane and about 1500 km by road.
4. How much does it cost to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai?
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- Travel by bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai costs about $35+/pp.
- Travel by bus+train from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai (via Cambodia, Bangkok) costs about $40+/pp
- Travel by plane (direct flight) from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai costs about $70-200/pp.
5. What is the best way of transport from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai?
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- The best and fastest way of getting from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai in Thailand is to travel by plane. There are direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai (but it is limited) and various flights with stopover in Bangkok.
6. What is the most cheapest way of transport from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai?
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- The most cheapest way of transport from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai in Thailand is to travel by bus via Cambodia and Bangkok.
7. Is there a direct tourist bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai?
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- No, there are no direct tourist buses from Saigon to Chiang Mai. It has 3 steps if you want to travel by bus to Chiang Mai. Bus from Saigon to Cambodia, bus from Cambodia to Bangkok and bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
8. Is there a direct train from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai?
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- No, there is no direct train from Saigon in Vietnam to Chiang Mai in Thailand.
9. Where to go and travel from Chiang Mai?
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- From Chiang Mai you can travel to Mae Hong Son by tourist bus or private taxi. It takes about 9 hours. You can book bus tickets from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son on 12go.asia. You can also travel by van to Pai or Nan.
10. What to visit in Chiang Mai?
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- You can visit various tourist places in Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai Zoo, Night Safari, Wat Chedi Luang temple, Wiang Kum Kam the Underground Ancient City, Doi Inthanon National Park or Doi Pui Tribal Village and National Park… You can also rent a motorbike or bicycle and explore this site on your own.
11. How to move and travel in Thailand?
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- There are various ways how you can travel in Thailand, by tourist bus / modern minivan, train, private taxi / car, boat and ferries or you can rent a motorbike or bicycle. Read this article: Transportation in Thailand.
12. What are the most interesting things and facts about Thailand?
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- In summary, Thailand is a multifaceted gem that captivates visitors with its unique blend of cultural heritage, culinary excellence, and warm hospitality. From the enchanting traditions of its classical arts like Khon to the exhilarating water festivities of Songkran, the country offers a sensory feast. Thailand’s diverse landscapes, ranging from tropical islands to mountainous regions, contribute to its allure, making it a destination that seamlessly combines ancient traditions with modern vibrancy. The symphony of flavors in Thai cuisine and the welcoming smiles of its people further enrich the tapestry of experiences. Read this article: 15 Interesting Things of Thailand.
13. What is the weather and climate in Thailand?
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- Weather in Thailand varies across three main seasons, creating a tropical climate. The hot season typically spans from March to June, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). During this period, the weather is characterized by intense heat and occasional brief showers. The rainy season occurs from July to October, bringing heavy monsoon rains and increased humidity. Average temperatures remain high, ranging from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C). The cool season, from November to February, is marked by milder temperatures and lower humidity. Average temperatures range from 64°F to 86°F (18°C to 30°C), making it a popular time for tourism.
14. What you can buy and bring home from Thailand?
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- From Thailand, you can bring home a variety of souvenirs such as traditional Thai jewelry, packaged herbal teas, handcrafted Thai puppets, exotic spices and sauces, artistic ceramics, quality Thai soap and cosmetics, traditional musical instruments, fine Thai silk products, herbal oils and balms, and traditional playing cards and board games. These items reflect Thailand’s rich culture, craftsmanship, and diverse offerings, making them unique and memorable souvenirs. Read this article: What to bring from Thailand?
15. Is traveling and living in Thailand cheap or expensive?
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- The cost of traveling and living in Thailand can vary depending on various factors such as lifestyle, location, and personal preferences. Generally, Thailand is known for being a budget-friendly destination, attracting travelers seeking affordable adventures. While Thailand is known for being a budget-friendly destination, costs can vary depending on whether you choose to live in popular tourist areas or less-explored regions. Overall, many people find that the cost of living in Thailand offers good value for money.
16. What is the official currency of Thailand and how to exchange money?
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- The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). To exchange money, you can visit banks, currency exchange booths, or use ATMs. Banks typically offer competitive exchange rates, but may charge transaction fees. Currency exchange booths are convenient, often open longer hours, but their rates might be less favorable. Using ATMs connected to banks is a common and convenient option; however, be mindful of potential withdrawal fees from both your home bank and the local Thai bank. Always check rates and fees beforehand to make informed choices.
17. What is the cuisine and food in Thailand and what to expect?
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- Thai cuisine is renowned for its vibrant and harmonious flavors, combining sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and bitter elements in each dish. Expect a diverse range of dishes, often aromatic herbs and spices like lemongrass, basil or galangal. Rice, a staple, plays a central role, and street food is a must-try for an authentic culinary experience. Signature dishes include Pad Thai, Tom Yum, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice. Embrace the rich cultural diversity through regional variations, and don’t miss out on the lively street food culture.
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Chiang Mai ➜
2 Popular Ways of Transfer from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai:
| 1. FLIGHTS from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai | |
|---|---|
| Airlines | Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, VietJet Air, Nok Air, Air Asia, Thai Airways, Thai Lion Air, Bangkok Air |
| Flight Time | Approximately 5-8 hours (with stopover) from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai. |
| Price | One-way low-cost flight from Saigon to Chiang Mai costs about $70-200 per person. |
| Airports |
Ho Chi Minh City: Tan Son Nhat Int. Airport Bangkok: Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang Airport Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai International Airport |
| 2. BUS + TRAIN from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai | |
| A) From Ho Chi Minh City to Cambodia (Siem Reap, Phnom Penh) | |
| Travel Time | About 6-7 hours from Saigon to Phnom Penh. |
| B) From Cambodia or Vietnam to Thailand (Bangkok) | |
| Travel Information |
From Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, travel by another bus to Bangkok in Thailand. Buses from Phnom Penh and Siem Reap go via Poipet border crossing. From Aranyaprathet (5 km from Poipet), you can also travel by train to Bangkok. |
| C) From Bangkok to Chiang Mai (bus, train, flight) | |
| Travel Time | About 9-11 hours by bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. |
| Information |
From Bangkok, you can take another bus to Chiang Mai. Traveling by bus via Cambodia to Thailand is the cheapest option, but it is not comfortable and takes a lot of time. |
🎫 Book your bus/train tickets or flights from Saigon to Chiang Mai + Schedule:
(You can change your departure or arrival place, eg. Ho Chi Minh > Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh > Bangkok…)
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