Flight (via Bangkok)
Fastest option with stopover, total travel time about 5–10 hours
Flight + bus/train
Combination via Bangkok or Chiang Mai with flexible connections
Bus via Cambodia + Bangkok
Cheapest option but very long journey about 33–40 hours
Train-only route
No direct train connection, requires multiple transfers
Quick answer: The fastest way to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai is by flight with a stopover in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Overland travel by bus and train via Cambodia and Thailand is also possible, but it takes much longer and is better for travelers who want to explore the region.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: About 1,700 km by land.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Flight 5–10 hours | Bus + train 30–45 hours.
- 💰 Price: Flights US$40–150 | Bus + train from US$50–80 per person.
- ✈️ Best option: Flight via Bangkok or Chiang Mai.
- 🚍 Budget option: Bus and train via Cambodia and Bangkok.
Last updated: April 2026
Chiang Rai – Gateway to Northern Thailand
Chiang Rai is the northernmost major city in Thailand, close to the borders with Laos and Myanmar. The city is famous for the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), the Golden Triangle, mountain scenery, and local hill tribe culture. Before your visit, check the weather in Chiang Rai to choose the best time to travel.
How to Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai
The fastest way to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai is by plane with a stopover in Bangkok or Chiang Mai, as there are no direct flights. You can also travel overland by bus and train via Cambodia and Thailand, but the journey takes considerably longer.
Chiang Rai is also a great starting point for exploring northern Thailand or continuing to neighboring countries. From the city, you can travel to Bangkok, Krabi, or visit nearby Laos and Myanmar border areas.
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Chiang Rai ➜
How to go from Saigon to Chiang Rai?
1. Flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai
The fastest way to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai is by plane with a stopover in Thailand, usually in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Flights take about 5–10 hours, depending on the connection, and one-way tickets typically cost $40–150 per person.
Flights depart from Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and arrive at Chiang Rai International Airport. Airlines serving this route include Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, AirAsia, Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and Bangkok Airways.
Book and compare flights online on 12go.asia ➜.
2. Overland Route from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai
A) Ho Chi Minh City → Cambodia
The first step is to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap by tourist bus, minivan, or flight. Phnom Penh is the most common gateway to Cambodia.
B) Cambodia → Bangkok
From Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, continue to Bangkok by tourist bus or flight. This is the main international route between Cambodia and Thailand.
C) Bangkok → Chiang Rai
From Bangkok, travel to Chiang Rai by domestic flight or overnight tourist bus. Flying is the fastest option, while buses are cheaper and operate daily.
➜ How to get from Bangkok to Chiang Rai?
1. Bus from Bangkok to Chiang Rai
Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Rai. The journey covers about 800 km and takes approximately 12–13 hours. Modern air-conditioned buses operate daily, with most departures in the evening.
Major operators include Bangkok Busline, Siam First, Transport Co., and Budsarakham Tour. One-way tickets cost about $19–27 per person, and buses depart from Mo Chit Bus Terminal and Sombat Tour Vibhavadi 13.
Book bus tickets online on 12go.asia ➜.
2. Flight from Bangkok to Chiang Rai
Flying is the fastest way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Rai. Direct flights take about 1.5 hours and are operated throughout the day from both Don Mueang Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Airlines on this route include Nok Air, AirAsia, Thai Airways, Thai Lion Air, Bangkok Airways, and Thai Smile. One-way fares usually range from $30–70 per person.
Book flights online on 12go.asia ➜.
➜ How to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
1. Bus or Taxi from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
The easiest way to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is by tourist bus or private taxi. The distance is about 200 km, and the bus journey takes around 3–3.5 hours.
GreenBus operates modern air-conditioned coaches on this route. Bus tickets cost about $7–10 per person, with departures from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3. Private cars and taxis are also available for a faster and more flexible transfer.
Book bus tickets or a private transfer online on 12go.asia ➜.
❓ FAQ – Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai
How to book tickets and flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai?
Book flights and transport online via 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜.
How long does it take to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai?
Flights with a stopover take about 5–10 hours. Overland travel by bus and train via Cambodia and Thailand takes approximately 35–45 hours.
How far is Chiang Rai from Ho Chi Minh City?
The distance is about 1,400 km by air and around 1,650–1,700 km by road.
How much does it cost to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai?
Flights usually cost $50–150 per person. Overland travel by bus and train starts at about $50 per person.
What is the best way to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai?
Flying via Bangkok or Chiang Mai is the fastest and most comfortable option.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai?
Overland travel by bus via Cambodia and Thailand is usually the cheapest option.
Is there a direct bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai?
No. You need multiple bus connections via Cambodia and Bangkok.
Is there a direct train from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai?
No. There is no direct international train between Ho Chi Minh City and Chiang Rai.
Where can you book tours and activities in Thailand?
Book tours and activities online with KLOOK.
How can you travel from Chiang Rai to Bangkok?
Travel by direct flight, tourist bus, or via Chiang Mai. See this travel guide.
How do you get around Thailand?
Thailand has an extensive network of buses, trains, domestic flights, ferries, and private transfers. Read Transportation in Thailand.
What are the top attractions in Thailand?
Thailand is famous for its temples, islands, beaches, food, and national parks. Read 15 Interesting Things of Thailand.
What are the best beaches in Thailand?
Popular beaches include Railay Beach, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Samui. See 20 Most Beautiful Beaches in Thailand.
What is the best time to visit Thailand?
The best time to visit is generally from November to February. Learn more in Weather in Thailand.
💡 Travel Tips for Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai
Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Rai is easiest by plane via Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Overland travel by bus and train via Cambodia and Thailand is possible, but it requires much more time.
- Best Option: Fly via Bangkok or Chiang Mai for the fastest journey.
- Budget Travel: Travel overland by bus and train if you want to visit Cambodia and Thailand.
- Travel Documents: Check the latest visa and entry requirements before crossing international borders.
- Plan a Stop: Consider spending a night in Bangkok or Chiang Mai before continuing to Chiang Rai.
- Book Early: Domestic flights to Chiang Rai are popular during weekends and holidays.
- Bring Cash: Carry some Thai baht for local transport, food, and small purchases.
Tip: Flights, buses, and train tickets can be searched and booked online in advance.