1. Bus to Chiang Mai
2. Taxi/Car to Chiang Mai
3. Flights via Bangkok
🎫 Book a Tour Online
🎫 Book Tickets Online
From Mae Sot to Chiang Mai you can travel by bus, taxi or bus + train.
-
- Embark on an unforgettable journey from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai, spanning approximately 360 km by road through the picturesque landscapes of northern Thailand. Opting for a tourist bus presents the most convenient and scenic route, with a travel time of around 7 hours and ticket prices starting at $13-18 per person. Greenbus operates buses departing to Chiang Mai from Bus Terminal 3 in Mae Sot. While Mae Sot lacks a railway station, travelers can access the railway network via Phitsanulok, albeit with significant travel time and inconvenience.
- Alternatively, for groups or those seeking luxury and comfort, booking a private taxi/minivan offers expedited travel, covering the distance to Chiang Mai in approximately 5 hours at a cost ranging from $140 to $400 per vehicle. Although direct flights between Mae Sot and Chiang Mai are unavailable, flights with stopovers in Bangkok provide alternative air travel options. Explore and book bus tickets or private taxis from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai effortlessly online to streamline your travel plans.
-
- Chiang Mai, nestled in the heart of northern Thailand, captivates visitors with its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant urban atmosphere. Renowned as a haven for digital nomads and freelancers, Chiang Mai boasts a historic center teeming with bustling cafes, ancient temples, and thriving markets. Venture just beyond the city limits, and you’ll encounter breathtaking mountain ranges, inviting national parks, and scenic treks, including the iconic Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep.
- Mae Sot, a border town with Myanmar, offers several travel options to Chiang Mai. Although Mae Sot lacks direct flights to Chiang Mai, flights with layovers in Bangkok are available. Alternatively, tourist buses provide a hassle-free and time-efficient mode of transportation, bypassing stopovers and delivering travelers directly to Chiang Mai’s doorstep. From Chiang Mai, explore further destinations such as Mae Hong Son via Pai by minivan or private car.
| Transfer Mode – Mae Sot to Chiang Mai: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Bus | About 7 hours | $13-18/pp |
| Private Taxi/Car | About 5 hours | $140-400 (vehicle) |
| Bus + Train (via Phitsanulok) | About 11 hours | $30+ |
| Flights (via Bangkok) | About 6-8 hours | $100+ |
How do I get from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai?
1. BUS from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai
The most used and cheapest option of transportation from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai is a bus transfer. This option of transportation between these cities will be offered by the GreenBus company, which offers modern and comfortable buses with adjustable seats. However, the disadvantage of the bus transfer is the rather limited bus timetable between these cities, the advantage is the lower price for this transport.
The bus transfer from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai takes about 7 hours, but the indicated travel time may vary slightly and buses may also be delayed upon departure or during the journey. Buses can also make other stops on the route, but the time for these stops is usually included in the total travel time.
Greenbus buses depart from Mae Sot Bus Station and arrive at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3. Mae Sot Bus Station is right next to the airport and is therefore easily accessible from the city center, which is about 3 km away, as well as Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 that it is also about 3 km from the city center.
BOOK BUS TICKET to Chiang Mai ➜
Bus transportation to Chiang Mai from Mae Sot costs around $13/pp, but these prices may change or vary slightly throughout the year. You can easily search and buy bus tickets from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai online in advance. When booking, please read all transfer information and instructions carefully and follow the bus company’s instructions.
It is advisable to arrive at Mae Sot Bus Station at least 30-60 minutes before the bus departure. Bus transfer is sought after mainly among solo low-cost travelers, due to the cheapest transport option. There are no trains from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai, there is no railway, so most ordinary travelers will use bus transport.
2. PRIVATE TAXI / CAR from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai
A more convenient, faster, but at the same time the most expensive transport option from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai is a transfer by private car/taxi with a driver. The companies Glassflower, Freedom Tour Taxi Service, Bangkok Taxi24, Firstplan Transport Services and Jed Yord will offer you this transport option between these cities. And these companies will offer you modern smaller classic cars, SUVs and or larger minivans for transporting more people in one group.
Most of the cars offered are comfortable, modern and will be driven by experienced drivers. Most of the operating companies also have good references from other travelers. Transfer by private car/taxi with driver from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai takes about 5 hours, to Chiang Mai airport it can sometimes be longer.
BOOK TAXI / CAR to Chiang Mai ➜
However, the indicated driving times may vary slightly, as it depends on your specific route. The advantage is that you can choose your departure point in Mae Sot and your arrival point in Chiang Mai, which also saves you some additional time. Transportation by private car/taxi from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai costs in the range of $140-400 (vehicle), but prices vary depending on the type of car and/or the number of passengers transported.
Smaller classic cars for 1-3 passengers are usually a cheaper option than larger multi-passenger minivans. However, you can always split the fare among individual passengers. You can easily search, view photos and book your private car/taxi with driver to Chiang Mai online well in advance.
It’s also a good idea to read reviews from other travelers. When booking, also read the additional information and instructions for the transfer and follow the instructions of the transport company.
3. FLIGHT from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai (via Bangkok)
An alternative option to transfer from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai can be an air connection, but with a transfer in Bangkok. Direct flights are not established between these cities, so those who want to avoid a ground transfer can fly to Chiang Mai via Bangkok. In total, the air transfer from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai can take about 5-10 hours, but it is also necessary to take into account the transfer to the airport and the wait before departure.
So the given time may vary, it also depends on the connecting connection from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. The disadvantage of an air transfer is the higher price, so it is probably not a suitable option for low-cost travelers. On the route from Mae Sot to Bangkok, you can use the airline Nok Air and the flight takes about 1 hour.
From Bangkok to Chiang Mai, there are several flights from various airlines, e.g. from Nok Air, Air Asia, Thai Airways, Thai Lion Air, Bangkok Air, Thai Smile, VietJet Air. A direct flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes about 1.5 hours.
An air transfer from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai via Bangkok can cost in total between $130-250/pp, depending on the flight class you choose. Mostly, the offer offers the cheapest Economy class flights, which may have certain restrictions and strict conditions.
Flights are operated from Mae Sot International Airport and then to Chiang Mai International Airport. In Bangkok, transfers can usually be via Don Mueang Airport. Air transfer is convenient and fast, but it depends on the availability of flights and the disadvantage is the higher price, which probably does not attract low-cost travelers.
❓ FAQ + TIPS – Travel route from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai:
1. How to book and buy tickets or taxi from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai?
-
- Book and buy bus tickets or private car from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai on 12go.asia ➜.
- You can choose and book another travel route, e.g. Mae Sot > Bangkok, Phitsanulok > Chiang Mai…
2. What is the travel time from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai?
-
- Travel by tourist bus from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai takes about 7 hours.
- Travel by private taxi/car from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai takes about 5 hours.
- Travel by plane from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai (via Bangkok) takes about 6-8 hours.
- Travel by bus + train from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai (via Phitsanulok) 11 hours.
3. How much does it cost to get from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai?
-
- Travel by tourist bus from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai costs about $13-18/pp.
- Travel by private taxi/car from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai costs about $140-400 (vehicle).
- Travel by plane from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai (via Bangkok) costs about $130+.
- Travel by bus + train from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai (via Phitsanulok) costs about $30+.
4. What is the travel distance from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai?
-
- Travel distance from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai is about 360 km by road – by bus, taxi.
5. What is the most cheapest way of travel from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai?
-
- The most cheapest way of travel from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai is to travel by tourist bus.
6. What is the best and fastest way of transport from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai?
-
- The best and also fastest way of getting to Chiang Mai from Mae Sot is to travel by private car/taxi, but it is expensive way. Another way is to take a tourist bus of Greenbus.
7. Is it possible to travel by train to Chiang Mai from Mae Sot?
-
- No, there is no direct railway route between Chiang Mai and Mae Sot. If you want to travel by train to Chiang Mai first you have to travel by bus/taxi to Phitsanulok and from this place you can travel by sleeper or seat train of Thai Railway. But this option does not make a sense and it takes a lot of time.
8. Is there a direct flight to Chiang Mai from Mae Sot?
-
- No, there is no direct flight from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai, there are only flights with stopover in Bangkok.
9. Is it possible to travel to Bangkok from Mae Sot?
-
- Yes, if you want to get to Bangkok from Mae Sot you can take a direct flight or you can travel by sleeper tourist bus. It is about 500 km by bus and it takes about 7 hours, travel by plane – direct flight takes about 1.5 hour.
10. Where you can travel from Chiang Mai?
-
- Chiang Mai is a big city in northern Vietnam and there are various interesting places in surrounding. If you are already in this place you can travel by tourist bus to another popular place – Chiang Rai or by van/minivan to Nan. It is also possible to take a train to Bangkok.
11. What are the most interesting things and facts about Thailand?
-
- 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.
12. What are the most beautiful beaches in Thailand?
-
- Thailand’s coastline is adorned with an exquisite tapestry of beaches, each possessing its own allure, whether it’s the dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters of Railay Beach, the vibrant nightlife and golden sands of Patong Beach, Ao Nang area and Koh Phi Phi Archipelago in Krabi District, or the tranquil, coconut palm-fringed shores of Koh Samui, collectively creating a symphony of natural beauty that beckons travelers to immerse themselves in the unparalleled charm of this tropical paradise. Read this article: 20 Most Beuatiful Beaches in Thailand.
13. What is the weather and climate in Thailand?
-
- 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.
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Chiang Mai ➜
BOOK your HOTEL in Chiang Mai ➜
🎫 Book your bus tickets / taxi, car from Mae Sot to Chiang Mai:
(You can change your travel route, e.g. Mae Sot > Bangkok, Chiang Mai > Bangkok…)