Bus
Best balance of price, speed and frequent direct connections
Private car / taxi
Door-to-door journey with flexible stops and higher comfort
Train
Cheapest option with seats or sleepers and scenic route
Flight
Limited availability and higher price compared to ground options
Quick answer: Traveling from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai offers bus, train, and private car/taxi options. The bus is affordable and straightforward, the train provides a comfortable and scenic ride, and the taxi offers the fastest and most flexible journey, especially suitable for groups or those with luggage.
At a glance:
- 📍 Travel distance: Approx. 350 km from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Bus ~5–8 hours | Train ~6–8 hours | Private car/taxi ~5–6 hours.
- 💰 Price range: Bus US$10–19 per person | Train US$6–36 per person | Taxi US$150–300 per car.
- 🚍 Bus: Economical and reliable option for solo travelers or budget-conscious passengers.
- 🚆 Train: Comfortable and scenic, with sleeper and seat options.
- 🚕 Private car/taxi: Fastest and most flexible option, ideal for groups or those with a lot of luggage.
Last updated in April 2026
From Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai by train, bus or private taxi.
Travel from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai covers about 350 km. The most popular options are Thai Railways trains and tourist buses. Trains take about 6.5–7.5 hours, with seat tickets from $6 and sleeper berths up to $35. Tourist buses take about 5–8 hours and tickets cost around $10-19 per person.
Private taxis provide the fastest and most comfortable door-to-door transfer for small groups. There are no direct flights between Phitsanulok and Chiang Mai, so land transport is the best option. Book tickets online in advance and continue your journey from Chiang Mai to Pai or Phayao.
Chiang Mai is the cultural heart of northern Thailand, famous for its temples, markets and surrounding mountains. It is an ideal base for exploring northern Thailand, with easy access to many popular destinations by bus, train or private car.
| Transfer Mode – Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Bus | 5-8 hours | $10-19/pp |
| Train (Thai Railways) | 6.5-7.5 hours | $6-36 (seat or sleeper berth) |
| Private Car/Taxi | 5 hours | $150-300 (car) |
| Plane (via Bangkok) | 5-8 hours | $45-100 |
How do I get from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai?
1. BUS from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai
👉 Bus is a popular and affordable way to travel from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai.
- ✔️ Best for: budget travelers and flexible schedules
- ✔️ Travel time: ~5–8 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $10–19 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: good (modern buses with comfortable seats)
- ✅ Best Option: Services by companies like Phet Prasert or Sukhothai Thani
- 💡 Tip: Book your ticket online in advance and arrive at least 30–60 minutes before departure.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Choose daytime travel to enjoy views of northern Thailand’s countryside.
Traveling by bus is one of the cheapest ways to get from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai. Companies such as Phet Prasert, Tour with Tai and Sukhothai Thani operate modern air-conditioned buses with multiple departures every day.
Buses depart from Phitsanulok Bus Terminal 1 or 2 and arrive at Chiang Mai Arcade 2 or Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3. The journey takes about 5–8 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions.
Bus tickets cost about $10-19 per person and can be booked online in advance. Always check your departure and arrival stations before traveling and arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
| Bus Service | Departs in Phitsanulok | Arrival in Chiang Mai |
|---|---|---|
| Phet Prasert | 02:15 | 07:00 |
| Phet Prasert | 02:45 | 08:00 |
| Phet Prasert | 03:45 | 08:40 |
| Phet Prasert | 04:30 | 09:20 |
| Phet Prasert | 21:35 | 03:00 |
| Phet Prasert | 23:45 | 05:00 |
| Tour with Tai | 06:30 | 12:00 |
| Tour with Tai | 08:00 | 13:30 |
| Tour with Tai | 09:00 | 14:30 |
| Tour with Tai | 11:20 | 16:50 |
| Sukhothai Thani | 06:30 | 14:00 |
| Sukhothai Thani | 07:00 | 14:00 |
| Sukhothai Thani | 07:45 | 15:30 |
| Sukhothai Thani | 09:00 | 16:45 |
| Sukhothai Thani | 11:00 | 17:00 |
2. TRAIN from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai
👉 Train is the cheapest and most popular way to travel from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai.
- ✔️ Best for: budget travelers and overnight or relaxed journeys
- ✔️ Travel time: ~6.5–7.5 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $6–36 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: varies (basic seats to more comfortable sleeper berths)
- ✅ Best Option: 2nd class trains for a good balance of comfort and price
- 💡 Tip: Book your tickets online in advance and consider a sleeper for more comfort.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Choose a lower berth for easier access and more space.
Traveling by train is the cheapest and one of the most popular ways to get from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai. Thai Railways operates several daily trains with 1st, 2nd and 3rd class seats, as well as sleeper berths. For most travelers, 2nd class offers the best balance of comfort and price.
Trains depart from Phitsanulok Railway Station and arrive at Chiang Mai Railway Station, see the Thailand Railway Map. The journey takes about 6.5–7.5 hours, with tickets ranging from $6-36 per person, depending on the class and seat type.
Train tickets can be booked online in advance and displayed on your phone using the QR code. It is also recommended to check the latest train schedule before departure.
| Train Service | Departs in Phitsanulok | Arrival in Chiang Mai |
|---|---|---|
| Thai Railway SP7 Train | 13:22 | 19:30 |
| Thai Railway SP13 Train | 01:49 | 08:40 |
| Thai Railway RP109 Train | 20:37 | 04:05 |
| Thai Railway EX51 Train | 04:40 | 12:10 |
| Thai Railway SP9 Train | 00:18 | 07:15 |
3. TAXI / CAR from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai
👉 Private taxi/car is the most comfortable and fastest way to travel from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai.
- ✔️ Best for: groups, families, and travelers seeking door-to-door service
- ✔️ Travel time: ~5 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $150–300 per car
- ✔️ Comfort: high (modern cars, SUVs or minivans with experienced driver)
- ✅ Best Option: Transfers with companies like Glassflower or Bangkok Taxi24
- 💡 Tip: Book your car online in advance and choose pickup directly from your hotel.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Plan a short break on the way for food or rest during the journey.
A private taxi is the fastest and most comfortable transport option in Thailand from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai. Companies such as Glassflower, Bangkok Taxi24, Firstplan Transport Services, Easyride Services and others operate modern cars, SUVs and spacious minivans.
Private transfers offer convenient door-to-door service from your hotel or any location in Phitsanulok to your destination in Chiang Mai. The journey takes about 5 hours, depending on traffic and your exact route.
Prices range from $150-300 per vehicle, depending on the car type. Minivans are ideal for families or groups and can be economical when the fare is shared. Private cars can be booked online in advance.
BOOK TAXI / CAR to Chiang Mai ➜
| Taxi Service | Travel Time | Price (Car) |
|---|---|---|
| Glassflower | 05:00 | From $200.00 |
| Arnud Transport | 05:00 | From $180.00 |
| Kim Transfers Thailand | 06:35 | From $180.00 |
| Easyride Services | 04:30 | From $170.00 |
| Than Car Service | 04:15 | From $160.00 |
| Bangkok Taxi24 | 05:00 | From $170.00 |
| Firstplan Transport | 05:00 | From $150.00 |
| Thailand Limo by Datum | 05:00 | From $210.00 |
| Freedom Tour Taxi Service | 04:30 | From $160.00 |
❓ FAQ – Travel from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai
How to book train, bus tickets or a private taxi?
Book train, bus tickets or private transfers online with Baolau ➜ or 12go.asia ➜.
How long does it take to travel from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai?
Buses take about 5-8 hours, trains 6.5-7.5 hours and private taxis around 5 hours.
How much does it cost?
Bus tickets cost $10-19, train tickets $6-36 and private taxis about $150-300 per vehicle.
What is the travel distance?
The distance from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai is about 350 km by road.
What is the cheapest way to travel?
The cheapest option is a Thai Railways train, especially 3rd or 2nd class seats.
What is the best transport option?
Tourist buses are slightly faster than trains, while private taxis provide the fastest and most comfortable door-to-door transfer.
Are private cars available?
Yes. Private cars, SUVs and minivans can be booked online for individuals, families or groups.
Can you fly from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai?
No direct flights are available. Flights require a connection in Bangkok.
Where can you travel from Chiang Mai?
Popular destinations include Pai, Nan and Mae Hong Son.
Where to book accommodation in Chiang Mai?
Search hotels, resorts and guesthouses here: Book accommodation in Chiang Mai.
What food should you try in Thailand?
Try local specialties such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum, Green Curry and Mango Sticky Rice. Read more about Thai cuisine.
What is the weather like in Thailand?
Thailand has three seasons: hot, rainy and cool. Learn more about the weather in Thailand.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai
Travel from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai is available by train, bus or private taxi. The journey takes about 5–8 hours through the scenic landscapes of northern Thailand.
- Best Value: Trains are comfortable and affordable, especially 2nd class seats or sleepers.
- Book Early: Reserve train sleepers and bus tickets in advance during weekends and holidays.
- What to Bring: Pack water, snacks and a light jacket for air-conditioned buses or trains.
- Private Transfer: A taxi offers the fastest door-to-door service for families and groups.
- Overnight Train: Sleeper trains save time and one night of accommodation.
- Plan Ahead: Check your departure station and arrive at least 30 minutes early.
Tip: Train, bus tickets and private transfers from Phitsanulok to Chiang Mai can be booked online in advance.