Flight (via Bangkok)
Most practical, easiest connection
Flight + transfer
Smooth journey, minimal hassle
Bus (via Bangkok)
Cheapest, but long with transfers
Train combination
Multiple transfers, impractical route
Quick answer: Traveling from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai is possible by flight, bus, train or private car. The fastest option is a flight via Bangkok, while buses and trains are better for budget travelers. For maximum comfort and flexibility, you can also travel by private taxi or car with a driver.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: approx. 1,100 km by land via Bangkok.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Flight (via Bangkok) ~5–7 hours. | Bus/minivan (via Bangkok) ~18–26 hours. | Bus + train (via Aranyaprathet) ~22–27 hours. | Private car ~16–20 hours.
- 💰 Price range: Flight ~US$70–200 pp. | Bus/minivan ~US$40–75 pp. | Bus + train ~US$35–70 pp. | Private car ~US$380–900 per vehicle.
- ✈️ Best for speed & comfort: Flight via Bangkok.
- 🚍 Best for budget travel: Bus or minivan via Bangkok.
- 🚆 Best for rail experience: Bus + train via Poipet and Aranyaprathet.
Last updated in June 2026
From Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai you can travel by plane, bus/minivan, train or private taxi.
The distance from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai in Thailand is approximately 1,400 km via Bangkok. The fastest option is a flight with a stopover in Bangkok (6–10 hours), while buses, trains and private cars are available for overland travel. Tickets, flights and private transfers can be searched and booked online in advance.
Chiang Mai is one of the most popular destinations in northern Thailand. From Chiang Mai, you can continue to Chiang Rai, Nan or Phayao. Before your trip, it is also useful to check the guide about Weather in Chiang Mai.
| Transfer Mode – Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai | Travel Duration | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Plane (via Bangkok) | 6–10 hours (with stopover) | $100–250 per person |
| Bus / Van (via Bangkok) | 22–30 hours | $43–80 per person |
| Bus / Van + Train (via Poipet) | 27–33 hours | $35–75 per person |
| Taxi / Private Car (via Bangkok) | 20–24 hours | $470–820 per vehicle |
How do I get from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai?
1. FLIGHT from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai
👉 Flight via Bangkok is the fastest and most comfortable way from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who want to save time on a long-distance route
- ✔️ Total travel time: ~6–10 hours (including connection in Bangkok)
- ✔️ Cost: $100–250 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: high (two short flights with major airlines)
- ✅ Best Option: Flight to Bangkok + connecting flight to Chiang Mai
- 💡 Tip: Choose shorter layovers and book flights online in advance
Flying via Bangkok is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai. There are currently no direct flights between these cities, so all routes require a stopover in Bangkok.
The total travel time is approximately 6–10 hours, depending on the flight connection and layover. Airlines operating on this route include Thai AirAsia, Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air, VietJet Air and Cambodia Angkor Air.
Flights depart from Techo International Airport (KTI) in Phnom Penh and arrive at either Don Mueang or Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok before continuing to Chiang Mai International Airport.
Flight prices usually range from $100–250 per person, depending on the airline, season and booking date. Compared to overland transport, flying can save more than a full day of travel time.
Flights can be searched and booked online in advance. Early booking is recommended for the best prices and flight schedules.
2. BUS / MINIVAN from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai
👉 Bus or minivan via Bangkok is a low-cost but very long way from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai.
- ✔️ Ideal for: budget travelers who don’t mind long travel times
- ✔️ Total travel time: ~22–30 hours (with transfer in Bangkok)
- ✔️ Cost: $43–80 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: low to medium (seats, sleepers or vans)
- ✅ Best Option: Bus to Bangkok + sleeper bus to Chiang Mai
- 💡 Tip: Consider a stop in Bangkok and book tickets online in advance
Traveling by bus or minivan via Bangkok is the cheapest way to get from Phnom Penh to Bangkok and then continue to Chiang Mai. This route requires 2 separate bookings and is popular among budget travelers.
The total travel time is approximately 22–30 hours, depending on connections, traffic and border crossing procedures. Modern buses offer reclining seats, sleeper berths and comfortable overnight services.
Bus and minivan tickets cost approximately $43–80 per person in total. Larger buses are usually cheaper, while minivans offer a faster and more flexible transfer.
Tickets can be easily searched and booked online in advance. It is recommended to allow enough time for connections and possible border delays.
3. BUS + TRAIN from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai
👉 Bus + train via Poipet and Bangkok is the cheapest but longest way from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai.
- ✔️ Ideal for: budget travelers and those who enjoy train journeys
- ✔️ Total travel time: ~27–33 hours (bus + 2 train transfers + border)
- ✔️ Cost: $20–85 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: low to medium (bus + seats or sleeper trains)
- ✅ Best Option: Bus to Poipet + trains via Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- 💡 Tip: Book sleeper trains early and allow time for border crossing
Traveling by train from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai is possible, but there is no direct railway connection. The journey has 3 steps: a bus or minivan to Poipet, a train from Aranyaprathet to Bangkok, and another train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
First, travel from Phnom Penh to Poipet by bus or minivan. The journey takes about 7–9 hours and tickets cost approximately $11–27 per person. After crossing the border into Thailand, continue to nearby Aranyaprathet Railway Station.
The train from Aranyaprathet to Bangkok takes about 5.5 hours and is one of the cheapest transport options in Thailand. From Bangkok, continue by train to Chiang Mai, a popular overnight route taking approximately 11–14.5 hours.
The total travel time is around 27–33 hours. Although it is the slowest option, it is a good choice for travelers who want to experience Thailand’s railway network. See also the Thailand Railway Map.
4. TAXI / CAR from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai
👉 Private taxi/car via Bangkok is the most comfortable but most expensive way from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai.
- ✔️ Ideal for: groups or travelers wanting maximum comfort and flexibility
- ✔️ Total travel time: ~20–24 hours (with transfer in Bangkok)
- ✔️ Cost: $470–820 per vehicle
- ✔️ Comfort level: high (modern cars, SUVs or minivans with driver)
- ✅ Best Option: Private car transfer via Bangkok with flexible stops
- 💡 Tip: Split costs in a group and arrange both transfers in advance
A private car with a driver is the most comfortable way to travel from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai. The journey usually includes a transfer in Bangkok and takes about 20–24 hours in total.
Modern sedans, SUVs and minivans are available for solo travelers, families and groups. Private transfers cost approximately $470–820 per vehicle, depending on the type of car.
The main advantage is flexible door-to-door service, allowing you to choose your departure point in Phnom Penh and arrival location in Chiang Mai. Private cars can be searched and booked online in advance.
❓ FAQ — Travel Route from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai
How to book tickets or flights from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai?
How long does it take to travel from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai?
Travel time ranges from about 6–33 hours, depending on the transport option.
What is the distance from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai?
The travel distance is approximately 1,400 km via Poipet and Bangkok.
How much does it cost to get from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai?
Prices range from about $35 to $820, depending on the transport type.
What is the best way to travel from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai?
A flight via Bangkok is the fastest and most comfortable option.
What is the cheapest transport option?
Buses and minivans via Bangkok are usually the cheapest way to travel.
Can you travel by train from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai?
Yes, via Poipet, Aranyaprathet and Bangkok, but there is no direct train connection.
Where can you travel from Chiang Mai?
Popular destinations include Pai, Mae Hong Son and Luang Prabang.
How and where to book accommodation in Chiang Mai?
Search and book hotels, guesthouses and resorts via this accommodation search.
How can you travel around Thailand?
Use trains, buses, minivans, domestic flights, ferries or private transfers. Read more about Transportation in Thailand.
Is Thailand suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for solo travel. See Solo Travel in Thailand.
Is traveling in Thailand expensive?
Thailand is generally affordable, with options for both budget and luxury travelers. Learn more about the cost of traveling in Thailand.
🧭 Popular travel routes from Phnom Penh:
If you’re planning your next trip from Phnom Penh, here are other popular routes you can take by bus, train, taxi, flight:
These are the most popular travel routes from Phnom Penh for visitors exploring Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Thailand.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai
Traveling from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai covers about 1,400 km and can be done by flight, bus, train or private car via Bangkok.
- Fly via Bangkok: The fastest option takes about 6–10 hours including the stopover.
- Consider Overnight Trains: Sleeper trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai are comfortable and popular.
- Cross the Border Early: Morning crossings at Poipet are usually faster and less crowded.
- Book Ahead: Flights, sleeper berths and popular bus routes can sell out quickly.
- Allow Extra Time: Border procedures and traffic may affect long overland journeys.
- Use an eSIM or Local SIM: Mobile data is useful when crossing between Cambodia and Thailand.
- Plan Your Arrival: Chiang Mai Airport, railway station and bus terminals are all close to the city center.
Tip: Flight, bus, minivan, train and private taxi tickets from Phnom Penh to Chiang Mai can be searched and booked online in advance.