How to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai

To make the most of their time in Thailand, many visitors opt for an immersive multi-destination experience or, at the very least, plan special day trips. Either way, this guide to how to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai will serve you well if you’re hoping to enjoy a range of unforgettable experiences.

How to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai 

Whether you’re looking to take a day trip, or want to set yourself up for a longer stay, there are a few easy ways to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. 

• By bus: taking around 3.5 hours, buses are the cheapest way to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
• By car: you could hire a car to drive yourself, or else travel in a mini-van or private taxi, depending on your budget.
• By organised tour: a convenient option if you’re short on time and enjoy the benefits of having a tour guide.

If you're planning a trip to Thailand, don't miss our Thailand itineraries and information on how to get there. 

How far is Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai? 

Chiang Rai is about 200 km (125 miles) to the northeast of Chiang Mai. It takes between 3.5 and 4 hours to travel between those two cities.

What's the quickest way to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai? 

The quickest way to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is to hire a private driver. By car, the journey takes round 3 hours. 

If you’re unfamiliar with the roads and route and drive yourself in a hired car, expect your journey time to be a little longer. Meanwhile, travelling by bus will take around 3.5 hours.

Editor’s tip: before leaving Chiang Mai for Chiang Rai, don’t miss enjoying best things to do in Chiang Mai.

By bus

Duration: 3.5 hours | Cost: from $7 one-way

Taking around 3.5 hours, travelling by bus is the cheapest way to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.  

Buses leave Chiang Mai from bus terminal 3, with the first journey of the day leaving at 7.30am. 

For the cheapest options, check out Greenbus and Greenbus Express. For a more space and comfort, you could catch a VIP Greenbus.

Prices also vary according to where you sit. For example, the first two rows are pricier as they’re a bit more spacious.

By car

Duration: 3 hours | Cost: from $70

When it comes to car options, you could rent a car and make the journey in 3 hours or so.

Alternatively, book a private car and driver. Though this allows you to sit back and soak up the scenery — and potentially get to your destination faster — it’s the priciest way to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.

Lastly, if you’re travelling in a group of up to nine people, you could book a private mini-van transfer and split the cost.

By organised tour

Duration: up to 14 hours | Cost: from $60

If you’re short on time, taking a guided tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is likely to be your best bet.

Costs start from the $60 mark, and itineraries often include attractions that are tricky to reach via public transport.

Many options leave Chiang Rai early (around 7am), and include visits to hot springs, the Karen hill tribe, the unique Black House Museum, and incredible temples.

Is Chiang Rai worth a day trip from Chiang Mai?

In a word: yes. While Chiang Mai is on the radar of a huge number of travellers, Chiang Rai remains relatively unvisited, yet it’s packed with natural beauty and cultural experiences. And all in a calmer environment. 

For example, Wat Rong Seur Ten (Blue Temple) and Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) are both extraordinary marvels, and usually a highlight of organised day tours from Chiang Mai.

Chiang Rai’s night market is incredible, too — the perfect place to eat, shop and get a massage. On a similar note, Chiang Rai's Walking Street is a great place to come for local handicrafts, massages, and souvenirs. It’s open on Saturdays from 4pm until midnight.

You’ll find more inspiration in our Chiang Mai’s Sustainable Trails trip, and Chiang Mai Safari Adventure.

Planning your Chiang Rai itinerary

Inspired to visit? Find out more in our guide to the best things to do in Thailand, and check our pre-made Thailand itineraries that can be adjusted to your needs.

If you’re not a fan of planning, contact our Thailand travel experts and let them create your perfect trip.

Make sure to wise up with on Thailand travel tips and get a copy of Rough Guide to Thailand before embarking on your journey.