Bangkok to Chiang-mai

Traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by train offers a picturesque journey through Thailand's countryside. Departing from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Railway Station, the overnight train provides an immersive experience. The journey is a 10-12 hour ride with different seating options.

 Fares
The prices usually range from 631 THB to 1653 THB depending on the type of travel. There are options like 1st Class A/C Sleeper, 2nd class AC sleeper, and Seating options with the fan.

Starting to Drop points
The train journey starts at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station and goes to Chiang Mai Railway Station at different times throughout the day. Booking the tickets in advance is usually recommended as they are almost always sold out.

Timings 
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station to Chiang Railway Station
Timings 09: 05 to 19:30, 14:15 to  04:05, 18:40 to 07:15 (overnight train option)

Traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by bus offers a budget-friendly option. The distance is around 687 kilometers. Buses depart from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit), which takes around 9-11 hours to reach Chiang Mai. You can quickly get to the bus terminal from MRT subway station Khampaeng Phet by taxi, which costs less than 50 THB.

Boarding and Dropping points
Buses depart from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) to different dropping points in Chaing Mai. The most common points are Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 and Chaing Mai Arcade 2.

Routes
Route 1: The most direct route usually follows Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) north from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, then you can continue on Highway 32 to Nakhon Sawan. From Nakhon Sawan, buses typically retake Highway 1, passing through Phitsanulok, Lampang, and eventually reaching Chiang Mai.

Route 2: Another standard route heads north from Bangkok on Highway 32 (Asia Road) towards Nakhon Sawan. From there, buses will continue on Highway 1 or take Highway 11, passing through Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, and Lampang before arriving in Chiang Mai.

Timings Fares and Operators
Different tour operators offer travel options at different fares. Sombat Tours, Nakhonchai Air, Stirawang Tour, and Bangkok Blueline are the most common operators. These buses offer standard VIP and VIP24, including reclining seats, onboard entertainment, and snacks.

Fares
The fares for buses from Bangkok to Chaing Mai are around 500-700 THB to 1000-1500 THB. The prices depend on factors like tour operators, the type of buses, and the timing.

How to Book?
You can book tickets for each mode online. However, there is a specific price difference between booking trains online and manually. Therefore, it is recommended that you check and book the tickets in advance.

Flying from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is the quickest way to go. Airlines like Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, and Nok Air have daily flights from Bangkok's airports to Chiang Mai. The flight takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, so it's great if you want to get there fast. Prices usually range from 1000 THB to 5000 THB depending on which airline you choose, when you book, and availability.

For travelers choosing the road journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by car, several routes offer scenic drives, each with its attractions. Here are the detailed routes:

Route 1: Phahonyothin Road (Highway 1) and Highway 11: This route takes drivers north on Highway 1 towards Ayutthaya, then continuing through Saraburi, Nakhon Sawan, and Lampang before merging onto Highway 11 towards Chiang Mai.

Route 2: Asian Highway 2 (Mittraphap Road) and Highway 11: Departing from Bangkok, this route heads north on Asian Highway 2 towards Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), then continues through Khon Kaen and Phitsanulok before merging onto Highway 11 to Chiang Mai.

Distance and Timings
Depending on the chosen route, the distance from Bangkok to Chiang Mai by car is approximately 686 kilometers (about 423 miles). The journey generally takes 8 to 10 hours, with occasional rest stops for meals and breaks.