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How to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Buses from Chiang Mai's Arcade bus terminal reach Chiang Rai in about 3 to 3 h 30 and cost a few hundred baht. Driving or a private car takes about 3 hours on Route 118. There is no train.
Best option: Bus. Comfortable, frequent and cheap buses cover the route in about 3 hours.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| bus Buses (e.g. Greenbus) from Chiang Mai Arcade bus terminal to Chiang Rai bus terminal | about 3 to 3 h 30 | frequent, roughly every hour or so during the day | about 150–350 THB depending on class | Book a day ahead at weekends and holidays. Chiang Rai has two bus stations; check which one your bus uses. |
| car Route 118 via Wiang Pa Pao | about 3 h (about 190 km) | fuel; a private car with driver costs about 2,500–4,000 THB one way | The road is mountainous in places; a car lets you stop at hot springs and the White Temple. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) is south of Chiang Rai and can be visited on the way by car.
- There is no railway to Chiang Rai.
- Bring a layer: bus air-conditioning is often strong.
- Grab and local songthaews work in Chiang Rai.
Common questions
Is there a train from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
No. There is no railway line to Chiang Rai. The options are bus, private car or rental car. Buses are frequent and comfortable, taking about 3 to 3 h 30. Flying is not practical, because there are no direct flights between the two cities and connecting through Bangkok would take far longer than the road.
Can I do Chiang Rai as a day trip from Chiang Mai?
Many organised tours do it in one long day, typically covering the White Temple, the Blue Temple and sometimes the Golden Triangle, with about six hours of driving in total. It is possible independently by car, but tiring. For a more relaxed visit, stay at least one night in Chiang Rai.
What is the cheapest way from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
The bus is the cheapest option, at roughly 150–350 THB depending on the class of service. Buses leave from the Arcade bus terminal in Chiang Mai throughout the day. VIP classes are more spacious and cost a little more. Book at the terminal or online, especially on weekends and Thai public holidays.
Should I rent a car to drive to Chiang Rai?
It is a reasonable option if you are comfortable driving on the left and on mountain roads. Route 118 is well paved, takes about 3 hours, and lets you stop at hot springs, viewpoints and the White Temple. You will need an International Driving Permit along with your licence. A car with driver is an alternative.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.