Chiang Mai is the capital of the North so it is very easy to connect to Chiang Mai from everywhere in Thailand. Especially from the north, the center or from Isaan especially by bus. From Southern Thailand generally, travelers use the domestic flights to avoid very long train or bus journeys. From Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal, buses depart very very often. Between public buses and VIP buses, you'll have the choice. Some international flights also land in Chiang Mai. A lot of travelers like to take the Bangkok - Chiang Mai night train but you have to book your tickets in advance to be sure to have a sleeper (you can book online HERE). It is a nice way of traveling and cheap. You'll arrive at Chiang Mai station in early morning.
local_taxi
Taxis / Cars / Vans withe driver to go to Chiang Mai
We only list here the most popular train routes for more complete results, launch a detailled train search.
IMPORTANT: from 19th January 2023, 52 trains leave or arrive in Bangkok at brand new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station, the other ones will still depart and arrive in Hua Lamphong Station (until next step to move all trains to the new Bangkok railway station). For more information about the new Railway Station download this guide.
WARNING: many buses can only be booked 30 days before depature tops. They won't be displayed in the results on our transportation booking partner's website if not bookable yet.
You can leave Chiang Mai by bus, train or airplane, depending on your destination and the money you are ready to spend. Buses run regularly from Chiang Mai to Bangkok but also to the main cities in the North and Isaan. By plane you can also make a direct flight to Malaysia, Laos (Vientiane and Luang Prabang) and Cambodia (Phnom Penh and Siem Reap). A lot of travelers like to take the Chiang Mai - Bangkok night train but you have to book your tickets in advance to be sure to have a sleeper (you can book online HERE).
train
Cities you can reach by train from Chiang Mai
We only list here the most popular train routes for more complete results, launch a detailled train search.
IMPORTANT: from 19th January 2023, 52 trains leave or arrive in Bangkok at brand new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station, the other ones will still depart and arrive in Hua Lamphong Station (until next step to move all trains to the new Bangkok railway station). For more information about the new Railway Station download this guide.
WARNING: many buses can only be booked 30 days before depature tops. They won't be displayed in the results on our transportation booking partner's website if not bookable yet.
The train is the cheapest way to travel in Thailand especially in 3rd class. This is also where the contact with the population is the most interesting and incredible...
Taking the plance to travel in Thailand is often not that much more expensive than the bus especially with the numerous specials offers and it is so much faster !