How to get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok

How to get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok

As any Asian traveler knows, getting around can sometimes prove to be a little difficult. Bus and train schedules, expensive flights, and a difficult language barrier can look like giant hurdles, but with a little research, getting around is actually quite simple. In particular, Thailand has one of the best rail systems in the world and is often the easiest and most scenic way to get around the country. If you’re not into trains, buses and flights are equally reliable and often just as inexpensive. Indochina tours Thailand

If you don’t want to go by foot to Chiang Mai (about 134 hours from Bangkok), the best ways to get there without any hassle is followed. Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of the most traveled routes in Thailand. As such, getting between these two destinations is usually hassle-free and inexpensive.

Train (11hrs – 15hrs)

The easiest and simplest way is to go by train. For people put off by the idea of Asian train travel, understand that trains in Thailand are far superior to that of other Asian countries. Thai trains are very comfortable, modern, efficient, and are current with international safety standards.

The trains in Thailand are now more convennient and modern

The trains in Thailand are now more convennient and modern- source: internet

Chiang Mai to Bangkok is by far Thailand’s most traveled train route. The air-conditioned train cars provide relief from the often brutal heat while trekking through Thailand’s beautiful scenery. The overnight sleeper train will cost about £18 and provide you with a stunning early morning backdrop as you arrive in Chiang Mai. Alternatively, you can take a day train which will cost you around £12 and experience the full range of the Thailand landscape.

There are many different options for you to take when traveling by train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Depending on your desired luxury and time spent gazing at the sweeping panoramic views, you can expect to pay anywhere from £5 – £30.

The biggest downside with train travel is that it’s the slowest way to get around. But if you have the time, traveling by train is the best way to go to get the best scenic and cultural experience.

Train Timeable from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Train Timeable from Bangkok to Chiang Mai- source: internet

For more information on train travel, go to the official website at http://www.railway.co.th. But the site is not in English, so having a means to translate it will be necessary providing you don’t speak Thai language.

Bus (9hrs – 11hrs)                      

Of course, you can get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok by bus. Like the trains, these buses are very modern and provide a lot of comfort when making the often 11 hour journey northward. Best Indochina tours

Most buses come with air conditioning, washrooms, and even offer snacks, while the more expensive charter buses are also equipped with televisions and meal services. For these more expensive buses, expect to pay about £17 while the lesser luxury (and often slower moving) buses will cost around £9.

Several companies run bus services in between these two cities, so it’s a good idea to see which ones match with your time schedules and budget. Buses are usually a little bit quicker than trains, but are much less scenic as they traverse over busy highways and well-traveled paths.

A VIP bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

A VIP bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai- source: internet

Flight (1hr – 2hrs)                                                               

Flying from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is the quickest route. There are multiple airlines which run this route regularly so finding a flight will not be a problem. And the price is not expensive either.

For a 1.5 hour flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, you expectly have to pay £20. That price tag may look enticing, but keep in mind that there’s the expense of getting to and from the airport which adds significant cost, not to mention additional travel time.

Travelling by plane can save you a lot of time

Travelling by plane can save you a lot of time- source: internet

Luckily, the airport in Chiang Mai is only about 20 minutes away from the city by car (or taxi), but no public transportation is available.

There are 3 popular transportation for you to travel to Chiang Mai from Bangkok. Whatever you choose, you will get amazing experience on your trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

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