Northern Thailand is a traveler’s paradise, and the journey from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is an adventure waiting to unfold. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a temple-hopper, or simply looking to explore the hidden gems of Thailand’s northern region, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about traveling between these two incredible destinations.
Distance from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
The distance between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai is approximately 180 kilometers (about 112 miles), which translates to a scenic 3 to 3.5-hour journey by road. This relatively short distance makes it an incredibly accessible and exciting day trip or overnight adventure.
What can you expect in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai?
Chiang Mai: Known as the cultural capital of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a vibrant city that blends ancient traditions with modern charm. The city is famous for:
- Stunning ancient temples
- Incredible street food scene
- Night bazaars
- Elephant sanctuaries
- Rich cultural experiences
Chiang Rai: A more laid-back and less touristy destination, Chiang Rai is renowned for:
- The iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
- The unique Black House Museum
- Stunning blue temple
- Proximity to the Golden Triangle
- Authentic hill tribe experiences
>> Read more to explore Chiang Rai: Top 10 Things to Do in Chiang Rai Thailand: Ultimate Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
How to Get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
To get to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai you have to travel by road with several options due to there’s no train between these cities, and flying via Bangkok is impractical. Your best options are entirely road-based, giving you the flexibility to explore the stunning Northern Thai landscape. Let’s go in details with each option:
By Bus – The cheapest option
If choosing to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai by bus, there are 2 options for you Express Bus or VIP Bus. You can buy the ticket at the terminal or get it on your own online:
- Express Bus: 271 baht ($7.34 USD), takes about 4-4.5 hours
- VIP Bus: 315 baht ($8.54 USD), takes about 3.5 hours
- Daily departures from 7 am to 6 pm
- Operated exclusively by Green Bus
Detailed Guide: Green Bus offers the most comfortable and reliable transportation between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. With 16 daily buses, you’ve got plenty of flexibility. The journey is comfortable, with air conditioning that might get a bit chilly, so pack a light sweater.
Pro Tips:
- Book tickets 1-2 days in advance, especially during peak season (November to February)
- Choose your seat wisely:
- Avoid the first row if you’re tall
- Skip the back of the VIP bus if you want to avoid sitting near the toilet
- Bring earphones (some passengers might watch videos with sound on)
| Pros | Cons |
| Most affordable option Comfortable seats Regular departures Secure luggage storage Complimentary water and sometimes cookies | Less flexibility than private transport Fixed schedule Potential noise from other passengers |
By Bike: For the Adventure Seekers
Besides traveling bu bus, renting a scooter or motorcycle offers the ultimate freedom to explore at your own pace. In Chiang Rai, scooter rentals average around 210 baht per day for a 125cc bike.
Things to Consider:
- Ensure you have an international driving permit
- Check the bike’s condition before renting
- Be prepared for mountain roads and varying weather conditions
- Wear proper safety gear
- Allow 4-5 hours for the journey with potential stops
| Pros | Cons |
| Complete travel flexibility Scenic route Opportunity for spontaneous stops | Potentially dangerous for inexperienced riders Exposure to weather Physically demanding Safety concerns |
Enjoy a Day Tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
For who those don’t have to stay overnight in Chiang Rai, a day tour to have a glimpse of Chiang Rai is high recommended. While day tours are popular, they come with significant limitations. The round trip takes about 6 hours of driving in total, leaving minimal time for exploration. This means that you only can visit a little bit basic attractions in Chiang Rai.
Tour Highlights:
- Visits to White Temple
- Blue Temple
- Black House Museum
- Knowledgeable local guides
A day tour is recommended only If:
- You have extremely limited time
- Prefer a guided, structured experience
- Don’t mind spending most of the day in transit
By Private Car with Private Tour: The Ultimate and Convenient Option
For those seeking comfort and personalized experiences, opting for a private car tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai offers unparalleled flexibility and adventure. With your own private vehicle, you can explore at your own pace, stopping at hidden gems and breathtaking sights along the way. While this option may come at a higher price, the unique experiences and memories you’ll create make it truly worthwhile.
| Pros | Cons |
| Completely customizable Comfortable travel In-depth local experiences Flexibility with stops | Most expensive option Requires more planning |
To make the most of your journey, a bit of planning is essential. Here’s a suggested 4-day itinerary designed to enrich your travel experience as you journey from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai:
Day 1: Depart Chiang Mai, stop at interesting sites en route
- Visit Doi Suthep Temple
- Lunch in a local village
- Arrive in Chiang Rai, evening exploration
Day 2: Chiang Rai Exploration
- White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
- Blue Temple
- Black House Museum
- Evening at local night market
Day 3: Golden Triangle and Hill Tribes
- Visit the Golden Triangle
- Explore hill tribe villages
- Opium Museum
- Traditional dinner
Day 4: Return to Chiang Mai
- Scenic route back
- Stop at viewpoints
- Optional stops at local markets or attractions
Traveling from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is more than just a journey—it’s an experience. Each transportation option offers its own unique adventure. Whether you choose the budget-friendly bus, the adventurous bike ride, a guided tour, or a luxurious private car, you’re in for an unforgettable trip.
FAQs
Is it Worth Going to Chiang Rai?
Absolutely! Chiang Rai is a hidden gem that offers a unique and authentic Thai experience often overlooked by mainstream tourists. Here’s why it’s worth visiting:
- Unique Temples: The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is an architectural marvel unlike any other temple in Thailand. Its intricate, modern design blends traditional Buddhist architecture with contemporary art.
- Cultural Richness: Chiang Rai provides a deeper insight into Northern Thai culture, hill tribe communities, and local traditions.
- Less Touristy: Compared to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai offers a more laid-back, authentic experience with fewer crowds.
- Historical Significance: The proximity to the Golden Triangle and its rich historical background make it a fascinating destination for history buffs.
- Natural Beauty: Stunning landscapes, mountain views, and rural scenery that showcase the beauty of Northern Thailand.
Is 2 Days in Chiang Rai Enough?
Two days in Chiang Rai can give you a good taste of the city, but it might feel a bit rushed. Here’s a breakdown:
What You Can Accomplish in 2 Days:
- Visit the White Temple
- Explore the Blue Temple
- Check out the Black House Museum
- Take a quick trip to the Golden Triangle
- Explore the city center and night markets
Ideal 2-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Temples and City Exploration
- Day 2: Cultural experiences and surrounding attractions
Recommendation: If possible, aim for 3 days to truly appreciate Chiang Rai without feeling hurried.
How Long Should I Spend in Chiang Rai?
The ideal duration depends on your travel style and interests:
- Minimum: 2 days
- Recommended: 3-4 days
- Ideal: 5 days
What Extra Days Allow You to Do:
- Explore hill tribe villages
- Take day trips to surrounding attractions
- Visit local markets
- Enjoy a more relaxed pace
- Take cooking classes
- Explore the countryside
How Many Days in Chiang Mai is Enough?
Chiang Mai is a vibrant city with countless experiences:
- Minimum Stay: 3-4 days
- Recommended: 5-7 days
- Ideal: 7-10 days
What You Can Do in Different Durations:
- 3-4 Days:
- Visit main temples
- Explore Old City
- Night markets
- Basic cooking class
- 5-7 Days:
- All of the above, plus:
- Day trip to doi inthanon
- Elephant sanctuary
- More in-depth cooking classes
- Explore surrounding areas
- 7-10 Days:
- Full immersion
- Multiple day trips
- Trekking
- Meditation retreats
- Comprehensive cultural experiences
Pro Tip: The length of your stay should align with your interests. Chiang Mai offers something for every type of traveler – from cultural enthusiasts to adventure seekers and digital nomads.
Remember, these are guidelines. Your perfect trip depends on your personal travel style, interests, and available time. Whether you have a few days or a few weeks, both Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai offer unforgettable experiences that will leave you wanting to return to Northern Thailand.
Indochina Voyages stands as one of the best Southeast Asia Tour Companies which is focused on customized products. Our passionate travel experts, armed with local knowledge, are dedicated to providing you with more than just a tour—they’re here to create unforgettable memories just for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us; let’s start planning your dream Thailand adventure together!
Are you ready for your next Thailand journey?
>> Read more: How to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
Thuy Dang – From Indochina Voyages Team
