Premium First Class
- Blanket
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£18
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£21
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
11 h
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
11 h 32 m
Buses on 18 Sept
13
Distance
688 km
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Rai will cost around £21 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £18.
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 13 buses from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, including 13 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 688 km distance in an average of 11 h 32 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 11 h .
The slowest buses will take 12 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.










Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bangkok to Chiang Rai among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £18 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 23m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £18, while a flight costs an average of £33.
Distance: 688 km
| Coach | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£18 Average Price Cheapest | £33 Average Price | £76 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 52m Average total duration 13h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 23m Average total duration Fastest 1h 23m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 10h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Bangkok to Chiang Rai:
A coach is £15 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bangkok to Chiang Rai costing on average £33.
Other travel options to Chiang Rai take longer:
Coach takes on average 13h 22m.
Tickets start at around £18 compared to roughly £76 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £58. The journey takes 13h 22m versus 10h 57m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Cherdchai Tour, Bangkok Bus Lines, Kasemthara Tour, Nakhonchaiair, Thaibus Tour, Budsarakham, Cherdchai Tour North, Bangkok Buslines, Kasemthara Tour, Sombat Tour, Nakhonchai Air.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
The table below shows live departures for Bangkok to Chiang Rai coaches for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 12:30 Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 12h40 | 1:10 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 changesdirect | |
TARA TOUR & TRAVEL | 16:00 Bangkok, Samsen Rd (Tara Tour Office) | 14h05 | 6:05 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 changesdirect | |
![]() | 16:30 Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 12h40 | 5:10 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 changesdirect | |
![]() | 17:00 Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 12h20 | 5:20 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 changesdirect | |
957-7 | 17:30 Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 12h30 | 6:00 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 changesdirect | |
![]() | 18:00 Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 11h00 | 5:00 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 changesdirect | |
90-9 | 18:40 Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 12h30 | 7:10 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 changesdirect | |
909-28 | 19:30 Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 12h00 | 7:30 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 changesdirect | |
![]() | 19:40 Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 12h20 | 8:00 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 changesdirect | |
![]() | 19:55 Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 11h49 | 7:44 Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Rai | 0 changesdirect | |
![]() | 20:30 Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 11h00 | 7:30 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 changesdirect | |
| Friday 18 September | |||||
![]() | 9:30 Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) | 12h40 | 22:10 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare coach and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Buses from Bangkok to Chiang Rai run on average 11 times per day, taking around 13h 22m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £17 if you book in advance.
There are 11 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 09:30, the last at 20:30. The fastest coach covers the 688 km distance in 11h 49m.
Distance 688 km |
Average bus duration 13h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price £17 |
Buses per day 11 |
Direct buses 11 |
Fastest bus 11h 49m |
First bus 9:30 |
Last bus 20:30 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 49 days |
Compare Budsarakham classes and the amenities included in each one.
Compare Bangkok Bus Lines classes and the amenities included in each one.
Compare Thaibus Tour classes and the amenities included in each one.
Compare Cherdchai Tour classes and the amenities included in each one.
Compare Nakhonchaiair classes and the amenities included in each one.
Omio simplifies your travel planning across Southeast Asia by bringing together over 1,000 trusted travel companies on one comprehensive platform. Whether you're booking local trains, long-distance buses, or ferry tickets, Omio lets you compare options, prices, and schedules instantly to find the perfect journey for your needs. With convenient mobile tickets delivered straight to your phone and real-time travel updates keeping you informed every step of the way, you can travel with confidence knowing that dedicated customer support is always available when you need it. From discovering trending destinations to seamlessly connecting different modes of transport, Omio transforms complex multi-leg journeys into simple, stress-free bookings that let you focus on exploring incredible destinations in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Pros: Buses from Bangkok to Chiang Rai offer considerable cost savings compared to flights, with tickets ranging from 500-900 THB. The journey provides scenic views of Thailand's countryside with minimal luggage restrictions. Higher-end services feature amenities such as reclining seats, onboard toilets, refreshments, and WiFi. Buses typically depart from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) and arrive at Chiang Rai's central bus station, requiring minimal additional transfers to city centers.
Cons: The journey takes approximately 12-14 hours, significantly longer than a 1.5-hour flight. Overnight buses, while saving on accommodation, may reduce sleep quality. Delays are common due to traffic congestion leaving Bangkok and mountainous terrain approaching Chiang Rai. During peak holiday periods, advanced booking is essential as services can fill quickly. The final buses typically depart by early evening, limiting flexibility for late departures.
Chiang Rai captivates visitors with its unique blend of contemporary art, ancient temples, and cultural diversity in northern Thailand. The iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) showcases stunning modern Buddhist architecture with intricate mirror work and surreal designs. The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) offers equally mesmerizing azure interiors and golden Buddha statues. Travelers can explore the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge along the Mekong River, and visit local hill tribe villages to experience traditional cultures. The vibrant Saturday Night Walking Street provides excellent shopping for handicrafts and street food. Adventure seekers can enjoy hot springs, tea plantations, and the mysterious Black House Museum showcasing dark art collections.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Rai by coach. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chiang Rai, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Bangkok to Chiang Rai buses use the Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 station pair, with some services arriving at Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Rai. Use this guide to compare Bangkok and Chiang Rai bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal is 8 km from Bangkok city centre. Public transport options include:
Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Food court and various food stalls available inside terminal
Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal. ATMs are several ATMs from major Thai banks.
Ticket office support is available at Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal.
Available at Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bangkok, Chatuchak Bus Terminal: Wheelchair ramps and elevators available.
Bangkok, Minibus Station (Chatuchak) is 8 km from Bangkok city centre. Public transport options include:
Bangkok, Minibus Station (Chatuchak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Food court and several local food vendors available inside terminal
Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal. ATMs are several ATMs from major Thai banks.
Ticket office support is available at Bangkok, Minibus Station (Chatuchak).
Available at Bangkok, Minibus Station (Chatuchak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bangkok, Minibus Station (Chatuchak): Wheelchair ramps and elevators available.
Bangkok, Chakrabongse Rd - Khao San Road has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Street food vendors and local restaurants nearby
Free public Wi-Fi. ATMs are several ATMs from major Thai banks nearby.
Ticket office support is available at Bangkok, Chakrabongse Rd - Khao San Road.
Available at Bangkok, Chakrabongse Rd - Khao San Road: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bangkok, Chakrabongse Rd - Khao San Road: Basic ramps available.
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 is 5 km from Chiang Rai city centre. Public transport options include:
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Food court and several local food vendors inside terminal
Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal. ATMs are aTM machines from major Thai banks available.
Ticket office support is available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2.
Available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2: Wheelchair ramps and assistance available.
Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Rai is 4 km from Chiang Rai city centre. Public transport options include:
Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Rai has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Small food court and convenience store available
Free Wi-Fi available in terminal. ATMs are aTM machines available in terminal.
Ticket office support is available at Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Rai.
Available at Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Rai: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Nakhonchai Air Bus Station Chiang Rai: Wheelchair accessible.
Chiang Rai, Ban Du is 8 km from Chiang Rai city centre. Public transport options include:
Chiang Rai, Ban Du has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Small local food stalls and vendors
ATMs are several ATMs on site.
Ticket office support is available at Chiang Rai, Ban Du.
Available at Chiang Rai, Ban Du: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chiang Rai, Ban Du: Basic wheelchair access.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need