- Must visit
Baan Dam Museum
Private art museum with dark, thought-provoking buildings by Thawan Duchanee. It offers a very different visual experience from Chiang Rai’s temples.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 25 Oct
Cheapest price on 25 Oct
£8
Average ticket price on 25 Oct
£9
Fastest journey on 25 Oct
3 h 20 m
Average journey duration on 25 Oct
3 h 40 m
Buses on 25 Oct
7
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai will cost around £9 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £8.
Fast coaches
On Sun 25 Oct, we found 7 buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, including 7 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 153 km distance in an average of 3 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
The slowest buses will take 3 h 45 m 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.
16617:003h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 320:45Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1£81One-way0 changes- 16618:153h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 322:00Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1£81One-way0 changes
- 1669:153h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 313:00Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1£81One-way0 changes
- 16616:303h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 320:15Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1£81One-way0 changes
- 1667:453h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 311:30Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1£81One-way0 changes
- 16610:303h20Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 313:50Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1£121One-way0 changes
- 16617:003h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 320:45Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1£81One-way0 changes
- 16618:153h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 322:00Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1£81One-way0 changes
- 1669:153h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 313:00Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1£81One-way0 changes
- 16616:303h45Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 320:15Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1£81One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
ThailandThailand
Buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £6 if you book in advance.
There are 11 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 06:00, the last at 19:00. The fastest coach covers the 153 km distance in 3h 20m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 153 km |
Average bus duration 3h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price £6 |
Buses per day 11 |
Direct buses 11 |
Fastest bus 3h 20m |
First bus 6:00 |
Last bus 19:00 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Frequently asked questions about your Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
Cheap coach tickets from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai can start from as little as £6 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is £10; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest coach from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai leaves at 6:00. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai leaves at 19:00.
Yes, there are 11 direct coaches a day from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai with Greenbus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
Live departures
Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai coaches for today, Saturday 24 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 166 | 17:00 Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h45 | 20:45 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 changesdirect | |
| 166 | 18:15 Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h45 | 22:00 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 changesdirect | |
| 166 | 18:30 Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h20 | 21:50 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 changesdirect | |
| Sunday 25 October | |||||
| 166 | 7:45 Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h45 | 11:30 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 changesdirect | |
| 166 | 9:15 Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h45 | 13:00 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 changesdirect | |
| 166 | 10:30 Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h20 | 13:50 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 changesdirect | |
| 166 | 13:00 Chiang Mai, Bus Terminal 3 | 3h45 | 16:45 Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Bus providers: Greenbus from Chiang Mai to Chiang RaiYou can travel by bus between Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai with Greenbus for as low as £6. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Greenbus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greenbus Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Greenbus Price
£6
Greenbus frequency
14 a day
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a coach from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, you can count on Greenbus for the best way to get you to Chiang Rai. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the coach from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
No, the coach from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai has no accessibility options.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the coach from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the coach from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
No, luggage for the coach from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the coach from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the coach from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
No, there is no WiFi on board the coach from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
Complete guide to Chiang Rai
Things to do in Chiang Rai
Discover the best of Chiang Rai — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chiang Rai trip today.
- Recommended
Oub Kham Museum
Museum and art house by Chalermchai Kositpipat displaying paintings, Buddhist art, and personal collections connected with the White Temple artist.
- Recommended
House of Opium
Community museum focused on the Hall of Opium story and nearby Golden Triangle history. Useful for understanding the region’s past and trade routes.
- Must visit
Chiang Rai Clock Tower
Small central square with the city’s famous golden clock tower. Visit in the evening for the light-and-sound display and surrounding street life.
- Recommended
Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
Lively evening walking street with handicrafts, music, and a local atmosphere. A good place to browse souvenirs and see central Chiang Rai at night.
- Recommended
Chiang Rai Walking Street
Weekend pedestrian market around the clock tower area. It is popular for crafts, performances, and a busy local street scene.
Khao Soi
Northern Thai curry noodle soup with egg noodles, coconut broth and usually chicken or beef. A signature Lanna dish widely loved across Chiang Rai.
- Gluten-free
Sai Ua
Aromatic Northern pork sausage seasoned with lemongrass, galangal and kaffir lime leaf. It is a classic Chiang Rai snack and market favourite.
- Gluten-free
Kaeng Khanun
Young jackfruit curry cooked with pork, tomatoes and Northern spices. This hearty Lanna dish is traditional in homes and local eateries.
Khao Soi Phor Ja
Famous noodle shop specialising in khao soi and other Northern noodle dishes. Simple, busy and ideal for an affordable traditional lunch.
Larb Sanam Keela
Well-known casual restaurant serving Northern Thai classics such as khao soi, sai ua and nam prik in a relaxed local setting near the night bazaar.
Lu Lam Restaurant
Popular local restaurant for authentic Lanna dishes, grilled meats and relishes. Informal atmosphere and a reliable choice for regional flavours.
Thai baht (฿)
Budget-friendly for Thailand: guesthouses, street food and local transport are cheap, while hotels and tourist dining still cost less than in Bangkok or Phuket.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- ฿50-120 for street food or simple local meals.
- Mid-range
- ฿150-350 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- ฿800+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- ฿50-90 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not obligatory. Round up or leave ฿20-50 in restaurants and cafés for good service. Taxis usually do not expect tips, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.
AOT Airports
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- ฿28
- Day pass
- None
To the city centre
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 -> Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, Chiang Rai
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- City Bus fare is a flat ฿28 on the Chiang Rai Airport–city route shown in official materials. Service runs about every 40 minutes.
- Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 is beside the Night Bazaar in the city centre. Official sources found do not confirm contactless card payment on city buses, so carry cash.
FAQs: Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chiang Mai 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai including taking a coach and flight.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
Most Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai buses use the Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 station pair, with some services arriving at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2. Use this guide to compare Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chiang Mai
Arrival bus stations in Chiang Rai
Which Chiang Mai station do buses to Chiang Rai leave from?
Buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai leave from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3. The station is 4 km from Chiang Mai city centre at 192 Moo 10, Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road, Tambon Nong Pa Khrang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand.
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3192 Moo 10, Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road, Tambon Nong Pa Khrang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
City-centre transport
Getting to Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 from Chiang Mai city centre
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 is 3 km from Chiang Mai city centre. Public transport options include:
BusR1-Zoo · 13m · every ~6 min
R1-Zoo · 19m · £1 · every ~6 min
R1-Zoo · 31m · every ~6 min
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 bus station facilities and services
Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food court and several local food vendors inside terminal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal. ATMs are aTM machines from major Thai banks available.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3: Wheelchair ramps and accessible facilities.
Which Chiang Rai station do buses from Chiang Mai arrive at?
Buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai most often arrive at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1. Some services arrive at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Chiang Rai arrival station.
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1773 Pahonyothin Road, Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
City-centre transport
Getting to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 from Chiang Rai city centre
Local buses and songthaews available
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 bus station facilities and services
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Local food stalls and small restaurants inside and around terminal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in terminal. ATMs are aTM machines from major Thai banks.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1: Ground level access, wheelchair friendly.
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2102 Moo 13, Phaholyothin Road, Robwiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
City-centre transport
Getting to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 from Chiang Rai city centre
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 is 5 km from Chiang Rai city centre. Public transport options include:
Local BusCity routes
SongthaewRed trucks
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 bus station facilities and services
Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food court and several local food vendors inside terminal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal. ATMs are aTM machines from major Thai banks available.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2: Wheelchair ramps and assistance available.
Bus stations for Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Check bus stations information for Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Chiang Mai , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 . When arriving in Chiang Rai , you can end your route in coach stations like Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1, Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3, which is located around 4 km away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1, located 0 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Chiang Mai
More options for your journey from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai
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