Chiang Rai→Chiang Mai

Name: Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai | Ferry, Bus, Van Tickets | from THB 3500
Brand: SmartEnPlus
Price: 3500 THB
Availability: OnlineOnly

Last updated 03-Jun-2026

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🚕Chiang Mai, nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, lush landscapes, and a perfect blend of traditional and modern Thai culture.

Travel Options

Private RideCharter

Operators

Smart En Plus, Mr. PON Chiang Rai Travel, Chokdee Tour, Kritsana Tour, K Krab transport

Departure Schedule

9:30 AMDaily

Departures by Operator

Departure Points

chiang rai bus terminal 1chiang rai bus terminal 1
chiang rai Town any hotelChiang rai any hotel in Town
Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI)Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport (IATA: CEI, ICAO: VTCT) serves as the main air gateway to Chiang Rai province in northern Thailand. Strategically located just 8 kilometers from Chiang Rai city center, the airport provides convenient access to the region’s natural and cultural attractions, including the Golden Triangle, mountain villages, and historical temples. Operated by Airports of Thailand (AOT), CEI has developed into a well-managed regional airport offering reliable domestic service and steadily resuming international operations post-pandemic. The airport combines modern facilities with efficient service and has continued to invest in expansion and passenger comfort. Airport Overview Chiang Rai International Airport is compact and easy to navigate, ideal for both leisure and business travelers. It supports a growing volume of passengers with domestic and limited international services, and includes amenities to ensure a comfortable transit experience. Key Information Location: Ban Du Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Rai, Thailand Distance from City Center: ~8 km (15–20 minutes by car) Operator: Airports of Thailand (AOT) IATA / ICAO Code: CEI / VTCT Runway Length: 3,000 meters Terminal: Single terminal serving both domestic and international flights Annual Capacity: Approx. 3 million passengers Airlines and Destinations Chiang Rai International Airport is primarily a domestic airport, with international service resuming on a limited basis. Domestic Airlines Thai AirAsia – Bangkok (Don Mueang), Phuket Thai VietJet Air – Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi), other seasonal routes Thai Smile / Thai Airways – Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) Nok Air – Bangkok (Don Mueang) International Airlines (Limited & Seasonal) AirAsia (Malaysia) – Kuala Lumpur VietJet Air – Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (seasonal or charter) Airport Facilities and Services Chiang Rai Airport offers modern and practical services for travelers: Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal Coffee shops and restaurants, including local Thai cuisine Souvenir and gift shops, including regional handicrafts Currency exchange and ATMs Car rental counters from national and local providers Information desk, lost & found, and customer service Business lounge for premium passengers Nursing room, first aid station, and prayer room Facilities for persons with disabilities, including ramps and elevators Ground Transportation The airport is conveniently connected to Chiang Rai town and surrounding regions by multiple transport options: 1. Taxi Service Readily available at the arrival area Standard fare to Chiang Rai city center: 150–200 THB Travel time: Approx. 15–20 minutes 2. Airport Shuttle & Minivans Shared minivans operate to city hotels and key areas Cost: 50–100 THB, depending on drop-off point Available at fixed schedules 3. Public Transportation Local buses and songthaews (shared taxis) operate outside the airport Suitable for budget travelers; may require some local language interaction 4. Car Rental Major providers include Avis, Budget, and Thai Rent A Car Ideal for exploring Chiang Rai, Mae Sai, and other northern provinces Future Developments Chiang Rai Airport continues to pursue development projects to enhance capacity and services: Expansion of terminal areas to accommodate higher passenger volumes Initiatives to resume and expand international routes Improved check-in and baggage handling systems Sustainable and accessibility-focused upgrades across facilities Final Notes Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport is an increasingly important travel hub in northern Thailand. With a focus on convenience, comfort, and connectivity, CEI offers an ideal entry point to one of the country’s most scenic and culturally rich regions. The airport continues to develop in response to growing tourism demand while maintaining high service standards.

Arrival Points

chiang mai town any hotelChiang Mai any Hotel in Town
chiang mai international airport (CNX)Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) Chiang Mai International Airport (IATA: CNX, ICAO: VTCC) is the principal air gateway to northern Thailand and one of the country’s busiest airports. Located just 3 kilometers from Chiang Mai city center, the airport offers convenient access to the region’s cultural landmarks, resorts, and business districts. With a single integrated terminal and a wide range of domestic and international flights, CNX serves as a highly efficient and traveler-friendly airport. Managed by Airports of Thailand (AOT), Chiang Mai International Airport combines accessibility with modern infrastructure, making it a preferred entry point for both leisure and business travelers visiting the north of Thailand. Key Airport Information FeatureDetailsLocationMueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai Province, ThailandIATA / ICAO CodeCNX / VTCCDistance to City~3 km (10–15 minutes by car)OperatorAirports of Thailand (AOT)TerminalsSingle terminal for both domestic and international flightsRunwayTwo asphalt runways (3,100 m and 2,000 m in length)Annual Passenger VolumeOver 11 million passengers annually (pre-pandemic)Opening YearOriginally opened as Suthep Airport in 1921; renamed CNX in 1954 Flights and Airlines Chiang Mai International Airport supports a broad network of domestic and international routes, connecting northern Thailand to major cities across Asia. Domestic Destinations Bangkok (Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi) Phuket Hat Yai Krabi Udon Thani Khon Kaen International Destinations Kuala Lumpur Singapore Hong Kong Seoul Shanghai Taipei Hanoi Yangon Major Airlines Operating at CNX Thai AirAsia Thai VietJet Air Nok Air Bangkok Airways Thai Smile Scoot AirAsia (Malaysia and Thailand) China Eastern Airlines Spring Airlines Korean Air (seasonal/charter) Airport Facilities and Services Chiang Mai International Airport offers a range of amenities and services designed to meet the needs of all travelers: Business lounges (Bangkok Airways Blue Ribbon, Coral Executive Lounge) Currency exchange booths and ATMs Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal Food and beverage outlets, including local and international options Retail shops offering travel goods, souvenirs, snacks, and duty-free items Car rental desks from major providers Medical services, including a first aid room Information desks and lost & found Prayer room, restrooms, and nursing facilities Wheelchair assistance and accessibility-friendly infrastructure Ground Transportation Getting to and from the airport is easy thanks to Chiang Mai’s compact layout and multiple transportation options: Taxi Taxi counters are located at the arrival area Flat-rate fares to city center: 150–200 THB Travel time: Approx. 10–15 minutes Ride-Hailing Apps Services such as Grab are widely used and convenient Ideal for custom routes or direct hotel drop-off Airport Shuttle Shared minivans available to city hotels and select areas Cost-effective for groups or travelers with light luggage Public Transportation Songthaews (red pickup trucks) and local buses operate nearby Suitable for experienced or budget-conscious travelers Car Rental Available from providers such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Thai Rent A Car Recommended for those planning to explore northern Thailand by road Special Highlight: Tango Squadron Wing 41 Air Museum Located within the grounds of Chiang Mai International Airport, the Tango Squadron Wing 41 Air Museum showcases a collection of 28 vintage military aircraft, offering a unique cultural and historical attraction for aviation enthusiasts. Access may require advance arrangement Ideal for visitors interested in aviation history Not widely advertised, making it a lesser-known gem Final Remarks Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) provides a well-balanced travel experience—efficient and modern yet close to the city and cultural heart of northern Thailand. Whether you're visiting for a short stay or as part of a longer journey through the region, CNX offers streamlined arrivals, reliable services, and easy access to Chiang Mai’s world-renowned temples, mountains, and markets.

Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai Trip Overview

As the former capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai is famous for its well-preserved temples, night markets, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re interested in history, food, adventure, or simply soaking in the local lifestyle, Chiang Mai has something for every traveler.

🧳 No fixed a size of luggage
📍 Arrive at Chiang Mai town any hotel, Chiang Mai Bus station, Chiang Mai Train station, Chiang Mai International Airport

✅ Open daily departures (All years)
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✅ Comfortable, air-conditioned vessels
✅ Include Driver and gasoline

Frequently Asked Questions — Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

How do I travel from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai?+

Travellers from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai have two main options. GreenBus VIP public coach runs from Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 (Old Station, Phahonyothin Road) to Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal 3, with 10+ daily departures between 07:30 and 18:30, a 3h 20m to 3h 50m journey, and a ฿380–650 per-seat fare.

Private VAN transfer is available via SmartEnPlus with 5 operators (Smart En Plus, Mr. PON Chiang Rai Travel, Chokdee Tour, K Krab transport, Kritsana Tour). Pickup is door-to-door from any Chiang Rai hotel (12 contracts), Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 (3 contracts), or Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) (2 contracts). The 9-seat Standard VAN is the dominant vehicle class. Travel time is ~3h 20m for the 187 km route.

How do I travel from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai?+

The Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai route is about 190 km, taking 3-3.5 hours by road. SmartEnPlus offers door-to-door private VAN and CHARTER transfers (5 operators — Smart En Plus, Chokdee Tour, K Krab transport, Mr. PON Chiang Rai Travel, Kritsana Tour) with pickup from any Chiang Rai hotel, Chiang Rai International Airport, or Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1, and drop-off at any Chiang Mai hotel or Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX). All SmartEnPlus service on this route is per-vehicle PRIVATE or CHARTER — there is no shared-ride option.

Public alternatives are cheaper for solo travelers: Greenbus operates 10+ daily VIP coaches from Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 to Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 (Arcade) for ฿280-435 per person, taking 3h 20m-3h 45m. Minivans run about ฿520-550 per person (16+ daily). There is no train and no direct flight between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai (flights must backtrack via Bangkok).

How much does a private transfer from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai cost?+

SmartEnPlus private transfer from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is per-vehicle, not per-seat. The cheapest SmartEnPlus rate is ฿3,200 per vehicle via K Krab transport (9-seat Standard VAN, contract through 2026-10-31). Five operators compete on this route, with Smart En Plus also offering SUV and CHARTER options at higher rates.

For comparison, independent operators charge ฿4,400 (sedan, Thailand Transfers) to ฿5,900 (MPV/Van, OrientalEscape and MEKHE) — the SmartEnPlus floor is significantly below market rate, likely because some contracts predate the April 2026 fuel surcharge. Solo travellers should also consider GreenBus VIP public bus at ฿380–650 per seat as the budget alternative.

How much does a private transfer from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai cost?+

SmartEnPlus private VAN transfer from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai costs ฿3,200-4,500 per vehicle (not per person) for the standard 9-seat VAN. The cheapest operator is Mr. PON Chiang Rai Travel at ฿3,200 from Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 to any Chiang Mai hotel. CHARTER SUV and VAN options from Smart En Plus run ฿5,800-6,800 per vehicle, including Chiang Rai International Airport to Chiang Mai hotel pickups.

For a single traveler, public Greenbus VIP coach is far cheaper at ฿280-435 per person (Terminal 1 to Terminal 3, ~3h 45m), but it is station-to-station only with no door-to-door pickup. Minivans are about ฿520-550 per person.

Price freshness: 10 of 14 SmartEnPlus contracts expire on 2026-10-31 (1 day from research). Staff should verify pricing before publishing after that date.

Where does a private transfer from Chiang Rai arrive in Chiang Mai?+

SmartEnPlus private transfer from Chiang Rai drops off at one of two points in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai Town any hotel is the most common drop-off (10 of 14 contracts) — door-to-door service to any hotel in central Chiang Mai, including the old city, Nimman, Riverside, and Chang Phueak areas. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is the drop-off for 4 of 14 contracts, convenient for travellers with departing flights.

If you take the GreenBus VIP public coach instead, the arrival point is Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal 3, the main Arcade terminal north of the old city. From there you can take a songthaew, tuk-tuk, or Grab taxi to your hotel.

What is the cancellation policy for a private transfer from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai?+

SmartEnPlus private transfer operators on the Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai route follow the standard cancellation tiers used across SmartEnPlus: 100% refund if you cancel at least 72 hours before departure, 50% refund if you cancel 48-72 hours before, and 0% refund (no refund) if you cancel less than 48 hours before departure. This 72/48-hour refund schedule applies to the cheapest operator (Mr. PON Chiang Rai Travel).

The cancellation policy is per-vehicle, not per-seat. Since the service is per-vehicle, refunds are calculated on the full vehicle fare regardless of how many passengers booked. To rebook for a different time, contact the operator at least 72 hours ahead to avoid the 50% or 0% penalty tiers.

Getting from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Traveling from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai offers a scenic journey through the lush landscapes of northern Thailand. With around 190 kilometers (118 miles) or (3-4 hours) separating these two popular cities, you have several transport options to suit different budgets, travel preferences, and schedules

By Bus

Time: 3–4 hours

Cost: 300-500 THB ($9–$15 USD)

Details: Buses are a comfortable and affordable option, with multiple departure times daily. Green Bus Company is the primary operator, offering three levels of comfort: VIP, First Class, and Standard. All buses have air conditioning and assigned seating.

Departure: Buses depart from Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 and arrive at Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station.

Booking: Tickets are available at the bus station or online

By Private Car or Taxi

Time: 3–3.5 hours

Cost: 4,000–5,000 THB ($112–$150 USD)

Details: Private transfers are ideal for groups or families who want a comfortable, direct journey. They also allow flexibility to make scenic stops along the way.

Booking: Private taxis or cars can be booked through local travel agencies, hotel concierges, or you can book as link below : Chiang rai to Chiang Mai

By Self-Drive (Car or Motorbike)

Time: Approximately 3–3.5 hours by car, or 4–5 hours by motorbike

Details: Renting a car or motorbike allows you to travel at your own pace and make stops at points of interest along Highway 118. This is a scenic, well-paved route through the mountains and countryside.

Cost: Car rentals range from 1,500-2,000 THB ($25–$60 USD) per day, while motorbike rentals are 300–500 THB ($12–$20 USD) per day.

Requirements: Foreign travelers should have an international driver’s permit, and travel insurance is recommended.

By Flight

Time: 40–45 minutes flight time (plus transfers to/from airports)

Cost: Starts around 1,000-2,000 THB ($30-$60 USD), depending on airline and availability

Details: Although there are no direct flights from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, you can take a connecting flight via Bangkok. This option may not be faster overall, but it’s ideal for those who prefer air travel.

Booking: Book flights through domestic airlines such as Bangkok Airways or Thai Airways.

By Tour Transfer with Sightseeing Stops

Time: Full-day trip with stops

Cost: 1,500–3,000 THB ($45–$90 USD)

Details: Some companies offer full-day tours with scenic and cultural stops along the way, such as the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), Hot Springs, and viewpoints. This is a great way to enjoy the journey as a sightseeing experience.

Booking: Arrange through travel agencies, hotels, or you can click here :> One day trip Chiang Mai Chiang Rai

Summary of Options for Traveling from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Option	Duration	Cost	Best For
Bus	3–4 hours	300-500 THB	Budget-conscious travelers
Private Car/Taxi	3–3.5 hours	4,500-5,000THB	Families, groups, those seeking comfort
Self-Drive	3–5 hours	1,500-2,000 THB (car)	Adventurers, travelers seeking flexibility
Flight	40–45 minutes	Starting from 1,000 THB	Air travel enthusiasts, with Bangkok layover
Tour Transfer	Full-day	4,500-6,000 THB	Travelers interested in scenic stops along the way

Whether you’re after a quick bus ride, a flexible self-drive, or a comfortable private transfer, each route has something unique to offer for the journey from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai.

For more detailed guidance, explore our related articles: