BlogHow to Travel to Chiang Rai? The Most Convenient and Fastest Ways
How to get to Chiang Rai? The most convenient and fastest way to get there
Chiang Rai is a province full of natural beauty, temples, and Lanna culture. There are many convenient and fast ways to get to Chiang Rai, depending on the traveler's needs.
1. Plane (fastest and most comfortable)
Chiang Rai Airport (Mae Fah Luang Airport - CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang) every day.
Airlines that operate:
- Thai Vietjet Air
- Nok Air
- Thai AirAsia
- Bangkok Airways (from Suvarnabhumi)
Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
From Chiang Rai Airport, you can travel to the city by local taxi or pre-booked private transfer.
Suitable for: Travelers who want speed and comfort.
2. Bus (affordable, convenient)
Bus departs from Mochit 2 Bus Terminal or Sai Tai Mai Bus Terminal in Bangkok to Chiang Rai every day.
Recommended bus companies:
- Greenbus (both VIP and First Class)
- Nakhonchai Air
- Sombat Tour
Travel time: 8 - 11 hours Ticket price: Starting at approximately 600 - 1,200 baht, depending on seat type
The bus stops at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal (Bor Sor 1 or 2) and then you can take a local taxi or pre-booked private transfer.
Best for: Budget travelers who want to save on transportation costs
3. Train + Transfer to Chiang Rai (beautiful view but longest time)
Chiang Rai does not have a direct train station, so you will need to take the train to Den Chai Station (Phrae) or Chiang Mai Station and then transfer to Chiang Rai.
Suggested route:
- Bangkok → Den Chai Station (Phrae) → Chiang Rai
- Train departs from Hua Lamphong or Bang Sue Station (~10-12 hrs)
- Take a bus from Den Chai to Chiang Rai (~4-5 hrs)
- Bangkok → Chiang Mai → Chiang Rai
- Train to Chiang Mai (~10-13 hrs)
- Take a Greenbus or van to Chiang Rai (~3-4 hrs)
Suitable for: Travelers who like to see the scenery along the way and are not in a hurry
4. Drive yourself (free and can stop and visit places along the way)
Distance: Approximately 800 km from Bangkok
Suggested route:
- Take Highway No. 1 (Phahonyothin) through Nakhon Sawan - Phitsanulok - Uttaradit - Phrae - Phayao - Chiang Rai
- Take Highway No. 32 (Asian Road) and No. 11 to enter the North
Travel duration: Approximately 10-12 hours, can stop by to visit cities along the way such as Phitsanulok, Phrae, Phayao
Suitable for: Travelers who want flexibility and want to travel as a road trip
Recommend booking a car to travel to Chiang Rai via the Pause and Be Travel website
If you want to travel in Chiang Rai comfortably, Pause and Be Travel is the best choice for booking a car to travel to Chiang Rai, whether it is a self-drive car rental or a car with a driver.
Services available to book via Pause and Be Travel
- Car with driver: Car service with a professional driver, taking you to travel to Chiang Rai according to your travel plan
- Chiang Rai airport transfer: Service to pick up and drop off at the airport to hotels or various tourist attractions
- Chiang Rai tour trip: Tour package with a driver, visiting important places such as Wat Rong Khun, Doi Tung, Singha Park, and Mae Sai Market
Reasons to choose to book a car via Pause and Be Travel
✅ Easy, convenient, and fast booking via the online website ✅ There are many cars to choose from – from sedans, SUVs, to vans for families or groups of friends ✅ Affordable price, no hidden costs ✅ Professional drivers are ready to serve throughout the trip ✅ 24-hour customer service if you need help
Summary of the best ways to travel to Chiang Rai
✈️ Plane: If you want the fastest and most convenient 🚌 Bus: If you want to save money 🚆 Train + Bus: If you like to see the scenery along the way 🚗 Self-driving: If you want freedom and stop by to visit along the way
When you arrive in Chiang Rai, don't forget to use Pause and Be Travel to make your trip more convenient and smooth! Book now at pauseandbetravel.com