Chiang Mai - Getting here

As Chiang Mai is Thailand's '2nd City ' you will find that there are plenty of options to make you way here.

Chiang Mai by Air

With the increasing number of low cost airlines flying into Chiang Mai, arrival by air is increasingly popular even among the budget conscious traveler. A new terminal has recently been built to cater for international departures/arrivals which sits right next to the older and now domestic only terminal.

Domestically Chiang Mai is fed by direct flights from Bangkok, Koh Samui, Udon Thani. Chiang Mai is also well connected to many regional international destinations. With Bangkok being a major regional hub easy access can be made by air from most worldwide destinations.
Chiang Mai Flights

Chiang Mai by Bus

Government bus
If you arrive by a government licensed bus you will arrive at Chiang Mai's large Arcade Bus Station situated about a 10 minute taxi ride away from the city center. You have a choice of transport options from here into the old city and tourist quarter of Chiang Mai. A tuk tuk will cost in the region of 60 - 70 Baht and a shared songtaew (red pick up) will be around the 20 baht per person mark. Government licensed buses depart Bangkok's Northern Bus terminal Mochit throughout the day and night. The fastest VIP buses will do the run in 9-10 hours.

Khao San Rd bus
Many a traveler will arrive on the Khao San Rd bus. There are currently a couple of companies doing the run. The bus originating from Khao San rd is a lot cheaper than government licensed buses and a whole lot more convenient if you are staying in that area of Bangkok. The only thing to watch out for with these buses is the drop off point. One company stops the bus well outside town and then offers you a free ride into town to a guest house of there choosing (or the guesthouse which is currently paying the highest commission). This may not be convenient for the guest house you want to stay in

Chiang Mai by Train

Taking the train is an excellent way to get to Chiang Mai. Thai trains and sleeper carriages can be surprisingly comfortable. Not only is there a good chance of getting a good nights sleep the fare is cheaper and you get to enjoy all the views. Trains depart Bangkok's main Hualumpong train station. There is a choice of both day time seating only trains and night time sleeper trains. Typical journey times are around 12-14 hours. Chiang Mai's train station is conveniently situated about a 5 minute taxi ride out of the city center.

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