Bangkok to Chiang Mai: Train, Bus or Flight?

Bangkok to Chiang Mai is one of Thailand's busiest routes, and you have three good options. The overnight sleeper train is the traveler favorite: it covers the roughly 700 km while you sleep and saves a night's hotel. Buses are cheapest, and flights get you there in well under two hours. Compare them below.

Adding Angkor Wat to your route? See our Read our Bangkok to Siem Reap travel guide.

Distance	About 700 km
Cheapest	VIP bus
Fastest	Flight (about 1h20)
Best value	Overnight sleeper train (saves a hotel night)

Mode	Operator	Duration	Approx fare	Overnight
Train	State Railway of Thailand (sleeper) Overnight berth saves a hotel night. Book the 2nd-class air-con sleeper early, it sells out.	about 12 to 13 hours	approx €25 to €35	Yes	Check on 12Go →
Bus	Nakhonchai Air / VIP coach Cheapest option. VIP coaches recline.	about 9 to 10 hours	approx €18 to €28	Yes	Check on 12Go →
Flight	Thai AirAsia / Nok Air / Thai Lion Air Fastest. Book ahead for the lowest fares.	about 1 hour 20 minutes	approx €30 to €55	No	Compare on Kiwi →

Fares are approximate and shown for comparison. Confirm live prices and times on 12Go before booking.

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What is the cheapest way from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

The bus is usually cheapest, with VIP coaches from roughly EUR 18 to 28. The overnight train costs a little more and saves a hotel night, so it is often the best overall value.

Is the overnight train worth it?

For many travelers, yes. You leave Bangkok in the evening, sleep in a berth, and arrive in the morning, which removes a hotel night and a travel day from your trip.

How long is the flight?

About 1 hour 20 minutes gate to gate, plus airport time. It is the fastest option and fares are competitive when booked ahead.

Do I need to book the sleeper train in advance?

Yes. Second-class air-conditioned berths sell out days ahead in high season, so book early.

Hotel options and prices come from Agoda and update at booking time; sample data shown if live pricing is unavailable. Transport fares are estimates, confirmed on 12Go.