Chiang Rai is worth visiting unless you want whisky-fueled parties. It's not as touristy as other popular Thai destinations. So, you can uncover the authentic lifestyle, and you won't need to worry about tourist traps. There's also an abundance of attractions to keep you entertained in town, such as temples, markets, hiking trails, and snug coffee houses.
What is the fastest way to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
Daytrip is the fastest way to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. A private door-to-door service can drive from your hotel down south to your new one up north in only 3 hours and 20 minutes. Therefore, you'll save more valuable time by not having to catch a bus from the stations to your accommodation.
Is it better to stay in Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai?
Whether it's better to stay in Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai depends on your travel preferences. If you prefer a busy city life with a never-ending supply of activities, Chiang Rai is more suitable for you. Chiang Mai is ideal if you enjoy a laid-back vibe with fewer tourists and if you're looking for a cheaper destination.
What is the easiest way to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
Daytrip's private door-to-door service is the easiest way to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. An English-speaking driver will collect you at your hotel and drop you off at your new one whenever you please. Also, they'll manage your luggage and answer any queries you have about Thailand.
Is there a train between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai?
As of 2024, no train runs from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. Although Chiang Rai does have a railway station around 2.5 miles (4 km) from the city center, it only receives around ten daily services. Instead, locals and visitors must travel on this route by bus, flight, or private door-to-door service.
How far is it from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
The shortest road distance from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is 120 miles, which can take only 3 hours and 20 minutes when driving safely. However, the mountainous terrain and Chiang Mai's rush hour traffic can increase the duration. Drive outside the peak hours from 7 AM to P AM and 5 PM to 7 PM to reduce the travel times.
자주 묻는 질문
질문이 있으시면, 여기에 답변이 있습니다.
Daytrip은 전 세계 14,600+ 개 도시를 경험할 수 있는 가장 편리한 방법입니다.
모든 여행자는 자신이 방문하는 국가의 문화에 대한 진정한 통찰을 받을 자격이 있습니다. 그리고 지구상의 모든 놀라운 장소는 방문하고 감상할 가치가 있습니다. 우리는 독특한 현지 지식과 진정한 인간적 연결이 다른 문화를 진정으로 이해하는 데 있어 대체할 수 없다고 믿습니다.
Thailand is where unique traditions blend harmony with breathtaking scenery, identical to a blockbuster sci-fi film. The 120-mile (193 km) drive from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai will take you through the mountainous terrain and showcase why this region belongs on every adventure seeker's bucket list!
Weaving out from the maze of Buddhist temples is the first step to propelling your way from busy city life to unspoiled nature. Before you know it, iconic views of rice paddies peak through the lush green foliage lining the road as the heavy, humid air flows through your car window.
You'll need a spot to recharge en route, as your eyes will have never been so active while admiring the stunning mist-covered peaks and jaw-dropping valleys in the distance. Luckily, endless roadside vendors and traditional Thai villages reside here, offering an opportunity to sample authentic cuisine in a setting off the beaten path.
After 3.5 hours behind the wheel, you'll arrive at what seems to be the plot of an Indiana Jones movie where cone-shaped temples and gold-adored statues dominate the city. When you choose the most convenient way to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, you'll arrive at your front door ready to plunge into the cultural treasure trove of Thailand's most northern major city!
About Chiang Rai
After a scenic transfer from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, you'll arrive at the largest city in northern Thailand. The bustling lanes, based along the banks of the Kok River, are home to almost 580,000 welcoming locals.
The city lies in the famous Golden Triangle, where Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand conjoin. Its position in the remote hills, less than 40 miles from both nations, is vital for its distinctive blend of cultures today.
### The beginning of Chiang Rai
Various tribes inhabited the hilly terrain surrounding Chiang Rai for centuries. However, King Meng Rai established a town here in the mid-13th century.
After its establishment, Chiang Rai became the political headquarters for the Lanna Thai Kingdom. It became a part of modern-day Thailand in the 1780s when then-known Siam took control of this area.
Chiang Rai witnessed significant growth after King Rama VI declared the region a province in 1910. Although the city witnessed industrialization in the 20th century, the area retains its charm despite being a popular destination today.
### Chiang Rai today
Despite golden shores and baby blue waters in southern Thailand, Chiang Rai and its surrounding woodlands are one of the leading travel destinations nationwide. Its fascinating historical relics and close-knit streets packed with colorful merchandise allow you to experience a true Thai city rather than towns catering to tourists.
The most notable feature of Chiang Mai is its carefree spirit. Although lively, the rustic streets generate a laid-back vibe that encourages you to explore at your own pace and interact with locals at street markets or cozy cafes. Just a stone's throw from the urban center lay sacred temples and serine countryside, giving you a much-needed break from the 21st century.
Language: Thai
Currency: Thai baht (THB)
Climate: tropical savanna
Time zone: GMT+7
* Plug type: A, B, and C
Travel tips from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
The road from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is in an exotic location in northern Thailand. In most instances, this will be your first time traveling on this route, so we included essential tips for a smooth voyage below!
### Prepare for the weather
The road from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai passes through a tropical climate. Therefore, you'll experience hot temperatures, high humidity, and plenty of rainfall all year round.
Pack a light backpack outside your main luggage with essentials like sunscreen, rain gear, or umbrellas, depending on the season. If you're traveling by public transport, remember that air conditioning is often powerful onboard. So you might feel chilly without a jacket.
### Take the scenic route
The most direct route from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai offers mesmerizing vistas. But if you take the scenic trail, you'll venture through the unspoiled landscapes and have the chance to stop at viewpoints en route.
With a flexible mode of transport like Daytrip, you can turn off the tourist trail and stop at sights like Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, home to the world's largest gong! Or you can soak up the exquisite man-made wonder overlooking natural beauty at Wat Analayo!
### Cash is king
Cash is still the favored payment method in Thailand. If you want to sample the delicious roadside eateries or enter lesser-known attractions en route, you'll likely need some change.
Thailand uses its national currency, the Thai baht. If you need to exchange money while in Asia, change cash at a 0% commission office with a competitive rate. As of 2024, the exchange rate is $1 = ฿34.50.
How to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Getting from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai may seem challenging. Although it does require some insider knowledge and planning, you can learn how to travel and find the best transportation option for your needs below!
### Buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
A bus is by far the most popular way for locals and international tourists to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. It's also the cheapest way to travel. So carriages can feel crowded during the peak season from November to March.
Greenbus, Greenbus Express, and Greenbus VIP offer numerous daily services from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1. It's possible to purchase a ticket at the station, but you could be queuing for hours as it's a demanding route for residents. Instead, check the timetable, reserve a seat, and take advantage of the best deals online.
Cheapest bus ticket: $6.50 (฿229)
Most expensive bus ticket: $10 (฿338)
Quickest bus duration: 3 hours and 20 minutes
Longest bus duration: 8 hours and 5 minutes
First bus departure: 7 AM
Last bus departure: 6 PM
### Flights from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Although it's possible to travel by plane from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, there are other recommended modes of transport. Flights require the most hassle, take the most time, and cost more than a private transfer.
No direct flight flies from Chiang Mai Airport to Chiang Rai Airport. Instead, you must board an indirect service with Nok Air or Thai Asia with a layover at Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok. From Chiang Rai Airport, you can reach downtown with a 15-minute taxi or by boarding the shuttle bus for ฿28.
Including the flight, airport transfer, security checks, and checking luggage, the overall journey will take between 6.5 and 7.5 hours. You can also expect to pay between $65 and $95 (฿2240-฿3300).
### Tours from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Tours are a favored mode of transport for tourists traveling from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. The times and schedules are set in stone, so it requires little to no planning, ideal when you want to remain in the laid-back vacation spirit.
Several tour companies operate on this route, departing from Chiang Mai between 7 AM and 8 AM and returning home around 8 PM to 9 PM. Many will even stop at landmarks along the journey. The downside is that you'll have to pay for a round trip, even if you want to stay overnight and appreciate the plethora of cultural attractions.
The tour lasts around 12 to 14 hours, and you can expect to pay between $65 and $100 (฿2240-฿2445).
### Daytrip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
If you prioritize comfort, convenience, speed, or safety on your adventure from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, your search for a means of transportation ends with Daytrip. A private door-to-door service can transport you between the cities in a clean, sanitized vehicle with modern conveniences in only 3 hours and 20 minutes.
Daytrip is perfect if you're searching for a flexible service that lets you create your unique road trip without the headache of driving. Our optional sightseeing package allows you to explore sites en route, such as the elegant White Temple. Or you could visit the oasis at Botanical Tweechol while your professional driver waits outside and minds your suitcases!
Seats from: $28 (฿965)
English-speaking driver
Flexible timetable
Complimentary bottled water
Equipped for kids, pets, groups, or those with limited mobility
24/7 customer support
* Free cancellation 24 hours before departing
Things to do when you get to Chiang Rai
With so many things to do in northern Thailand, deciding what to put on your travel schedule can feel overwhelming. To help relieve the pressure, we included the four attractions you can't afford to overlook after getting your Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai transfer!
### Visit the Baan Dam Museum
The Baan Dam Museum, also known as the Black House, is a collection of over 40 black-themed buildings created by artist Thawan Duchanee. This museum showcases various traditional northern Thai architecture and dark, provocative art.
The exhibits include animal bones, skulls, and dark wooden sculptures. It contrasts the famous White Temple and reflects the artist's exploration of life, death, and spirituality.
### Go temple hunting
You could write an entire travel guide on the endless temples in Chiang Rai. So the best thing to do in town is visit the highlights. Then, switch off your mobile phone and explore the streets to uncover hidden gems.
The White Temple, Wat Rong Suea Ten, and Wat Huay Pla Kang are unquestionably the most popular and alluring in town. But if you want to witness the religious landmarks without the tourists, stick Wat Jed Yod Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong on your to-do list!
### Shop and savor at the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
Whether you're visiting Europe, Asia, the Americas, or Africa, the best way to get a sample of the local flavors is by visiting an authentic market. Luckily, Chiang Rai Night Bazaar is the heart and soul of Chiang Rai's culture.
One of the most unique aspects of this market is that it's only open in the evening from 6 PM to 11 PM. Inside, you can mingle with the locals, witness how residents interact, or shop until you drop with wallet-friendly vendors!
### Take a day trip to the Golden Triangle
A day trip to the Golden Triangle is a prestigious event for travel enthusiasts. This bucket list experience is a natural paradise spread across 77,200 square miles where the three nations of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.
Once infamous for its opium trade, the area is now a peaceful tourist destination offering panoramic views of the Mekong River and the surrounding mountains. However, you can still visit the Hall of Opium and learn about the tragic events with the warlords.
When is the best time to visit Chiang Rai?
Early November to late February is the peak tourist season in northern Thailand. It's one of the most demanding exotic winter sun destinations due to the countless outdoor activities and the tropical climate, making it the best time to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.
Temperatures are cooler and less humid during this period. The average daily high temperatures of 85°F and lower humidity levels between 50% and 60% are more pleasant for walking tours through the green landscape and exploring religious sites. Also, you won't have to constantly search for air conditioning and take shade from the beating sun in cafes, like in the summer.
Winter is also the best time to visit and soak up local traditions. Some of the most significant events occur during this season, including the Krathong Festival and the stunning Chiang Rai Flower Fest. Since Chiang Rai isn't a tourist hotspot, you can experience what it's like to be a Thai citizen during these beloved holidays!
가는 길에 이 명소들을 방문하세요
Wat Chamthewi
Pillaged of their gold leaf finish, these bare sandstone chedis are exemplary examples of the ancient Dvaravati style. A Topless Treasure
Wat Phra That Hariphunchai
This venerated temple is one of the last places in Thailand to see Mon-style architecture - and it has the world’s largest gong! Bang Me Gong, Mon
Botanical Tweechol
One of the largest gardens in Thailand is a pleasantly manicured oasis filled with topiaries and exotic flora and fauna. The Big Green
Wat Analayo
At the heart of this serene, statue-filled temple complex is a viham with dazzling jewel-encrusted Buddhas. Precious Moments
White Temple
Surreal ornamentation and a glistening facade make this glossy temple unique in Thailand. A Bright Buddhist Beacon
“우리는 Day Trip에서 받은 서비스의 품질에 매우 만족했습니다. 우리는 8월 31일 아테네에서 레프카다로, 9월 7일 레프카다에서 아테네로 돌아오는 두 번의 Day Trip을 이용했습니다. 두 여행 모두 그리스의 아름다운 명소에서의 정차가 포함되어 있었습니다. 두 운전사 모두 훌륭하고 친절했습니다. 그러나 특히 우리를 레프카다에서 아테네로 데려다준 기사 Panos Peppas를 언급하고 싶습니다. Panos는 믿을 수 없을 만큼 친절하고 유쾌했으며, 뛰어난 고객 서비스를 제공했습니다. 그 서비스에는 모든 짐을 처리해 주는 것, 여행 내내 차가운 물을 제공해 주는 것, 단백질 바를 제공해 주는 것, 코린트 운하(경유지 중 하나)에 대한 인쇄물을 제공해 주는 것, 귀국 항공편의 터미널 및 게이트 정보를 찾아 알려주는 것, 그리고 자지키 요리법을 알려주는 것이 포함되었습니다.”
“우리는 이 회사를 정말 사랑하며, 지난 몇 년 동안 여러 번 이용했습니다. 직접 렌터카를 빌리는 번거로움 없이 A에서 B로 이동할 수 있었습니다. 매번 훌륭한 운전사들, 효율적이고 전문적이었습니다. 그 값어치를 충분히 하며, 우리는 Day Trip을 모든 사람에게 진심으로 추천합니다. 그들의 5성 평가는 완전히 자격이 있습니다.”
“Daytrip의 Gonzalo는 우리의 운전사였고, 그는 정말 놀라웠습니다. 휴대폰 신호가 좋지 않아 우리가 어디 있는지 찾기 위해 많은 노력을 기울였습니다. 그는 우리가 로비에 도착할 때까지 인내심 있게 기다렸고, Tulum Dreams Resort에서 공항 근처에 있는 칸쿤의 다른 호텔까지 우리를 데려다주었습니다. 그곳은 집으로 돌아가기 전이었고, 한 시간 반 정도 거리였습니다. 그는 공손하고, 예의 바르며, 친절했습니다. 긴 여정 내내 우리가 편안하도록 신경 써 주었습니다. 빠르고 간결하게. Tulum에서 Cancún까지 편도 차량을 찾는 것은 쉽지도 저렴하지도 않은데, 이 회사는 훌륭한 가격에 훌륭한 서비스를 제공합니다. 앞으로 Cancún/Tulum 지역에 있을 때 꼭 다시 이용할 것입니다. 감사합니다, DayTrip과 Gonzalo.”
“마리안나는 우리를 픽업해서 헤라클리온에서 하니아까지 데려다주었습니다. 날씨가 매우 안 좋아서 그녀는 몇 분 늦었지만, 직접 연락해서 알려주었습니다. 마리안나는 하니아에 살고 있으며, 도중에 하니아에서 할 수 있는 활동들과 볼거리를 알려주며 우리의 여행을 더욱 흥미롭게 만들어 주었습니다. 그녀는 매우 안전하게 운전했고, 비가 많이 오는 상황에서도 저희는 그녀의 운전 속도와 실력에 안심할 수 있었습니다. 그녀는 사랑스러운 사람이고 영어도 유창하게 합니다. 우리는 Daytrip을 적극 추천하며, 헤라클리온이나 하니아에 계신다면 꼭 마리안나를 요청해 보세요.”
“멕시코에서 두 번의 이동을 위해 Daytrip을 이용했는데, 두 번 다 정말 좋았습니다. 매우 편안했고, 목적지마다 완벽한 시간에 도착할 수 있었습니다. 두 명의 기사님 모두 훌륭했으며, 우리는 매우 안전하다고 느꼈습니다. 특히, 우리의 기사 중 한 명인 미겔은 최고의 음악을 틀어주기도 했습니다! 다음 멕시코 여행에서도 꼭 Daytrip을 이용할 예정입니다.”
“이 여행에 대해 무엇을 기대해야 할지 몰랐고 호주에서 예약했습니다. 처음에는 그라나다에서 말라가로 가는 쉬운 방법을 찾고 있었습니다. 길을 가다가 추가로 볼 수 있는 기회를 낭비하지 않기로 결정했습니다. 미구엘은 확실히 우리의 기대를 초과했습니다. 그의 영어는 훌륭했습니다(불행하게도 우리는 스페인어를 거의 하지 않습니다), 그리고 그는 매우 친절하고 도움이 되었습니다. 우리는 지나가는 지역에 대해 듣고 일부 현지 방식에 대해 논의하는 것을 매우 즐겼습니다. 미구엘은 계획대로 안테케라에 우리를 데려다 주었고, 우리가 서두르는 느낌 없이 관광지 티켓을 쉽게 구할 수 있도록 했습니다. 우리는 정시에 픽업하고 내려주었고, 여행을 정말 즐겼습니다. 우리는 다시 스페인에 돌아가 이 서비스를 다시 이용할 수 있기를 바랍니다.”
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Review of Daytrip
Todd U.
1 review
5 stars: Excellent
14 minutes ago
Daytrip is now in Thailand
My wife and i booked a driver in Northern Thailand earlier this month. i had previously used a different service around Bangkok but they don't operate in Northern Thailand. I tried to contact a popular driver from TripAdvisor but he was slow to respond. I found Daytrip (or mydaytrip) from an advertised search result. I found lots if great reviews about them from Europe but nothing from Thailand. They seemed new to Thailand but i took a chance because they offered exactly what i wanted: a ride from chiang mai to Chiang rai with optional stops along the way. Not a full fledged tour... Just a ride but private and with stops. It seemed expensive at first but later the popular driver responded and cost more. Our driver was Chairit K. He was friendly, funny, punctual (early) and spoke perfect English. As a bonus, he is Lanna so we learned their history perspective. He drove an SUV which seemed like an upgrade (we booked a sedan). Both he and our previous grab driver both said the daytrip price is actually quite a bit cheaper than others, maybe because they are new to Thailand. I think (but not sure) that the service is coordinated out of Europe. Communication was by email and prompt, informative, and accurate. I think our original driver cancelled and they found a replacement. I don't know because they handled it all. I'm glad i didn't have to go looking for a replacement myself (if i had booked a driver directly). I would definitely recommend Daytrip in Thailand.”
Tripadvisor 여행자 tuyeda2018 의 리뷰
알아두면 좋은 정보
어린이
어린이와 함께 여행하시는 경우, 예약 시 알려주시면 적절한 어린이 좌석을 준비하겠습니다!
반려동물
애완동물은 허용됩니다(그리고 사랑받습니다)! 미리 알려주시면 됩니다. 예약의 다음 단계에서 애완동물에 대해 알려주실 수 있습니다.
팁
팁은 포함되지 않으며 필수도 아니지만, 여행을 정말 즐기셨다면 선택적으로 팁(10% 정도)을 주셔서 운전기사에게 감사의 마음을 표현할 수 있습니다.
수하물
대형 수하물
29x21x11 인치
74x53x28 cm
소형 수하물
22x14x9 인치
56x36x23 cm
각 승객은 위탁 수하물 1개와 기내 수하물 1개를 소지할 수 있습니다. 더 많은 가방이나 초과 수하물을 가지고 여행하는 경우 예약 시 이를 조정할 수 있습니다.
Daytrip은 현지 운전 기사분과 연결하여 한 도시에서 다른 도시로 문 앞에서 문 앞까지 이동할 수 있도록 도와주는 플랫폼입니다. 이동 중에 관광명소나 명소를 탐험할 기회도 제공합니다. 우리는 운전하고, 당신은 발견합니다.
모든 Daytrip 예약은 편도입니다. 다른 날짜에 왕복 여행이 필요한 경우, 별도의 편도 여행으로 예약하십시오. 당일치기 여행의 경우 맞춤 여행 요청을 하실 수 있습니다. 몇 시간 이상 머무를 계획이라면, 운전 기사 대기 비용을 지불하지 않기 위해 두 개의 편도 여행을 예약하는 것을 권장합니다.
Daytrip의 개인 서비스의 경우, 출발 24시간 전까지 전액 환불을 받을 수 있습니다. Daytrip Pool 공유 셔틀의 경우, 예약 시 세 가지 옵션을 제공합니다: 환불 불가능한 Non-refundable 옵션, 출발 24시간 전까지 취소 가능한 flexible 옵션, 출발 15분 전까지 취소 가능한 Super-flexible 옵션. Daytrip의 개인 서비스의 경우, 예약 취소는 출발 24시간 전까지 전액 환불되지만, 성수기에는 36시간 이내에 요청된 변경 사항은 운전기사의 일정에 따라 달라질 수 있습니다.
홈페이지에서 출발지와 도착지를 선택하고 출발 날짜와 시간을 입력하세요. 화면에 제공된 예약 지침에 따라 경유지 관광지를 검색하고 추가하세요. 간단하고 쉬우며 재미있게 다음 모험을 예약할 수 있습니다! 원하는 경로가 웹사이트에 없을 경우 맞춤 여행 요청을 할 수도 있습니다. 정확한 승차 또는 하차 주소를 모르는 경우에도 예약할 수 있으며, 나중에 주소들를 추가 및 수정할 수 있습니다!
각 승객분은 큰 가방 1개(29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm)와 작은 가방 1개(22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm)를 허용합니다. 고급 세단은 큰 가방 2개만 수용할 수 있습니다. 항상 귀하와 수하물에 가장 적합한 차량을 보내드리므로 예약 시 실제 여행 수하물의 양을 선택하십시오. 특대 수하물이 있거나 수하물이 적합할지 확신이 서지 않는 경우, 연락처로 문의해 주세요.
미국을 제외한 모든 지역에서 운전기사분은 적절한 어린이용 카시트를 제공합니다(예약 시 알려 주세요). 미국의 일부 주에서는 고객분이 자신의 어린이용 카시트를 준비해야 할 수 있습니다. 해당 여행에 적용되는지 확인하려면 Daytrip 고객 서비스에 문의해 주세요.
