Northern Thailand is best explored on a car trip from the charming Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. Whether you are going back to Chiang Mai for your flight leaving Thailand, or to explore the city known as the "Rose of the North" even more, this car trip is a perfect showcase of the country's beauty and history.
The distance from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is only around 119 miles (187 km), but you'll spend the 3.5-hour drive surrounded by the mountains and forests of Northern Thailand, riding in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.
On the way, Daytrip lets you enrich your Thai experience with exciting stops. Don't miss the striking White Temple, where you'll see the purity, wisdom, and teachings of Buddha represented in stark white spikes. Then, get a dose of history at Wat Phra That Hariphunchai. The Mon-style pyramids are part of the largest and oldest temple in Lamphun.
About Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the busiest city in the region, the mountainous capital of Northern Thailand. The Lanna Kingdom started using Chiang Mai as its capital in 1296 and built the ancient walls and moats still seen in the historic center. Even after the fall of the Lanna empire, Chiang Mai remained a princely seat until 1939. This pedigree has left the city with incredible historical, architectural, and cultural heritage.
Wat Phra Singh, with its wood carvings and Lanna-style roofs, and Wat Chedi, with its massive chedi, are only two of more than 300 Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai. Beyond its religious importance, Chiang Mai is also the gateway to the region’s hills and national parks, such as Doi Inthanon National Park, known as “The Roof of Thailand”, where you'll find the country’s highest peak. Or Doi Suthep, a mountain crowned by the 13th-century Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, where you’ll get to enjoy historic architecture and stunning views of the lush jungle.
Chiang Mai becomes even more magical during the Loy Krathong festival, locally known as Yipeng. During this festival, thousands of lanterns decorated with big orange stars are released into the sky. You might be familiar with this scene from the Disney movie “Tangled”, the reality is even more mesmerizing than on the screen.
The local Thai cuisine is another highlight, and the city offers dishes different from what you'd find in other parts of Thailand. For example, Chiang Mai is known for its khao soi, a creamy coconut curry noodle soup, and sai oua, a spicy local sausage.
From Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai: travel tips
Make your trip from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai a super comfortable and fun one with these simple tips:
Check local events beforehand
Both Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai have festivals and events throughout the year that can double the fun of your visit. Before you travel, check if any local festivals or special events are happening in either city. Planning your trip around the Yipeng Festival or a local market day in Chiang Rai can help you experience the authentic local culture.
### Enjoy the sights
The drive between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai brings you through lush, forested mountains. Have your Daytrip driver put on some local music and enjoy the scenery! Or even better, add sightseeing stops along the way, like Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, a rare Mon-style temple where you'll find the world's largest gong!
### Dress comfortably
Northern Thailand's mountainous terrain has its own microclimates, so it's wise to dress in layers. Mornings can be cool, especially outside of the hot season, and afternoons can get quite warm. Comfortable, breathable clothing will help you adjust to the changing temperatures easily when you stop to explore.
How to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
How you’ll travel from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is a quite important part of your trip, since it can affect the rest of your time in Thailand significantly. So, check your options, evaluate them well, and choose the one that’s the most suitable for you.
### Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai by bus
Direct buses run hourly between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. The bus ride also takes almost four hours and tickets cost $7-11 on average. Buses set off from the main bus station in Chiang Rai and arrive again at the main station in Chiang Mai. The main bus service is Greenbus Thailand, which has coaches with air conditioning and toilets. Check their website for the timetable. Keep in mind that the buses follow a different route than a typical car ride and that they often fill up and sell out.
### Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai by private car service
Daytrip's private car service is the most comfortable and flexible way to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. Unlike with the bus, you set your own schedule. Your English-speaking driver will pick you up at your accommodation in Chaing Rai, load up your luggage, and set off to Chaing Mai.
During the 3.5-hour drive, you can chat with your driver about local culture, and get some insider travel tips, between enriching sightseeing stops. When you get to Chiang Mai, your driver will drop you off at your final destination, be it your accommodation or the airport, and offload your luggage for the perfect end to your trip.
### Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai by rental car
You can rent a car and drive from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. If you didn't rent the car in Chiang Mai in the first place and aren't returning to Chiang Rai, make sure you get a rental that allows for returns in a different city. The drive is relatively easy to navigate since it mostly follows Highway 118. The main benefit of a rental car is the ability to travel on your own schedule and stop for sightseeing---both benefits you can get with Daytrip.
When you drive yourself, you have to navigate the busy streets of Chiang Mai, which can be very stressful if you're not used to Thai traffic. And then there's the issue of parking if you're not returning your rental right away.
Things to do when you get to Chiang Mai
After your successful trip from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, the only thing left to do is to make sure you’ve enjoyed as many must-dos as possible. Here is a list of some of the best things to do when you get to Chiang Mai:
### Explore the Old City
The historic heart of Chiang Mai is remarkably well-preserved for being in the center of Thailand's second-largest city. The original walled and moated boundaries from the 13th century still stand, and they guard over 30 Buddhist temples. Some of these temples are as old as the city itself, like Wat Chiang Man, where King Mengrai lived while Chiang Mai was being constructed.
### Be enchanted by Doi Suthep TempleWat Phra That Doi Suthep is located around 9 miles (15 km) outside of the city, but well worth a trip. Scale the 306-step staircase, or take the cable car to the top of Doi Suthep to reach the temple precincts. Once you’re up, you’ll be welcomed by the delicately carved golden pagodas, numerous Buddha statues, and murals depicting Buddhist lore that fill this temple complex dating back to the 13th century. Arrange an evening tour for an even more magical experience.
### Shop at the Sunday Walking Street Market
Every Sunday, the Sunday Walking Street Market transforms the center of Chiang Mai into a pedestrian market stretching from the Tha Phae Gate to the Ratchadamnoen Road. It’s a fantastic place to shop for local crafts, artwork, clothing, and jewelry made by the local hill tribes and other Northern Thai artists. Or just stroll around sampling the delicious street food.
### Visit the Elephant Nature Park
Elephants are a cornerstone of Thai culture, but not everywhere treats these majestic creatures ethically. Head to the Elephant Nature Park for your chance to spend time with rescued elephants in a responsible setting. This sanctuary and rescue center allows you to learn about the elephants' stories and the conservation efforts being made to protect them. You’ll have a wonderful time helping to feed and bathe the elephants under the guidance of the park’s staff. There are also other rescued animals, and spending time with them is a truly heartwarming experience. Tours should be booked in advance.
When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai
The best time to get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai is between October and April when the weather is cool and pleasant. These months are perfect for exploring the city and its natural surroundings, with November to February being particularly favorable. The Loi Krathong festivities in November and the Chiang Mai Flower Festival in February are both worth planning trips around. Naturally, this period marks the peak season, but northern Thailand doesn't get quite as many tourists as the south.
June to October is the rainy season with higher humidity and fewer tourists, so you'll have a quieter, wetter experience. Be prepared with rain gear and sturdy shoes.
Stay in Chiang Rai to spend calmer and quieter time and to be closer to nature. Here hotel prices can also be cheaper. Chiang Mai is for more cultural attractions and a very dynamic Thai lifestyle. So, choosing between the two cities depends on your own preferences, but both will be a great time spent for sure.
Chiang Mai is approximately 111 miles (180 km) southwest of Chiang Rai. Depending on the route, this distance can differ slightly, but the journey takes around 3.5-4 hours without traffic.
Yes, Chiang Mai is definitely worth visiting. It's known for its rich culture, beautiful temples, energetic markets, and colorful festivals. The city also serves many adventurous travelers as a starting point for Northern Thailand's natural beauty. The Yipeng festival can easily be one of the best experiences you’ve ever had.
You can get from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai by taking a bus, booking a private car service like Daytrip, or driving a rental car. The trip takes 3.5-4 hours, but Daytrip is by far the most comfortable option and even offers the opportunity to explore along the way.
No, there is no direct train service between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, just as there are no direct flights because of the close proximity. Most people take the bus or a private car service.
沿途参观这些景点
白寺
Surreal ornamentation and a glistening facade make this glossy temple unique in Thailand. A Bright Buddhist Beacon
瓦特阿纳拉约
At the heart of this serene, statue-filled temple complex is a viham with dazzling jewel-encrusted Buddhas. Precious Moments
植物园Tweechol
One of the largest gardens in Thailand is a pleasantly manicured oasis filled with topiaries and exotic flora and fauna. The Big Green
哈里芬查寺
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
查姆特威寺
Pillaged of their gold leaf finish, these bare sandstone chedis are exemplary examples of the ancient Dvaravati style. A Topless Treasure
"Dao was the absolute best driver we could’ve had. She was so amazing and went above and beyond. My partner was recovering from food poisoning and she was so understanding the entire ride. Made sure to let us know we can stop at anytime and she was just so friendly and absolutely amazing!"
Sejla A.
United States
2026年2月22日
"Wonderful Driver – Highly Recommend!
Pawat was our driver from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, and he was excellent. He arrived
early, drove very safely, and made the trip smooth and comfortable. He was friendly and
easy to talk to, and he offered great suggestions for quick stops along the way.
Pawat was also knowledgeable and helpful, sharing useful information about the area
as we traveled. We felt well taken care of the entire trip.
Highly recommend Pawat if you’re traveling between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai!"
Gail W.
Thailand
2025年11月26日
"Enjoyable and comfortable trip from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai with driver Natchan. She was fluent in English, punctual and considerate. She ensured I had water and snacks for the long journey."
Luk H.
United Kingdom
2025年11月26日
"Kib was a great safe and careful driver.Arrived on time and collected us from Tweechol as soon as I contacted her."
Veronica M.
Australia
2025年11月5日
"Driver in advanced. Uber friendly and gave us a lot of recomendation in Chiang Rai. Trip was more than 3 hours but it was very enjoyable."
Henry C.
Thailand
2025年1月15日
"OF was a very good driver. He had some water for us. We chatted during most of the trip. He’s a safe driver. We took bathroom breaks along the way. He stayed with us when we arrived to make sure we got checked in. Overall it was a terrific experience. We’ll keep using Daytrip for our transfers. "
Teresa C.
United States
2024年12月21日
"
I was actually incredibly impressed. Our driver was on time, considerate, and met all our expectations. The vehicle was in great condition and very comfortable. "
Jason Y.
Canada
2024年12月18日
" Everything was fine. Your driver was early, drove carefully, spoke decent English and we stopped at a good rest stop and he waited for us as long as we wanted at the botanical garden. "
