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Bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai

Complete guide to bus travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai — schedules, prices, operators and booking tips.

From 130 THBStarting price
3–4 hoursJourney time
200 kmDistance
2+Operators

About the Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Bus Route

Chiang Rai — home to the famous White Temple, Blue Temple and the Golden Triangle — is an easy 3–4 hour bus ride from Chiang Mai, making it a great day trip or overnight stop on a northern Thailand loop.

Route Details & Travel Information

Chiang Rai is one of northern Thailand's most rewarding destinations, combining spectacular temple architecture with fascinating Golden Triangle history and beautiful mountain scenery. The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) alone is worth the journey — its all-white exterior encrusted with mirror glass is unlike anything else in Thailand.

From Chiang Mai, Green Bus operates comfortable air-conditioned coaches to Chiang Rai throughout the day. Buses depart from Chiang Mai's Arcade Bus Terminal (Terminal 2) approximately every hour between 06:00 and 18:00.

In Chiang Rai, the bus arrives at the main bus terminal in the city centre. From there, the White Temple is about 12 kilometres south — take a songthaew or join an organised day tour. The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) is within the city, as is the night bazaar and the Clock Tower.

For the Golden Triangle, continue north from Chiang Rai by local bus or songthaew (about 80 km). The Golden Triangle marks the meeting point of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos at the confluence of the Mekong and Ruak rivers.

Bus Operators

The following operators run regular services on the Chiang Mai–Chiang Rai route:

  • Green Bus — licensed, air-conditioned service
  • Arcade Terminal buses — licensed, air-conditioned service

Compare prices across all operators before booking — fares can vary significantly by class and season.

Departure Schedule

Departures: Every hour 06:00–18:00

From: Arcade Bus Terminal (Terminal 2), Chiang Mai

To: Chiang Rai Bus Terminal

Schedules may vary by operator and season. Confirm departure times when booking, particularly during Thai public holidays.

Travel Tip

✅ Book a morning bus to have maximum time to visit the White Temple and other sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?+
The journey takes 3 to 4 hours depending on the service and stops.
How much does the Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai bus cost?+
Tickets cost around 130–160 THB depending on the operator and class.
How do I get from Chiang Rai to the White Temple?+
The White Temple is 12 km south of Chiang Rai. Take a songthaew from the bus terminal (about 30 THB) or join a local day tour.
Can I do Chiang Rai as a day trip from Chiang Mai?+
Yes — take an early morning bus, visit the White Temple and Blue Temple, and return in the late afternoon or evening.
Is Chiang Rai worth visiting overnight?+
Yes — the night bazaar, Doi Tung and the Golden Triangle make it worth at least one night.

Related Routes

Bangkok → Chiang Mai

9–11 hours · From 350 THB

Chiang Mai → Phuket

18–20 hours · From 700 THB

Chiang Mai → Pai

3–4 hours · From 90 THB

Chiang Mai → Lampang

2 hours · From 70 THB

Chiang Mai → Mae Hong Son

6–8 hours · From 180 THB

Chiang Mai → Doi Inthanon

2 hours · From 80 THB

Route Summary

FromChiang Mai
ToChiang Rai
Duration3–4 hours
Distance200 km
Price fromFrom 130 THB
DeparturesEvery hour 06:00–18:00
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Booking Tips

Book 1–2 days ahead on weekdays. During Songkran (April), New Year and long weekends, book at least one week in advance — buses sell out fast on popular routes.