Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
    Route Guide

    Chiang Mai Chiang Rai

    Chiang Rai is home to the White Temple, Blue Temple, and stunning northern Thai culture. Here's how to get there from Chiang Mai — by bus, van, or private car.

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    TransportDurationPriceFrequency
    Green Bus (VIP)
    		 3–3.5 hrs ฿150–฿300Every 30–60 minBook
    Minivan
    		 2.5–3 hrs ฿200–฿350HourlyBook
    Private Car / Day Trip
    		 3 hrs ฿2,000–฿4,000On demandBook

    Detailed Breakdown

    Green Bus (VIP)

    Duration3–3.5 hrs
    Price฿150–฿300
    FrequencyEvery 30–60 min
    Pros
    • Very frequent
    • Comfortable VIP class
    • Direct to Chiang Rai bus station
    Cons
    • Fixed schedule
    • No hotel pickup
    Book Green Bus (VIP)

    Minivan

    Duration2.5–3 hrs
    Price฿200–฿350
    FrequencyHourly
    Pros
    • Faster than bus
    • More frequent stops
    Cons
    • Cramped seating
    • May wait to fill up
    Book Minivan

    Private Car / Day Trip

    Duration3 hrs
    Price฿2,000–฿4,000
    FrequencyOn demand
    Pros
    • Stop at White Temple en route
    • Door-to-door
    • Perfect for day trips
    Cons
    • Most expensive
    • Need to arrange driver
    Book Private Car / Day Trip

    Travel Tips

    • A day trip is possible — leave early, visit White Temple + Blue Temple, and return by evening bus.
    • The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is midway between the two cities — ask your driver to stop.
    • Green Bus VIP class has reclining seats, A/C, and is the most popular choice among locals.
    • Consider staying overnight in Chiang Rai to visit the Night Bazaar and explore at a slower pace.
    • Combine with a trip to the Golden Triangle where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.

    Our Recommendation: Take the Green Bus VIP class — it's comfortable, cheap (฿150–300), and runs every 30 minutes. For a day trip, book a private car so you can stop at the White Temple along the way.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long does it take from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
    Buses take 3–3.5 hours, minivans take 2.5–3 hours, and private cars take about 3 hours with stops.
    Can I do a day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
    Yes! Take an early morning bus (6:00–7:00) and return by evening. A private car day trip with White Temple and Blue Temple stops costs ฿2,000–4,000.
    Is the White Temple between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai?
    Yes, Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) is located about 30 minutes south of Chiang Rai city, directly on the route from Chiang Mai.
    What is the cheapest way to get to Chiang Rai?
    Green Bus standard class costs ฿150. VIP class costs ฿250–300 and is well worth the small upgrade.

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