Traveling by bus from Chiang Rai (เชียงราย, Chiang Rai) to Chiang Mai (เชียงใหม่, Chiang Mai) is one of the most convenient and budget-friendly options for travelers. The route is primarily served by Green Bus, offering both VIP and Express services daily. This guide provides up-to-date schedules, pricing, and practical booking tips to help plan your journey.
Bus Services and Features
Green Bus operates modern, air-conditioned vehicles with reclining seats and occasionally onboard toilets, making the 3–4 hour journey comfortable. Buses depart from multiple terminals in Chiang Rai, including the Central Bus Terminal and border bus stations, and arrive at Chiang Mai Bus Station 3.
Key features of Green Bus services:
- Air-conditioned, comfortable seating
- Reclining seats suitable for long journeys
- Onboard restrooms (VIP buses only)
- Scenic routes through mountainous northern Thailand
Schedules
Green Bus offers approximately 17 trips daily, split between VIP and Express services:
| Service Type | Departure Times | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| VIP | 8:00, 10:00, 12:30, 14:30, 16:30, 18:00 | ~3 hours 20 minutes |
| Express | 7:30, 9:00, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, 17:00, 18:30 | ~3.5–4 hours |
Travel tip: VIP buses are faster and more comfortable, while Express buses offer a slightly cheaper alternative at the cost of a longer journey.
Ticket Prices
| Service Type | Price (THB) |
|---|---|
| VIP | THB 400 |
| Express | THB 285–290 |
Note: Prices may vary slightly depending on the bus class and platform used for booking.
Booking Tips
Booking a ticket is straightforward and can be done in advance online or in person at the bus station:
- Online booking: Green Bus offers ticket reservations through its official website and mobile app. Online tickets typically provide a QR code for easy boarding.
- In-person booking: Arrive early at the bus station to select your preferred seat, especially during peak travel periods.
- Boarding: Make sure to check the departure terminal, as Chiang Rai has several bus stations servicing different routes.
Pro tip: For maximum comfort and convenience, reserve a VIP seat online, especially if traveling during holidays or weekends.
Travel Experience
The Chiang Rai–Chiang Mai route takes you through northern Thailand’s scenic mountainous terrain, providing views of lush valleys, rivers, and rural villages. Travel time ranges from 3 hours 20 minutes to 4 hours, depending on traffic and bus type.
FAQs
- How long does the bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai take?
VIP buses take around 3 hours 20 minutes, while Express buses usually take 3.5–4 hours. - What are the main bus terminals in Chiang Rai?
Buses depart from the Central Bus Terminal and several border bus stations. - Which bus service is more comfortable?
VIP buses are faster, have more legroom, reclining seats, and sometimes onboard toilets. - How much does a VIP bus ticket cost?
A VIP bus ticket costs approximately THB 400. - How much does an Express bus ticket cost?
Express bus tickets range from THB 285 to 290. - Can I book tickets online?
Yes, tickets can be booked through the Green Bus official website or app, which often provides QR code tickets. - Is it necessary to arrive early if I book online?
Online booking usually allows you to board directly, but arriving a few minutes early is recommended. - Do buses have onboard restrooms?
VIP buses sometimes have restrooms; Express buses generally do not. - How frequent are buses?
Around 17 trips operate daily, starting from early morning to evening. - Are there scenic views during the journey?
Yes, the route passes through picturesque northern Thailand mountains, valleys, and rural villages.
For a Complete Travel Guide
For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide: