Chiang Rai, a charming city in northern Thailand, is famous for its stunning temples, the Golden Triangle, and its peaceful atmosphere. How to reach Chiang Rai is made easy through a variety of transportation options, ensuring that both domestic and international travelers can easily access this beautiful destination. Whether you’re coming from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or even neighboring countries like Laos and Myanmar, this guide will help you navigate the best ways to reach Chiang Rai and enjoy all that it has to offer.
Table of Contents
Reaching Chiang Rai by Air
From India to Chiang Rai
There are no direct flights from India to Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI). However, travelers can reach Chiang Rai with a one-stop or two-stop journey via Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or other major Southeast Asian hubs.
- Via Bangkok (Most Common Route)
- Fly from major Indian cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata) to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK).
- Take a domestic flight from Bangkok to Chiang Rai (1 hour 20 minutes). Airlines like Thai Airways, Thai VietJet Air, Nok Air, and Thai AirAsia operate frequent flights.
- Via Chiang Mai
- Take a direct flight from India to Bangkok.
- Catch a connecting flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (1 hour).
- Travel by bus or private taxi from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai (3-4 hours).
- Via Southeast Asian Hubs
- Some airlines offer routes via Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Singapore, or Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam) with connecting flights to Chiang Rai.
Also Read: How to Reach Hua Hin
Reaching Chiang Rai by Train
Although Chiang Rai does not have a railway station, you can reach Chiang Mai by train and then take a bus or taxi.
Steps to Travel by Train
- Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- Duration: 11-13 hours
- Trains Available: Overnight sleeper trains, first-class, second-class AC/non-AC
- Departure Station: Hua Lamphong Station, Bangkok
- Recommended Train: Special Express No. 9 (sleeper train) for comfort
- Bus or Taxi from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Bus Operators: Greenbus (VIP & Standard buses)
- Taxi Cost: THB 2,500 – 3,500 (₹6,000 – ₹8,400)
Reaching Chiang Rai by Bus
Chiang Rai is well-connected to other parts of Thailand through an extensive bus network. The city has two main bus terminals: Old Bus Station (Terminal 1) and New Bus Station (Terminal 2).
From Bangkok:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 10-12 hours |
| Bus Companies | Greenbus, Sombat Tour, Nakhonchai Air |
| Bus Types | VIP, First-class, Economy |
| Departure Station | Mo Chit Bus Terminal, Bangkok |
| Cost (VIP Bus) | ~THB 800-1,000 / ₹2,000-₹2,500 |
| Cost (Standard Bus) | ~THB 500-600 / ₹1,200-₹1,500 |
Also Read: How to Reach Phi Phi Islands
From Chiang Mai:
| Duration | 3-4 hours |
|---|---|
| Best Bus Operator | Greenbus |
| Bus Types | Express, VIP, Economy |
| Departure Point | Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal |
| Cost (VIP Bus) | ~THB 350-400 / ₹850-₹1,000 |
| Cost (Standard Bus) | ~THB 200-250 / ₹500-₹700 |
From Other Destinations:
- Phuket: Long-distance buses take about 24 hours.
- Pattaya: The journey is roughly 16 hours.
Reaching Chiang Rai by Boat
For the adventurous, Chiang Rai can be reached by boat from Laos via the Mekong River. This option is popular among travelers coming from Luang Prabang.
From Huay Xai (Laos):
- Duration: 2 days on a slow boat.
- Highlights: Enjoy stunning river views and stop at small villages along the way.
Best Travel Option from India
| Route | Time Taken | Cost (₹ Approx.) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight via Bangkok | 7-8 hours | ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 | Fastest & Easiest |
| Flight via Chiang Mai + Bus/Taxi | 9-10 hours | ₹12,000 – ₹20,000 | Budget-Friendly |
| Train + Bus (Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Chiang Rai) | 14-17 hours | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 | Scenic Journey |
| Bus from Bangkok | 12 hours | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 | Budget Travelers |
| Taxi from Chiang Mai | 3-4 hours | ₹6,000 – ₹8,400 | Comfortable & Fast |
Chiang Rai is a must-visit destination with attractions like the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), Blue Temple, and the Golden Triangle. Whether you fly, take a bus, or go on a road trip, reaching Chiang Rai is easy with multiple options available!
Conclusion
How to reach Chiang Rai is easier than ever! With convenient flights, scenic road trips, and comfortable buses, you can choose the perfect way to get there. Each route offers stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of this charming destination. Start planning your adventure today and experience the magic of Chiang Rai!
Also Read: How to Reach Ayutthaya
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get to Chiang Rai by air?
By Air: The nearest airport is Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI), which has flights connecting to major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and other regional destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle to the city center.
Is there a train service to Chiang Rai?
By Train: Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Chiang Rai. However, you can take a train to Chiang Mai and then travel to Chiang Rai by bus or taxi.
How do I travel from Bangkok to Chiang Rai?
By Bus: You can take a direct bus from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) to Chiang Rai.
By Flight: A quick flight from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok to Chiang Rai International Airport.
By Car: You can drive from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, which takes approximately 9-10 hours via the highway.
Are there buses or minibuses from other cities to Chiang Rai?
Yes, there are frequent bus and minibus services from cities like Chiang Mai, Pai, and Phayao to Chiang Rai.
Can I travel by public transport within Chiang Rai?
Yes, Chiang Rai has local buses, songthaews (shared taxis), and motorbike taxis for getting around within the city and nearby attractions.