Chiang Mai to Bangkok is one of Thailand\\\’s classic routes — 700km connecting the northern cultural capital with the megacity south. You can fly in 1 hour 15 minutes, take an overnight train in 11–13 hours, or ride an overnight bus in 9–10 hours. All three options are popular and well-established.
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Option 1: Flight
Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai Airways, and Bangkok Airways all fly Chiang Mai (CNX) to Bangkok (BKK or DMK). Flights take around 1 hour 15 minutes and depart frequently throughout the day. Budget fares can be very low on advance booking.
- Journey time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
- Price: from ~700–2,500 THB ($19–69 USD)
- Airlines: AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways
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Option 2: Overnight Train (Classic)
The overnight sleeper train from Chiang Mai Station to Bangkok\\\’s Krung Thep Aphiwat (Bang Sue) or Hua Lamphong is one of Thailand\\\’s great travel experiences. Depart around 6:00–8:00 PM, arrive in Bangkok early morning. 1st class cabins are private and comfortable; 2nd class sleepers are very decent. The train rocks you to sleep and you wake up in Bangkok.
- Journey time: 11–13 hours
- Price: from ~500 THB (2nd class sleeper) to ~1,600 THB (1st class)
- Departures: Several evening trains daily
- Book at: Thai Railway online or 12Go
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Option 3: Overnight Bus
VIP overnight buses from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal run to Bangkok\\\’s Mo Chit or Khao San Road area in 9–10 hours. Cheaper than the train and slightly faster, but the bus is less comfortable for sleeping. Works well if the train is fully booked.
- Journey time: 9–10 hours
- Price: ~400–700 THB
- Departure: Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal
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Journey Summary
| Method | Time | Cost from | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | ~1.25 hours | 700 THB | Speed |
| Overnight train | 11–13 hours | 500 THB | Classic experience |
| Overnight bus | 9–10 hours | 400 THB | Budget |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the overnight train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok worth it?
Absolutely — especially in 2nd class sleeper. You save a hotel night, sleep comfortably, and wake up in Bangkok. It\\\’s a classic Thailand experience. Book in advance as popular trains sell out.
Which Bangkok station does the Chiang Mai train use?
Most trains now use Krung Thep Aphiwat (Bang Sue Grand Station), Bangkok\\\’s new main terminal opened in 2021. Some services may still use Hua Lamphong — check your ticket.
Related Guides
- Bangkok to Chiang Mai: Train, Bus and Flight Guide
- Singapore to Chiang Mai: Flight Guide
- Chiang Mai to Vientiane: Bus and Flight Guide
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