Flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is the gateway city to Thailand’s far north, and a center for many adventure travelers wanting to trek into the surrounding mountainous region. Travelers to this area include backpackers and walkers, students and families. Chiang Mai was founded in 1296, and was the ancient capital of the independent Lanna Kingdom. The city is home to hundreds of beautiful Buddhist temples, dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries, and now attracts a variety of tourists looking for a unique taste of Thai culture and history.

Flying to Chaing Mai

1. Which airports serve Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

There are numerous flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, leaving from both Don Mueang International Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport.

All flights from arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport, which is conveniently located less than 10 minutes’ drive, by taxi or rental car, from the city center. Or ask your hotel about a pick-up. Many offer a free airport transfer service for guests.

2. Which airlines operate flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, with around 50 daily flights to choose from. There is a wide choice of airlines, too, including Thai Air Asia, Thai Smile, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Mentari. Flights leave regularly, throughout the day, all year round.

3. How long is the flight?

Your flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai should take around 1 hour and 15 minutes. All flights are direct, and there is no time zone difference to worry about.

4. Climate changes between Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Both cities are warm year-round, but Chiang Mai is over 400 miles north of Bangkok and tends to be cooler, especially at night. If you are hiking into the surrounding mountainous area is can get cooler still. Both cities tend to get the majority of their rainfall between May and September, with the rest of the year being quite dry.

5. Culture differences and need-to-know

The Thai Baht is used throughout the country and can be acquired in your home country as well as at banks, hotels and airports in Thailand. Popular credit cards such as Mastercard and Visa are also accepted.

If you are flying from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, you are, of course flying domestically and will not need a visa or passport. Non-Thai travelers will find it useful to carry passports when traveling within the country. They are the best form of identity proof and may be requested by authorities.

Chiang Mai Information

Chiang Mai is located in a beautiful valley on the banks of the Ping river. Steeped in history and tradition, the area is now a center for traditional Thai culture and offers a variety of experiences to delight travelers. From Thai cookery classes to traditional Thai massage and delicious Thai food, make sure to sample as much as you can of what the region has to offer. Wander around the Old City and take in the temples, explore the Doi Inthanon National Park, book a multi-day trek to visit tribal hill villages, or consider a visit to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.