How To Get From Chiang Mai to Southern Thailand
Thailand has a lot to offer visitors, and the north and south of the country each have their own distinct charm. Northern Thailand is renowned for its lush jungles, ancient history, and beautiful temples. You can spend your entire trip in the North of Thailand without running out of things to do!
Southern Thailand offers a different experience - beautiful beaches, tropical islands, and vibrant nightlife. From the iconic limestone formations of Krabi, diving in Koh Tao, to the electrifying energy of Phuket's nightlife, the south offers an irresistible blend of relaxation and excitement.
To get the most out of your trip to Thailand, it's worth visiting both the North and South of the country to experience everything they offer. Thailand is a large country, and you might be wondering how to get around, so we've put together a guide to help. Read on to find out how to get from Chiang Mai to some of the most popular spots in Southern Thailand.
Chiang Mai to Khao Sok
Nestled in the heart of Southern Thailand, the National Park of Khao Sok stands as a pristine natural wonder that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Characterized by its lush rainforests, dramatic limestone cliffs, and the serene Cheow Lan Lake, Khao Sok is a sanctuary of biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. Visitors are captivated by its awe-inspiring beauty, offering a range of activities from jungle trekking and wildlife spotting to peaceful lake excursions.
People are drawn to Khao Sok for its untamed wilderness, where rare flora and fauna thrive in their natural habitat. The verdant jungle hides diverse species, including the Asian elephant and the enigmatic Malayan sun bear. A popular activity for people visiting Khao Sok is an overnight floating bungalow tour, which usually involves hiking the park's network of trails, and wildlife safaris via boat on the tranquil lake waters.
You have a few transportation options to travel from Chiang Mai to Khao Sok. Here's a general overview of the journey:
Flight: The fastest way is to fly from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) to Surat Thani Airport (URT), the closest airport to Khao Sok. From Surat Thani Airport, you can take a bus or a minivan to Khao Sok, which is around a 2-3 hour journey.
Bus/Train: You can take a bus or a train from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani. Buses are generally faster and more direct, but trains offer a more scenic and comfortable experience. Sleeper trains are also available on the route between Chiang Mai and Surat Thani, and these are a very efficient way to travel - rather than wasting a day traveling, you can go to sleep and wake up at your destination! Be aware that it takes two nights to reach Surat Thani from Chiang Mai by bus and train. Once you reach Surat Thani, you can continue your journey to Khao Sok by bus or minivan.
How to book tickets: Train and bus tickets can be purchased at the station, but buying tickets this way can be risky as the tickets tend to sell out in advance. Instead, we recommend buying flight, train, or bus tickets from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani using our partner website 12go Asia.
Chiang Mai to Phuket
Phuket, Thailand's largest island, entices visitors with its stunning blend of tropical allure and vibrant energy. People flock to Phuket for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and many water sports and activities. Beyond the coastline, the island offers a rich cultural experience with ornate temples and lively night markets. Patong Beach's bustling nightlife contrasts with the serene beauty of places like Kata and Karon beaches.
Adventure seekers will find opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and island hopping. Phuket's diverse dining scene, from street food stalls to upscale Michelin-star restaurants, caters to every palate. With its dynamic fusion of relaxation and excitement, Phuket promises a well-rounded tropical escape.
Chiang Mai and Phuket are top-rated destinations, so it's relatively easy to travel between them. Below are the main ways you can travel from Chiang Mai to Phuket:
Flight: Direct flight is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between Chiang Mai and Phuket. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has flights to Phuket International Airport (HKT). The flight takes around 2.5 hours and is the most convenient option for those looking to save time.
Direct Bus: A direct bus route between Chiang Mai and Phuket is operated by various providers. This is one of the cheapest options for traveling between the two destinations, and it takes around 23 hours.
Bus and Train via Bangkok: While there are no direct trains from Chiang Mai to Phuket, you can take a train or bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, and then from Bangkok, you can take a flight or a bus to Phuket. This route is more time-consuming but usually cheaper than flying and offers a chance to experience Thailand's landscapes.
How to book tickets: Trains and bus tickets can be purchased at the station. However, we don't recommend purchasing this way as this is a popular route, and tickets usually sell out in advance. Instead, we recommend buying flight, train, or bus tickets from Chiang Mai to Phuket in advance using our partner website 12go Asia.
Chiang Mai to Krabi
Krabi is a tropical paradise popular with travelers for its captivating landscapes and diverse experiences. People visit Krabi for its iconic limestone cliffs that jut out of emerald waters, creating a breathtaking backdrop for sun-soaked beaches. The region offers an array of activities, from rock climbing and kayaking to exploring hidden caves.
Railay Beach is a favorite for its stunning beauty, while Ao Nang offers a lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. With access to stunning islands like Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, Krabi is a gateway to island-hopping adventures. Its natural beauty and adventurous spirit make Krabi a must-visit destination.
There are a few different ways of traveling from Chiang Mai to Krabi:
Flight: Direct flight is the quickest and most convenient way to get from Chiang Mai to Krabi. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) offers flights to Krabi International Airport (KBV). This option is the most time-efficient and convenient for those looking to reach Krabi without long travel times.
Combination of Bus and Ferry: Another option is to take a bus from Chiang Mai to Phuket and then catch a ferry or minivan to Krabi. This route lets you explore land and sea travel, offering a chance to visit Phuket.
How to book tickets: Flight, bus, and ferry tickets can be booked in person at the bus station and port or online using 12go Asia.
Chiang Mai to Koh Chang
Koh Chang, an island gem in Thailand's Gulf, draws visitors with its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and relaxed atmosphere. People flock to Koh Chang for its untouched natural beauty, offering a tranquil escape from bustling city life. The island boasts a range of activities, from lounging on white-sand shores to exploring dense rainforests teeming with wildlife.
Koh Chang's laid-back vibe and serene surroundings make it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful tropical paradise away from the crowds.
There are a few different ways of traveling from Chiang Mai to Koh Chang:
Flight and Ferry: The most convenient way is to fly from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok and then catch a flight from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Trat Airport (TDX), which is the nearest airport to Koh Chang. From Trat, you can take a minivan and ferry to Koh Chang. This route combines air travel with a van and ferry ride and is the quickest way to reach the island.
Bus and Ferry: You can take a bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and then either take a bus or a minivan from Bangkok to Trat. Once in Trat, you take a minivan to the port and board a ferry to Koh Chang. This option involves a longer journey by land and sea. Still, it allows you to experience the beautiful landscapes of Thailand and break up the trip by using different modes of transport.
Combination of Train, Bus, and Ferry: Another option is to take a train or bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and then continue the journey to Trat and Koh Chang using the same bus and ferry route mentioned above.
How to book tickets: Flight, train, bus, and ferry tickets on this route are all available on 12go Asia. When booking transport that uses multiple methods of travel, we recommend using one booking agent to avoid any errors. This way, you can see all your tickets in one place and ensure they are for the correct dates and times.
Chiang Mai to Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a tropical jewel in the Gulf of Thailand that allures visitors with its enchanting blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. People flock to Koh Samui for its palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a wide variety of experiences. The island offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, from idyllic sunsets on Chaweng Beach to exploring lush rainforests and hidden waterfalls.
Chiang Mai and Koh Samui are popular tourist destinations, so there are various travel options between them.
Flight: The quickest way is to fly from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) to the lovely Samui Airport (USM) on Koh Samui. Direct flights are available with Bangkok Airways but are steeply-priced. If on a budget, we recommend a layover in Bangkok.
Bus and Ferry: You can take a bus or train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and then catch a flight or take another bus to Surat Thani, the closest town to Koh Samui on the mainland. You can take a one-hour bus and ferry to Koh Samui from there. This option is one of the cheapest and most popular routes.
Train, Bus, and Ferry: Similar to the previous option, you can take a train or bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, proceed to Surat Thani, and finally take a ferry to Koh Samui. This is one of the more scenic options, offering a more diverse travel experience.
How to book tickets: Flight, train, bus, and ferry tickets on this route are all available on 12go Asia. When booking transport that uses multiple methods of travel, we recommend using one travel agent to avoid any errors. This way, you can see all your tickets in one place and ensure they are for the correct dates and times.
Chiang Mai to Koh Phangan
The beautiful island of Koh Phangan is located in the Gulf of Thailand. Renowned for its full moon parties, where the night comes alive with music and celebration. Beyond the revelry, the island offers pristine beaches, azure waters, and lush landscapes perfect for relaxation. From yoga retreats to water sports, Koh Phangan caters to diverse interests. Its lively markets, local cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere provide an authentic taste of Thai culture.
There are a few different ways to travel between Chiang Mai and Koh Phangan:
Flight and Ferry: The most direct way is to fly from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) to Samui Airport (USM) or Surat Thani Airport (URT). From Koh Samui, you can take a 45-minute ferry to Koh Phangan. When flying from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani, you must take a 1-hour bus from Surat Thani Airport to the pier and then a 3-hour ferry to Koh Phangan.
Bus and Ferry: You can take a bus or train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, then proceed to Surat Thani, the closest town to Koh Phangan on the mainland. From Surat Thani, you can catch a ferry to Koh Phangan. This route is usually the cheapest option and very popular with backpackers.
Train, Bus, and Ferry: Similar to the previous option, you can take a train or bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, continue to Surat Thani, and then take a ferry to Koh Phangan. This is one of the more efficient ways to travel, as you can take a sleeper train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and then a night bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani to save time and money because you don't need a hotel for two nights.
How to book tickets: Flight, train, bus, and ferry tickets for this route are available on 12go asia.
Chiang Mai to Koh Tao
The charming paradise island of Koh Tao is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, which have earned it a global reputation as a prime diving destination. People are drawn to Koh Tao's underwater world, offering beginners and experienced divers opportunities to explore its underwater wonders. Beyond diving, the island's laid-back atmosphere, stunning viewpoints, and beachfront charm provide a relaxing escape.
There are a few different options for travelers looking to get to Koh Tao from Chiang Mai:
Flight and Ferry: The most direct route is flying from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) to Samui Airport (USM) on Koh Samui. From Koh Samui, you can then take a ferry to Koh Tao.
Bus and Ferry: You can take a bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, then proceed to Chumphon, a common departure point for ferries to Koh Tao. From Chumphon, you can take a ferry to Koh Tao. Tickets for these methods of travel are usually very affordable, so this is a popular route.
Train, Bus, and Ferry: Similar to the previous option, you can take a train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, continue to Chumphon via bus, and then take a ferry to Koh Tao.
How to book tickets: Flight, train, bus, and ferry tickets for this route are available on 12go asia.
Chiang Mai to Koh Lipe
This remote island, often called the "Maldives of Thailand," is a hidden gem adorned with white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Its remote location adds to its allure, making it a haven for those seeking tranquility and untouched natural splendor.
Koh Lipe's allure extends below the surface, offering some of Thailand's best snorkeling and diving opportunities. The Tarutao National Marine Park surrounds the island, showcasing a wonderland teeming with colorful marine life.
Visitors are drawn to Koh Lipe for its rustic simplicity and absence of large-scale development, allowing for an authentic island experience. The island's friendly locals, the unique blend of Thai and Malay cultures, and stunning sunsets further enhance its charm.
Because Koh Lipe is so remote, getting there involves quite the journey - especially from Northern Thailand! You should prepare for a long trip or consider stopping at a few destinations above if time permits. Below are your options for getting from Chiang Mai to Koh Lipe:
Flight and Ferry: Begin by taking a flight from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) to Hat Yai International Airport (HDY), which is the closest major airport to Koh Lipe. From Hat Yai, you'll need to take a minivan or taxi to Pak Bara Pier, where you can catch a ferry to Koh Lipe. This journey usually takes around 8 hours, and it's the quickest and most direct way of getting from Chiang Mai to Koh Lipe.
Train, Bus, and Ferry: Another option is to take a train or bus from Chiang Mai to Hat Yai, which will take about 30 hours. After this, you can continue to Pak Bara Pier via bus or minivan - this part of the journey takes around 3 hours. Then, finally, you can catch the 2-hour-long ferry to Koh Lipe. This is usually the cheapest route, and to make it more comfortable, you should break it up over a few days.
