Chiang Rai is served by Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI), located approximately 8 km from the city center. The city also has two main bus terminals: Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1, situated in the city center, and Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2, which is about 7 km south of the city and handles longer-distance routes.
Direct flights to Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) are available from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports. Airlines such as Thai AirAsia, Thai Vietjet Air, Thai Airways, and Nok Air operate these routes. A one-way flight typically takes around 1 hour 20 to 1 hour 25 minutes and can cost from $25 to $67 (approximately THB 800 - THB 2,300). Round-trip fares generally range from $115 to $174 (about THB 3,160 - THB 5,900).
There is no direct train service to Chiang Rai. Travelers intending to use the train would typically travel to Chiang Mai or Lampang first, then continue their journey to Chiang Rai by bus.
Car rental services are available at Chiang Rai International Airport and various city locations. Daily rates for compact cars can start from around US$20 to US$27. Companies like Keddy By Europcar, Europcar, Hertz, Budget, and Dollar operate here. Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring the wider province.
From Chiang Rai International Airport, metered taxis are available, costing approximately THB 160-180 to the city center, which includes a THB 40 airport surcharge. Ride-hailing services like Grab are also an option. The public airport shuttle bus service (CR Bus) ceased operations on August 22, 2024.
Within the city center, walking is a feasible option. For journeys further afield, local transport includes tuk-tuks, songthaews (shared pick-up trucks), and motorbike rentals. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are also in service.
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