Bangkok Airport is the closest, fully equipped facility to Chiang Rai. It offers typical, international airport services - currency exchange, shops, and dining. Chiang Rai is almost 800 km from Bangkok and is the northernmost province of Thailand. Ground transportation requires at least 9 hours of travel. Commuter airlines are the fastest and most convenient ways to reach Chiang Rai.

Air

Most global airline carriers and charters connect to Bangkok from Asia or Western Europe. Nonstop service from the North and South America is limited to airlines that fly regularly to Southeast Asia. Reach Chiang Rai on Thai Airways, www.AirAsia.com One-Two-Go and www.NokAir.com They provide daily, one hour flights to Chiang Rai from Bangkok.   There are more than 10 flights daily combined.

Bus 

Coach buses depart from Bangkok several times each day. Take taxi to 2 Kamphaengphet 2 Road or ask for the Mochit 2 Bus Terminal. The ride to Chiang Rai is 9 to 11 hours. The nominal price difference between an air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned bus is worthy every penny. Do not forget to pack snacks and leisure items in the carryon bag.

Train

There is no direct train service to Chiang Rai. Transfer in Lampang or Chiang Mai. The chances of seeing a countryside or mountain view are debatable. Train operators commonly close the blinds on one side of the train when the sun is intense.