Byway
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Thailand

Bangkok
to Chiang Mai

From bustling capital to mountain temples

Plan this trip No account needed to start

Distance

700 km (435 miles)

Duration

8-9 hours direct, 2-4 days scenic

Best Time

November to February (cool season)

Route

Bangkok → Chiang Mai

About this drive

The long way there

The drive from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes you from Thailand's chaotic capital to the serene mountains of the north. This journey passes ancient temples, historical parks, and increasingly mountainous terrain as you approach the cultural heart of northern Thailand.

Stops along the way

Where to pull over

1

Ayutthaya

80 km in

Ruins of ancient Siamese capital (UNESCO site)

2

Lopburi

150 km in

Temple town overrun with monkeys

3

Sukhothai

440 km in

First Thai kingdom with cycling-friendly ruins

4

Lampang

600 km in

Horse-drawn carriages and Thai temples

5

Doi Suthep

700 km in

Sacred mountain temple overlooking Chiang Mai

Field notes

Driving tips

  • 1

    Thai highway driving requires alertness—traffic can be chaotic

  • 2

    Stop at Ayutthaya and Sukhothai for Thailand's best historical parks

  • 3

    The last section is mountainous with winding roads

  • 4

    Night markets in Chiang Mai are not to be missed

  • 5

    April (Songkran) is hot but features the famous water festival

Alternate routes

Other ways through

  • Highway 1 direct route

  • Highway 32 via Lopburi scenic route

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