Summary
If your initial encounter with travel in Thailand involved navigating the traffic in Bangkok, you will be pleasantly surprised by the charm of Chiang Mai. As Thailand’s northern capital, it provides a more serene experience, which becomes evident as you explore this captivating city filled with stupas, monasteries, and vibrant markets.
The historic core of Chiang Mai, delineated by a moat and remnants of medieval fortifications, is well-organized and experiences light traffic, facilitating ease of exploration. However, as you venture into the suburbs and beyond, you will encounter a complex network of bustling main roads and expressways. While many travelers opt to rent motorcycles or mopeds for mobility, utilizing a chartered pickup truck can simplify your journey.
A significant consideration while navigating the roads comprises the city’s lively markets. The Saturday walking street market restricts traffic on Thanon Wualai, while the Sunday walking street market does the same on Thanon Ratchadamnoen. Furthermore, the area surrounding the Night Bazaar on Thanon Chang Khlan becomes notably busy in the evenings, with most visitors being dropped off nearby to explore on foot.
Whether your plans include remaining within the central area or venturing to nearby waterfalls, hot springs, botanical gardens, palaces, and wildlife reserves in the hills, consider the most effective transportation options available in Chiang Mai.
Getting to and from the airport is inexpensive, easy and fast
Chiang Mai’s growing reputation as a popular entry point to Thailand means that airport transfers are both simple and affordable. Upon exiting at Exit 9 from the Arrivals area at Chiang Mai International Airport, a licensed taxi service is available to transport you to the old town; shuttle and minibus services are options as well, with rideshare solutions such as Uber or Grab positioned in the middle range. For departures, simply ask your hotel or guesthouse to arrange a transfer, order a rideshare, or signal for a pickup truck.
The rót daang is the backbone of urban transport in Chiang Mai
Spend a brief time in Chiang Mai, and you will undoubtedly notice the multitude of red-covered pickup trucks traversing the city streets. These rót daang (translating to “red trucks”) function as shared taxis, collecting passengers as they head toward their desired destinations. Routes are not fixed, allowing travelers to simply flag one down and inquire if the driver is traveling in their direction. A practical tip: for journeys outside the historic zone, hail a rót daang on one of the main roads leading away from the city walls.
Beyond shared rides, rót daang drivers frequently offer vehicle rentals on a charter basis, accommodating taxi-style trips within the city as well as longer excursions to waterfalls, temples, elephant camps, and other attractions located in the surrounding hills. While this option may be pricier than a shared ride, it can prove economical when costs are divided among several passengers.
Chiang Mai’s modern bus system is the cheap option for downtown transport
Initiated in 2018, the blue buses operated by RTC City Bus provide a budget-friendly and convenient means of transport within central Chiang Mai. These spacious, air-conditioned buses serve passengers across nine routes, with real-time tracking available through the CM Transit mobile application. A flat fare of 20B is charged per ride, payable in cash or through the Rabbit stored-value card (available at the RTC stand at the airport or recharge at convenience stores).
For longer journeys, visit the Chang Phueak Bus Terminal on Thanon Chotana for routes heading north of Chiang Mai Province, or the Arcade Bus Terminal near the intersection of Thanon Kaew Nawarat and Route 11 for other long-distance destinations. Shared pickups, known as songthaew, also operate routes to nearby towns.
Tuk-tuks and rickshaws are more for fun than getting from A to B
The vibrant tuk-tuks (autorickshaws) of Chiang Mai provide a charter-based means of transport within the city. Although they are favored by tourists, they tend to be pricier than rót daang rides, and drivers occasionally direct visitors to commission-based shops or less reputable nightlife venues. Still, the experience of traveling in an open cab filled with lights and breezes creates an enjoyable atmosphere. Exercise caution and negotiate rates to secure a fair fare.
Classic cycle rickshaws, referred to as samlor, can still be found in select areas of Chiang Mai, particularly near the Talat Warorot market. These rides are inexpensive and entertaining, offering a chance to experience historic modes of transport.
Taxis are inexpensive but not always easy to find
While metered taxis are available in Chiang Mai, they are less frequently seen on the streets. If you require a taxi, you may call to arrange a ride through CnxTaxi Chiang Mai. Ridesharing options, including Uber and Grab, tend to be more accessible, although services occasionally face regulatory challenges.
Rent a scooter for easy day trips outside the city
Acquiring a rented scooter or motorcycle unlocks a plethora of potential day trips, ranging from visits to the renowned hilltop temple at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep to longer excursions like the picturesque ride through Mae Sa Valley and Samoeng, regarded as one of Thailand’s most delightful road trips. You can also travel to the remnants of the former Lanna kingdom capital at Wiang Kum Kam or cool off at river cascades, including the captivating “Sticky Waterfall” in Si Lanna National Park.
Rental agencies are plentiful in the southern half of the old town, usually requiring a passport as security. To mitigate issues with authorities, maintain possession of your driving license and international driving permit along with photo identification, and ensure you always wear a helmet. Be cautious, as certain operators may provide vehicles without insurance, posing a significant risk. At minimum, it is advisable to obtain coverage for damages to others’ property and medical expenses for individuals injured in any accidents involving your vehicle.
Bicycles are great for off-roading on Doi Suthep and pootling about downtown
Bicycles are readily available for rental at various shops and guesthouses throughout Chiang Mai. They are well-suited for exploring the quieter streets of the old town; however, caution is advised if you venture onto the bustling roads surrounding the historic center, where you will compete for space with swift rót daang, buses, cars, and motorcycles.
For those desiring high-quality bikes, consider specialized mountain biking and cycling tour companies such as Chiang Mai Mountain Biking & Kayaks, Trailhead, and Spice Roads. The closest downhill mountain biking paths can be found in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, located just outside the city limits; rental companies typically coordinate transfers to the trailheads, allowing you to concentrate on the exhilarating downhill ride.
Walking is the best way to explore the monasteries in the old city
Exploring on foot is arguably the most effective way to discover the numerous wat (monasteries) within the historic center of Chiang Mai. This includes notable temples such as Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Phra Singh, along with the quieter monasteries tucked away in the side streets. Exercise caution regarding speeding motorcycles and rót daang while traversing the roads.
Chiang Mai’s markets are also best explored on foot. During weekends, the atmosphere becomes vibrant as crowds flock to the “walking street” markets on Thanon Wualai (Saturday) and Thanon Ratchadamnoen (Sunday); the bustling bazaars around Talat Warorot are equally intriguing for a leisurely stroll.
Boat trips on the Mae Ping River are strictly for fun
While a significant amount of produce still reaches the market via the Mae Ping River, passenger transportation along the river is primarily limited to popular tourist cruises departing from Wat Chaimongkhon, located south of the city center on Thanon Charoen Prathet. Daytime cruises navigate through the city, moving south toward the historical ruins at Wiang Kum Kam, while evening cruises provide an enchanting option for a floating dinner with picturesque views.
Accessible transportation in Chiang Mai
Ideally, downtown Chiang Mai should be relatively accessible due to its flat terrain and manageable crowds, barring the busier walking street markets. However, narrow sidewalks often pose challenges, littered with obstacles such as open drains, while wheelchair ramps can be inconsistent. Furthermore, many road crossings lack accessibility features, and numerous hotels—particularly budget options—may have stairs without elevators. If you seek genuinely accessible accommodation, upscale establishments may be your best bet.
Chiang Mai’s buses can accommodate wheelchairs; however, for visitors using folding wheelchairs, hiring a rót daang or minivan may prove more convenient. The local community typically demonstrates a willingness to assist travelers in overcoming barriers, but having an able-bodied companion can enhance the experience. It’s important to note that many of Chiang Mai’s monasteries present challenges, such as entry steps and uneven paths, for those with mobility impairments. For further guidance, refer to GoTravelDaily’s Accessible Travel Resources.
This article was first published Nov 2, 2022 and updated Nov 29, 2023.
