There are 2 way(s) to get from Chiang Mai to Krabi
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
For night buses, opt for an aisle seat for more space or at the front for less shaking. Bring a small blanket or a sweater, as the air conditioning can be very strong. Earplugs and a sleep mask are your best allies.
During high season (November to February) and Thai holidays, popular flight and bus tickets sell out quickly. To guarantee your spot and get the best fares, book at least 1-2 weeks in advance through reliable platforms.
On buses, a medium-sized backpack or suitcase is usually included. For flights, always check your airline's cabin and checked baggage policy to avoid extra fees, which are often very high for checked bags.
Krabi Airport (KBV) is about 15 km from the city center. Taxis, shared mini-vans, and local buses are available. For buses, terminals are often a bit outside the city. Be ready to take a tuk-tuk or taxi to reach your hotel.
Do not buy tickets from unofficial travel agencies or individuals offering too-good-to-be-true deals on the street. Always prefer official counters at stations/terminals or reputable online platforms for transparent and reliable fares.
🛣️ The journey experience
Preparing for your journey from Chiang Mai to Krabi is an exciting part of your Thailand trip. Expect a true contrast between the mountainous north and the paradisiacal south. Whether you choose the sky or the road, the journey will be long but rich in discoveries. While the bus offers a total immersion into Thai landscapes, with local stops and a view of daily life, the plane allows you to fly over these panoramas, transforming a long journey into a quick transition. The actual perceived duration is often longer than the scheduled time on a bus due to breaks and traffic, while the plane imposes waiting times at the airport.
For this route, two main options are available to you. The bus is the most economical alternative, with journeys lasting approximately 13 hours for an average price of 18€. Several operators like Sombat Tour or GreenBus offer services, often with night buses equipped with reclining seats for acceptable comfort. The plane is, of course, the fastest option, allowing you to connect Chiang Mai to Krabi in about 2 hours of direct flight, for an average cost of 55€. Airlines such as AirAsia, Nok Air, or Thai Lion Air operate this route.
To avoid any stress or wasted time, it is highly recommended to compare and book your ticket in advance, especially if you are traveling during high season or for night buses which can be fully booked. Using platforms like 12go.asia or Baolau.vn will allow you to view all options, exact prices, and schedules at a glance, and book easily from your smartphone. This ensures you arrive at your destination without hassle, with the best value for money, and avoid unpleasant surprises or outdated information.
Frequently asked questions — Chiang Mai → Krabi
The price varies greatly depending on the mode of transport. A night bus usually costs between 18€ and 25€. A direct flight with a low-cost airline is around 55€ to 80€, but can reach over 100€ in high season if you don't book in advance. Higher prices should be expected if you opt for flights with layovers or national airlines.
By bus, allow approximately 13 to 16 hours, including breaks and road contingencies. For the plane, a direct flight takes about 2 hours. However, you must add travel time to and from airports (about 1 hour each), check-in and security (2 hours), bringing the total door-to-door time to a minimum of 5-6 hours.
For a solo traveler, the plane is often preferred for its speed, optimizing discovery time. If budget is a priority, the night bus offers an economical option and saves a night's accommodation. Both options are safe and easy to book online, providing flexibility to plan your itinerary.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially for flights and popular night buses. Buying on the spot is possible, but you risk higher prices, fewer schedule options, and sold-out seats, particularly during peak periods. Online platforms offer better visibility of options.
For flights, AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air are reputable low-cost airlines known for their reliability. For buses, Sombat Tour and GreenBus are well-regarded, offering more modern and comfortable buses for long journeys, with reclining seats and sometimes included snacks. Always check recent traveler reviews.
✨ Why visit Krabi?
- ✓ Explore iconic islands like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Railay by longtail boat.
- ✓ Climb the limestone cliffs of Railay, a paradise for climbers of all levels.
- ✓ Relax on white sandy beaches and swim in the emerald waters of Ao Nang.
- ✓ Discover the natural hot springs and the Emerald Pool in the Thung Teao forest.
- ✓ Hike to Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple) for breathtaking panoramic views.
☀️ When to visit Krabi?
TROPICAL MONSOON CLIMATE
November to March — the dry season brings clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and calm seas, ideal for island hopping.
What to do in Krabi?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Krabi?
For an independent traveler, 4 to 7 days is ideal. In 4 days, focus on Railay, Phi Phi Islands, and a 4-island tour. With 7 days, add rock climbing, kayaking in Ao Thalane, and jungle exploration. Don't forget the sunsets and night markets.
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