Quick Answer
Best overall way: Train + short taxi — total time ≈ 2–2.5 hours, total cost ≈ 120–230 THB (3.50–7 USD). Take a direct train from Chiang Mai Railway Station to Lampang Railway Station (1.5–2.5 hours, 30–150 THB), then a 5-minute taxi to Lampang Airport (50–80 THB). For fastest door-to-door, book a private taxi (≈1.5 hours, 800–1,500 THB). For cheapest, take the bus (≈100–180 THB total).
Note: There are no direct flights from Chiang Mai to Lampang — distance is only ~100 km.
🚂 Train from Chiang Mai to Lampang (Best Value & Scenic)
The train is the most recommended option for most travelers. The rail route from Chiang Mai to Lampang runs through lush countryside and hills, offering beautiful views of northern Thailand. Lampang Railway Station is only 2 km from the airport — a 5-minute taxi or tuk-tuk ride.
Key Facts
- Distance by rail: ≈ 99 km
- Travel time: 1 hour 45 min to 2 hours 30 min (depending on train type)
- Frequency: 10–15 trains per day (both directions)
- Ticket price: 30 THB (3rd class) – 150 THB (2nd class air-conditioned)
- Operated by: State Railway of Thailand (SRT)
Train Types & Recommendation
| Train No. | Type | Departure (Chiang Mai) | Arrival (Lampang) | Duration | Price (THB) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51 | Rapid (air-con) | 06:30 | 08:25 | 1h 55min | 120–150 | ⭐ Recommended – morning view |
| 7 | Express (air-con) | 08:00 | 09:50 | 1h 50min | 130–160 | Fastest train |
| 109 | Ordinary (fan) | 07:30 | 10:00 | 2h 30min | 30–50 | Budget option |
| 13 | Express (air-con) | 14:00 | 15:50 | 1h 50min | 130–160 | Afternoon departure |
Step-by-Step: Train + Taxi to Airport
- Go to Chiang Mai Railway Station (Charoen Muang Road, near the night bazaar).
- Buy a ticket at the counter or via 12Go.asia (nofollow) — book 1–3 days ahead for express trains.
- Board the train — 3rd class is fine for this short journey, but 2nd class air-con offers more comfort.
- Alight at Lampang Station — the station is small and easy to navigate.
- Take a taxi or tuk-tuk to Lampang Airport (≈50–80 THB / 1.50–2.50 USD, 5 minutes).
Luggage & Comfort
Trains have overhead racks and space between seats for backpacks. For large suitcases, sit near the door area. 3rd class seats are wooden benches; 2nd class has padded reclining seats. The morning express (Train 7) is recommended for a balance of speed, comfort and scenery.
Authority source: State Railway of Thailand official site (nofollow) — schedules and fares.
✈️ Flying via Lampang Airport – What You Need to Know
There are no direct commercial flights from Chiang Mai to Lampang (distance ≈ 100 km). However, Lampang Airport (LPT) serves domestic routes to Bangkok (both Don Mueang DMK and Suvarnabhumi BKK). This section explains how to use Lampang Airport as a departure point, and how it compares to flying directly from Chiang Mai.
Lampang Airport (LPT) – Key Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 2 km west of Lampang city center (5 min drive) |
| Airlines | Nok Air, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways |
| Destinations | Bangkok (DMK & BKK) – multiple flights daily |
| Flight time to Bangkok | ≈ 1 hour 10 min |
| Terminal | 1 small terminal — no crowds, very efficient |
Option A: From Chiang Mai to Lampang Airport → Fly to Bangkok
This option makes sense if:
- You want to avoid Chiang Mai Airport (which can be busy during peak season).
- You find a cheaper flight from Lampang than from Chiang Mai (rare, but possible).
- You want a scenic train ride + short flight combination.
Total time: Chiang Mai → Lampang by train/bus (2–2.5 hours) + check-in (30 min) + flight to Bangkok (1h 10min) = ≈ 4–4.5 hours (compared to 1.5 hour flight from Chiang Mai directly).
Option B: Direct Flight from Chiang Mai Airport (Recommended for Bangkok)
Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) has dozens of daily flights to Bangkok (both airports) starting from 800 THB one-way. For most travelers, this is faster and more convenient than going to Lampang Airport.
Bottom line: Only consider Lampang Airport if you are already planning to visit Lampang, or if you need a specific flight connection not available from Chiang Mai.
Authority source: Airports of Thailand – Lampang Airport (nofollow).
🚌 Bus / Minivan from Chiang Mai to Lampang (Cheapest Option)
The bus from Chiang Mai to Lampang is the most budget-friendly way to reach Lampang Airport. Buses depart from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal (the main long-distance bus station) and arrive at Lampang Bus Terminal (also called Lampang Arcade). From there, a short taxi ride takes you to the airport.
Key Facts
- Travel time: 1.5–2 hours (depending on traffic and stops)
- Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes from 05:00 to 19:00
- Ticket price: 50–100 THB (1.50–3 USD) for standard bus; 120–180 THB (3.50–5.50 USD) for air-conditioned minivan
- Operated by: Green Bus, Sombat Tour, and local operators
Day Bus vs. Night Bus
| Type | Departure Time | Price (THB) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard day bus | 05:00–19:00 | 50–80 | Cheapest, frequent | May stop at local villages |
| Air-con minivan | 06:00–18:00 | 120–180 | Faster, comfortable | Slightly more expensive |
| Night bus | 21:00–23:00 | 100–150 | Save on accommodation | Limited options, arrives late |
Step-by-Step: Bus + Taxi to Airport
- Go to Arcade Bus Terminal in Chiang Mai (Kaew Nawarat Road, about 2 km east of the old city).
- Buy a ticket at the counter — no need to book in advance for standard buses.
- Board the bus — look for "Lampang" on the front. Air-con minivans depart from Bay 3–4.
- Alight at Lampang Bus Terminal — the journey is smooth and mostly highway.
- Take a taxi or tuk-tuk to Lampang Airport (≈50–80 THB / 1.50–2.50 USD, 5–7 minutes).
Luggage & Comfort Tips
Standard buses have under-floor luggage compartments. Minivans have limited space — if you have a large suitcase, choose the standard bus. Both options are safe and clean. The air-con can be cold, so bring a light jacket.
Authority source: Green Bus Thailand official site (nofollow) — schedules and online booking.
🚕 Taxi / Private Transfer (Fastest & Most Convenient)
For door-to-door convenience, a taxi or private car from Chiang Mai to Lampang Airport is the fastest and most comfortable option. This is ideal for families, groups of 3–4 people, travelers with heavy luggage, or late-night/early-morning departures when trains and buses are not running.
Price & Options
| Vehicle Type | Price Range (THB) | Price Range (USD) | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard taxi (Grab) | 800–1,100 | 24–33 | 3 passengers + luggage | Solo/couple with luggage |
| Private transfer (pre-booked) | 1,200–1,500 | 36–45 | 4 passengers + luggage | ⭐ Recommended – fixed price |
| SUV / family car | 1,500–2,000 | 45–60 | 5–6 passengers | Family / group |
When to Choose a Taxi
- Late-night / early-morning (before 05:00 or after 20:00) — no trains or buses.
- Heavy luggage — multiple suitcases, sports equipment, or baby gear.
- Group of 3+ — cost per person becomes comparable to bus+taxi.
- Time-sensitive — fastest door-to-door option at ≈1.5 hours.
- Mobility issues — no stairs, no transfers, direct to airport.
How to Book
- Grab app — convenient, pay by card or cash. Search "Chiang Mai to Lampang Airport".
- 12Go.asia — pre-book private transfers with fixed pricing: 12Go private transfer (nofollow).
- Hotel reception — many hotels can arrange a taxi with fixed price.
Important: Always agree on the price before departure. Metered taxis from Chiang Mai to Lampang are rare — most drivers will offer a fixed rate. The standard rate is around 1,200 THB for the 100 km trip.
Authority source: Grab Thailand official site (nofollow) — fare estimator.
💰 Cost & Ticket Comparison – Chiang Mai to Lampang Airport
This table compares all major transport options from Chiang Mai to Lampang Airport, including total door-to-door time and cost. Use it to choose the best option for your budget and schedule.
| Mode | Total Time (door-to-door) | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚂 Train + taxi | 2 – 2.5 hours | 120 – 230 | 3.50 – 7 | 1 (taxi at Lampang) | ⭐ Best value & scenic |
| 🚌 Bus + taxi | 2 – 2.5 hours | 100 – 180 | 3 – 5.50 | 1 (taxi at Lampang) | 💰 Cheapest overall |
| 🚕 Taxi/private car | 1.5 hours | 800 – 1,500 | 24 – 45 | 0 (direct) | ⚡ Fastest door-to-door |
| ✈️ Via Lampang Airport (to BKK) | 4 – 4.5 hours | 1,200 – 2,500 | 36 – 75 | 2+ (depends) | Only if flying from LPT |
Best Options at a Glance
- Best value: Train (express) + taxi — ≈170 THB (5 USD) total, 2 hours, scenic.
- Cheapest: Bus + taxi — ≈130 THB (4 USD) total, 2 hours, frequent.
- Fastest: Private taxi — ≈1,200 THB (36 USD), 1.5 hours, direct.
- Recommended for most: Train 07 (express) departing 08:00 from Chiang Mai.
Where to book tickets:
- Train tickets: 12Go.asia – Chiang Mai to Lampang train (nofollow) — convenient online booking.
- Bus tickets: Green Bus Thailand (nofollow) — official online sales.
- Private transfer: 12Go private taxi (nofollow) — fixed price, instant confirmation.
🧳 Traveler Tips & Local Insights – Chiang Mai to Lampang Airport
Based on local knowledge and frequent traveler feedback, here are essential tips to make your journey from Chiang Mai to Lampang Airport smooth and stress-free.
1. Luggage – Use the "Takkyubin" Baggage Service
If you have heavy luggage and want to travel light, use Takkyubin (luggage delivery) from Chiang Mai to Lampang. Drop your bags at your hotel or a convenience store — they will arrive at your Lampang hotel or the airport the next day. Cost ≈ 300–600 THB per suitcase (9–18 USD). Service provided by Chiang Mai Baggage Service (nofollow).
2. Station Navigation – Lampang is Small & Easy
Lampang Railway Station is a charming, small station built in traditional Thai style. Unlike major hubs (e.g., Bangkok or Chiang Mai), you will not face crowds or confusing platforms. The taxi stand is right outside the main entrance — fare to the airport is fixed at 50 THB for tuk-tuk, 80 THB for car taxi.
3. Timing – Avoid Peak Hours
The road from Chiang Mai to Lampang (Highway 11) can get congested during Thai public holidays (Songkran in April, New Year) and on Friday afternoons. Add 30–45 minutes for traffic. Trains are less affected by road traffic.
4. Booking – Holidays & Long Weekends
During Songkran (April 13–15) and Loi Krathong (November), trains and buses fill up quickly. Book tickets at least 3–5 days in advance via 12Go.asia or at the station. Private taxis are more available but surge pricing applies on Grab.
5. Scenic Tip – Sit on the Left Side of the Train
On the Chiang Mai → Lampang route, the left side of the train (facing direction of travel) offers the best views of the Doi Khun Tan mountain range and the Khun Kan River. Morning light (before 10:00) is especially beautiful for photography.
6. What if I Miss the Last Train?
The last train from Chiang Mai to Lampang departs around 19:30. If you miss it, take a night bus from Arcade Bus Terminal (last departure ≈ 23:00) or book a private taxi (available 24/7 via Grab).
Authority source: Tourism Authority of Thailand – Lampang (nofollow) — official travel information.
❓ FAQs: Chiang Mai to Lampang Airport
1. Is there a direct train from Chiang Mai to Lampang?
Yes, there are direct trains from Chiang Mai Railway Station to Lampang Railway Station. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the train type. From Lampang station, the airport is only 2 km away by taxi (≈50–80 THB / 1.50–2.50 USD).
2. How long does it take to get from Chiang Mai to Lampang Airport?
Total travel time varies by mode: taxi/private car ≈1.5 hours (door-to-door), train ≈2–3 hours (including taxi to airport), bus ≈2–2.5 hours (including taxi to airport). Flying is not an option as there are no direct flights between the two cities.
3. What is the cheapest way to get from Chiang Mai to Lampang Airport?
The cheapest option is the bus (≈50–100 THB / 1.50–3 USD) from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal to Lampang Bus Terminal, plus a short taxi ride (≈50–80 THB / 1.50–2.50 USD) to the airport. Total cost ≈100–180 THB (3–5.50 USD).
4. Can I fly from Chiang Mai to Lampang?
No, there are no commercial flights from Chiang Mai to Lampang because the distance is only about 100 km. However, Lampang Airport (LPT) operates flights to Bangkok (DMK & BKK) with Nok Air, Thai AirAsia and Bangkok Airways.
5. Is it better to take the train or bus from Chiang Mai to Lampang?
For comfort and scenic views, the train is better (especially the morning express). For speed and frequency, the bus is better (departures every 30 min). Both cost about the same. Train is recommended for first-time visitors.
6. How much does a taxi from Chiang Mai to Lampang Airport cost?
A private taxi or Grab from Chiang Mai city to Lampang Airport costs between 800 and 1,500 THB (24–45 USD), depending on vehicle type and booking platform. Fixed-price private transfers are also available from 1,200 THB (36 USD).
7. What time does the first train leave Chiang Mai for Lampang?
The first train from Chiang Mai to Lampang departs around 06:30 (Train No. 51, rapid train). Buses start as early as 05:00 from Arcade Bus Terminal. Check the latest schedules on the SRT website or 12Go.asia (nofollow).
8. Is Lampang Airport easy to reach from the city center?
Yes, very easy. Lampang Airport is only 2 km west of the city center. A tuk-tuk or taxi ride takes 5–10 minutes and costs about 50–100 THB (1.50–3 USD). Walking is possible with light luggage.