Quick Answer
Best overall way: Direct bus — 4–5 hours, 220–300 THB ($6–$9 USD), no transfer. Operated by Prem Pracha Transport from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal 2 to Nan Bus Terminal. From Nan Bus Terminal, take a local taxi or songthaew (40–60 THB / $1–$2 USD, 10 minutes) to Nan Airport. For travelers who prioritize speed, flying (55 minutes, from 1,200 THB / $34 USD) is an option but requires extra airport time. For groups, private taxi (2,500–3,500 THB / $71–$100 USD, 3–4 hours) offers door-to-door convenience.
🚌 Bus from Chiang Mai to Nan (Best Value & Most Used)
The direct bus is the most popular, economical, and straightforward way to travel from Chiang Mai to Nan. It's used by locals and travelers alike, offering a comfortable journey through northern Thailand's scenic countryside.
Bus Company & Schedule
Operator: Prem Pracha Transport — the primary government-licensed operator on this route. Buses depart from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal 2 (platform 22–24) and arrive at Nan Bus Terminal (also known as Bori Sahit Borihan).
| Departure (Arcade Terminal 2) | Arrival (Nan Terminal) | Type | Fare (THB) | Fare (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:00 | 10:15 | Standard A/C | 220 | $6 |
| 08:00 | 12:15 | Standard A/C | 220 | $6 |
| 10:00 | 14:15 | VIP (2+1 seats) | 280 | $8 |
| 13:00 | 17:15 | Standard A/C | 220 | $6 |
| 15:00 | 19:15 | VIP (2+1 seats) | 300 | $9 |
| 17:00 | 21:15 | Standard A/C | 220 | $6 |
Note: VIP buses offer wider seats, extra legroom, and a snack pack. Standard buses are comfortable with A/C and reclining seats. Both types include a 15-minute rest stop at Phayao Lake or Ngao.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Get to Arcade Bus Terminal 2: From Chiang Mai city center (Tha Phae Gate), take a red songthaew (30 THB / $1 USD) or Grab (80–120 THB / $2–$3 USD). The terminal is about 3 km east of the old city.
- Buy your ticket: Go to the Prem Pracha counter (counter #12–14) at Arcade Terminal 2. You can book up to 3 days in advance. No online booking is available yet — only walk-up or phone reservation (+66 53 212 456).
- Board the bus: Check the platform number on your ticket. Buses depart punctually. Store large luggage in the underfloor compartment (free).
- Enjoy the journey: The route passes through Lamphun, Phayao, and Ngao. Scenic views of rice paddies, hills, and small towns. The bus has A/C and a restroom on VIP services.
- Arrive at Nan Bus Terminal: Located on Highway 101, about 3 km south of Nan city center. From here, take a songthaew (40 THB / $1 USD) or taxi (60 THB / $2 USD) to Nan Airport — just 10 minutes away.
Pros & Cons of the Bus
- ✅ Advantages: Cheapest option, no transfer, reliable schedule, comfortable A/C, scenic route, frequent departures.
- ❌ Disadvantages: No overnight service, limited legroom on standard buses, potential for winding-road discomfort (if prone to motion sickness).
⭐ Recommendation: For most travelers, the 10:00 VIP bus (280 THB / $8 USD) offers the best balance of comfort and price. Book at least one day in advance during peak season (November–February).
Source: Tourism Thailand — Bus Services & Prem Pracha Transport Official.
✈️ Flight from Chiang Mai to Nan Airport (Fastest but Pricier)
Flying is the fastest option in the air, but the door-to-door time is similar to the bus when you factor in airport transfers, check-in, and security. However, for travelers who prioritize comfort and have a higher budget, it's a viable choice.
Airlines & Schedule
Two airlines operate direct flights between Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) and Nan Airport (NNT):
- Nok Air — 1–2 daily flights (morning and afternoon). Code: DD.
- Air Asia — 1 daily flight (early morning). Code: FD.
| Airline | Depart CNX | Arrive NNT | Flight Time | Typical Fare (THB) | Typical Fare (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nok Air | 07:00 | 07:55 | 55 min | 1,200–2,500 | $34–$71 |
| Nok Air | 14:30 | 15:25 | 55 min | 1,500–3,000 | $43–$86 |
| Air Asia | 08:15 | 09:10 | 55 min | 1,300–2,800 | $37–$80 |
Fares are dynamic. Booking 2–3 weeks in advance can save 30–40%. Flights may be cancelled on short notice during low season — always check the airline app before heading to the airport.
Door-to-Door Time Analysis
Many travelers overlook the hidden time costs of flying. Here's the realistic total:
- Chiang Mai city → CNX airport: 15–25 minutes by taxi (100–150 THB / $3–$4 USD).
- Check-in & security: Arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure (domestic).
- Flight: 55 minutes.
- Baggage claim & exit NNT: 15–20 minutes.
- Nan Airport → Nan city center: 5–10 minutes by taxi (40–60 THB / $1–$2 USD).
Total door-to-door: 3.5–5 hours — comparable to the bus. The bus is often faster door-to-door if you factor in airport waiting time.
Nan Airport (NNT) — What You Need to Know
- Small domestic terminal with one runway. No VIP lounge.
- Facilities: café, souvenir shop, free Wi-Fi, ATM.
- Transport from NNT to city: Taxi stand outside terminal — fixed rate 60 THB ($2 USD) to any hotel in Nan city. Songthaews are also available (40 THB / $1 USD).
- Baggage: Only carry-on on Air Asia (7 kg free); Nok Air includes 15 kg checked baggage in standard fare.
When to Choose the Flight
- ✅ You have a tight schedule and need to arrive by mid-morning.
- ✅ You dislike long bus rides or get motion sickness easily.
- ✅ You find a promo fare under 1,500 THB ($43 USD) — then it becomes competitive with VIP bus.
- ❌ On a tight budget — the bus is 6–10x cheaper.
Source: Nok Air Official & Air Asia Official.
🚕 Private Taxi / Minivan (Most Convenient for Groups)
A private taxi or minivan offers the ultimate convenience: door-to-door service, flexible departure time, and no need to carry luggage on public transport. It's the most expensive option but ideal for families, groups of 3–6 people, or travelers with special needs.
Price Range & Booking
| Vehicle Type | Capacity | Price (THB) | Price (USD) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard sedan (Toyota Vios / Honda City) | 2–3 pax + luggage | 2,500–2,800 | $71–$80 | 3–4 hrs |
| Minivan (Toyota Commuter / Nissan NV) | 4–6 pax + luggage | 3,000–3,500 | $86–$100 | 3–4 hrs |
| SUV (Honda CR-V / Toyota Fortuner) | 3–4 pax + lots of luggage | 3,200–3,800 | $91–$109 | 3–4 hrs |
Where to Book
- Grab — Book a GrabCar (GrabTaxi) from Chiang Mai to Nan. Price shown upfront. Available 24/7. Note: drivers may ask for extra cash for return trip — confirm before departing.
- Local taxi stands at Chiang Mai Airport or Arcade Bus Terminal. Negotiate a fixed price. Example: Taxi queue at CNX airport — fixed rate to Nan is 2,800 THB ($80 USD).
- Hotel concierge — your hotel in Chiang Mai can arrange a minivan. Prices are higher (3,500–4,000 THB / $100–$114 USD) but include insurance and English-speaking driver.
- Online platforms: 12Go.asia and Bookaway list private transfers from Chiang Mai to Nan. Prices start at 2,600 THB ($74 USD).
Route Details
The standard route is Route 118 (Chiang Mai–Phayao) then Route 101 (Phayao–Nan). The road is well-paved, mostly two-lane with moderate curves. Total distance: 220 km. The drive takes 3–3.5 hours without traffic. There are two main rest stops: Phayao Lake viewpoint (km 120) and Wiang Sa (km 170).
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Advantages: Door-to-door, flexible timing, comfortable, good for groups, can stop anywhere along the way.
- ❌ Disadvantages: 8–12x more expensive than bus, need to negotiate or book ahead, variable driver quality.
💡 Tip: If you are a solo traveler or couple, check if any shared minivan services are operating. Some travel agencies in Chiang Mai (e.g., Thai Sriram on Ratchadamnoen Road) offer shared minivans to Nan for 500–700 THB ($14–$20 USD) per person. Availability is limited — ask at least one day in advance.
Source: Grab Thailand & 12Go Asia Private Transfers.
🚂 Train from Chiang Mai to Nan + Local Transfer (Not Recommended)
There is no direct train from Chiang Mai to Nan. The railway network does not reach Nan province. However, a train + bus/taxi combination is possible if you specifically want to experience train travel. This option is not recommended due to long travel time and multiple transfers.
Step-by-Step: Train + Local Transfer
- Chiang Mai → Den Chai Junction: Take a train from Chiang Mai Railway Station to Den Chai Junction (Phrae province). Trains depart 4–5 times daily. Travel time: 5–6 hours. Fare: 250–400 THB ($7–$11 USD) depending on class (3rd class fan, 2nd class A/C).
- Den Chai → Nan: From Den Chai, take a local bus (150–200 THB / $4–$6 USD) or taxi (800–1,200 THB / $23–$34 USD) to Nan city. Distance: 80 km, time: 1.5–2 hours.
- Nan city → Nan Airport: Short songthaew or taxi ride (10 minutes, 40–60 THB / $1–$2 USD).
Total time: 7–9 hours | Total cost: 440–1,660 THB ($13–$47 USD) — longer and potentially more expensive than the direct bus.
Train Schedule (Chiang Mai → Den Chai)
| Train No. | Depart Chiang Mai | Arrive Den Chai | Class | Fare (THB) | Fare (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51 (Express) | 06:00 | 11:30 | 2nd A/C | 390 | $11 |
| 7 (Express) | 08:30 | 14:00 | 2nd A/C | 390 | $11 |
| 107 (Ordinary) | 14:00 | 20:00 | 3rd Fan | 250 | $7 |
| 13 (Express) | 16:30 | 22:00 | 2nd A/C | 390 | $11 |
Why This Option Is Not Recommended
- ❌ Long total time: 7–9 hours vs 4–5 hours by bus.
- ❌ Multiple transfers: Train → bus/taxi → songthaew. Luggage handling is tedious.
- ❌ Unreliable connections: Buses from Den Chai to Nan do not align perfectly with train arrivals.
- ✅ Only choose this if: You are a train enthusiast, or you want to visit Phrae (Den Chai's nearby town) as a bonus stop.
Source: Thai Railway Official & 12Go Asia Train Schedules.
🚗 Self-Drive / Car Rental (Flexible & Independent)
Renting a car and driving from Chiang Mai to Nan gives you complete freedom to stop at viewpoints, explore Phayao Lake, or visit hidden temples along the way. It's a great option for confident drivers who enjoy road trips.
Route Overview
Distance: 220 km | Time: 3–4 hours | Road: Route 118 (Chiang Mai–Phayao) + Route 101 (Phayao–Nan). Both are well-maintained, two-lane paved roads. The section between Phayao and Nan has gentle curves — drive carefully during rain.
Car Rental in Chiang Mai
| Company | Car Type | Price per Day (THB) | Price per Day (USD) | Insurance Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hertz | Compact (Toyota Vios) | 1,000 | $29 | Basic + Collision |
| Budget | Mid-size (Honda Civic) | 1,200 | $34 | Basic + Collision |
| Thai Rent a Car | SUV (Honda HR-V) | 1,800 | $51 | Full coverage |
| Local shops (Muang Mai area) | Compact (Mitsubishi Mirage) | 700–900 | $20–$26 | Basic only |
Fuel cost: Approximately 400–500 THB ($11–$14 USD) for the one-way trip (about 15–18 liters of gasoline).
Requirements & Tips
- ✅ Valid International Driving Permit (IDP) — mandatory for foreigners. Your home country license alone is not sufficient.
- ✅ Most rental companies require a credit card deposit (3,000–5,000 THB / $86–$143 USD).
- ✅ Pick up the car in Chiang Mai and drop off at Nan Airport — some companies offer one-way rentals for an extra fee (500–1,000 THB / $14–$29 USD).
- ✅ Parking at Nan Airport: Free and secure. The lot is small but usually has space.
- ⚠️ Driving at night is not recommended — roads are unlit and wildlife (deer, cattle) may cross.
Scenic Stops Along the Way
- Phayao Lake (Kwan Phayao) — km 120. Huge freshwater lake with a walking path and lakeside restaurants. Try the local fish.
- Wat Phra That Sri Chom Thong — near Phayao, a beautiful Lanna-style temple.
- Wiang Sa Viewpoint — km 170, panoramic view of the Nan River valley.
- Nan Old City — after arrival, explore the historic quarter with its wooden houses and temples.
Source: Hertz Thailand & Tourism Thailand — Nan.
📊 Cost & Time Comparison: All Transport Options
Use this table to quickly compare all available ways to get from Chiang Mai to Nan Airport. The best value and cheapest options are highlighted.
| Transport | Total Time | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚌 Direct Bus ⭐ Best Value | 4–5 hrs | 220–300 | $6–$9 | None | Good (A/C, reclining) | Budget travelers, solo, couples |
| ✈️ Flight | 3.5–5 hrs (door-to-door) | 1,200–3,500 | $34–$100 | None (direct flight) | High (but airport waiting) | Those with higher budget, tight schedule |
| 🚕 Private Taxi | 3–4 hrs | 2,500–3,500 | $71–$100 | None (door-to-door) | High (private vehicle) | Groups, families, late arrivals |
| 🚂 Train + Local Transfer | 7–9 hrs | 440–1,660 | $13–$47 | 2 (train → bus/taxi → songthaew) | Low (multiple changes) | Train enthusiasts only |
| 🚗 Self-Drive | 3–4 hrs | 1,200–2,300* | $34–$66* | None (flexible) | High (own schedule) | Independent travelers, road trip lovers |
* Self-drive cost includes rental (800–1,200 THB) + fuel (400–500 THB) + possible one-way fee. Does not include insurance deposit.
🏆 Verdict: The direct bus (220–300 THB / $6–$9 USD) wins for value and simplicity. The private taxi (2,500–3,500 THB / $71–$100 USD) wins for convenience if you're in a group. The flight (1,200+ THB / $34+ USD) is only competitive during promo fares.
💡 Traveler Tips & Local Insights for Nan
Based on feedback from frequent travelers and locals, here are practical tips to make your journey from Chiang Mai to Nan smoother and more enjoyable.
🚌 Bus Tips
- Book ahead during festivals: In November (Loy Krathong) and December–January (cool season), buses fill up 2–3 days in advance. Call Prem Pracha at +66 53 212 456 to reserve.
- Sit on the left side of the bus for the best views of Phayao Lake and the hills.
- Bring a light jacket — the A/C on VIP buses can be very cold (15°C / 59°F).
- Use the rest stop wisely: Buses stop for 15 minutes at Phayao Lake. Grab a coffee and stretch your legs. Restrooms are clean (3 THB / $0.09 USD).
✈️ Flight Tips
- Check flight status early: Nan Airport is small and flights can be cancelled if there are fewer than 15 passengers. The airline will call you — make sure your phone number is correct.
- No VIP lounge at NNT: Don't expect airport luxuries. Pack snacks and water.
- Book promo fares: Nok Air's "Nok Fan Club" and Air Asia's "Super Sale" often offer Chiang Mai–Nan for 890 THB ($25 USD) — set price alerts.
🚕 Taxi & Self-Drive Tips
- Negotiate before you go: If booking a taxi from the street, agree on the price before getting in. Write it down to avoid confusion.
- Use GPS: Google Maps works well on Route 118 and 101. Download offline maps for areas with weak signal (around Ngao).
- Warning about wildlife: Between Phayao and Nan, deer and cattle sometimes cross the road — drive cautiously at dawn and dusk.
🧳 Luggage & Baggage
- Takkyubin (luggage delivery): If you have heavy bags, use Black & Gold (Sagawa) or Kerry Express to send luggage from Chiang Mai to your Nan hotel. Cost: 200–400 THB ($6–$11 USD) per 20 kg bag. Takes 1–2 days. Ask your hotel to help arrange.
- Bus luggage limit: Standard buses allow one large suitcase (20 kg) and one carry-on. Oversized items (surfboards, large boxes) may be refused.
🌦️ Seasonal Considerations
- Cool season (Nov–Feb): Best time to travel. Daytime 20–28°C. Early morning buses have stunning misty views.
- Hot season (Mar–May): Can reach 38°C. Bus A/C is essential. Avoid midday travel if possible.
- Rainy season (Jun–Oct): Heavy afternoon showers. Roads are safe but drive slowly. Bus is still reliable; flights may face delays.
Sources: Tourism Authority of Thailand — Nan & local traveler forum contributions.
❓ FAQs: Getting from Chiang Mai to Nan Airport
Is there a direct bus from Chiang Mai to Nan?
Yes, direct buses run daily from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal 2 to Nan Bus Terminal. Operated by Prem Pracha Transport, buses depart from 06:00 to 17:00. The journey takes 4–5 hours and fares are 220–300 THB ($6–$9 USD). No transfer is needed. From Nan Bus Terminal, a short taxi ride (40–60 THB / $1–$2 USD) takes you to Nan Airport.
How long does it take to fly from Chiang Mai to Nan?
The flight time is about 55 minutes. However, the total door-to-door time (including transfers to/from airports, check-in, and security) is 3.5–5 hours — similar to the bus. Fares range from 1,200 to 3,500 THB ($34–$100 USD) one-way. Flights are operated by Nok Air and Air Asia, with 1–2 daily departures.
What is the cheapest way to get from Chiang Mai to Nan?
The cheapest way is by standard bus at 220 THB ($6 USD). The VIP bus at 300 THB ($9 USD) offers extra comfort but is still very affordable. No other transport option comes close — flying costs at least 5x more, and a taxi costs 10x more.
Is there a train from Chiang Mai to Nan?
There is no direct train to Nan. You can take a train from Chiang Mai to Den Chai Junction (5–6 hours, 250–400 THB / $7–$11 USD), then a bus or taxi for the remaining 80 km to Nan (1.5–2 hours, 150–1,200 THB / $4–$34 USD). Total time: 7–9 hours. This option is not recommended due to complexity and long duration.
How much does a private taxi from Chiang Mai to Nan cost?
A private taxi or minivan costs 2,500–3,500 THB ($71–$100 USD) for a one-way trip. The drive takes 3–4 hours via Route 118 and Route 101. This option is ideal for groups (3–6 people), travelers with heavy luggage, or those arriving late when buses are not running.
What is the best time to travel from Chiang Mai to Nan?
The best time is the cool season (November to February), with pleasant temperatures of 15–28°C. For buses, morning departures (06:00–08:00) are recommended to arrive before noon. For flights, book 2–3 weeks in advance. Avoid April (peak heat) and the rainy season (June–October) if possible.
Can I rent a car and drive from Chiang Mai to Nan?
Yes, self-driving is a great option. The distance is 220 km (3–4 hours) via Route 118 and Route 101. Rental cars cost 800–1,200 THB ($23–$34 USD) per day, plus fuel (400–500 THB / $11–$14 USD). An International Driving Permit is required. One-way drop-off at Nan Airport is possible with some companies for an extra fee.
Are there overnight buses from Chiang Mai to Nan?
No, there are no overnight buses on this route. The last bus departs at 17:00. If you need to travel in the evening, your only options are a private taxi (2,500–3,500 THB / $71–$100 USD) or self-drive. For early-morning arrival, take the first bus at 06:00 — you'll reach Nan by 10:00–11:00.