Top 7 Popular Transportation Options in Chiang Mai

Getting around Chiang Mai can be an adventure in itself. From the ubiquitous songthaews and tuk-tuks to the increasingly popular ride-sharing apps like UBER and GRAB, there are plenty of options for travelers to choose from. For those looking for a more affordable and also convenient way to get around, the songthaew is a popular choice. With different colored songthaews indicating different routes, this converted pickup truck is easy to hail day or night and offers a shared ride for only 30 baht per person. On the other hand, those looking for a more private and customizable experience can opt for a ride-sharing app like GRAB, where they can choose between different transportation options, including private cars, regular taxis, or even songthaews. Other modes of transportation include the limited public bus service, tuk-tuks, motorcycle taxis, and air-conditioned taxis. Finally, renting a motorbike (scooter) is also an affordable and convenient way to explore Chiang Mai and also the surrounding areas, provided you have a valid Thai or international driver's license.

1. UBER and GRAB (ride-sharing app) in Chiang Mai

When it comes to public transportation in Chiang Mai, using ride-sharing apps like UBER and GRAB can be very convenient. These apps often offer cheaper fares than regular taxis, especially if you have a discount code. GRAB is a popular ride-sharing app in Southeast Asia, which makes it a valuable tool for travelers planning to explore multiple countries in the region. With GRAB, you can choose between different transportation options, such as a private car (GrabCar), a regular taxi cab (GrabTaxi), or even a Songthaew (Grab Rod-Daeng). It's important to note that booking a taxi ride via GrabTaxi incurs a small booking fee on top of the regular metered taxi fare.

2. Bus

Chiang Mai's public bus service is limited, but there are shuttle buses available covering two routes connecting the airport to the city. The fare is 40 baht per person. In addition, there are local white minibusses running two routes within the city for only 15 baht:

Route B1 – from Arcade Bus Terminal to Chiang Mai Zoo

Route B2 – from Arcade Bus Terminal to the airport.

3. Tuk Tuk

Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transport in Chiang Mai, second only to songthaews. While they are quick and can go anywhere, they are generally more expensive than songthaews, with rates starting at 60 baht for short trips and 100 to 150 baht for longer distances.

It's important to be cautious when taking a tuk-tuk, as some drivers may overcharge or try to steer you towards tourist attractions that pay commissions. If you're traveling a long distance and not in a hurry, it's often better to take a songthaew instead.

4. Motorcycle Taxi

Motorbike taxis can be found at Chang Phueak Bus Station and Arcade Bus Station. These taxis do not roam the streets in search of passengers, instead, they congregate in groups at the stations. To spot them, look for their pink vests and indicate your destination. The fare usually starts from 50 baht, but it can be negotiated. Compared to regular taxis and tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis are less expensive.

5. Taxi

In Chiang Mai, air-conditioned taxis are available but not as common as other modes of transportation. Unlike songthaews, taxis are not easy to hail on the street and are mostly stationed at specific locations like the airport, railway station, bus station, malls, and hotels. It's recommended to have your hotel call a taxi for you and get the driver's phone number for future rides. It's also advisable to have a couple more taxi numbers as backup. The fare is calculated by the meter and typically ranges from 100 to 200 baht for rides within the city. Many travelers opt for a taxi when arriving at the airport and heading to their hotel.

6. Rent a Motorbike (Scooter)

Renting a scooter is an affordable and convenient way to explore Chiang Mai and the surrounding areas, provided you know how to ride one. It's also a great way to experience the local culture up close.

Motorbike rentals in Chiang Mai are reasonably priced, starting from 99 baht per day for a 100cc scooter with two helmets. A more common 110-125cc scooter capable of carrying two people costs around 150-200 baht per day. Rental rates are generally standard across different shops, and most shops require your passport as collateral. However, if you're not comfortable leaving your passport, you can leave a cash deposit of around 2,000 to 3,000 baht per bike.

Please note that a valid Thai or international driver's license is required to ride a scooter legally in Chiang Mai. Police often fine drivers without a valid license or not wearing a helmet, with a fine of 200 baht. You'll usually find a payment counter at roadblocks, and you'll be given a receipt (fine ticket) upon payment. Be sure to keep the ticket and show it again if you encounter another roadblock on the same day, as you won't be fined twice for the same offense.

7. Songthaew

Songthaew is a ubiquitous local mode of transportation in Chiang Mai, easy to hail day or night. These converted pickup trucks have two rows of seats and are available for a shared ride for only 30 baht per person. If you don't mind sharing the ride with others and making multiple stops, this is an affordable and convenient way to get around. Private songthaews are also available for a higher fare and can be arranged through the popular ride-sharing app, GRAB. Different colored songthaews indicate different routes, with white going east, blue to the south, yellow to the north, and green to the northeast.