Airlines

Getting from Bangkok to Chiang Rai by Air (US$30–200, 1½ Hours)

Most people will visit Chiang Rai after they finish their touring in Bangkok.

There are more than 20 flights from Bangkok to Chiang Rai every day. Some of the popular airlines are Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways as well as some budget airlines, such as Thai Lion Air, Thai AirAsia, and Nok Air.

Option 1. Boutique Airlines

The ticket price from Bangkok to Chiang Rai when traveling with Thai Airways is about US$100–200. Please note there is no fee for carry-on baggage up to 7 kilograms and there is no fee for hold baggage up to 20 kilograms. The prices stated by Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways include your baggage allowance and free drinks.

Option 2. Budget Airlines

Flights with Bangkok Airways and Thai AirAsia cost about US$30–60 but you need to pay extra for food and drinks as well as your checked baggage allowance.

Important: Budget airlines normally have a free 7 kilogram carry-on baggage allowance. For any baggage that exceeds this weight and that needs to be checked in, don’t forget to go to the airline’s official website to purchase extra baggage allowance at least 4 hours before departure. This is essential if you don’t want to pay at the check-in counter where the charges will be three times higher than they are online.

Learn more about the best 8 domestic airlines in Thailand you should choose from and discover each of their pros and cons, including the baggage allowance details. Read all you need to know about domestic flights in Thailand.
Don Mueang Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok

You need to pay attention to the two different airports in Bangkok - Don Mueang (the old airport) and Suvarnabhumi (the new airport). If transferring between the airports, please make sure you have enough time to go to the other airport.

For your information, if taking a taxi from Don Mueang to Suvarnabhumi you will need more than one hour. However, if Asia Highlights will arrange your itinerary, they will do so meticulously, so that you won’t have to worry about times.

From Bangkok you will arrive at Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport (IATA airport code: CEI). This International Airport is located 8 km from the city center. You can reach downtown Chiang Rai in about 30 minutes by car.

You could take a taxi for about US$ 7 or, if you book with us, we will arrange a private car to send you to the hotel. The Asia Highlights tour guide will pick you up at the exit door of Mae Fah Luang arrival hall and will bring a sign with your name on it.