Exploring Chiang Mai: A Guide to Public Transportation

Are you planning to visit Chiang Mai, Thailand, but worried about getting around? Don’t worry, Chiang Mai has several options for public transportation. Exploring Chiang Mai: A Guide to Public Transportation post is here to help you move around the city with ease.

Public Buses in Chiang Mai

Contrary to popular belief, Chiang Mai has public buses. If you want to learn more about the routes and timetables, check out Citylife Chiang Mai’s “Chiang Mai Bus Routes in English” article from 2017. You can also visit the “Chiang Mai City Bus Routes and Timetables” official page, but it’s only available in Thai. Although I have not personally used Chiang Mai’s buses, I have not heard any negative reviews about them.

Exploring Chiang Mai: A Guide to Public Transportation – Red Vans

The most common public transportation in Chiang Mai is the red van, also known as Rot Daeng Vans or Red Song Taews. These are trucks with seats inside, and locals use them like buses. You may not understand their system, though, especially if you do not speak Thai. It may also be challenging to identify their route and if they are public transportation or just a taxi. But if you do find one, explain where you want to go, and the driver will take you there. Just be cautious with their prices, though, as some drivers may ask for a higher price than usual.

Drivers of red vans have also expressed their dislike for Grab, much like cab drivers in London with Uber. They believe that Grab takes their potential passengers, causing them to lose income. Despite this, red vans are the most convenient transportation to Doi Suthep. To learn more about how to use red vans to get to Doi Suthep, read the linked article.

You can also hire a red van for an entire day if you plan to visit different attractions in Chiang Mai.

Grab

Grab is a popular app in Chiang Mai. You can get discounts by using promotional codes found in malls like CentralFestival or Chiang Mai International Airport. The app is also convenient since cars are readily available at all times. If you’re having trouble communicating with the driver, you can send photos or use the built-in Google Translate service.

You can either pay in cash or link your card to the app. If you don’t have enough cash, you can transfer money via SCB Siam Commercial Bank‘s PromptPay option. Just be sure not to book a Grab ride within Chiang Mai International Airport’s premises since it’s not allowed.

Grab offers different vehicle options, such as motorbikes and vans, to fit your needs.

Motorbike

If you have a Thai driving license and want to explore Chiang Mai freely, renting or buying a motorbike may be an option. But be sure to wear a helmet since it’s required by law. If you don’t look Thai, expect to get stopped by the police since they usually stop non-Thai looking people for not wearing helmets. You can also join group bike tours to explore the city.

Exploring Chiang Mai: A Guide to Public Transportation – Bicycle

Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation in Chiang Mai, especially in the old city. Several bike tours are available for tourists who want to explore the city while exercising.

Tuk-Tuk, Taxi, Car Rental, and Walking

While I have not personally used these transportation options in Chiang Mai, there are tuk-tuks, taxis, and car rentals available in the city. Walking around Chiang Mai is also a great way to explore the city’s unique culture and history.

Exploring Chiang Mai: A Guide to Public Transportation – Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many ways to move around Chiang Mai, from public buses and red vans to Grab, motorbikes, bicycles, and walking. Each mode of transportation has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s up to you to decide which one suits your needs and budget best. Whether you’re a tourist visiting Chiang Mai for the first time or a long-term resident, it’s important to know your transportation options to navigate the city with ease.