Transportation options: A Local's Guide to Getting around Chiang Mai

Getting around Chiang Mai can be a delightful experience, especially if you know how to take public transport. This local guide from our experiences will assist you in navigating every type of transportation option available in this charming city.

Today, the main public transport in Chiang Mai consists of Songthaews (red trucks), tuk-tuks (motor tricycles), and motorcycle taxis. These transportations are commonly used to get around Chiang Mai’s city. Songthaews are widely favored for short-distance travel due to their fixed routes and fares, while travelers have many choices for longer journeys to choose from, such as taking buses, and renting a car or motorcycle.

So, how do we figure out which public transport or vehicle in Chiang Mai is best for making a decision? Well, it really comes down to your travel plan and the specific landmarks or destinations you have in mind. 

Ideal vehicles for getting around the old town, Chiang Mai

There are many options to travel around Chiang Mai, including renting a car, motorcycle, or taking public transit like Songthaews, tuk-tuks, pedicabs, and EV tuk-tuks to visit the sights around the old city.

Songthaews: one of the most common ways to get around Chiang Mai is by hopping onto a red, open-air truck called “Songthaews”. These vehicles constantly circle the city, especially around the moat. it operates almost like shared taxis – they pick up passengers along the way and drop them off at their desired locations. The fare is only 30 THB per person. 

Tuk-tuks: these iconic rides are on three-wheeled vehicles. Normally, short rides within the city cost between 50-60 THB  while longer rides will cost more. They will drop you off at your exact destination. However, the price for taking tuk-tuks could be slightly higher. Make sure to discuss and agree on fares in advance, and feel free to negotiate to get a reasonable price. Tuk-tuks are ideal for short trips, but they may charge you up to a thousand THB for a half-day or full-day trip.

Pedicabs: the unique aspect of Chiang Mai that can transport you back in time and create a sense of tranquility, reminding you of a slower pace of life. The people who provide this service are senior citizen and passionate about preserving the tricycle culture. Their ages range from 60 to 85. The service usually starts at Kad Luang and goes to a temple in the city. Prices for each trip range from 200 to 300 THB. Nevertheless, there is a fee for both half-day and full-day excursions that will cost one to two thousand THB.

Electric tuk-tuks: an eco-friendly way to get around Chiang Mai city. LOMO Platform is an electric tuk-tuk that comes in vibrant blue and white colors. This transportation service provides a wide range of trips that ensure there are options to suit everyone's personal preferences while exploring the city's landmarks and attractions. For example, "Good Morning, Chiang Mai Package," that allows you to begin your day in Chiang Mai like a local. You can participate in a traditional almsgiving ceremony, receive blessings, enjoy a delicious local breakfast and then visit ancient temples. Otherwise, you can take LOMO service (with driver) at day time to travel around the old town of Chiang Mai for 5 hours and get other benefits while traveling in Chiang Mai Premium Pass

Other ways to travel around Chiang Mai 

Renting a car: drive at your own pace to explore the landmarks and attractions that lie just outside of Chiang Mai's city.  In this city, many automobile and motorbike rental options are accessible, ranging from sporty hatchbacks to off-road trucks.

1. Automobile: there are several reputable car rental services available in Chiang Mai, including international brands such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz. To rent a car, you will need a valid passport and a driver's license. Some agencies may need an international driver's license, but others may accept a license from your native country. Normally, the rental fee for hatchbacks will start at 800 to 1000 THB. 
2. Motorbike: several rental companies offer a variety of motorbikes, ranging from reliable Honda scooters to powerful road bikes. However, getting around Chiang Mai by motorbike requires caution. Ensure you have the appropriate licenses and insurance coverage before hitting the road. The initial price range is set at 200 – 300 THB.

Taking other colors of Songthaews: in Chiang Mai, the Songthaews are categorized into different colors such as red, yellow, white, green, and etc. Each color represents a unique direction and route. The red songthaew is frequently seen in downtown Chiang Mai, as the other colors are typically used for routes to other towns or provinces. Most of these departures are from Bus Terminal 1 (Chang Phuak Bus Terminal), while others can be found at Warorot Market. 

The price typically varies depending on the distance covered and the specific route taken by each Songthaew. It can range from 15 to 103 THB at the final stop. In some instances, the car owner may insist that you hire or rent a whole car, which makes its fare go up to hundreds of THB.

Using a Convenient Ride-Hailing App: Grab, Bolt, In Driver, and Maxim are popular ride-hailing apps that provide a convenient ride at a cheaper price than traditional taxis. Anyway, there is a cost in addition to the meter, but it might be useful when you require quick and convenient transport, particularly from Chiang Mai Airport to the city center. 

To make the most of your trip around Chiang Mai, download the above-mentioned transportation apps for real-time information on routes, schedules, and costs. In addition, it's important to become familiar with nearby landmarks or reference points close to your accommodation. This will make it easier for you to communicate with drivers or find your way back.

Good to Know While getting around Chiang Mai 

1. Follow local customs and manners.

2. Negotiate fares before boarding a tuk-tuk or songthaew. 

3. Make sure to read the rental agreement carefully and keep a copy with you at all times when renting a vehicle.

4. Keep small denominations of Thai baht on hand, as many drivers may not have change for big amounts

5. Memorize basic Thai phrases, and having a map with key locations indicated can help you overcome language barriers

Finally, the public transport system in Chiang Mai provides a variety of options to cater to all types of travelers. Getting around Chiang Mai is a breeze, no matter your preferred mode of transportation. Whether you enjoy strolling through the city streets, hopping on a tuk-tuk, or exploring in a rental car, you'll have no trouble navigating the city. With this local guide in hand, side, your travel around Chiang Mai will be both convenient and culturally enriching.

For more interesting attractions and activities in Chiang Mai, find your inspiration with our Chiang Mai Premuim Pass or enhance your journey by downloading the TAGTHAi app to explore more of what you are searching for.